Visiting March 22-29 for a few days

Question

We are vacationing in March, and wondered how many days we should plan to tour Plymouth. It will be myself, my husband, and two older teen daughters, and we'd enjoy seeing the sights. I wasn't sure the best options for planning our days - where should stay, what tours should we do, what sights and restaurants are must see/do, etc. We're flying into Boston, but wanted to tour Plymouth first, then end our trip in Boston. We do enjoy history, tours, local food, etc. Thank you for your time and suggestions, we appreciate it.

Answer

Plymouth is a wonderful destination for history, coastal scenery, and good local food, and March can be a pleasantly quiet time to explore the area. With older teens and an interest in sightseeing and history, you can comfortably spend 2–3 full days in Plymouth without feeling rushed. Below is a detailed guide on how to plan your visit, where to stay, what to see, and how to shape your days before heading to Boston.

How Many Days to Spend in Plymouth

For most travelers, 2–3 days is ideal. This gives you enough time to see the historical attractions, enjoy the waterfront, take a guided tour, and explore nearby towns if desired. Because March is the shoulder season, some attractions have limited hours but most of the major historical sites are open.

Where to Stay in Plymouth

The best choice is to stay near the waterfront or downtown, where you can walk to dining, historical sites, and coastal views. This area has the most character and makes exploring easy, especially with teens.

Downtown / Waterfront Hotels – Closest to Plymouth Rock, the Mayflower II, shops, and dining.
Hotels near Plymouth Harbor – Great for views, walkability, and easy parking.
Boutique Inns and B&Bs – Many offer historic charm and a quieter atmosphere.

Suggested Itinerary (2–3 Days)

Below is a general plan, flexible based on weather and your arrival time.

Day 1 – Downtown & Harbor Area: Visit Plymouth Rock, stroll the waterfront, explore Brewster Gardens, take a local history tour if available, and enjoy a seafood dinner.
Day 2 – Plimoth Patuxet Museums: Spend the day at this expansive living-history site, including the recreated 17th-century English village and the Wampanoag Homesite. Tour the Mayflower II if it’s open for the season.
Day 3 – Cranberry Country or Cape Cod Side Trip: Visit nearby towns like Sandwich or explore a local cranberry bog tour if weather and availability allow. Alternatively, explore more of Plymouth’s coastal walking trails.

Must-See Sights in Plymouth

Plymouth Rock & Pilgrim Memorial State Park – Quick but iconic stop.
Plimoth Patuxet Museums – The most in-depth historical experience in Plymouth.
Mayflower II – A full-scale reproduction of the Pilgrims’ ship; very educational.
National Monument to the Forefathers – A massive, often overlooked outdoor monument.
Pilgrim Hall Museum – Excellent exhibits with artifacts from the early colonial era.
Burial Hill – One of the original settlement locations with scenic views and historical significance.

Tours to Consider

Guided walking history tours – Available seasonally; great for stories and context.
Local food tours – Fun way to sample seafood, bakeries, and local specialties.
Ghost tours – Often offered year-round and entertaining for teens.

Recommended Local Restaurants

Seafood restaurants on the waterfront – Great for chowder, lobster rolls, and fresh catch.
Local cafés in downtown – Perfect for breakfast or coffee before sightseeing.
New England comfort-food spots – Many offer hearty meals that pair well with early-spring weather.

Weather Expectations in March

March in coastal Massachusetts is cool—typically 35–50°F—so pack layers, warm jackets, and good walking shoes. The benefit is smaller crowds and peaceful sightseeing, though a few seasonal businesses may not yet be open.

Logistics for Your Trip

Rent a car for Plymouth; you’ll need it to reach Plimoth Patuxet and other sites.
Plan your Boston portion after Plymouth but return the car once you arrive in Boston, as the city is best explored on foot or by transit.
Book waterfront accommodation early because availability can be limited even in shoulder seasons.

Summary

Plan on 2–3 days in Plymouth for a balanced visit that covers history, sightseeing, and food. Stay near the waterfront for convenience and atmosphere, visit the major historic sites such as Plimoth Patuxet, the Mayflower II, and Pilgrim Hall, and enjoy the quiet charm of March before continuing your adventure in Boston.

Visiting March 22-29 for a few days

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