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Located in downtown Plymouth, Massachusetts, is the historic Plymouth Rock! This iconic boulder is said to be the spot where the Pilgrims first stepped ashore.

Visiting Plymouth Rock is a significant experience for many tourists interested in American history. Here is your guide to visiting the infamous Plymouth Rock!

Visiting Plymouth Rock

Considered a symbol of the Pilgrims’ arrival in the New World, Plymouth Rock has become a top tourist attraction.

According to tradition, it is believed to be the spot where the Pilgrims first stepped ashore when they arrived on the Mayflower in 1620.

I loved visiting the granite canopy structure within Pilgrim Memorial State Park.

This canopy houses the rock and is inscribed with the date “1620” to commemorate the Pilgrims’ arrival.

You will then be able to see the rock above the canopy and observe it from above!

It was a very cool experience to see it in person, especially after reading about it in history classes.

Is The Rock The Real Landing Site Of The Pilgrims?

I wondered about the rock’s authenticity and whether it is where the Pilgrims first landed.

The answer is uncertain, as historical accounts vary, and no concrete evidence exists to confirm the exact location.

I like to believe yes because the historic rock is there for a reason!

How Crowded Does It Get?

During peak tourist season, the small viewing area can become very crowded.

Fortunately, people mostly view the rock and move on, making waiting for a good viewpoint easy.

It was not crowded when I visited.

The Visitors Center

Nearby is the Pilgrim Memorial State Park Visitor Center.

It offers further information about the Pilgrims’ journey.

The center features exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations detailing the Pilgrims’ history and impact on American culture.

Is Visiting Free?

Admission to view the rock is free, and the park is open to the public year-round.

Is Visiting Wheelchair Accessible?

The site is wheelchair accessible, with paved paths leading to the viewing area.

There are also benches and interpretive signs throughout the park, providing additional context about the Pilgrims and the founding of Plymouth Colony.

Where Is Plymouth Rock Located?

The rock is in Pilgrim Memorial State Park in downtown Plymouth, Massachusetts.

Explore More of Plymouth Rock

After visiting Plymouth Rock, visitors can explore other nearby attractions, including historic downtown Plymouth with its shops, restaurants, and waterfront area.

The Mayflower II, a replica of the original Mayflower ship, is also docked nearby and open for tours.

I even compiled a guide to 8 Fun Things To Do In Plymouth, MA!

If you are visiting Boston during your visit, you have to take The Ultimate Self-Guided Food Tour of North End Boston!

Want more foodie finds? Read all of my Boston Foodies Guides!

Visiting Nantucket? Take a Day Trip to Nantucket from Cape Cod: Ferry + One-Day Itinerary!

Or, check out all of my Massachusetts Travel Guides!