Mayflower II, Boston - Location of Boston Tea Party Ship and Museum
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Mayflower II Boston

4.5
·1k reviews·Plymouth, United States

Step aboard a full-scale replica of the 17th-century Mayflower II and journey back to the Pilgrims' historic voyage.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, late morning

Fewer crowds, more interaction

CrowdLow
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Mayflower II, Boston - Location of Boston Tea Party Ship and Museum

Mayflower II Boston

Best Time

Weekdays, late morning

Fewer crowds, more interaction

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step aboard a full-scale replica of the 17th-century Mayflower II and journey back to the Pilgrims' historic voyage.

4.5
(1k reviews)

"It was really cool to step aboard the ship and imagine what it must have been like to travel for 66 days across the ocean."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Seasonal Hours

The Mayflower II is seasonal. Always confirm operating dates before your visit to avoid disappointment . :calendar:

🎟️ Combo Tickets Save

Consider a joint ticket with Plimoth Patuxet Museums for a fuller historical experience. :ticket:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Step Aboard the Mayflower II

Step Aboard the Mayflower II

State Pier, Plymouth

Experience a full-scale replica of the historic Pilgrim ship. Imagine the 66-day voyage across the Atlantic.

Pilgrim's Journey Exhibits

Pilgrim's Journey Exhibits

Onboard the Mayflower II

Discover 'journey signs' and exhibits detailing the challenges and daily life of the 101 passengers.

Plymouth Rock

Plymouth Rock

Waterfront, Plymouth

See the iconic boulder symbolizing the Pilgrims' landing. A quick but essential historical marker.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

The Mayflower II is a seasonal attraction, typically open from spring through fall. Check operating dates and hours before your visit, as they can change. Some Reddit users noted it can be closed for the season, so confirm availability to avoid disappointment.Reddit

Beyond the Ship

While the Mayflower II is a highlight, Plymouth offers more. Consider a joint ticket with Plimoth Patuxet Museums for a fuller historical experience. Remember that 'the Rock' itself is a quick stop, but the surrounding town has shops and restaurants worth exploring.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, late morning
Why
Fewer crowds, more interaction
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium
When
Early Fall
Why
Beautiful foliage, crisp air
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Mayflower II returns home for the season. Traveling from the Connecticut coast through the Cape Cod Canal @wbznewsradio #CapeCod #Mayflower #plymouthma #Plymouth #USA #Boston #sailing #ocean #water #ship #massachusetts #spring #Summer #journey #adventure #history #beach #newengland
@jimmackayonair
7.7K likes • 248.8K views

🎯 Check Seasonal Hours

The Mayflower II is seasonal. Always confirm operating dates before your visit to avoid disappointment.Reddit :calendar:

🎟️ Combo Tickets Save

Consider a joint ticket with Plimoth Patuxet Museums for a fuller historical experience. :ticket:

rhett and i went on the mayflower or something
@chlamlyd
2.3K likes • 44.1K views
Climb aboard the Mayflower II 🛳️ to share the experience of the Mayflower Pilgrims in 1620 when the Pilgrims crossed from England to America. A gift from the U.K. to the U.S. in 1957 for their friendship during the Second World War, this boat is a full-scale reproduction of the real Mayflower that sailed the Atlantic Ocean for 66 days. Here, you can enjoy the captain’s quarters, gallery and even b...
grandgablesrealtygroup
3 likes • 67 views

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond the Rock

The Rock is quick, but Plymouth's waterfront has shops & restaurants. Enjoy the walk! :walking:

🚢 See the Ship in Action

Sometimes you can see sailing training operations, which is a unique sight! :ship:

Our day trip from Boston to Plymouth Rock! We toured the Mayflower II ship, saw “the rock” and walked around town. About 1.5 hrs South by train then 10 min Uber ride from train station to town. Reality: This was boys’ first ever train ride. I thought they would be so excited. And they were but only for 10 mins then bored🙄 #bostontrip #plymouth #plymouthrock #mayflower #pilgrims #familytravel #tra...
reneegunlogson
8 likes • 247 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Seasonal Hours

The Mayflower II is seasonal. Always confirm operating dates before your visit to avoid disappointment.Reddit :calendar:

🎟️ Combo Tickets Save

Consider a joint ticket with Plimoth Patuxet Museums for a fuller historical experience. :ticket:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond the Rock

The Rock is quick, but Plymouth's waterfront has shops & restaurants. Enjoy the walk! :walking:

🚢 See the Ship in Action

Sometimes you can see sailing training operations, which is a unique sight! :ship:

📸 Capture the History

Great photo ops aboard the ship and at Plymouth Rock. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Mayflower II for its immersive historical experience and the knowledgeable staff who bring the Pilgrims' journey to life. The replica is seen as a faithful representation, offering a tangible connection to early American history. Some find the ticket price for both the ship and museums a bit high, but the overall educational value and the chance to imagine the arduous voyage are highly appreciated.

"We visited the Mayflower II at the end of last month. Friends of ours that are members brought us along as guests for free, so I am unsure of the amount we would have paid for admission.

The staff working that day were very knowledgeable and offered interesting information along with answering visitor questions. I particularly liked the "journey signs" that allowed you to imagine what your experience might have been like from start to finish. It was incredible to see the space you would have inhabited for the voyage, too.

We were a group of all adults - highly recommend for similar visitors."

Jackie Adler

"It was really cool to step aboard the ship and imagine what it must have been like to travel for 66 days across the ocean with 101 other passengers in such a small space. Those Puritans truly had incredible courage!"

Sofia Fesenko

"I went with a joint ticket to the Plymouth living history museum. The ship is cool but not the original. It’s a faithful replica. The price is pretty crazy to go to both this and the museum so 4 stars."

jack vanlyssel

What People Like

Knowledgeable guides
Immersive historical experience
Faithful replica

What People Dislike

Combined ticket price

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can take a train from Boston to Plymouth (approx. 1.5 hours), then a short Uber or taxi ride to the waterfront.Instagram Driving is also an option, with parking available near the ship and Plymouth Rock.

Yes, there are parking lots available near State Pier and the Plymouth waterfront. During peak season, parking can fill up, so arriving early is recommended.

Absolutely! It's a popular day trip from Boston, taking about 1.5 hours by train or car. You can easily combine it with a visit to Plymouth Rock and the town.Instagram

For history enthusiasts, combining the Mayflower II with Plimoth Patuxet Museums and the National Monument to the Forefathers offers a comprehensive experience.Reddit

Yes, MBTA Commuter Rail offers service from Boston to Plymouth. From the station, you'll need a short taxi or rideshare to reach the historic sites.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices can vary, and it's often recommended to check the official website for current rates. Some visitors have mentioned that combined tickets with Plimoth Patuxet Museums can offer good value.Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season or weekends, is a good idea to secure your spot and potentially save time waiting in line.

The Mayflower II operates seasonally, typically from spring through fall. It's crucial to check their official website for the most up-to-date operating hours and dates, as they can change.Reddit

Accessibility can be a consideration on historic ships. It's best to contact the Mayflower II directly or check their website for specific information regarding accessibility for visitors with mobility challenges.

Discounts may be available for certain groups such as seniors, children, or military personnel. Check the official Mayflower II website or inquire at the ticket booth for any applicable offers.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the decks, captain's quarters, and galleries, and learn about the Pilgrims' journey through informative exhibits and knowledgeable guides.Instagram

Yes, costumed guides often lead tours, providing historical context and answering visitor questions. Their insights are frequently praised by visitors.Reddit

A typical visit to the Mayflower II can take about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your interest level and how much time you spend engaging with the exhibits and guides.

The Mayflower II is located on the waterfront in Plymouth, close to Plymouth Rock, shops, restaurants, and other historical sites like the National Monument to the Forefathers.Reddit

Yes, children can find the ship engaging, especially with the interactive exhibits and the chance to imagine life on board. It's a great way to make history come alive for them.Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the ship from the pier, explore the intricate details of the rigging, and photograph the historical exhibits inside. The waterfront setting also offers beautiful backdrops.Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed inside the Mayflower II for personal use. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography if it might disturb exhibits or people.

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric glow. Golden hour can be particularly magical.

Drone usage is typically restricted in historical areas and near attractions like the Mayflower II to ensure safety and preserve the historical integrity. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.

Focus on the ship's impressive silhouette, the textures of the wood and ropes, the historical artifacts, and the views from the deck. Candid shots of people interacting with the exhibits can also be very compelling.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Mayflower II offers a fantastic opportunity for families to engage with history. Kids can marvel at the size of the ship and imagine what it was like to live in such close quarters for weeks at sea.Instagram The 'journey signs' and interactive elements can make the experience more relatable and exciting for younger visitors. Consider pairing the ship visit with Plimoth Patuxet Museums for a more dynamic, hands-on historical adventure that keeps children entertained and learning.

📚 History Buffs

For those passionate about American history, the Mayflower II is a pilgrimage site. You'll appreciate the meticulous replica and the detailed exhibits that bring the Pilgrims' journey to life.Reddit Combine your visit with other Plymouth historical sites like the National Monument to the Forefathers and Pilgrim Hall Museum for a deep dive into the colonial era. Engaging with the knowledgeable guides can provide unique insights and historical context.

📸 Photographers

The Mayflower II provides a picturesque subject, especially from the waterfront. Capture stunning shots of the ship's masts and rigging against the sky, or focus on the intricate details of its construction. Inside, the historical artifacts and the ship's interior offer unique photographic opportunities. The surrounding Plymouth waterfront also presents charming scenes, particularly during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Mayflower II: A Faithful Replica

The Mayflower II is not the original ship, but a meticulously crafted full-scale replica built in England and sailed to Plymouth in 1957 as a gift symbolizing Anglo-American friendship.Instagram This dedication to historical accuracy allows visitors to truly step back in time and experience what life was like for the Pilgrims. The ship's construction mirrors 17th-century shipbuilding techniques, offering a tangible connection to the past.

Onboard, you'll find exhibits that detail the arduous 66-day voyage, the challenges faced by the passengers, and the daily realities of life at sea. The cramped quarters and limited provisions paint a vivid picture of the courage and resilience required for such a journey. Guides, often in period costume, are on hand to share fascinating anecdotes and answer questions, making the experience both educational and engaging.Reddit

While some visitors note it's a replica, the immersive experience and the dedication to historical detail are widely praised. It provides a unique opportunity to understand the scale of the Pilgrims' undertaking and appreciate the historical significance of their arrival in the New World.Instagram

Navigating Plymouth: Beyond the Ship

Visiting the Mayflower II is often part of a larger exploration of Plymouth, a town steeped in American history. Plymouth Rock, the iconic boulder symbolizing the Pilgrims' landing, is a must-see, though many Redditors suggest it's a quick stop.Reddit The area around the rock is a pleasant waterfront promenade, perfect for a stroll and taking in the maritime atmosphere.

For a more comprehensive historical immersion, consider a visit to Plimoth Patuxet Museums. This living history museum recreates the 1620s English Village and the Wampanoag Homesite, offering a deeper understanding of the interactions between the Pilgrims and the indigenous people.Reddit Other historical sites in Plymouth include the National Monument to the Forefathers, Pilgrim Hall Museum, and various historic homes, providing a rich tapestry of early American history.

Beyond the historical landmarks, Plymouth's downtown area offers a charming selection of shops and restaurants.Reddit Whether you're looking for souvenirs, a bite to eat, or a place to relax after exploring, the town provides a welcoming atmosphere. Planning your visit to include these elements can transform a trip to the Mayflower II into a full day of historical discovery.

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