Plymouth Pilgrims Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour

The Plymouth Pilgrims Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour offers an engaging way to explore one of America’s most historic towns. Priced at $14.99 per person, this one-hour tour provides access to a well-curated route with commentary accessible any time within a year after purchase. The tour is entirely self-guided, using a mobile app that features GPS navigation, images, and text, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace without the need for a guide.

This tour is ideal for those who want flexibility and independence during their visit. While some users have encountered technical issues with the app, the majority appreciate the value for money and the opportunity to revisit the sites as often as they like over the 12-month period. The self-paced nature makes it suitable for a range of visitors, from casual explorers to history buffs, though it requires careful downloading of the app before starting.

Key Points

• Cost-effective at $14.99 with access for a full year
• Self-guided experience with GPS, audio, images, and text for anytime use
• Tour duration approximately 1 hour, covering Plymouth’s key landmarks
• Starts from 136 Water St and ends at Plimoth Patuxet Museums
• Highlights include Plymouth Rock, Mayflower II, Burial Hill, and the Massasoit Statue
• Some reviews mention app connectivity issues, so preparation is important

Downloading and Starting the Tour in Plymouth

The tour begins at 136 Water St, where instructions are sent via email and text after booking. Once on-site, simply launch the Action app and enter the provided password. It’s essential to download the tour while connected to strong Wi-Fi or cellular data, as the app functions offline afterward. The tour is completely self-guided, with no need for a guide or scheduled times, allowing the flexibility to start and pause whenever needed.

The initial setup involves about 30 minutes for the app to send all the necessary information to begin the tour. After that, the GPS map guides visitors from one landmark to the next. The app auto-plays audio at each stop, making it easy to enjoy a hands-free experience.

The entire route covers about one mile, making it manageable for most visitors, including those with limited mobility, although some hills, like near Plymouth Rock, may be slightly steep.

Visiting Key Plymouth Landmarks: What You Will See

The tour features several of Plymouth’s most notable sites. It begins at the MA Visitor Information Center, a hub for travelers heading to Boston, Cape Cod, or around New England. From there, it guides visitors to the Mayflower II, a replica of the original ship that transported the Pilgrims in 1620. The replica was built in Devon, England, during 1955-56 and was a collaborative effort between an Englishman and the Plimoth Plantation.

A short walk takes visitors to the Mayflower Society House, built in the 18th century by Edward Winslow, a relatives of the original Pilgrim. This historic home has been preserved through three centuries and offers insights into Plymouth’s influential families. The tour then guides you to Plymouth Rock, traditionally recognized as the landing site of the Pilgrims in December 1620.

Next, the Massasoit Statue, completed in 1921, marks the Pokanoket leader welcoming the Pilgrims during the first Thanksgiving. Visitors can spend time in Brewster Gardens, which features the Pilgrim Maiden bronze statue and a stainless steel sculpture honoring Plymouth’s immigrant settlers from 1700 to 2000.

Additional stops include Burial Hill, home to the graves of early Plymouth settlers, and the Richard Sparrow House, built around 1640, which is the oldest house in Plymouth still standing today. The Plimoth Grist Mill offers a glimpse into 17th-century milling, reconstructed on the original site.

Exploring Plymouth’s Museums and Monuments

The Pilgrim Hall Museum, established in 1824, is the oldest public museum in the United States still operating. It houses exhibits related to the Pilgrims and Plymouth’s early history. The National Monument to the Forefathers, made of solid granite and completed in 1889, commemorates the Pilgrims’ ideals and is considered one of the largest of its kind in the world.

Visitors can also explore the Plymouth Antiquarian House, built in 1809, which belonged to William Hammatt, a sea captain. Nearby, the Jabez Howland House, dating back to 1667, connects directly to Mayflower passengers such as John Howland and Elizabeth Tilley.

The interpretive centre provides additional context on Pilgrim faith, values, abolitionism, and family life. For those interested in local history, the Long Beach barrier beach offers scenic views of the ocean.

The Plimoth Plantation, a living history museum, recreates the original Plymouth Colony settlement from the 17th century. It provides an immersive experience for visitors who want a deeper understanding of early colonial life.

Logistical Details and Tour Accessibility

The tour is designed for most travelers, with the main requirement being the ability to download and operate the app. The meeting point is at 136 Water St, with the tour ending at Plimoth Patuxet Museums on Warren Ave. The tour is open daily from 6:00AM to 9:00PM, giving visitors plenty of flexibility to plan their visit.

Since the tour is self-guided, there are no group size restrictions, and guests can pause or restart the experience at any time. Bringing headphones or earbuds enhances the experience, allowing for hands-free listening as the GPS guides you from site to site.

The tour does not include attraction tickets or reservations, so visitors should plan to purchase entry tickets separately if needed. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for flexible planning.

Strengths and Limitations of the Tour

The main strength of this tour is its flexibility—you can enjoy Plymouth’s sights at your own pace, revisit any site, and explore in your own time. The audio narration is praised for being engaging and informative, effectively bringing Plymouth’s history to life through storytelling.

A notable limitation is that some users have experienced app connectivity issues, such as difficulty starting or maintaining the audio at certain stops. Proper preparation, including downloading the app beforehand and following setup instructions, can minimize these problems. The tour’s short duration of about one hour makes it ideal for a quick overview but may not satisfy those seeking a more in-depth experience.

The tour offers good value for its price, especially considering the year-long access and the ability to explore Plymouth independently. It suits visitors who prefer self-guided exploration over traditional guided tours and are comfortable with using mobile apps for navigation.

Plymouth Pilgrims Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: Final Thoughts

This self-guided tour provides a practical, flexible way to experience Plymouth’s most famous landmarks, from Plymouth Rock to Mayflower II and historic homes. Its affordability and year-long access make it appealing for those planning a return visit or a short stop in Plymouth.

While some technical hiccups have been reported, the majority of users find the audio narration engaging and the route comprehensive. The focus on key sites like Burial Hill, Brewster Gardens, and the National Monument ensures that visitors walk away with a solid understanding of Plymouth’s early history and cultural significance.

This tour is best suited for independent explorers who enjoy narrated walking experiences and are comfortable using a mobile app. For those with limited time or who prefer guided tours, additional options may be worth exploring. Still, for its price and convenience, it remains a valuable way to discover Plymouth’s story.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed for most travelers, with a manageable walking distance and engaging content suitable for a wide age range.

Do I need to purchase additional tickets?
Yes, the tour covers the route and narration but does not include entry fees for sites like Plymouth Rock or museums.

Can I start the tour at any time?
Absolutely. The tour is self-guided and flexible, with no scheduled start time—just follow the instructions after booking.

What should I do if I encounter app issues?
Ensure you download the app and tour content while connected to strong Wi-Fi or cellular data. If problems persist, support is available through the contact details provided.

How long does the tour last?
The recommended duration is about 1 hour, but you can take longer or shorter depending on your pace and interest in each site.

Is the tour accessible for visitors with mobility challenges?
Most sites are within a short distance, but some stops like Plymouth Rock involve slight hills. The short tour length makes it manageable for most visitors.

Can I revisit the sites after completing the tour?
Yes, since access lasts up to one year, you can return and explore Plymouth’s landmarks at your leisure.

Are there any discounts or group rates?
The information provided does not specify group rates or discounts. The tour is priced per individual at $14.99.