Massachusetts itinerary: Plymouth and its surrounding towns, a quintessential New England destination

Cranberries and Whales and Pilgrims…OH MY!!!

Nestled conveniently between Boston and Cape Cod, Plymouth and its surrounding towns, are best known for its native history, the Pilgrim story, cranberries and one of the country’s most iconic landmarks: Plymouth Rock. With everything from water sports to whale watching, golfing to ghost tours, Thomas Land (at Edaville Railroad Park) to trolley tours, cranberry festivals to culinary tours, groups will be planning their return visit before they even leave.

SEE
A.D. Makepeace Company: World’s largest grower of cranberries 

Experience a 90-minute tour with a grower who will board the motorcoach and provide a narrated tour. See examples of an existing bog, learn about the yearly cycle of cranberry growing and methods of harvesting, and receive insight on being a cranberry farmer. Typically, each tour stops at two to three locations for the group to step out for an up-close look at the bog areas. Very little walking is required, and if desired, anyone can stay on the motorcoach. Be sure to leave time to visit the gift shop after the tour.

DO
Edaville Railroad Park

Edaville Railroad Park is just minutes from Plymouth. Enjoy a 20-minute train ride along the historical railroad route while soaking in stunning views of cranberry bogs and marshlands (working bogs owned by A.D. Makepeace Company). Cranberry World’s informative, interactive museum displays exhibits, scaled models and videos to educate guests on the cultivation of cranberries and how they have been processed over the generations.

A group favorite, Signature Cranberry Chicken Barbecue is available May through October along with several other eateries. Food vouchers are available. Both children and adults enjoy the carousel and experience its Wurlitzer Calliope. In addition, there are 45 amusement park rides, an arcade, Dino Land, Cran Central and one of three Thomas Lands in the world.

EXPLORE
Captain John Whale Watch

Cultured naturalists will guide the group on an experience that is educational, exciting and exhilarating. While aboard, the group will be within feet of some of the most graceful, rare mammals in the world. Departing from Town Wharf in Plymouth gives visitors the opportunity to view sights they will never forget. 

The group’s journey will head out to Cape Cod Bay and Stellwagen Bank, a marine sanctuary and one of the primary feeding grounds for Humpback Whales, Finback Whales, Pilot Whales, Minke Whales and the endangered Right Whales (99 percent success rate). There is full galley service on board. The group can purchase hamburgers, hot dogs, pizza and a variety of snacks. Hot and cold beverages are available, and those 21 and over can purchase alcoholic beverages.  

DISCOVER
Pilgrim Hall Museum

At the nation’s oldest continuously operating museum, Pilgrim Hall Museum houses an unmatched collection of Pilgrim possessions — even a piece of Plymouth Rock that can be touched. Learn the story of the Wampanoag, “People of the Dawn,” the Native people who inhabited this area for 10,000 years before the arrival of the new settlers. The story of the interrelationship between the Wampanoag and Colonial settlers continues through the disastrous conflict of the 1670s, known as King Philip’s War. Come, explore and learn the history behind the story. Cameras welcome!

ASK
Ann M. Stacey, CTIS, Tour Sales Director
Edaville Railroad Park
774-435-8015
edaville.com 
sales@edaville.com