Things To Do
in Plymouth
Plymouth, Minnesota, is a suburban city just northwest of the Twin Cities, blending lakes, parks, and family-friendly neighborhoods. It offers an extensive network of trails, waterfront recreation on Medicine Lake, and welcoming community spaces. The city anchors a growing mix of local eateries, shops, and cultural activities, with easy access to the urban amenities of Minneapolis–Saint Paul.
It is a safe, picturesque base for exploring the Twin Cities metro while staying close to nature.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Plymouth Rock, where you can learn about the Pilgrims' landing in 1620. After soaking in the history, take a leisurely stroll along the scenic waterfront to enjoy stunning views of the harbor. Stop by the nearby Pilgrim Hall Museum to delve deeper into the early colonial history of the area.
For lunch, savor fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants overlooking the bay, where the catch of the day is sure to delight your palate. Post-lunch, explore the charming shops and boutiques in the historic district, picking up unique souvenirs and crafts. Wrap up your afternoon at the Burial Hill Cemetery, where you can pay your respects at the graves of some of Plymouth's earliest settlers.
As evening descends, enjoy a scenic sunset cruise on Plymouth Harbor, taking in breathtaking views of the coastline. Afterward, indulge in a hearty dinner at a popular local eatery, where the atmosphere is friendly and the flavors are robust. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the waterfront, enjoying the tranquil night ambiance.
Start your day with a visit to the Mayflower II, a full-scale replica of the ship that brought the Pilgrims to America, to experience maritime history firsthand. Engage with friendly interpreters who bring the ship's stories to life, making it a unique educational experience. Afterward, head to the nearby Plimoth Patuxet Museums, where you can explore a living history site that showcases Native American culture and the early colonial settlement.
Enjoy lunch at the museum’s café, featuring farm-to-table options inspired by 17th-century recipes. Spend your afternoon exploring the reconstructed Wampanoag homesite, where you can learn about the indigenous people's way of life before European settlement. Participate in hands-on activities that highlight traditional crafts and practices, providing a deeper understanding of the era.
After a full day of exploration, relax at one of Plymouth's cozy pubs for dinner, where you can enjoy local brews and comfort food. Consider catching a live performance at the Plymouth Memorial Hall, showcasing local talent and culture. Wrap up your evening with a peaceful walk through the historic district, admiring the colonial architecture illuminated at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥗Lunch/dinner combo | $10-20 |
| 🍽️Three course dinner for two | $40-70 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful lakes and parks with extensive trail networks
- Family friendly attractions and safe neighborhoods
- Strong access to Minneapolis area with easy transit
- Quality local dining options and a growing craft scene
- Limited nightlife within Plymouth itself; metro area venues require travel
- Peak hour traffic on major highways can be busy
- Winter driving can be challenging due to snow and ice
Places to Visit in Plymouth
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic sunrise or sunset vantage point with reflective water and silhouettes of trees against the sky.
Wooded trails, wetlands, and water features that provide great landscape and wildlife photography opportunities.
Boardwalk and wetland views that attract birds and offer dynamic light for nature photography.
Historic storefronts and soft evening light create charming street scenes.
Dockside silhouettes and colorful skies reflecting on calm water for moody lake shots.
Food in Plymouth
Plymouth Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Minnesotan favorite featuring breaded or batter fried walleye served with potatoes and tartar sauce.
Must-Try!
A comforting casserole made with meat, vegetables, and creamy sauce baked with a crispy top.
Creamy soup featuring wild rice and vegetables, a cozy option in cooler months.
A cheese stuffed burger available at local burger joints for a cheesy, melty bite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market with local produce, baked goods, and prepared foods available in summer months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Politeness and friendliness are common. Greeting with a smile and small chat is appreciated, especially in stores and community spaces.
Casual but respectful conversations; being on time for planned meetings and activities is valued.
Safety
Tipping in Plymouth
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurant servers typically receive 15 to 20 percent of the bill as a tip. For counter service or takeout, tips are optional but appreciated if service is outstanding.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours, ideal for outdoor lakeside activities, hiking, and festivals. Stay hydrated and use sun protection; occasional afternoon thunderstorms occur.
Colorful foliage and cooler temperatures make for great hiking and photography. Wireless connectivity remains solid, and outdoor gear should include light layers and a rain jacket.
Cold and snowy conditions prevail; expect snow covered trails, winter sports, and cozy indoor dining. Dress in layers and prepare for icy sidewalks.
Milder temperatures with budding flora; rain showers can be common, so bring a light waterproof layer and enjoy birding and lake views.
Plymouth at Night
Hiking in Plymouth
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Long distance trail suitable for day hikes and biking that passes near Plymouth.
Wooded and water edge trails with wildlife opportunities.
Expansive network through varied terrain and wetlands.
Scenic lakefront paths with opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Plymouth by plane.
Large regional gateway about 30-40 minutes by car, with many domestic and international flights.
Smaller airport offering general aviation and regional flights, within a reasonable drive.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Safe neighborhoods and plentiful parks attract many families.
Proximity to Minneapolis offers employment opportunities and a balanced lifestyle.
Active senior communities and resources support aging in place.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple winter sport with local rinks and community leagues.
Seasonal leagues and field play in local parks.
Active community leagues and school facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Plymouth.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many spots offer vegetarian options including salads, veggie burgers, grain bowls, and pasta dishes. When in doubt, ask for meatless versions of local favorites or substitutions like tofu or tempeh.