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Home » News » Things to Do on a Rainy Day in Plymouth
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March 5, 2025
Plymouth, Massachusetts is an incredible destination known for its rich history, scenic waterfront, and vibrant arts scene. But what happens when rain threatens to put a damper on your plans? No worries–Plymouth and its neighboring towns offer plenty of engaging indoor activities that will keep you entertained while staying warm and dry. From fascinating historical tours to art galleries and cozy wineries, there’s something for everyone.
Want to explore the historic streets of Plymouth on a rainy day? Drive into history with Ms. Vicky’s Plymouth Tours. You’ll stay dry and experience history on an unforgettable journey aboard an enclosed, environmentally friendly electric vehicle.
With a seasoned narrator as your guide, you’ll visit 21 historic locations and landmarks. Discover new and intriguing details surrounding the pilgrims’ voyage to the new world and explore the challenges that shaped life during the early years of America. It’s an unforgettable tour rain or shine! Call 816-507-2026 to book your tour.
For those who want to dive deeper into the history of Plymouth, the Jenney Interpretive Centre is a must-visit. This center provides interactive exhibits and guided tours that explore the Pilgrims’ values and how they helped shape American history. The passionate and knowledgeable staff make history come alive with engaging storytelling that’s perfect for visitors of all ages.
2025 Season Hours – April 15th–November 29th – Closed Sunday and Monday through June (Open for group tours of 20+ with a reservation) – Open Monday through Saturday July through November – Exhibit & Gift Shop Hours: 10:00am – 4:00pm
Step inside the Pilgrim Hall Museum, the oldest continuously operating public museum in the United States. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm, this museum houses an incredible collection of artifacts, including items that belonged to the Pilgrims themselves. From William Bradford’s Bible to Myles Standish’s sword, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the early settlers and their enduring legacy. A rainy day is the perfect opportunity to take your time and soak in the history without rushing.
2025 Season Hours – Wednesday-Sunday, April 2 through December 6 – 9:30am to 5pm – last admission at 4:30pm.
For history lovers, the Jabez Howland House is an essential stop. This is the only remaining house in Plymouth where a Pilgrim actually lived. Walking through its historic rooms provides a rare glimpse into 17th-century colonial life, making it an excellent way to experience Plymouth’s past.
2025 Hours – Open from June 13 to October 31, Thursday through Monday from 10 am to 4 pm. Also open by appointment.
If you love art, make your way to the Plymouth Center for the Arts. Open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm and Sunday from 1 pm to 4 pm, this creative hub features rotating exhibitions, workshops, and community events. Whether you’re admiring paintings, sculptures, or photography, the center offers a fantastic way to appreciate local and regional artists.
Art enthusiasts will also enjoy the Art Complex Museum in nearby Duxbury. This museum showcases contemporary and historical art, with a special focus on New England artists. From paintings to ceramics, the collection offers a diverse look at artistic expression in the region.
2025 Hours – Wednesday through Sunday from 1 pm to 4 pm – Beginning June 4 – Wednesday, Friday, Saturday &-Sunday 12-5pm – Thursdays 12-8pm
For another dose of history, visit the Plimoth Grist Mill. Open seasonally, this working mill offers insight into colonial-era milling practices and the importance of grain production in the early settlement. The picturesque setting along Town Brook makes for a lovely indoor-outdoor experience, even on a rainy day.
2025 Hours – March 15-November 30, 7 days a week, 9am-5pm.
One of Plymouth’s hidden gems is the 1749 Court House, which is open from June to October. As the oldest wooden courthouse in America, this site offers an authentic look at colonial justice and government. Best of all, it’s free to visit, making it a great budget-friendly option for a rainy day.
For something a bit different, check out the Plymouth Cordage Historical Society Museum. Open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday from 12 pm to 4 pm, this museum tells the story of the Plymouth Cordage Company, which was once the world’s largest rope manufacturer. For over 100 years this company was the largest employer in Plymouth, allowing citizens to thrive and provide for their loved ones. This lesser-known but fascinating piece of Plymouth’s history is well worth exploring.
A little rain is the perfect excuse to cozy up with a wine tasting at Plymouth Bay Winery. Open Sunday through Friday from 12 pm to 5 pm and Saturday from 12 pm to 6 pm, this local gem offers a variety of handcrafted fruit wines. Sample unique flavors like cranberry or blueberry wine while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere–an excellent way to warm up and unwind on a drizzly afternoon.
History buffs won’t want to miss the Alden House Museum in Duxbury. Open from June 1 to October 12, Wednesday through Saturday from 12 pm to 4 pm, this museum is the former home of Pilgrim John Alden and Priscilla Mullins. Stepping inside offers a look into the lives of some of Plymouth Colony’s most famous residents, making for a fascinating indoor activity when the weather isn’t cooperating.
If you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend a rainy evening, Plimoth Cinema is the perfect choice. With shows at 4:30 pm and 7:00 pm, this intimate theater screens a mix of independent, foreign, and classic films. It’s a great way to wind down after a day of exploring Plymouth’s history and culture.
Located in Plymouth’s historic Town Square, the Mayflower Meeting House is a must-visit whether rain has you seeking shelter or you want to learn more about the region’s history. Historically known as the First Church of Plymouth, the structure’s history can be tied to the Separatist congregation that sailed to Plymouth on the Mayflower in 1620. This piece of Americana, built in 1899, is the oldest, continuous church and organization of any kind in the United States. For more information and to schedule a tour, call Kathy at 508-746-3188.
Need a pick-me-up on a rainy day or night? The G Pub in West Plymouth Square is a first-of-its-kind dining and entertainment destination that will have you shaking those rainy day blues away. Enjoy a refined menu, unique craft beers, and nightly fun and games at this gastropub. Listen to live bands, eat in the dining room or main bar, and enjoy the gaming and arcade area, which includes a secluded speakeasy with a private bar, pool tables, shuffleboard, and televisions.
From farmers’ markets to unique specialty and gift shops, Plymouth has shopping for every interest and hobby. Explore Plymouth’s shopping marketplaces and find a handcrafted piece of art, jewelry or a piece of South Shore’s history. To plan your shopping trip, visit See Plymouth’s shopping page.
If your travels take you just outside the Plymouth area, here are a few more stops you should make to soak up the region’s history.
The Fuller Craft Museum, situated at 455 Oak Street in Brockton, Massachusetts, is less than 25 miles northwest of Plymouth. Here, you can explore an entire museum focused on arts and crafts, the only craft museum in New England. The museum is free to visit with a suggested $12 donation. While you explore the exhibits and collections of crafts, don’t miss out on the beauty of the woodland environment that surrounds the museum. If weather permits, you may explore 22 stunning acres of woodlands on the shores of Upper Porter’s Pond. The museum is open weekly, Tuesday-Sunday, from 10 am to 5 pm.
Head southwest on Route 195, and you will head right into the heart of Fall River, Massachusetts, where you can explore Battleship Cove. The Cove is home to five National Historic Landmarks and Official Veteran Memorials.
Plan your visit, as you won’t want to miss touring the docked vessels, such as the Battleship USS Massachusetts (BB-59), Destroyer USS Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. (DD-850), Submarine USS Lionfish (SS-298), and PT Boats 617 and 796. Groups can also plan overnight camping visits as part of the Nautical Nights program, where guests can camp out in the barracks on the second deck in authentic sailors’ racks. This is one experience you won’t forget.
Have you ever stood below a massive whale skeleton or viewed a digital replica of America’s longest painting in motion? (We’re talking longer than the Empire State Building is tall!)
The New Bedford Whaling Museum has something for everyone, from art and culture to history and science. Explore the unique New England whaling industry with interesting exhibits and programs for all ages. Marvel at hundreds of thousands of artifacts, including the world’s largest collections of scrimshaw, whaling logbooks, and journals. Plan your visit, as the museum is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., or call for more information at (508) 997-0046.
Travel back to the Gilded Age and view the opulence and splendor of the Newport Mansions, including The Breakers, Marble House and The Elms. Located in the heart of Newport along the water, the Newport Mansions offer a historical trip through 250 years of American history, architecture, art and landscape design. Plan your visit and explore our exhibits and events throughout the year.
Rainy days in Plymouth don’t have to mean canceled plans or disappointment. With so many engaging indoor activities, you can continue exploring, learning, and enjoying everything this historic town has to offer. Whether you choose to dive into history, appreciate fine art, sample delicious wines, or relax with a movie, Plymouth has plenty of ways to turn a gray day into a memorable one. So grab your umbrella, make a plan, and embrace the adventure, rain or shine!
Rainy days in Plymouth don’t have to mean canceled plans or disappointment. With so many engaging indoor activities, you can continue exploring, learning, and enjoying everything this historic town has to offer. Whether you choose to dive into history, appreciate fine art, sample delicious wines, or relax with a movie, Plymouth has plenty of ways to turn a gray day into a memorable one. So grab your umbrella, make a plan, and embrace the adventure, rain or shine!
