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Plymouth Rock Tour - Caravan Tours
Caravan New England Vacations include visits to several historical USA destinations. These include Boston’s Old North Church where Paul Revere began his famous midnight ride, Battle Green where the American Revolution started, and of course a stop at Plymouth Rock Monument near Boston.
Plymouth Rock Massachusetts is where it is believed that pilgrims from the Mayflower arrived in the United States in 1620.
These fully guided New England Fall Foliage Tours run from May to October and are most popular in September and October when you can experience the exceptional fall colors of the US East Coast.
These fall colors tours are also a great way to see the historical sites critical to the founding of the United States, including the Plymouth Rock Monument.
Caravan’s affordable New England vacation packages include all itinerary excursions, plus airport transfers, ground transportation, accommodations, meals, and free bottled water.
Visit Plymouth Rock on our Caravan New England tour:
Call 1-800-CARAVAN (227-2826)
Plymouth Rock Facts & FAQs
What is Plymouth Rock?
The famous Plymouth Rock Monument is the historical landing place of William Bradford and the Mayflower Pilgrims. While not officially confirmed, the 10-ton glacial erratic boulder is commonly believed to be the steppingstone for the pilgrims into the New World. This famous landmark attracts nearly one million people annually who come to see the iconic location and boulder that represents freedom and new opportunities for new Americans.
Where is Plymouth Rock Monument?
The Plymouth Rock Monument is located in the town of Plymouth, Massachusetts approximately 40 miles southwest of Boston and just 52 miles before Martha’s Vineyard, your next stop on the tour. Guests of Caravan Tours visit Plymouth Rock Monument on their way from Boston to the southern shore of Cape Cod.
Plymouth Rock History
It wasn’t until nearly 100 years after the Mayflower arrived that the first official mention of Plymouth Rock occurred. Historical records show that in 1715 Plymouth Rock was referred to as a “great rock.”
Then, in 1741, Elder Thomas Faunce made the first official claim that Plymouth Rock was the landing place of the pilgrims at a time when the town of Plymouth was making plans to build a wharf and bury the rock.
Faunce’s sentimental attachment to the rock (including making a tearful goodbye) made such an impression on the residents that they decided to adjust their wharf plans and signify the importance of this area by creating the Plymouth Rock Monument.
In 1774, Plymouth Rock was split into two pieces – the bottom half remained in place at the wharf and the top half was moved to the town’s meeting place. Later, in 1834, the top half of the rock was again moved to Pilgrim Hall.
Over the years the rock has been relocated several times throughout the town of Plymouth. Today, it is estimated that only one-third to one-half of the top part of the rock remains.
Plymouth Rock Visitor Info
At present, Plymouth Rock Monument is located inside the Pilgrim Memorial State Park and is managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. While many visitors comment that Plymouth Rock is not nearly as large as they anticipated, it is important to note that up to half the rock has been moved or chiseled away over the past 300 years.
The excitement of visiting the Plymouth Rock Monument lies in what this New England area represents – new beginnings, hope, and freedom. Many visitors also have ancestors who first arrived in the United States at this New England location, which adds even more special meaning.
Who Named Plymouth Rock?
On September 15, 1620, the Mayflower, with 101 people on board, left the town of Plymouth in England and sailed towards America. When the Mayflower finally reached land on December 26, 1620, the pilgrims came ashore and built the Plymouth Colony. Many attribute the naming of Plymouth Rock to William Bradford, the first governor of the new colony.
How Big is Plymouth Rock Today?
Plymouth Rock is estimated to be a total of 10 tons. Only the top third of the rock (about 4 tons) is visible. The rest of the rock (about 6 tons) is buried under the sand. As mentioned above, only one-third to one-half of the original rock remains. The rest has been lost due to relocation over the years and people chipping off pieces of the rock for souvenirs in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Can You Touch Plymouth Rock?
No, you can’t touch the Plymouth Rock Monument as an iron gate and columns now protect it.
About Caravan Tours
Caravan Tours began as a family-run, fully guided tour company back in 1952 and we’re proud to celebrate our 70th anniversary in 2022!
Since then, we’ve grown a lot and now offer affordable fully guided tours throughout the United States, Canada, and Central America. We are still a family-owned and operated tour company!
For more information about Plymouth Rock Monument or about our New England Fall Foliage tours please contact us:
- Call Toll Free 1-800-227-2826
- Read our Caravan New England tour Reviews
2025 Hotels
2025 Hotels
Accommodations in the hotels and lodges are usually rooms with two beds and private bath or shower. A limited number of single rooms are available. Triple rooms are usually two beds.
Day 1 • Boston, Massachusetts
Embassy Suites Logan Airport
The Embassy Suites is conveniently located next to Boston Logan Airport. This all-suite hotel features spacious two room suites with free WiFi. The indoor pool and whirlpool are open until midnight and the fitness center is available 24-hours daily. The Embassy Suites hosts a reception open to all guests, every evening from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., with complimentary appetizers and non-alcoholic beverages. Porter's Bar and Grill serves food until 11 p.m. and drinks until 11:45 p.m. nightly. The hotel is less than 2 miles from the Boston city center. Free 24-hour shuttle service is available from Boston Logan Airport and to the nearby MBTA Blue Line Subway and water taxis to downtown Boston.
Days 2, 3 • Hyannis, Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Doubletree Hilton Hyannis
The Doubletree Hilton is located in Hyannis on Cape Cod. This hotel has a fitness center along with both indoor and outdoor swimming pools. On site dining options include the Ivy Room for breakfast, the Vyne Bistro for dinner, and a lobby lounge. The hotel has a seasonal outdoor fire pit in the courtyard adjacent to the lounge. Free WiFi is included in all guest rooms.
Day 4 • Mystic Area, Connecticut
Mystic Hilton
The Hilton Mystic is located in Mystic, Connecticut, directly across from the Mystic Aquarium and shops. This hotel features a lounge, on-site restaurant, indoor pool, fitness center and free WiFi.
Day 5 • Green Mountains, Vermont
Long Trail House at Stratton Mountain Resort
The Long Trail House is walking distance to the village stores and restaurants. Amenities include a gas fireplace and air conditioning, pool, sauna, outdoor hot tub, complimentary wifi, a wood-burning fireplace in the hearth room for socializing, 100% non-smoking facility.
Mount Snow Grand Summit Resort
The Mount Snow Grand Summit is at the base of the Mount Snow Ski Resort and features an outdoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room and a hot tub. Lodge rooms include complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, hair dryer and air conditioning. In the evening, cozy up by the outdoor firepit.
Day 6 • White Mountains, New Hampshire
The Glen House
The Glen House is located in a picturesque setting at the base of Mount Washington in Gorham, New Hampshire. The guest rooms have free WiFi and are reflective of the simplicity of Shaker design. This hotel features a lounge, on-site restaurant, fitness center, indoor pool, and an outdoor patio with seasonal fire pit. An extensive trail network can be accessed in the backyard of the property.
Day 7 • Southern Coast of Maine
Anchorage by the Sea Resort, Ogunquit
The Anchorage by the Sea Resort is located in the heart of Ogunquit on Maine's Southern Coast. Ocean views abound throughout the resort grounds. The resort features indoor and outdoor heated pools, saunas, and hot tubs. Free WiFi is located in all guest rooms. A paved walking path runs along the ocean at the resort's edge.
Movies
Movies
Mystic Seaport02:11- Maine Coast03:41
Airport Transfers
Airport Transfers
arrival Transfers
Caravan’s Boston, Massachusetts hotel the Embassy Suites Logan Airport, provides 24 hour courtesy shuttles from Logan Airport (BOS). Upon arrival at the airport, request a pickup by calling the Embassy Suites (617-567-5000).
departure Transfers
Caravan's provides a departure transfer from your resort in Maine to Logan Airport (BOS) in Boston, Massachusetts, arriving at 10:00 a.m. on the day the tour ends. Please schedule your flights after 12:00 p.m.
Airfare is not included or sold by Caravan.
Passports & Visas
Passports & Visas
Non U.S. citizens, please check your passport and visa requirements. See Travel Tips for more details.
Weather & Clothing
Weather & Clothing
Temperature °F (high/low) Rainfall (inches)
| Boston | ||
|---|---|---|
| Temp | Rain | |
| Jan | 36/22 | 3.6 |
| Feb | 38/23 | 3.6 |
| Mar | 46/31 | 3.7 |
| Apr | 56/40 | 3.6 |
| May | 67/50 | 3.3 |
| Jun | 76/59 | 3.1 |
| Jul | 82/65 | 2.8 |
| Aug | 80/64 | 3.2 |
| Sep | 73/57 | 3.1 |
| Oct | 63/47 | 3.3 |
| Nov | 52/38 | 4.2 |
| Dec | 40/27 | 4.0 |
Temperature °F (high/low) Rainfall (inches)
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boston | ||||||||||||
| temp | 36/22 | 38/23 | 46/31 | 56/40 | 67/50 | 76/59 | 82/65 | 80/64 | 73/57 | 63/47 | 52/38 | 40/27 |
| rainfall | 3.6 | 3.6 | 3.7 | 3.6 | 3.3 | 3.1 | 2.8 | 3.2 | 3.1 | 3.3 | 4.2 | 4.0 |
Clothing Tips
This is a casual tour. Casual wear is suggested for sightseeing and daytime travelling. Dress code for evenings is casual. Suit jackets for men and dresses for women are never required. See Travel Tips for more details.
Travel Tips & FAQs
Travel Tips & FAQs
These are only the first 13 Travel Tips. Read all 48 Travel Tips Included meals for each tour are listed at the end of each day. Meals are shown by B (breakfast), L (lunch) and D (dinner). Full, buffet, or deluxe continental breakfasts are included everywhere. Free bottled water is provided on the motorcoach. Alcoholic beverages are not included unless specified. Meals included in the land price are indicated at the beginning of each day by B (Breakfast), L (Lunch), D (Dinner). Dinner, when included, is served at your hotel except when, as indicated in the itinerary, it is at a special restaurant outside the hotel. Coffee or tea is provided at all included meals. Children age five (5) and older are welcome on tour when accompanied by an adult. Usually, children travel during the school vacation months of June, July and August, and also during spring and winter school breaks. Families are always welcome on any of our tours, but we do not have any programs specifically for or limited to families. Families can make specific requests for connecting, adjacent, triple or quad rooms, when available. Children must be at least 5 years old. Prices do not include air travel, country entry or departure fees, airport porters, visas, phone calls, valet, laundry, all items of a personal nature, extra food and beverages not on the regular menu, and tips to the Caravan Tour Director, driver, and local guides. Virtually everything! Hotels, many meals, all of the activities described in the itinerary pages, airport transfers in select cities, gratuities to hotel porters, restaurant staff and local guides. Caravan’s professional Tour Directors and local guides will be with you every step of the way, ensuring a worry free vacation. Usually, you find a mix of different age adult travelers on a Caravan Tour. Children age five (5) and older are welcome, and children usually join tours offered during Christmas holidays, summer vacation and spring break vacation. Caravan accepts payment (in U.S. funds only) via MasterCard, Visa, or Discover. The farther in advance that you book, the more likely it is that your preferred tour will be open. Late bookings are welcome if the space is still available. Caravan has been offering fully guided tours worldwide under the same family ownership and management since 1952. Caravan understands and truly cares about your great expectations. Group sizes will vary depending on the reserved rooms at the hotels and the capacity of the boats and motorcoaches used. Usually, group sizes range from 30 to 44 passengers. A well-paced and unhurried itinerary is our goal, after all, you are on vacation! Touring days begin and end at reasonable hours and include frequent stops. While the occasional early morning departure is necessary, we do our best to ensure a leisurely vacation. Caravan Travel Protection offers peace of mind if you cancel for any reason whatsoever prior to the departure of the tour. The travel protection plan also includes air, baggage, evacuation, medical, and quarantine coverage. The cost is $129.Are meals included?
Meals
Children on Tour
Family Trips
My Tour Price Does Not Include
My Tour Price Includes
Age of Travelers on a Caravan Tour
Forms of Payment
Many Tours Sell Out Each Year
Fully Guided Tours Since 1952
Size of Tour Group
A Well-Paced Itinerary
Caravan’s $129 Travel Protection
Customer Reviews
Customer Reviews
These are only the first 7 Customer Reviews. Read all 237 Customer Reviews "This was my dream vacation and along with my husband, best friend and her husband, I couldn’t have asked for a better time. Breakfasts were amazing, the hotels very nice clean and the scenery was just beautiful. The sights were awesome, more than I ever expected. The colors were perfect and the history was out of this world. Saw everything we hoped for plus more than was planned. The fall foliage was at the perfect time and was beautiful. I would definitely take another tour with Caravan. It was a lifetime experience. Everything I wanted to see. Thank you." "Beautiful, magnificent hotels. The views from the hotels in the mountains were breathtaking. The photo stops were great and offered all the marvelous views of each state. Sightseeing was awesome, so many things to see and do." "Thoroughly enjoyed my first trip with Caravan Tours - will return for other trips! Enjoyed all the sightseeing opportunities and added ideas from our director, who was excellent and pointed out sites to see for pictures. Gave historical info, added stories, answered questions. Provided materials and maps and was always very polite, friendly and cheerful. We had sufficient time to enjoy the surroundings and take pictures. Enjoyed the variety of activities, films, displays. All the hotels were four to five star with clean comfortable beds and self controlled environments. Just a lovely time all around. Will share with friends." "Over the top! First time to New England and I really felt we covered so much, enough to suit everyone. I’m an artist and took so many pics, I’ll be painting from them for years to come. This was the first guided tour we had ever taken so we did not know what to expect. Tour was GREAT. We thought going in that would be lots of down (boring) time. Wrong. All the activities were well-planned and fun. Tour was set up to provide much to see. The time went by fast and colorfully. We were told by a couple that wasn’t on the tour who saw our Caravan luggage tags that we would have a great time and that Caravan does the best tours. SO TRUE! Thanks for a wonderful trip." "The Caravan value is unsurpassed. We would highly recommend this tour to anyone who has never traveled to New England states, loves history and beautiful scenery. We were fortunate to enjoy a late fall foliage. Photo stops abound on the multistate tour. We really enjoyed the history and beauty of the region. Our tour guide left no question unanswered. We loved the smaller boutique hotels and the condo with the fireplace." "This was my first guided tour, and I feel like I hit the jackpot. Our director shared insights into history and was attentive to our needs. Our team worked together to offer us the best views and colors, even making some adjustments along the way. All our short stops were for rest and conveniences and beautiful photo opportunities. All our main activities were well-planned, with plenty of time to enjoy each stop, and the colors were breathtaking. I truly enjoyed this trip. I enjoyed meeting new people and our weather was spectacular. I will definitely recommend Caravan to others." "Excellent. We learned so much more of our country’s history, and our TD was the best. Couldn’t have asked for better. We all laughed and had a great time. We were so pleased with everything we did. All the staff at each hotel were wonderful, and the seafood was terrific. So nice to not worry about our bags and rooms. Love your company and will tell everyone what a great time we had. You are the best!"
Read All 237 ReviewsClick Here to Read All 237 Customer Reviews
Why Travel with Caravan?
Why Travel with Caravan?
Excellence Since 1952
You can trust our years of experience with tours of superb quality and excellent value. Caravan has enjoyed the same family management and ownership since 1952.
Caravan Care
For your safety, Caravan cancelled most 2020 and all 2021 tour departures and refunded 100% of all payments received. See Caravan’s Covid-19 Terms of Travel.
Caravan's Proud History
In 1965, Roger Mudd hosted a two-hour CBS TV special on Caravan Tours. This TV production took about one month to make and was so successful it inspired the 1968 romantic comedy movie “If it’s Tuesday this must be Belgium.” In the early 50’s the Mayor of Dublin presented Caravan with the Key to Dublin for bringing the first American tour to the city after WWII. Since then, Caravan has been recognized as a pioneer in travel. You can trust in our stability, experience and dedication to quality.
Great Hotels
Stay at park lodges, scenic resorts, and excellent hotels in great locations. See hotel descriptions on each tour page.
Meals
Most meals included within Latin America. For USA and Canada tours, included meals are listed on each itinerary page. Bottled water is provided on motorcoaches in Latin America.
Complete Sightseeing
Enjoy complete sightseeing with more visits, extra features, and local guides.
Fully Guided by Tour Directors
All tours conducted from start to finish by professional tour directors, who are fluent in English, experienced, and fun.
All-inclusive
Caravan includes all activities listed in the tour itinerary page. Caravan does not sell any optional activities which can add hundreds of dollars to your tour price. Your free time is scheduled in great settings where there is no need to buy additional expensive activities.
Shopping Freedom
Caravan will not bring you to overpriced shops in exchange for payments. Caravan gives you ample opportunity and time for great shopping, and the freedom to choose where and when to shop.
Great Value, Book Early
Caravan’s strong buying power gives you great vacations at prices much lower than you can find anywhere. In a typical year, most of our tours sell out quickly. Book early for the date you prefer and the best air fare.
How does Caravan Tours sell these tours for such a low cost?
Caravan delivers volume to our suppliers, who in turn reward us with their very best prices. We in turn pass these savings on to you, and you reward us by buying our tours. As volume continues to rise, we then receive even better prices from our suppliers, and we pass even greater savings on to you. This year our tours are better than ever.
Trade Association Memberships
Caravan is a member of NTA (National Tour Association), ABA (American Bus Association), CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association), and ACMA (American Commerce Marketing Association).
