Pilgrim Monument And Provincetown Museum
Pilgrim Monument And Provincetown Museum
Pilgrim Monument And Provincetown Museum
4.5
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
Closed
Wednesday
Closed
Thursday
Closed
Friday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
About
The Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum (PMPM) was founded in 1892 as the Cape Cod Pilgrim Memorial Association—Cape Cod’s oldest non-profit organization. Standing at 252 feet, 7.5 inches, the Pilgrim Monument was constructed to commemorate the Mayflower Pilgrims’ first landing in the New World in November 1620 and the signing of the historic Mayflower Compact in what is now Provincetown Harbor. The Provincetown Museum features exhibits that showcase Provincetown’s significant place in American history. Featured exhibits include Our Story: The Complicated Relationship of the Indigenous Wampanoag and the Mayflower Pilgrims and An Anecdotal LGBTQ+ History of the Last Century of Provincetown. Other exhibits showcase the town’s deep maritime roots, the early days of modern American theater, and more. PMPM is accessible from downtown Provincetown via scenic ride to the top of High Pole Hill in a state-of-the-art inclined elevator. Elevator access included in cost of admission.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
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1,516 reviews
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Erika-MotoAdventures
Lowell, MA19 contributions
Jul 2023 • Couples
My husband and I visited here during July 4th week. We arrived later in the afternoon, so there weren't too many other people there. Parking is $20, but does not include the entry fee to the tower - that was an additional $20+tax per person. The climb itself was not too bad, as most of the way up is a series of ramps. There are some small windows letting in a nice sea breeze too.
Once you get to the top, the view is spectacular! You can see all of the tip of the cape and south towards Truro. The balcony is walled in with clear plastic, so you don't have to worry about dropping anything off the edge (although it does make it a lot harder to get clear pictures). There's a bench or two as well to sit on. We were happy to have somewhere to catch our breath after the climb.
At the bottom, there's a surprisingly large museum as well as a small art gallery featuring works from local artists. We didn't have enough time to see the whole museum, as we came down from the tower around 4:30 and the museum closes at 5, but we enjoyed taking a quick look at the exhibits. Some exhibits had video displays, but most speakers either weren't working or had such poor audio quality that you couldn't understand what was being said. Maybe that's a small nitpick, but it did detract from the experience a bit.
Overall, we enjoyed our visit, although I would avoid going on a humid, 86 degree day like we did (climbing the tower got pretty hot). Also bear in mind that the last ascent of the tower is around 4 or 4:15 PM. Personally, I think $60+ for two people is pretty pricey, but it was worth it to do once.
Once you get to the top, the view is spectacular! You can see all of the tip of the cape and south towards Truro. The balcony is walled in with clear plastic, so you don't have to worry about dropping anything off the edge (although it does make it a lot harder to get clear pictures). There's a bench or two as well to sit on. We were happy to have somewhere to catch our breath after the climb.
At the bottom, there's a surprisingly large museum as well as a small art gallery featuring works from local artists. We didn't have enough time to see the whole museum, as we came down from the tower around 4:30 and the museum closes at 5, but we enjoyed taking a quick look at the exhibits. Some exhibits had video displays, but most speakers either weren't working or had such poor audio quality that you couldn't understand what was being said. Maybe that's a small nitpick, but it did detract from the experience a bit.
Overall, we enjoyed our visit, although I would avoid going on a humid, 86 degree day like we did (climbing the tower got pretty hot). Also bear in mind that the last ascent of the tower is around 4 or 4:15 PM. Personally, I think $60+ for two people is pretty pricey, but it was worth it to do once.
Written July 12, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Marilyne B
France151 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
To access the Pilgrim monument, either you pass through the museum or the city by climbing in a small funicular. The ticket to the museum is the right of way either way. We climbed to the top of the tower quite easily because they are ramps most of the time and not steps. The view is very beautiful. Unfortunately, the museum isn’t translated, not even a small booklet or audio so we fell back on our Guide.
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Written August 14, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
307leven
Stroudsburg, PA307 contributions
Sep 2022
Visited on a rainy Thursday in late September. After parking on Commercial St., we took the shuttle ride up from Bradford St and visited the monument first. The cost was $20.94/each, but children and seniors qualify for discounts. It took about 15 minutes to climb the stairs and ramps to the top of the monument, but the views were well worth it as you can see for many miles in all directions. The wind is very strong at the top so be prepared and dress accordingly. We spent about 15-20 minutes at the top before descending to the bottom and visited the museum next.
The museum contained much history of Provincetown, plenty of exhibits and the story of the pilgrims that landed nearby. We spent a little over an hour in the museum and gift shop and enjoyed our visit. Hours were 10-5 during our time there, but the sign advised that 4 pm is the cutoff time for the last admission. I definitely recommend visiting here for visitors of all ages.
The museum contained much history of Provincetown, plenty of exhibits and the story of the pilgrims that landed nearby. We spent a little over an hour in the museum and gift shop and enjoyed our visit. Hours were 10-5 during our time there, but the sign advised that 4 pm is the cutoff time for the last admission. I definitely recommend visiting here for visitors of all ages.
Written October 20, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
susherry
Allentown, PA9 contributions
Jul 2023 • Couples
Our first visit to P’town and Cape Cod, we wanted to experience everything. Whale watching was wonderful as well as lunch at the Mayfair and walking through town. When we got to the Tower we learned it was $20 pp to take the elevator and $20 pp entry. Plus pay to park at $4/hr. We declined the visit….you can see the tower from anywhere in town and from the bay.
I haven’t yet investigated who “owns” the monument, but it seems to me that since the Tower is part of our American history and culture, it should be free of charge for one and all to enjoy. OK, charge for parking if you must, but the rest smacks of greed, preying on people who want to experience the history of the USA for themselves and their children. Incidentally, looking back through past reviews, the rates have increased since 2018.
I haven’t yet investigated who “owns” the monument, but it seems to me that since the Tower is part of our American history and culture, it should be free of charge for one and all to enjoy. OK, charge for parking if you must, but the rest smacks of greed, preying on people who want to experience the history of the USA for themselves and their children. Incidentally, looking back through past reviews, the rates have increased since 2018.
Written July 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mike H
cambridge, ma5 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
While this used to be a nice tour it is now a money pit!
They added a simple cable car to lift you up one street and as a result, upped the entrance cost from about $5 per person to > $20 !
We opted to save $75 and not go. Couldn't help but noticed there was no one on the brand new cable car.
Maybe they'll come to their senses and realize that no is going to pay that exorbitant entrance fee and bring it down to a reasonable level.
Until then, if you have money to burn, you can have the tower all to yourself!
They added a simple cable car to lift you up one street and as a result, upped the entrance cost from about $5 per person to > $20 !
We opted to save $75 and not go. Couldn't help but noticed there was no one on the brand new cable car.
Maybe they'll come to their senses and realize that no is going to pay that exorbitant entrance fee and bring it down to a reasonable level.
Until then, if you have money to burn, you can have the tower all to yourself!
Written August 24, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
harryatkck
Kansas City, KS981 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
This was not a planned stop, but we decided to check it out. It was late in the day when we were here. We didn't feel like paying $16.75 per person admission to enter. So, we took a couple of photos of the monument & left.
Written September 23, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
PJHoffnet
Viera, FL808 contributions
May 2022
The Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum is a great place to spend a few hours and learn about the changes that occurred after the Pilgrims made their initial landing here back in 1620.
The inclined elevator leading up to the monument from Bradford Street is included in the museum’s admission price. The climb to the top of the monument is not as difficult as it might seem since the ascent has very few stairs, instead the climb is made by walking up ramps that encircle the inside of the monument. The view from the top of the monument is certainly affected by weather conditions in P-Town and along the shore of Massachusetts as you view towards the southwest and northwest.
The museum has done a good job ‘evolving’ from the standard ‘First Thanksgiving’ tale we ‘older’ folks learned in school, to a truer presentation of the conflict the indigenous peoples had with the arriving Europeans.
The inclined elevator leading up to the monument from Bradford Street is included in the museum’s admission price. The climb to the top of the monument is not as difficult as it might seem since the ascent has very few stairs, instead the climb is made by walking up ramps that encircle the inside of the monument. The view from the top of the monument is certainly affected by weather conditions in P-Town and along the shore of Massachusetts as you view towards the southwest and northwest.
The museum has done a good job ‘evolving’ from the standard ‘First Thanksgiving’ tale we ‘older’ folks learned in school, to a truer presentation of the conflict the indigenous peoples had with the arriving Europeans.
Written May 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Yi N
Newark, DE107 contributions
Jul 2022
Honestly, it’s at least a little disappointing when it costs more than $60 for two to see the monument plus the museum and the glass walls on the exhibit cabinets are way too wavy, just like distorting mirrors. I can’t help thinking about where all the parking fees and admission fees have gone. $20 for parking. Admission is $20.94 per person, even though the sign at the ticket desk says $20. It’s not very different, but I still feel cheated.
Written August 1, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SaraLK24
Plymouth39 contributions
Sep 2023 • Friends
We wanted to visit the Pilgim monument as part of a day trip around the area. We arrived just before 4pm and were already shocked to discover we had to pay the full $20 daily fee to park. The monument and museum cost $21 per person and closed at 5pm. We decided over $60 for two of us to visit a national monument for an hour wasn't worth it so didn't bother but still feel very aggrieved at paying $20 to park for 10 minutes (no refund). Provincetown is pretty so if you are going to go make a day of it to make it worth the exorbitant parking charge but I'd give the monument (which you can see from the car park and for miles around) a miss.
Written September 30, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rasmac68
Leonardo, NJ2 contributions
Sep 2022
The Pilgrim Monument is located right in Provincetown. Parking is very convenient and the charge is $20.00. It is a great deal because you can leave your car there overnight. Your ticket to the museum allows you to use the elevator that brings you to street level. The museum is very interesting and I recommend a good hour to see everything.
Written September 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Not at this monument/museum. There are rentals at PTown Aquasports, just north of the pier. We were there pre-season, they weren't open, but looks like they have good reviews.
Written July 19, 2022
What’s the normal opening season for the monument? We plan to visit cape cod the third week of October. Will it still be open by then?
Written March 12, 2021
Hello,
You wind upwards to the top of the monument. It is more rectangular than circular, so it isn't a winding, tight squeeze, yet there isn't a lot of room. There are 116 steps alternating with 60 ramps. You walk up a few steps, then walk along a ramp, then a few steps, and then a ramp, etc. There is room for others to come down when you are going up, and/or room for others to pass you, so you need not feel rushed. It is not a difficult climb, especially since the ramps give you a bit of a break from the stairs, but there is no place to stop and rest, other than to stand against the wall.
Written November 5, 2019
Is it possible to bring your dog in/around? We are planning a trip to Cape Cod with our Miniature Pinscher - she can easily and quietly fit into a carry bag if I could bring her with us.
Written March 7, 2019
When we were there we saw travelers with dogs outside the monument complex but did not see anyone with a dog inside the museum or the monument. To be sure, I would call the museum regarding clarification. Sorry I can not be more helpful. A hike to the top of the Pilgrim's Monument can be a bit tiring but the views are spectacular and well worth the effort.
Written March 8, 2019
Is there a place to check a backpack? Or do I have to climb with it??
Written September 26, 2018
No place to check in a backpack but as it's a reasonably gentle grade with plenty of waiting places as you go it, provided its not too big it should be no problem.
Written September 27, 2018
Yes, it’s a quick walk from the ferry
Written September 16, 2018
It will probably take you about 20 minutes to walk from the Monument to the ferry for Long Point. Have fun!
Written February 21, 2017
Parking included one entry, not that expensive but well worth it. I think Peking was $15. Admission $12
Written September 30, 2016
Can you go up at 7 pm in August and watch the sunset?
Written August 14, 2016
I looked at their website. They close at 7 p.m. through Labor Day and the last trip to the top is 30 minutes prior to closing. The views from the base of the monument are amazing but they'll probably still clear everyone out by 7 p.m.
Written August 14, 2016
No charge when we went in April, but not sure once the summer season is in full swing. My guess is there is no fee for parking, and it's a huge parking lot.
Written June 15, 2016
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