The John Carver Inn: The Best Option for Families in Plymouth

Location: Plymouth, Massachusetts

Whenever we visit Plymouth, MA, our choice of accommodation is always a given—the John Carver Inn. Conveniently located just a short walk from Plymouth Rock, this inn is perfect for families, thanks to its epic pool and prime location.

As a side note, I managed to book our stay for free using the $300 annual credit from my Capital One Venture Card. Booking through their website was a breeze.

Plymouth offers countless attractions, and the John Carver Inn’s location is ideal for exploring most of them. The inn also offers ample parking, a welcome find in Plymouth.

The John Carver Inn recently renovated their rooms, and we were pleased with our good-sized room on the second floor. If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll want to stay on this floor as it’s home to both the pool and arcade. However, if you prefer a quieter stay, I recommend requesting a room on a different floor.

They absolutely loved the Ryan’s Amusements arcade located right in the hotel and made frequent trips there. The arcade had all the claw machines my daughter loves, along with the fun prize games my boys enjoy. The convenience of easily loading game cards with a quick credit card swipe was an added bonus.

Our room featured two queen beds with very comfortable bedding, a spacious bathroom with a tub, and a large screen television. The desk area was perfect for the kids to play games.

The pool was a big hit with the kids, especially with its Plymouth Rock theme and pirate ship slide. It’s an indoor pool, so it’s available year-round, although I found the water a bit too chilly for my taste. Unfortunately, the hot tub was closed during our visit, which was a bit of a letdown.

Adults can also enjoy the sauna and fitness room, and while the inn is known for its spa, I haven’t had the chance to indulge—yet. For couples, the John Carver Inn offers romantic suites with fireplaces and whirlpool tubs, adding a special touch to any stay.

One of my favorite aspects of the John Carver Inn is its location. Perched on a hill beside the grist mill, it’s just a short scenic walk down to Plymouth Rock, The Mayflower, and Brewster Gardens.

A stroll along Water Street offers lovely views of the harbor. Plus, the inn is just a short walk from Main Street, where you can explore even more shops and restaurants.

There is a restaurant in the John Carver Inn. Although we didn’t eat there, we did sneak in for a delicious dessert to bring back to the room, along with a glass of wine- don’t judge, it was a long day!

During our stay, the inn’s friendly staff were a great resource, offering valuable suggestions for local activities and dining options. The proximity to historical sites like Plymouth Rock and The Mayflower makes the John Carver Inn an excellent base for exploring Plymouth’s rich history.

While the rooms were comfortable, some areas of the inn could benefit from a bit of refurbishment. Despite this, the inn’s stately charm and family-friendly facilities continue to make it a top choice for our visits. We look forward to returning and experiencing more of what Plymouth has to offer.