Plimoth Plantation (www.plimoth.org) is open daily through Nov. 28.

Admission -- $28; $26 for 62 and older; $18 for ages 6-12; 5 and younger, free -- includes the 1627 English Village, visitor center (introductory film and exhibits), craft center (artisans make settler and Indian artifacts in the time-honored way), Nye Barn (live animals in breeds similar to what the Pilgrims had) and Wampanoag Homesite (an Indian village whose staffers explain what happened from the vantage of the Pilgrims' native neighbors).

Also included is admission to the Mayflower II, downtown in Plymouth Harbor. The ship, built in the 1950s, emulates as closely as possible the one the Pilgrims took to the New World in 1620. Subtract seven years from the Plantation time frame and go aboard. You'll go below to the small and dark deck where the 100 passengers stayed as the Mayflower crept at 2 miles per hour for 66 days.

Dining options abound in downtown Plymouth, but consider the Patuxet Cafe in the spacious visitor center: The surprisingly varied menu includes a bison burger, a side of succotash and craft beers -- including Mayflower Golden Ale, brewed to resemble what Pilgrims consumed -- or more modern New England fare like a lobster roll.

What we consider a traditional American Thanksgiving would have bewildered the Pilgrims, but they did hold several fall harvest festivals attended by Indian leaders. So Thanksgiving -- Nov. 25 this year -- is a big deal there, with four buffets, a formal dinner (already sold out) and special programs. Call about openings and prices (1-800-262-9356) before planning a trip to Plimoth on that date.