From this broad, sloping field just outside downtown Plymouth, gaze across the historic harbor the Pilgrims entered four centuries ago. Before the Revolutionary War, a section of field at Holmes Reservation was part of a famous “Muster Ground.” Plymouth farms in the militia would gather here to practice shooting their muskets and marching in formation. Today, this open, grassy field is a treasured oasis of open space in an otherwise developed city center.

From the top of the field, take in distant views of Plymouth Harbor and Duxbury Beach. At the foot of the field, you’ll see a small woodland bounded by abandoned tracks of the Old Colony Railroad.

The Seaside Rail Trail is a 1.2-mile all-access trail extending from Nelson Field, passing Holmes Reservation, to the Cordage Park commercial area. It extends along the shoreline and offers spectacular views of a salt marsh and the ocean, as well as Plymouth Beach and Duxbury Bay. It consists alternately of pavement, concrete, and crushed stone. Stroller-friendly.