Finalizing itineary for trip to Boston. Although we will be there for 6 1/2 days finding it is still not time to do everything we would like. Would like to do the Old Sturbridge Village and Plimoth Plantation but after research they both seem to be very similar. If you had to choose between them which would you visit and why?

Plimouth Plantation and Sturbridge are VERY different! Plimouth is much smaller and is limited to a very narrow time period. Therefore, the buildings are all of a similar style. Having said that -- it is a wonderful experience in that the staff is very knowlegeable. They role play and stay in character no matter what! It can be a lot of fun and very educational. The visit also includes a Native American site (small) and you can visit the Mayflower (replica) which is a few minute drive from Plimout Plantation.
Sturbridge is a lot larger. The buildings cover a broader time period and also a variety of trades, interests, etc. There's a church, school house, bank, businesses, and many different types of residences depicting life styles across many economic lines and occupations. If you've ever been to Williamsburg, it's something like that, but on a smaller scale and much less expensive. (And less commercial!)

They are quite different! My pick, though, would be Plymouth, as there's so much more to see and do in the immediate area. I don't usually go for wax museums, but the one in Plymouth depicting the story of the "crossing" is very well done and fascinating. Also, Plymouth is on the ocean - just beautiful.

I haven't been to Sturbridge, however, I took my daughter to Plymouth last October. I agree with the postings above, but I would really emphasize the Ocean. We had alot of fun sharing a lobster at seaside but even better -- We went on a Whale watching trip that was amazing! I couldn't tell you how many humpback whales we saw. The boat had a very knowledgable guide on board and we learned alot. There is a feeding ground just an hour out of Plymouth harbor and the whales were everywhere!! Wonderful!

Sturbridge! Much more to see, do, eat there -- more an immersion into history. Plimouth Plantation is so limited that, as you can see, most people go there because there are other things right around the same area -- but I don't think the entire package will add as much to your trip as the Sturbridge experience would.