Walk Your Way Through History On Boston's Freedom Trail

Step into the shoes of our country's forefathers when you retrace their steps to the spaces and places that defined American history. A 2.5 mile, red brick path leads you throughout the city to 16 historic sites that were the birthplace of our country.

Explore revolutionary America's 18th century experience at your own pace on a self-guided tour that begins at Boston Common and takes you to sites like the Granary Burial Ground, final resting place of Paul Revere and three signers of the Declaration of Independence.

Soak in the history at the Old South Meeting House, site of the famous Boston Tea Party, the Old State House, scene of the Boston Massacre, Faneuil Hall and the Old North Church, where Paul Revere ended his famous and historic Midnight Ride on April 18, 1775.

FAQs

Where does the Boston Freedom Trail start and end?
Your journey through American history begins at Boston Common on the corner of Boylston & Tremont Streets. The Common is the final resting place for notable names in revolution history, including 15 men who participated in the Boston Tea Party, plus countless Redcoats who died in the Battle of Bunker Hill and the Siege of Boston. The 2.5 mile tour continues on to 14 more historic sites throughout the city and ends at the final stop, the USS Constitution, nicknamed "Old Ironsides," in the Charlestown Navy Yard. This well-traveled ship has seen battles around the world, from the West Indies to Brazil to the West African coast. It has been involved in the War of 1812 and the Barbary Wars, and is now permanently berthed in Boston. She makes appearances in Boston Harbor throughout the year, including the annual July 4th celebrations.
What historic sites can I see on the Boston Freedom Trail?
After setting off from Boston Common and before arriving at the USS Constitution, you'll discover 14 additional sites that played a dramatic role in history, like the Massachusetts State House, Park Street Church, Granary Burying Ground, King's Chapel & Burial Ground, Boston Latin School, Benjamin Franklin Statue, Old South Meeting House, Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere House and Copp's Hill Burying Ground. You'll also have a chance to explore a few points of extra-special interest, including:

* Old Corner Bookstore - Not only the oldest commercial building in Boston, but also the center of mid-1800s American book publishing, producing the works of notable authors like Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Louisa May Alcott and Ralph Waldo Emerson.

* Site of Boston Massacre - This violent confrontation on March 5, 1770 was a precursor to what was to come in just a few years. Conflict between Bostonians and Redcoats sent to quell riots in the city after imposition of exhorbitant tariffs, resulted in this historic battle where five local men perished.

* Old North Church - Taking advantage of the 191 foot steeple, the tallest in Boston, this church served as the final destination in Paul Revere's December 29, 1723 ride. On that night, two lanterns were hung in the steeple, alerting revolutionaries of the impending arrival of British troops - by sea.

Walk Your Way Through History On Boston's Freedom Trail

Details

Prices

Hours

Events

Activities

FAQs

Where does the Boston Freedom Trail start and end?

What historic sites can I see on the Boston Freedom Trail?

Helpful Links