abrunettetravels Last updated on May 19th, 2023 at 08:06 pm
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A visit to Boston isn’t complete without walking the historic Freedom Trail. This guide highlights the historic sites along the trail and will hopefully inspire you to visit.
Decide before you go
First, you will need to decide if you prefer a guided tour or opt for a self-guided walk. There are several options for a guided tour, including the Boston Town Crier Tour. Alternatively, you can grab a map, and audio guide and begin experiencing history on your own.
Second, you need to decide if you want to visit all 16 historic sites in one day or break it up into two days. The 2.5-mile red line path may seem easily done in one day, but you need to consider how much time you will spend at each site. This guide will help you plan your visit.
Let’s start the tour
Make sure you look for the red line of bricks and the Freedom Trail Medallion on the path.
Boston Common
Boston Common is America’s oldest public park and has a deep history being established in 1634. In the winter, the Boston Common Frog Pond becomes a skating rink featuring a learn-to-skate school.
*Make sure to stop in the Boston Common Visitor Center for information before starting your tour.
Massachusetts State House
The state house has served as the seat of Massachusetts government since its opening. Interested in touring the interior? You can call to schedule a guided tour.
Park Street Church
The steeple was the first landmark people saw when entering Boston. The Park Street Church, built in 1809, is still an active church and congregation.
Granary Burying Ground
A burying ground for some of America’s most notable citizens. Even if you aren’t keen on walking through cemeteries, you should take the time to stroll through the Granary Burying Ground. Spend a few minutes looking for the graves of Ben Franklin’s parents, John Hancock, Paul Revere, plus the victims of the Boston Massacre. Interestingly, the Burying Ground was once part of Boston Common.
King’s Chapel and King’s Chapel Burying Ground
If you like churches and history, you will love walking through King’s Chapel. Even if you don’t, it’s still a must visit on the Freedom Trail. Dating back to 1686 as Boston’s first Anglican Church, there are 330 years of history here. During your visit, you will see the oldest American pulpit still in continuous use. Also, you can sit in the original pews as you learn about former members.
*Join the Bells and Bones tour to learn about an 18th century crypt and bell tower. Check here for hours as they change during the year. Tickets are $5.00 for 14 and up. Guided tours from $7.00-$10.00.
Boston Latin School/Ben Franklin Statue
Along with one of the oldest churches, this is the oldest public school in America. A statue of Benjamin Franklin marks the location of the original schoolhouse. Five signers of the Declaration of Independence attended school here. However, only four graduated. Ben Franklin is one of America’s most notable dropouts.
Old Corner Bookstore
The Old Corner Bookstore was built in 1718 as the home and apothecary shop of Dr. Thomas Crease. Later, it was home to notable booksellers and publishers, most notably Ticknor & Fields, who published many well-known titles. Among the most popular are Walden by Thoreau, The Scarlet Letter, Little Women and Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Along with those famous works of literature, the first American editions of Charles Dickens were published here. Thankfully, when the city wanted to demolish it for a parking lot, concerned citizens came together to save the bookstore.
Old South Meeting House
A house full of history, the Old South Meeting House was the hub of political and business life. First, you will stand witness to where the Boston Massacre took place. Second, you can see the balcony where the Declaration of Independence was read for the first time.
*The Meeting House is open from 10-5 daily. You can purchase one ticket for access to both the Old South Meeting House and the Old State House.
Boston Massacre Site
While the site has been moved twice, both times away from the intersection of State and Congress, you can still see the medallion on the Freedom Trail marking this site of the Massacre.
Faneuil Hall
Known as the Cradle of Liberty, Faneuil Hall is used for meeting, debates and protests to this day. It’s easy to see the historical importance of Faneuil Hall when you realize the Sugar, Stamp and Tea Acts were all protested here.
*Free admission. Visitor Center is open 11-5 and the Great Hall is open 11-4.
Paul Revere House
No trip to Boston would be complete without a visit to the Paul Revere House. The only stop on the Freedom Trail that was a private home. Built around 1680, the house is still open for tourists from 10:00-3:15.
Old North Church
Take a self-guided tour of the place where the American Revolution began. “One if by land, two if by sea” rings through this church as well as the Midnight Ride by Paul Revere. Along with the self-guided tour, you can add on guided tours of the crypt, bell ringing chamber and gallery.
*Hours Tuesday-Saturday 10-5, Sunday 12:30-5. Check here for admission.
Copp’s Hill Burying Ground
One of 3 burying grounds along the Freedom Trail, Copp’s Hill is the final resting place of many local merchants, artisans and craftspeople. While walking through, look for the monuments of Revolutionary War heroes.
USS Constitution
Also known as “Old Ironsides” from the War of 1812, the USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned warship. Make sure to stop by the museum for detailed information on the ship built in 1797.
Bunker Hill Monument
The great obelisk stands tall as a reminder of the Battle of Bunker Hill on June 17, 1775. Though the battle was considered a British victory, it showed the colonial forces could fight the British. Interestingly, the monument’s construction began on 1825-the 50th anniversary of the Battle.
Tips Before Visiting
* Wear comfortable shoes! You will have a lot of walking.
*Visit the Boston Common Visitor Center for Trail information and maps.
*Book tours and admission tickets ahead of time.
*Download the Freedom Trail Boston Guide app.
*Take your time and learn about the history in Boston.
Conclusion
I hope reading this inspires you to visit Boston and see for yourself why a visit there isn’t complete without walking the Freedom Trail.
For more information on historical vacations, read this post on Colonial Williamsburg and this one featuring Charleston, SC.
