Explore the Freedom Trail in Boston

One of Boston’s most popular attractions, the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail comprises 16 colonial and revolutionary historical sites, tracing the locations of the events that earned this town its status as the “Birthplace of the Revolution.” Whether you prefer to walk the trail at your own pace or join a guided tour, use this guide to summon your inner Paul Revere and follow the redbrick road, from the Boston Common to the Bunker Hill Monument.

First, a breakdown of the trail’s 16 stops

1. Boston Common

The Freedom Trail kicks off at the Boston Common, the country’s oldest public park and a centerpiece of the city. This 50-acre green space is crisscrossed with walking paths and dotted with monuments. Don’t miss the memorial to Robert Gould Shaw and the all-Black 54th Regiment, which fought for the Union in the Civil War.

Local tip: The Boston Common is often called ‘the Common’ in local parlance, but never “the Commons.” Use the singular to avoid ridicule from locals!

2. Massachusetts State House

Overlooking the Boston Common, the Massachusetts State House occupies a proud spot atop the city’s last remaining hill, land that was previously part of John Hancock’s cow pasture. Go inside for a free tour of the historic halls and the functioning seat of government.

Detour: National Park Service rangers give free 90-minute guided tours on the Black Heritage Trail, which explores the history of the abolitionist movement and African American settlement in Beacon Hill.

3. Park Street Church

The soaring spire of Park Street Church has been an unmistakable landmark since 1809. The church earned the moniker “Brimstone Corner” both for its historical usage during the War of 1812 and for its fiery preaching.

4. Granary Burying Ground

Next to the church, a pair of Egyptian Revival gates open to the Granary Burying Ground. Steeped in history, this serene cemetery is the final resting place of many of the Sons of Liberty—such as Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, John Hancock, and James Otis—as well as the victims of the Boston Massacre and other historical figures.

5. King’s Chapel and Burying Ground

At the corner of School St, the Georgian King’s Chapel overlooks its adjacent burying ground, which is the oldest in the city. It contains a large bell crafted by Paul Revere and the prestigious Governor’s pew, once occupied by George Washington.

Planning tip: Besides the biweekly services, 30–40 minute music recitals are held in King’s Chapel every Tuesday at 12:15pm.

6. Site of the First Public School

In front of Old City Hall on School St, a plaque commemorates the site of the country’s first public school, founded in 1635. Note the statue of Benjamin Franklin, the school’s most famous dropout.

7. Old Corner Store

The little brick building on the corner of School and Washington Sts is known as the Old Corner Store. In the mid-19th century, it was the home of Ticknor and Fields, an influential publishing house that helped shape American literature during this period. The building now houses a Chipotle, but the original structure still stands.

8. Old South Meeting House

The Old South Meeting House saw the beginnings of one of the Revolution’s most vociferous protests, the Boston Tea Party. Come off the street and listen to a reenactment of that momentous day.

9. Old State House

Before the Revolution, the Old State House served as the seat of the Massachusetts government. Inside, you can explore historic artifacts and listen to firsthand accounts of Revolutionary events. Outside, gaze up at the balcony, where the Declaration of Independence was first read to Bostonians in 1776.

Planning tip: A single ticket grants entry to both the Old State House and the Old South Meeting House.

10. Boston Massacre Site

In front of the Old State House, the cobblestone circle marks the site of the Boston Massacre, the Revolution’s first violent conflict, which occurred in 1770. During this event, an angry crowd of protesters threw snowballs and rocks at British soldiers, who eventually fired into the crowd, killing five.

11. Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market

Historic Faneuil Hall was Boston’s original market and public meeting place, built in 1740. Pause to admire the bronze statue of Samuel Adams and then ascend to the 2nd-floor hall, where Adams was one of many to speak out against British rule.

Planning tip: It might be time for a bathroom break! Stop behind Faneuil Hall at Quincy Market, the country’s oldest and largest food hall, which also has plenty of restrooms. Snack your way through various food stalls to fuel up for the rest of your walk.

12. Paul Revere House

Cross the Rose Kennedy Greenway and into the North End to charming North Sq, home to Paul Revere for 30 years. Tours of the clapboard house reveal insights into Revere’s work and family life. Admission is $6 per adult.

13. Old North Church

North on Hanover St, Paul Revere Mall contains a photogenic statue of the patriot himself. The park also provides a lovely view of your next destination, Old North Church. This 1723 church played a crucial role in Revolutionary events. It was here that the sexton hung two lanterns from the steeple as a signal indicating the British would advance on Lexington and Concord via the sea route.

Planning tip: Consider an after-hours 45-minute tour of the church’s crypt to hear stories about over 1100 individuals buried there and the latest archaeological discoveries.

14. Copp’s Hill Burying Ground

The city’s second-oldest cemetery, dating from 1660, is the resting place for an estimated 10,000 souls. It contains some of the city’s oldest gravestones and offers grand views across the river to Charlestown.

15. Charlestown Navy Yard and USS Constitution

Across the Charlestown Bridge is the Charlestown Navy Yard, home of the world’s oldest commissioned warship, the USS Constitution. Board the ship for a tour of the upper decks, where you will learn about its exploits in the country’s earliest naval battles. The Navy Yard also features a WWII destroyer, the USS Cassin Young, and the USS Constitution Museum.

16. Bunker Hill Monument

Narrow streets wind up to the 220ft granite obelisk that is the Bunker Hill Monument. Peek in the nearby museum to see dioramas and artifacts from the momentous battle, then climb 294 steps to enjoy the panorama of the city, the harbor, and beyond.

Planning tip: During the peak season from April to June, you may need a climbing pass to ascend the Bunker Hill Monument. Passes are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Bunker Hill Museum across the street.

What is the best time of year to walk the Freedom Trail?

The peak period is from April to October. It is advisable to plan tours far in advance, especially on weekends. Crowds may be lighter on weekdays in April and August, while slow times occur from November through March, where tours may only run on weekends or not at all.

On Patriots’ Day weekend (the third Monday in April), there is a special lantern-lighting ceremony at the Old North Church, as well as the official Boston Patriots’ Day Parade. Seasonal tours, including spooky after-dark lantern-lit tours in October and festive holiday tours in December, can enhance your experience along the Freedom Trail.