My husband and I are fortunate enough to have friends that live in the Boston area who were willing to show us all the major sites in this iconic city! We spent one afternoon walking the Boston Freedom Trail and stopping at a few additional sites and attractions.
The Boston Freedom Trail is a unique way to explore the city and learn about its rich history. The trail is super easy to follow, with the little brick line guiding you throughout the city. If you are looking for more winter activities in Boston, check out the 12 things to do in Boston during the winter.
Common Questions
What is the Freedom Trail in Boston Massachuesetts?
- The Boston Freedom Trail in Boston is a guided walking tour that highlights the historical monuments and culture pertinent to Boston and early American History.
Can you drive the Boston Freedom Trail?
- No, you cannot drive the Boston Freedom Trail. The best way to visit all of the stops is by either walking or biking.
Where to Park for the Boston Freedom Trail?
- Because there are several different stops along the Freedom Trail, there are also a lot of parking opportunities. Linked here is the official Freedom Trail site that with descriptions of all parking availability.
How long does the Boston Freedom Trail Take?
- The Boston Freedom Trail walk is 2.5 miles with 16 historical sites. Since this is a self-guided trail, the amount of time it takes to complete is truly dependent on your experience. I would allocate at least 2 hours to complete the trail.
The best place to start the Freedom Trail in Boston
I would start the trail with the thought of where you want to end. Unfortunately, the trail is not a loop so you will end up in a completely different area of Boston from where you started. Luckily, there are several transportation options so you are never too far from other major attractions around Boston.
Starting at Bunker Hill: if you have other attractions around Boston after the trail, then I suggest starting at the Bunker Hill Monument. If you opted out of crossing the Bridge to the monument then the trail would begin at the Old North Church.
Starting at Boston Common Park: This is a good idea if you staying outside the downtown area of Boston and want to end your sightseeing with the trail. This is also a good idea if you want to end up in the North End area and to get dinner in Boston’s Little Italy (highly suggest).
Getting Around the Boston Freedom Trail
Walking– The most straightforward way to get to all of the Freedom Trail stops. The whole trail itself is 2.5 miles and you have flexibility to go at your leisure.
Biking– Yes, you can bike the Boston Freedom Trail! There are a few different options for rentals if you are visiting the area:
- Blue Bikes
- Biking City Guides– This guide isn’t exclusive to the Freedom Trail sites, but if you want a guided bike tour then this is great!
Public Transportation– Boston has great Public transportation and there are metro stops constantly close to all Freedom Trail stops. Here is a link to public transportation maps if walking isn’t your thing.
What are all the stops on the Freedom Trail in Boston?
There are a total of 16 stops along the Boston Freedom Trail. Depending on when you start the trail, be aware of the opening and closing times of attractions to plan accordingly. We visited in February (I know, it was superrrr chilly) and there were some spots that were not open because we visited during the downseason.
If you are wanting to stay within downtown Boston, then you could skip the Bunker Hill Monument and USS Constitution as it is further away.
List and Short Description of Boston Freedom Trail Stops
The following stops are roughly grouped by the different Boston Neighborhoods.
Stops along Boston Common
Boston Common
- America’s oldest park, which is over 350 years old. This is such a beautiful park situated in the middle of downtown Boston.
Massachusetts State House
- Located at the top of Boston Common Park, the State House is a beautiful government building with a gold dome.
Park Street Church
- Established in 1804, this church became a popular spot for members of the Old Meeting House.
- Note: the church is only open to visitors from June to August.
Granary Burying Ground
- Famous cemetery where you can find tombstones of notable individuals relevant to American history. Some off these individuals include: Samuel Adams, Paul Revere, John Hancock, and victims of the Boston Massacre.
- Other Stops Nearby: Visit the Omni Parker House to enjoy a Boston Creme Pie and to learn some of the history of this iconic hotel.
Downtown Freedom Trail Sites
King’s Chapel and Burying Ground
- One of the oldest chapels in Boston, being established in 1686. You are able to visit the church Mondays & Thursday-Saturday 10am-3pm.
Boston Latin School
- The oldest public school in the country founded in 1635. Benjamin Franklin was a notable droput of this public school.
Old Corner Bookstore
- Oldest commercial building in Boston (constructed in 1718). Ironically now a Chipotle.
South Meeting House
- Served as a meeting place as the colonists began to oppose British policies and the historical tea tax.
- Admission: $15 for Adults, $8.00 for children
- Note: Admission to the South Meeting House also includes admission into the Old State House.
Old State House
- Old state house was pertinent to many moments in the American Revolution. Beneath the Balcony marks the site of the Boston Massacre. Years later in 1776, citizens once again stood under the balcony, but to celebrate indepenence and hear the declaration of independence for the first time.
- Admission: $15 for adults, $8.00 for children.
- Note: Admission to the Old State House also includes admission into the South Meeting House.
Boston Massacre Site
- Look out for the marker located between State and Congress Street that highlights the site of the Boston Massacre.
Faneuil Hall
- Initially served as a meeting place and central marketplace.
- Other stops close by
- Quincy Market- Great place for lunch if you are with a great as it serves as a food hall with several options.
- Haymarket- Fresh food market
- Bell in Hand- Oldest bar in continuous rotation
- Union Oyster House- Best clam chowder
North End Freedom Trail Stops
Paul Revere’s House
- Built around 1680, making it the oldest structure in Boston, Paul Revere was a famous resident around 1770-1800.
- Admission: $6 for Adults, $5.50 for seniors and college students.
Old North Church
- Built in 1723. This is the famous church where Paul Revere rode in to inform the colonists “THE BRITISH ARE COMING”.
- General Admission: $5.00, free for children 5 and under.
- Pro Tip: Even if you are not getting a full meal in the North End, visit Boston’s long-standing pastry shops: Mike and Modern and decide for yourself which is better.
Copp’s Hill Burying Ground
- Famous burial ground for Boston residents who lived in the North End.
Charlestown Freedom Trail Stops
USS Constitution & Museum
- Worlds oldest navy ship still afloat. You can tour the ship and there is a museum dedicated to the the ship.
- Museum *suggested* Admission: $10-$15, Child $5-$10
Bunker Hill Monument
- Monument created to memorilize the Battle of Bunker Hil, which was a major battle during the Revolutionary War.
Other Freedom Trail Ideas
Make it Boozy!
Make your own Boston Freedom Trail bar crawl! There are so many unique pubs and bars in Boston that you can easily find a stop with every stop.
Opt for a Guided Tour
Even though you can gain a lot of context by simply following the brick trail and reading the signage, a guided tour provides you with so much valuable information about Boston.
Through the Boston Common Visitor Center, you can purchase a walking tour with guides dressed in revolutionary attire. Visit the Freedom Trails Official Site for booking and more information.
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Thank You
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