Walk through history

Boston's Freedom Trail Made Meaningful

A 2.5-mile journey through America's revolutionary past, connecting 14 iconic sites through one incredible story.
journey miles
2.5
Miles
journey location
14+
Historic Sites
journey time
3.5
hours
Established 1951

Where Liberty Was Born

The Freedom Trail is America's most storied path—a red-brick line weaving through downtown Boston, connecting 16 nationally significant sites. The problem is that geographically the trail does not follow the history as it actually unfolded, there's more to experience than just what's on the trail, and learning history is not just about knowing the most "random facts and dates."

We will instead walk The Freedom Trail chronologically, so that the sightseeing is synchronized with and unfolds to the storytelling; we will explain and bring to life the passions, personalities, and psychologies driving the action; and our goal is not just to connect the dots or check off the highlights but to do comprehensive justice to the city of Boston and the legacy of America.
history
250+ Years of History
historic landmark
National Historic Landmark
birthplace
Birthplace of Revolution
Freedom Trail map of Boston with red route line and revolutionary scenes.
Your journey awaits

The Complete Itinerary

Our focus is a step by step, location by location, character driven narrative of the American Revolution. While the core of the tour is built upon 14 of the 16 officially designated Freedom Trail locations, a booming modern city has grown up all around its historic foundation. Neither should be missed and we will not overlook the present in our pursuit of the past.
City Hall Plaza
STOP 2
stay time
10-15 min
King's Chapel & Burying Ground
Boston's first Anglican church (1688), now Unitarian. The adjacent burying ground is the city's oldest, containing John Winthrop, the first governor of Massachusetts Bay Colony.
What's a Pilgrim? What's a Puritan? What's with those Scarlet Letters?
Granary Burying Ground
Official Freedom Trail
must see location
Must See
STOP 4
stay time
3-5 min
Park Street Church
This 1809 church witnessed the first performance of 'America' (My Country, 'Tis of Thee) in 1831. Its 217-foot steeple was once the first landmark travelers saw arriving in Boston.
The first public anti-slavery speech by William Lloyd Garrison (1829)
Benjamin Franklin Statue & Boston Latin School
Official Freedom Trail
STOP 6
stay time
10-15 min
Old State House
Boston's oldest surviving public building (1713). The Declaration of Independence was first read to Bostonians from its balcony on July 18, 1776.
The site of the Boston Massacre is marked in the cobblestones outside.
Boston Massacre Site
Official Freedom Trail
STOP 8
stay time
3-5 min
Old Corner Bookstore
This 1718 building became the literary hub of 19th-century America, publishing works by Hawthorne, Emerson, Thoreau, and Harriet Beecher Stowe.
Now a Chipotle, but the historic exterior (and internal legacy) is preserved.
Old South Meeting House
must see location
Must See
Official Freedom Trail
STOP 10
stay time
10-15 min
Faneuil Hall
The 'Cradle of Liberty' since 1742, where Samuel Adams, James Otis, and others debated independence. The grasshopper weathervane atop is a Boston icon.
The Great Hall on the 2nd floor hosts free talks by National Park rangers.
STOP 1
stay time
5-10 min
City Hall Plaza
A modernist urban plaza that serves as a gathering place for public events and rallies. The brutalist architecture of Boston City Hall stands as a stark contrast to the colonial history surrounding it.
Great starting point with easy access to transportation, public restrooms and photo op's.
King's Chapel & Burying Ground
Official Freedom Trail
STOP 3
stay time
15-20 min
Granary Burying Ground
Final resting place of Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, John Hancock, and the victims of the Boston Massacre. This atmospheric cemetery (est. 1660) holds 2,300+ souls.
We cover the heroic and the human aspects of the founding fathers, letting the story itself reveal their characters.
Park Street Church
Official Freedom Trail
STOP 5
stay time
5-10 min
Benjamin Franklin Statue & Boston Latin School
This 1856 bronze statue honors Boston's most famous son, standing near the site of the first public school in America (1635), where Franklin, Hancock, and Adams studied.
American's most accomplished and multi-faceted genius becomes a main character throughout our story.
Old State House
must see location
Must See
Official Freedom Trail
STOP 7
stay time
10-15 min
Boston Massacre Site
A circle of cobblestones marks where British soldiers killed five colonists on March 5, 1770—an event that galvanized revolutionary sentiment throughout the colonies.
Best viewed when standing directly on the circle, looking up at the Old State House balcony.
Old Corner Bookstore
Official Freedom Trail
STOP 9
stay time
10-15 min
Old South Meeting House
Where the Boston Tea Party began! On December 16, 1773, 5,000 colonists gathered here before Samuel Adams gave the signal that launched the famous protest.
The museum inside has interactive exhibits and the original pulpit.
Faneuil Hall
Official Freedom Trail
must see location
Must See
STOP 1
5-10 min
City Hall Plaza
A modernist urban plaza that serves as a gathering place for public events and rallies. The brutalist architecture of Boston City Hall stands as a stark contrast to the colonial history surrounding it.
Great starting point with easy access to transportation, public restrooms and photo op's.
Official Freedom Trail
STOP 2
10-15 min
King's Chapel & Burying Ground
Boston's first Anglican church (1688), now Unitarian. The adjacent burying ground is the city's oldest, containing John Winthrop, the first governor of Massachusetts Bay Colony.
What's a Pilgrim? What's a Puritan? What's with those Scarlet Letter's?
Must See
Official Freedom Trail
STOP 3
15-20 min
Granary Burying Ground
Final resting place of Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, John Hancock, and the victims of the Boston Massacre. This atmospheric cemetery (est. 1660) holds 2,300+ souls.
We cover the heroic and the human aspects of the founding fathers, letting the story itself reveal their characters.
Official Freedom Trail
STOP 4
3-5 min
Park Street Church
This 1809 church witnessed the first performance of 'America' (My Country, 'Tis of Thee) in 1831. Its 217-foot steeple was once the first landmark travelers saw arriving in Boston.
The first public anti-slavery speech by William Lloyd Garrison (1829)
Official Freedom Trail
STOP 5
10-15 min
Benjamin Franklin Statue & Boston Latin School
This 1856 bronze statue honors Boston's most famous son, standing near the site of the first public school in America (1635), where Franklin, Hancock, and Adams studied.
American's most accomplished and multi-faceted genius becomes a main character throughout our story.
Must See
Official Freedom Trail
STOP 6
10-15 min
Old State House
Boston's oldest surviving public building (1713). The Declaration of Independence was first read to Bostonians from its balcony on July 18, 1776.
The site of the Boston Massacre is marked in the cobblestones outside.
Official Freedom Trail
STOP 7
10-15 min
Boston Massacre Site
A circle of cobblestones marks where British soldiers killed five colonists on March 5, 1770—an event that galvanized revolutionary sentiment throughout the colonies.
Best viewed when standing directly on the circle, looking up at the Old State House balcony.
Official Freedom Trail
STOP 8
3-5 min
Old Corner Bookstore
This 1718 building became the literary hub of 19th-century America, publishing works by Hawthorne, Emerson, Thoreau, and Harriet Beecher Stowe.
Now a Chipotle, but the historic exterior (and internal legacy) is preserved.
Must See
Official Freedom Trail
STOP 9
10-15 min
Old South Meeting House
Where the Boston Tea Party began! On December 16, 1773, 5,000 colonists gathered here before Samuel Adams gave the signal that launched the famous protest.
The museum inside has interactive exhibits and the original pulpit.
Must See
Official Freedom Trail
STOP 10
10-15 min
Faneuil Hall
The 'Cradle of Liberty' since 1742, where Samuel Adams, James Otis, and others debated independence. The grasshopper weathervane atop is a Boston icon.
The Great Hall on the 2nd floor hosts free talks by National Park rangers.
Time
Break Time
This is where we take our break and you'll have the opportunity to go into the Great Hall (when open to the public) and Quincy Market
Restrooms
Restrooms
Coffee & Snacks
Coffee & Snacks
break time
15 min
Quincy Market
must see location
Must See
Official Freedom Trail
Stop 12
stay time
5-10 min
Rose Kennedy Greenway
A modern linear park system that replaced the elevated Central Artery. This mile-and-a-half corridor features gardens, fountains, and public art, connecting downtown to the waterfront.
Great spot for a relaxing break with seasonal art installations and food trucks.
Paul Revere House
must see location
Must See
Official Freedom Trail
STOP 14
stay time
15-20 min
Old North Church
'One if by land, two if by sea.' On April 18, 1775, two lanterns hung in this 1723 church's steeple warned Charlestown patriots of British troop movements.
You can circle back when we're done for the $10 bell chamber package - it's the same bells!
Copp's Hill Burying Ground
Official Freedom Trail
Stop 16
stay time
5-10 min
USS Constitution
'Old Ironsides'—the world's oldest commissioned warship still afloat (launched 1797). She earned her nickname when British cannonballs bounced off her oak hull.
Free tours by active-duty sailors. We'll finish near the ferry that will take you over!
Bunker Hill Monument
Official Freedom Trail
must see location
Must See
STOP 18
stay time
10-15 min
Boston Harbor
The historic waterfront where the Boston Tea Party took place in 1773. Today, the harbor offers stunning views, waterfront restaurants, and access to the Boston Harbor Islands.
Perfect ending spot to reflect on your journey with harbor views and fresh seafood.
Stop 11
stay time
5-10 min
Quincy Market
A historic market complex built in 1826, now a bustling food hall and shopping destination. The granite Greek Revival building houses over 20 food vendors and restaurants.
Caution - tourists traps abound!
Rose Kennedy Greenway
Stop 13
stay time
10-15 min
Paul Revere House
Downtown Boston's oldest building (c. 1680) and home to the legendary silversmith and patriot from 1770-1800. This is where his famous midnight ride began.
Welcome to the North End - America's oldest residential neighborhood and where the action really begins!
Official Freedom Trail
must see location
Must See
STOP 15
stay time
3-5 min
Copp's Hill Burying Ground
The North End's colonial cemetery, where British cannons fired on Charlestown during the Battle of Bunker Hill. Look for musket ball damage on headstones.
It's mostly about the beautiful harbor views from across the street.
USS Constitution
must see location
Must See
Official Freedom Trail
Stop 17
stay time
10-15 min
Bunker Hill Monument
A 221-foot granite obelisk commemorating the first major battle of the Revolution (June 17, 1775). Though a British victory, the colonists' fierce resistance proved they could fight.
Climb all 294 steps for panoramic Boston views—there's no elevator!
Boston Harbor
must see location
Must See
Must See
Official Freedom Trail
Stop 11
5-10 min
Quincy Market
A historic market complex built in 1826, now a bustling food hall and shopping destination. The granite Greek Revival building houses over 20 food vendors and restaurants.
Caution - tourists traps abound!
Stop 12
5-10 min
Rose Kennedy Greenway
A modern linear park system that replaced the elevated Central Artery. This mile-and-a-half corridor features gardens, fountains, and public art, connecting downtown to the waterfront.
Great spot for a relaxing break with seasonal art installations and food trucks.
Must See
Official Freedom Trail
Stop 13
10-15 min
Paul Revere House
Downtown Boston's oldest building (c. 1680) and home to the legendary silversmith and patriot from 1770-1800. This is where his famous midnight ride began.
Welcome to the North End - America's oldest residential neighborhood and where the action really begins!
Must See
Official Freedom Trail
STOP 14
15-20 min
Old North Church
'One if by land, two if by sea.' On April 18, 1775, two lanterns hung in this 1723 church's steeple warned Charlestown patriots of British troop movements.
You can circle back when we're done for the $10 bell chamber package - it's the same bells!
Official Freedom Trail
STOP 15
3-5 min
Copp's Hill Burying Ground
This 1856 bronze statue honors Boston's most famous son, standing near the site of the first public school in America (1635), where Franklin, Hancock, and Adams studied.
It's mostly about the beautiful harbor views from across the street.
Must See
Official Freedom Trail
Stop 16
5-10 min
USS Constitution
'Old Ironsides'—the world's oldest commissioned warship still afloat (launched 1797). She earned her nickname when British cannonballs bounced off her oak hull.
Free tours by active-duty sailors. We'll finish near the ferry that will take you over!
Must See
Official Freedom Trail
Stop 17
10-15 min
Bunker Hill Monument
A 221-foot granite obelisk commemorating the first major battle of the Revolution (June 17, 1775). Though a British victory, the colonists' fierce resistance proved they could fight.
Climb all 294 steps for panoramic Boston views—there's no elevator!
Must See
STOP 18
10-15 min
Boston Harbor
Perfect ending spot to reflect on your journey with harbor views and fresh seafood.
Perfect ending spot to reflect on your journey with harbor views and fresh seafood.
Weather conditions, mobility considerations, construction, and seasonality may require us to alter our route but the official Freedom locations above will always be included.
Notable Exlusions

What's Not Included

These sites are worth visiting but fall outside our chronological narrative. See our Things To Do section for the best way to incorporate them into your trip.
Boston Common
Boston Common
America's oldest public park, established in 1634. Once used for cattle grazing and British troop encampments. Stroll over to the Public Garden and grab a drink at Cheers on Beacon Street.
Start at the visitor center near Tremont Street to pick up maps and guides.
Massachusetts state house
Massachusetts state house
Designed by Charles Bulfinch and completed in 1798. Its iconic golden dome was originally wooden, then copper-plated by Paul Revere, and has become one of Boston's most recognizable landmarks.
Free guided tours available Monday-Friday. The Sacred Cod sculpture inside is a must-see!
THE BRITISH ARE COMING

Are You?

team
Meet the Team
Plan Your visit

Insider Tips

Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer ideal weather. Summer is busiest; arrive early to beat crowds. Winter visits are quieter but some sites have reduced hours.
Tickets & Admission
Tickets & Admission
The trail itself is free! Individual sites vary—some are free, others charge $8-15. Consider the Freedom Trail Foundation's walk or buy a combo ticket for savings.
Food & Refreshments
Food & Refreshments
Faneuil Hall has numerous options. For authentic Italian, detour into the North End near Paul Revere House. Union Oyster House (near Faneuil Hall) is America's oldest restaurant.
Photography tips
Photography tips
Golden hour lighting is stunning on the State House dome. Old North Church's white steeple pops against blue skies. Early morning offers crowd-free shots at popular spots.
Weather Preparedness
Weather Preparedness
Boston weather is unpredictable. Bring layers, comfortable walking shoes (cobblestones!), and a compact umbrella. Most indoor sites offer relief from heat or cold.
Accessibility
Accessibility
Most outdoor portions are accessible. Some historic buildings have limited access due to age. The USS Constitution and Bunker Hill Monument have significant barriers—call ahead.
recommended pace

A Perfect Day on the Trail

Our suggested itinerary for exploring the Freedom Trail on your own.
Morning
Stops 1-8
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Morning: Downtown Boston
Begin at Boston Common and work through downtown. Visit the State House, historic burying grounds, and end at Faneuil Hall for lunch.
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHT
State House Golden Dome
HIGHLIGHT
Granary Burying Ground
HIGHLIGHT
Old South Meeting House
Midday
Stops 9-14
12:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Midday: North End Exploration
After lunch at Faneuil Hall or Quincy Market, cross into the North End. Explore Paul Revere House and Old North Church, then grab a cannoli.
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHT
Paul Reverse House
HIGHLIGHT
Old North Church
HIGHLIGHT
Italian Pastries
Afternoon
Stops 15-16
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Afternoon: Charlestown
Cross the Charles River to the Navy Yard. Tour 'Old Ironsides' and climb Bunker Hill Monument for sunset views over Boston.
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHT
USS Constitution tour
HIGHLIGHT
Bunker Hill Climb
HIGHLIGHT
Harbor Views
Add a Little Drama To Your Day!
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