Freedom Trail: Boston Common, Old State House, Faneuil Hall

Boston , United States

Freedom Trail: Boston Common, Old State House, Faneuil Hall

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(24 reviews)

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About this experience

Join this 2 hour guided walking tour with a local Boston tour guide to share the stories and history. Stroll the Freedom Trail's sites from Boston Common, past historic cemeteries, the old and new State Houses, the site of the Boston Massacre, and Faneuil Hall. See where the Boston Tea Party and Revolutions were planned.

We'll see the sites along the Freedom Trail and give you the true history; as well as travel tips and local knowledge of Boston today.

Boston's historic center may be small, but it packs in so much history.

Founding American fathers Sam Adams, Ben Franklin, and George Washington all roamed its streets.

Available options

Freedom Trail: Boston Common, Old State House, Faneuil Hall

What's included

8+ Stops Along the Freedom Trail

Live Commentary by Local Boston Tour Guide & Historian

Award Winning Guided Walking Tour with over 2000+ Reviews

Guide through the highlights of the Freedom Trail

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Founded in 1634, Boston Common is America's oldest public park, offering a serene starting point for the Freedom Trail. This historic green space has witnessed centuries of history, from British troop encampments during the Revolutionary War to civil rights rallies in the 20th century.

Stop 2

Completed in 1798, the Massachusetts State House is a shining symbol of Boston. Its iconic golden dome stands as a testament to the architectural beauty of the city and serves as the seat of Massachusetts' government. Learn about its role in the state's legislative process and rich history.

Erected in 1809, Park Street Church has been at the heart of many significant events, including the first public anti-slavery address in the U.S. Its towering steeple is a landmark of Boston's skyline and a powerful reminder of the city's progressive past.

Stop 4

Granary Burying Ground is one of Boston's oldest and most historic cemeteries. It serves as the final resting place for many notable figures from the American Revolution, including Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, and John Hancock. Visitors can also pay their respects at the grave of Crispus Attucks, the first casualty of the Boston Massacre and a symbol of the fight for freedom. Walking through this somber yet inspiring site offers a profound connection to the individuals who shaped the nation's early history and fought for independence.

Built in 1754, King’s Chapel is a striking example of Georgian architecture and one of Boston’s oldest churches. Discover its fascinating history, including its ties to loyalist congregants during the Revolution and its enduring role in Boston's spiritual community.

Stop 6

See the Old South Meeting House, where plans for the Boston Tea Party were famously set into motion. This historic site, built in 1729, served as a pivotal meeting place for colonists advocating for freedom and justice.

Stop 7

Dating back to 1713, the Old State House was the seat of colonial government and stage for key moments leading to the Revolution. Learn about the Declaration of Independence being read from its balcony and its role in igniting the quest for liberty.

Known as the "Cradle of Liberty," Faneuil Hall has been a marketplace and meeting hall since 1742. This historical venue hosted fiery debates and speeches advocating for independence, making it a vital landmark in Boston's revolutionary history.

What's not included

Gratuity

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

18 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet your guide outside the Park St. T Station on the eastern edge of Boston Common

About Boston

Boston, one of the oldest cities in the United States, is rich in history, culture, and education. Known for its significant role in the American Revolution and its prestigious universities, Boston offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy.

Top Attractions

Freedom Trail

A 2.5-mile (4 km) walking route that passes 16 locations significant to the history of the United States, including churches, meeting houses, burying grounds, museums, and historic markers.

Historical 3-4 hours Free to walk the trail; individual attractions may have admission fees

Fenway Park

Home to the Boston Red Sox, Fenway Park is the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball and a must-visit for sports fans and history buffs alike.

Sports/Historical 1-3 hours (tour or game) Tour: $20-$25; Game tickets: $30-$200+

Boston Common

America's oldest public park, Boston Common is a central gathering place for both locals and visitors, offering green spaces, walking paths, and seasonal activities.

Parks/Historical 1-2 hours Free (Swan Boats: $4-$5 per ride)

Museum of Fine Arts (MFA)

One of the most comprehensive art museums in the world, the MFA houses nearly 450,000 works of art, ranging from ancient Egyptian to contemporary.

Museum 2-4 hours $27 (adults), free for children under 17

Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area

A group of islands in Boston Harbor offering outdoor recreation, historic sites, and stunning views of the city skyline.

Nature/Historical Half-day to full-day trip $5-$15 per person, depending on the island and activities

Must-Try Local Dishes

Clam Chowder

A creamy, hearty soup made with clams, potatoes, onions, and sometimes bacon or salt pork. Boston-style clam chowder is typically made with milk or cream and is served with oyster crackers.

Soup Contains dairy and sometimes pork; vegetarian and vegan versions are available at some restaurants.

Lobster Roll

A buttered, toasted split-top roll filled with lobster meat, usually dressed with mayo or butter. Some versions include celery or other vegetables for added crunch.

Sandwich Contains shellfish and may contain dairy or eggs; gluten-free buns may be available at some restaurants.

Boston Cream Pie

A layered dessert consisting of sponge cake filled with custard or cream and topped with chocolate glaze. It's the official dessert of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Dessert Contains dairy, eggs, and gluten; vegan and gluten-free versions may be available at some restaurants.

Oysters

Boston is known for its fresh oysters, which can be found at many seafood restaurants and raw bars. They are typically served on the half-shell with various toppings or sauces.

Appetizer Contains shellfish; vegan and vegetarian options may be available at some restaurants.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Blue Hills Reservation Kayaking or paddleboarding in the Charles River Biking along the Charles River Esplanade Rock climbing at Brooklyn Boulders Picnicking in the Boston Common or Public Garden Strolling along the Charles River Esplanade Enjoying a spa day at one of Boston's many luxury spas Reading a book at the Boston Public Library

Best Time to Visit

Late spring to early fall (May to October)

This is the best time to visit Boston for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with festivals and outdoor events.

10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese, Portuguese, French, Italian
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Standard Time (EST) (UTC-5) or Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (UTC-4) during daylight saving time

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Boston is generally a safe city for travelers, with a low crime rate and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. Some areas of the city, such as certain neighborhoods in Dorchester, Roxbury, and Mattapan, have higher crime rates and should be avoided, especially at night.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation
• Use licensed taxis or rideshare services, and always check the fare before starting your journey
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or surveys, and avoid sharing personal information

Getting there

By air

Logan International Airport • 3 miles (5 km) from city center

By train

South Station, North Station

By bus

South Station, Logan Airport

Getting around

Public transport

The MBTA subway system is efficient and affordable, with four main lines (Red, Blue, Green, and Orange) connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown/Financial District Back Bay North End South End Fenway-Kenmore Beacon Hill

Day trips

Salem

16 miles (26 km) from Boston • Half-day to full-day trip

A historic coastal city known for its connection to the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Salem offers a mix of historic sites, museums, and waterfront activities.

Lexington and Concord

10-15 miles (16-24 km) from Boston • Full-day trip

Two historic towns that played significant roles in the American Revolution. Lexington and Concord offer a mix of historic sites, museums, and scenic walking trails.

Cape Cod

60-80 miles (97-129 km) from Boston, depending on the destination • Full-day trip or overnight stay

A popular summer destination known for its beautiful beaches, charming coastal towns, and outdoor recreation. Cape Cod offers a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Festivals

Boston Harbor Hotel Chowder Festival • October (annual) Boston Pride • June (annual) Boston Film Festival • September (annual)

Pro tips

Visit the Freedom Trail early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience
Take advantage of free or discounted admission days at museums and other attractions, such as the Museum of Fine Arts' free Wednesday evenings or the Boston Public Library's free exhibits and events
Explore Boston's diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character, history, and attractions
Try local specialties, such as clam chowder, lobster rolls, and Boston cream pie, at historic and iconic eateries like Union Oyster House, Neptune Oyster, and Mike's Pastry
Attend a Red Sox game at Fenway Park, one of the most iconic and historic baseball stadiums in the world