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The Freedom Trail

Patriots didn't design American history to be pedestrian-friendly; we just got lucky. Boston's famed Freedom Trail takes visitors by ranger-guided or self-guided tours to 16 stops rich in historical significance. Walkers follow a red-brick path (which becomes red-painted pavement at street crossings) of a mere 2.5 miles.

The Trail includes such highlights as the Boston Common, the State House, Park Street Church, Granary Burying Ground, King's Chapel, King's Chapel Burying Ground, the First Public School and Benjamin Franklin statue, the Old Corner Bookstore, Old South Meeting House, the Old State House, the site of the Boston Massacre, Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere's House, Old North Church, Copp's Hill Burying Ground, Bunker Hill Monument, and the USS Constitution.

Audio "wands" stationed at certain sites reveal relevant facts to self-guided walkers. Colonial-costumed characters walk about on the Trail and give visitors the scoop on early Boston, such as what really happened on Paul Revere's ride. Musical events along the Trail include concerts at Old North Church every second Sunday of the month at 5 p.m., and at King's Chapel every Tuesday at 12:15 p.m.

Location
To reach the beginning of the Trail at the Boston Common Visitor Center, take the Red or Green Line subway to Park Street Station. Exit the station and turn 180 degrees. The Visitor Center will be 100 yards in front of you.

If you drive to the Trail, parking is most convenient in the Boston Common underground parking garage on Charles Street, or the garage at the Charlestown Navy Yard near the USS Constitution. Fees for garage parking range from $8 to $24, depending on the day of the week and the length of your visit.

Hours of operation
Ranger-guided tours are given at 2 p.m. on weekdays; and at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., and 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Tours begin at the Boston National Historical Park Visitor Center, 15 State Street.

Cost
Ranger-guided walking tours, which begin in mid-April, are free. Tickets are required for special tours.

Disabled access
Public restrooms along the Trail are disabled accessible.

Contact information
Call (617) 227-8800 or toll-free (888) SEE-BOSTON.

Additional information
Visit the Freedom Trail Web site.

Please note
Cost, hours of operation, or other information about this attraction is subject to change without notice. We suggest you confirm with the attraction prior to your visit.