There is so much history around the streets of Boston. One of my favorite attractions is The Freedom Trial. My kids loved walking the trail and finding new and fun things along the way. Not to mention the great food that can be found around every corner. Boston is known for there amazing food and every time we go it does not disappoint.
What is the Freedom Trail and Where is it Located
The Freedom Trail is a 2.5 mile path that is located in downtown Boston. You will pass through 16 different locations that highlight significant parts in US History. The American Revolution began in Boston and you will feel the history every step along the trail.
How to Get Around the Freedom Trail
If you walk the whole trail, its approximately 2.5 miles total. It’s an easy walking trail with little variation in terrain. There are a few sets of stairs or cobblestone walkways but for the most part people of all ages can walk it. You can start or stop anywhere along the way. The Freedom Trail is FREE to walk, but you will find some museums and attractions along the way that are a small amount of money. Most attractions are FREE but have a donations or suggested fee box. This money is used to upkeep the attraction. So it might be smart to carry a little cash in your pocket.
Another way you can get around the Freedom Trail is on and off trolleys. If walking is not your thing the trolleys are a great way to see and explore the trail. They make stops at every location so don’t miss out. I will link the trolley company we’ve used here. I know during the winter the prices are cheaper but you have to deal with the cold.
Another way to explore is by renting a bike and riding your way around. Riding a bike around might be hard with young families but if you have older kids it would be fun for them. Here is a link to the biking company.
We always start at Faneuil Hall because it is a great central point along the trail. You can go either direction to follow the trail. You can also start anywhere along the trail you would like. But I really just find it easiest like I said to start at Faneuil Hall. It is the most central of all the attractions. And not to mention great food and shopping there. My kids and I are always up for great food.
Walking the Freedom Trail
The great thing about the Freedom Trail is the whole thing is marked with a red stripe along the sidewalk to follow. There are also maps available at most attractions to aid in navigation along the trail. I will highlight a few of the main attractions that are a must to stop by.
Faneuil Hall
Faneuil Hall is a great central point along the Freedom Trail. This unique marketplace offers a variety of shops, food, and entertainment for all. You will find many different street performers, characters dressed up like the American Revolution usually offering picture moments and dress up opportunities for families as well. If you travel North of Faneuil Hall you will head up to Paul Revere’s House if you travel South you will then reach the Old State House.
Paul Revere House
The Paul Revere House is the oldest remaining structure in downtown Boston. This structure is also the only home along the Freedom Trail. There is a small fee to pay if you want to walk though this house but it is worth it. Admission is $3.50 for Adults, $3.00 for Senior Citizens and Students, and $1.00 for Children.
Old North Church
December 29th, 1723 the doors of this church were first opened. This is the oldest standing church in Boston. This church inspired Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s famous poem Paul Revere’s Ride.
Copp’s Hill Burying Ground
Dating clear back to 1659, Copp’s Hill is the largest colonel burying ground. Some of the notables buried in these grounds are Robert Newman, and Edmund Hartt ( Builder of the USS Constitution). This is a beautiful cemetery nestled in the heart of the city. I was truly impressed while walking around at how long these tombstones have been in place.
Bunker Hill Monument
The first Revolutionary War Battle was the Battle of Bunker Hill. This 221 foot monument stands tall and overlooks all of Boston. If you’re feeling daring you can trek all the way up the top of the monument using the spiral staircase and 294 steps up. It is a beautiful view and worth the tired legs at the top.
USS Constitution
The oldest commissioned warship still afloat. She earned her nickname during the War of 1812 of “Old Ironsides”. You can board the ship and listen to stories from her fascinating history told by Naval officers and enlisted personnel.
If you make your way back to Faneuil Hall and head south this time you will end up at the Old State House.
Old State House
For over 300 years, this beautiful building was the center of many civic events in the American Revolution. There is a few items on display here including a red velvet suit that was worn by John Hancock as he was sworn governor of Massachusetts, a vial of tea saved from the Boston Tea Party, and a drum from the Battle of Bunker Hill…. just to name a few.
Old South Meeting House
Old School Meeting House was a place for Puritans to worship. This was the official site of The Boston Tea Party.
Old Corner Bookstore
This bookstore was the center of American book publishing in the 1800s. This building was built originally as an apothecary shop in 1718.
Benjamin Franklin Statue and Boston Latin School
The Boston Latin School is the oldest public school in America. Founded in 1635, it was the first to offer free public school to boys, girls were still educated at home. Five signers of The Declaration of Independence attended this school.
King’s Chapel Burying Ground
This cemetery is known as Boston’s fist proper burying ground. The grounds are located next to The King’s Chapel.
King’s Chapel
The first chapel build was a small wooden one, which was soon too small for the congregation. The present structure was then built around the original one making more room and a grandeur look.
Granary Burying Ground
Some of the most respected American Citizens are buried here. Just to name a few are John Hancock, Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, and James Otis.
Park Street Church
Park Street Church became known for the place where the first major public speech about slavery was performed. This church still holds weekly church services.
Massachusetts State House
This beautiful building was completed in January 1798, and is known as one of the most impressive public buildings in the country. One of the most distinctive features on this building is the golden dome that adorns the top.
Boston Common
Boston Common is known as America’s oldest public park. Built in 1634 colonists purchased the lands rights. This park offers beautiful views and places for the kids to run and explore. There is also a number of fountains and a small Lagoon. In the summer time they have Swan boats to ride. My kids loved riding these. They are small boats in which a driver paddles you around the Lagoon. The ride last about 15 minutes.
If you’re ever wondering if you should take a trip to Boston….. do it. Boston is one of our favorite places to visit. The history that surrounds this city is unreal, and there is so much to see. The Freedom Trail is so full of history. What a fun way to see the history we’ve all been learning about our whole lives. If you have any more fun tips to add along
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