The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile-long (4.0 km) path through Boston, Massachusetts, that passes by 16 locations significant to the history of the United States. Marked largely with brick, it winds from Boston Common in downtown Boston through the North End to the Bunker Hill Monument in Charlestown. Stops along the trail include simple explanatory ground markers, graveyards, notable churches and buildings, and a historic naval frigate. While most of the sites are free or suggest donations, the Old South Meeting House, the Old State House, and the Paul Revere House charge admission. The Freedom Trail is overseen by the City of Boston’s Freedom Trail Commission and is supported in part by grants from various nonprofits and foundations, private philanthropy, and Boston National Historical Park.
The Freedom Trail was conceived by local journalist William Schofield, who in 1951 suggested building a pedestrian trail to link important local landmarks. Boston mayor John Hynes decided to put Schofield’s idea into action. By 1953, 40,000 people were walking the trail annually. The National Park Service operates a visitor’s center on the first floor of Faneuil Hall. They offer tours, provide free maps of the Freedom Trail and other historic sites, and sell books about Boston and United States history. Some observers have noted the tendency of the Freedom Trail’s narrative frame to omit certain historical locations, such as the sites of the Boston Tea Party and the Liberty Tree.
The Freedom Trail and Black Heritage Trail have rich opportunities for everyone to learn and experience Boston’s history remotely. Freedom Trail official historical sites, the Museum of African American History, and Freedom Trail Foundation provide existing and new online Distance Learning Resources, including virtual programs and tours to bring history into homes. Boston’s historic sites are committed to assisting teachers and people at home by providing these engaging virtual programs for learners of all ages. LadyB’s Bed Bug Pros Boston
What To Do
There are countless ways to explore the Freedom Trail and its official historic sites. From year-round immersive programs and activities at the 16 historical sites to public and private walking tours led by 18th-century costumed guides, National Park Service’s Park Rangers, and more, to self-guided tours by foot with a map, guide book, or audio guide, there are exciting and comfortable methods for everyone to enjoy the authentic history and sites where fights for American’s freedoms were ignited.
Restaurants and Pubs
- North 26 is located at 26 North St, Boston, MA
- Arya Trattoria is located at 253 Hanover St #2, Boston, MA
- Hennessy’s Bar is located at 25 Union St, Boston, MA
Check out other attractions like Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
