Discover how one city could be the Cradle of Liberty, site of the first major battle of American Revolution, and home to many who espoused that freedom can be extended to all.

View of the Colonial Town Meeting program from the desk

Colonial Town Meeting

Rainbow over Faneuil Hall

Paul Revere House Sign

Commandant's House

View of the Navy Yard from the harbor showing the USS Constution, USS Cassin Young and Bunker Hill

Navy Yard from the harbor

Boston

Boston National Historical Park is a unique collaboration of federally, municipally, and privately owned and operated historic sites. Most of the park is along Boston's Freedom Trail®, a 2.5 mile (4 km) walking path marked by a red brick or painted line weaving through Downtown Boston, the North End, and Charlestown.

The trail itself is outdoors and open year round. Every site along the trail has its own hours which vary throughout the season. Please check ahead before planning your visit.

Thanksgiving Day

Christmas Day

New Year's Day

Boston National Historical Park

Only 20 people are allowed in the Monument at a time. Last climb is 30 minutes before closure.

Be advised: The Monument may close for climbing due to weather conditions and/or other safety considerations.

Summer

Winter

Bunker Hill Monument

Dorchester Heights marks the site of George Washington's first Revolutionary War victory. The Monument and grounds are currently not open to the public due to ongoing restoration work. The work will be completed prior to March 17, 2026.

Dorchester Heights

The Paul Revere House is a Boston National Historical Park partner site operated by the Paul Revere Memorial Association.

Winter Hours

Summer Hours

Christmas Eve

Paul Revere House

Old North is a Boston National Historical Park partner site operated by Old North Illuminated.

Spring

Fall

New Year's Eve

Old North Church

The Old State House is a Boston National Historical Park partner site operated by Revolutionary Spaces.

For more visitor information, please visit the Revolutionary Spaces website.

Old State House

The Old South Meeting House is a Boston National Historical Park partner site operated by Revolutionary Spaces.

For more visitor information, please visit the Revolutionary Spaces website.

Old South Meeting House

The Great Hall is operated as a historic site by the National Park Service in partnership with the City of Boston. Faneuil Hall is owned and managed by the City of Boston. The Great Hall is closed to public visitation when City-permitted events are scheduled.

Visitors can find maps and other visiting materials in the Great Hall.

Presidents' Day (Washington's Birthday)

Memorial Day

The Great Hall of Faneuil Hall

USS CONSTITUTION is the oldest commissioned ship in the United States Navy. Naval officers and crew still serve aboard the ship. The Navy operates the ship as a historic site in cooperation with the National Park Service.

Spring Hours

Labor Day

Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday

USS Constitution

USS Constitution Museum collects, preserves, and interprets the stories of "Old Ironsides." The museum is a partner of Boston National Historical Park located in the Charlestown Navy Yard.

USS Constitution Museum

USS CASSIN YOUNG is a Fletcher Class destroyer docked in the Charlestown Navy Yard. Park staff operate the ship seasonally. Weather conditions may alter hours without advanced notice.

Off-season

USS Cassin Young

Reenactments

A woman in a green 1800s dress stands in front of the stage and paintings in the Great Hall

Sumer 2025 Town Meeting

Make your voice heard by joining the National Parks of Boston for compelling reenactments of three historic town meetings! Inspired by real words spoken in historic town meetings in Faneuil Hall and around Boston, these programs encourage audience members to participate in debates from pivotal moments of Boston's history. Debate with your fellow audience members and vote on the issue. Have your voice heard in town meeting! <h3 style="text-align: center;">"The Destruction of the Tea" 1774 Town Meeting</h3> 250 years ago, to protest a tax placed upon tea, Bostonians loosely disguised themselves and boarded three tea ships at Griffins Wharf. They worked throughout the night to dump over 300 chests of tea into the harbor. In response to the destruction of over 90,000 pounds of East India Company Property, Parliament passed the Coercive Acts, closing the Port of Boston until the tea was paid for. How will Boston react? <h3 style="text-align: center;">"Rocking the Cradle" 1854 Town Meeting</h3> In May of 1854 Federal Marshals arrested <a href="https://cms.nps.gov/articles/-god-made-me-a-man-not-a-slave-the-arrest-of-anthony-burns.htm">Anthony Burns</a> under the <a href="https://cms.nps.gov/articles/000/fugitive-slave-laws-boston.htm">1850 Fugitive Slave Law</a>. Immediately following Burns’ arrest, Bostonians gathered at <a href="https://cms.nps.gov/places/faneuil-hall.htm">Faneuil Hall</a> to discuss whether they would abide by this federal law or appeal to a higher law of freedom and liberty for all. The eyes of the nation were firmly fixed upon Boston. How will Boston respond? <h3 style="text-align: center;">"Woman's Tea Party" 1873 Town Meeting</h3> On December 15, 1873 Boston’s suffragists held the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/articles/boston-womens-tea-party.htm">New England Women's Tea Party</a>, a massive suffrage rally in the Great Hall of Faneuil Hall. Leading suffragists, including Lucy Stone, Frederick Douglass, and Mary Livermore, delivered rousing speeches to a crowd of more than three thousand, furthering the suffrage movement in Boston. Will Boston support women's suffrage?   <hr /> <div>For the 2025 season Rangers will lead one of the above Town Meetings Wednesday through Sunday at 2pm in the Great Hall of Faneuil Hall through August 31st.  </div>

Join National Parks of Boston Rangers as we recreate historic town meetings.

Join a Historic Town Meeting at Faneuil Hall

African American Heritage

American Revolution

Social Movements

Abolition Movement

Voting Rights and Suffrage

Women's History

Guided Tours

Join a Park Ranger for a special guided tour.

These programs are free and open to the public.

A park ranger points out something on a historic 18th century gravestone

Nathan Die is Cast

The stories that define Boston are part of the unfinished legacy set into motion in the years leading up to and following the American Revolution. These ranger-led tours unpack themes and questions that originated with the founding generation. While some tours focus on the Revolutionary Period, others explore how later changemakers advocated to expand the ideals, values, and sacrifices from 1776 in order to move towards a more perfect union. <h2 style="text-align: center;">Fall Evening Walking Tours</h2> All programs being at 5:30 P.M. and last approximately 75 minutes. <h3 style="text-align: center;">August 28 - Desegregation in the Cradle of Liberty</h3> Beginning at the African Meeting House (meet at Smith Court in Beacon Hill) Address: 8 Smith Court, Boston, MA, 02114 <div> Boston earned its nickname as the “Cradle of Liberty” by fostering the revolutionary ideals and values that serve as the foundation of this country. And as the home to the oldest public school in America, Boston has historically considered access to education as one of these core values. Boston is therefore home to the longest ongoing struggle for equal education in the nation. Because when the doors opened to the Boston Latin School in 1635, a site marked on the Freedom Trail – to whom were those doors opened for?  The Black struggle for equal education in Boston began in the era just after the American Revolution, with Prince Hall’s petition to the Massachusetts Legislature in 1787. Learn more about the generations of Black Bostonians who have been involved in advocating and fighting for equal education from 1787 to 1976 and the legacy of advocacy and community activism that they left behind. Sign up in advance <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-evening-tours-desegregation-in-the-cradle-of-liberty-tickets-1581720541719?aff=oddtdtcreator">on eventbrite.</a> <h3 style="text-align: center;">September 4 - Boston: An Underground Railroad Hub</h3> Beginning at the African Meeting House, a one mile walk through Beacon Hill (meet at Smith Court in Beacon Hill) Address: 8 Smith Court, Boston, MA, 02114 Did you know that Boston played a central role in the Underground Railroad? Join a National Park Ranger to explore the inspiring stories of the freedom seekers who escaped to Boston and the people and organizations here that assisted them.  Sign up in advance <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-evening-tours-boston-an-underground-railroad-hub-tickets-1581825274979?aff=oddtdtcreator">on eventbrite.</a> <h3 style="text-align: center;">September 11 - Mysteries of the Mill Pond</h3> Beginning in the Faneuil Hall basement education space Address: 1 Faneuil Hall Square, Boston, MA 02109 In 1828, the Boston Mill Corporation completed its work filling in Boston's mill pond to make way for new housing. It built a new neighborhood on top of an old one. The city created a desirable residential district where formely there sat an unsanitary water reservoir that powered early Boston's industrial works. Since the founding of the town in 1630, Bostonians lived and worked around the mill pond. In the process, they created a community space with inhabitants and instiutions, creating a unique cultural identity. But the mill pond community and its identity ceased to exist when workers dumped the final load of landfill into the mill pond. This tour will explore the people and institutions that sprung up around the mill pond and gave it its character, and how the social and environmental history of this diverse area fits into Boston's larger historical narrative.  Sign up in advance <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-evening-tours-mysteries-of-the-mill-pond-tickets-1581896778849?aff=oddtdtcreator">on eventbrite.</a> <h3 style="text-align: center;">September 18 - Mystery, Mayhem, and Molasses - The Great Molasses Flood</h3> This tour will begin at Long Wharf by the Middle Passage Marker at the edge of Long Wharf.  Address: 66 Long Wharf, Boston, MA, 02110 On January 15, 1919 diaster struck as gallons of molasses flooded the streets of Boston. The Great Molasses Flood became a national tragedy that pushed World War I and the League of Nations out of newspaper headlines. Wrapped up in issuses of immigration, Anarchism, worker's rights and Prohibition, the Molasses Flood came crashing down, changing Boston forever. Sign up in advance <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-evening-tours-myster-mayhem-and-molasses-the-great-molasses-flood-tickets-1582718075369?aff=oddtdtcreator">on eventbrite.</a> <h3 style="text-align: center;">September 25 - Magic and Myth in Old Boston</h3> The tour begins at the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial on Boston Common and will end at Government Center Address: 24 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02133 Learn about the dark side of Old Boston - witchcraft, graveyards, and Puritains, visiting some of the oldest sites of folklore in the city. What can we gain from telling these stories today? Sign up in advance <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-evening-tours-magic-and-myth-in-old-boston-tickets-1582855696999?aff=oddtdtcreator">on eventbrite.</a> <h3 style="text-align: center;">October 2 - Taking the High Ground</h3> The tour begins at the flagpole in the Navy Yard and ends at the Bunker Hill Monument Address: 22 Charlestown Navy Yard, Charlestown, MA 02129 Taking the High Ground is a walking tour of the Bunker Hill Battlefield that uses modern landmarks to indicate troop position and movement. Approximately 1 mile walking and 75 mintes in length. Sign up in advance <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-evening-tours-taking-the-high-ground-tickets-1607065479109?aff=oddtdtcreator">on eventbrite</a>. <h3 style="text-align: center;">October 9 - Pirates of Boston</h3> This tour begins outside of Faneuil Hall near the Sam Adams statue Address: 1 Faneuil Hall Square, Boston, MA 02109 Did you know that colonial Boston was a hub of activity for the 18th Century's most notorious pirates? During this "Golden Age of Piracy" pirates lived in Boston, were imprisoned here, and sometimes were executed here. This program examines what led to the era's explosion of piracy, as well as what motivated the values of priate crews. Were these swashbucklers simply sea-going criminals, or did their belief in economic, social, and racial equality not only predate, but influence the later American Revolution? This program examines the lives of several of the most famous pirates who walked streets of Boston, including Captain William Kidd, "Black" Sam Bellamy, Ned Lowe, and Willian Fly. Sign up in advance <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-evening-tours-pirates-of-boston-tickets-1607165006799?aff=oddtdtcreator">on eventbrite.</a> <h3 style="text-align: center;">October 16 - Occupied Minds: Becoming American During the Siege of Boston</h3> Beginning in the Faneuil Hall basement education space Address: 1 Faneuil Hall Square, Boston, MA 02109 During the Siege of Boston, an identity based on 18th century libery, equality, and intercolonial cooperation emerged. Learn how the events of 1775-1776 transformed Americans perspective from colonial dependents to American citizens on a 75-minute walking tour through historic Boston. Sign up in advance <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-evening-tours-anxiety-and-distress-becoming-american-in-1776-tickets-1607186701689?aff=oddtdtcreator">on eventbrite.</a> <h3 style="text-align: center;">October 23 - Pirates and Puritans: Cotton Mather and The Whydah Trial of 1717</h3> The tour will meet at the basement level of Faneuil Hall and will end at the Copp's Hill Burying Ground Address: 1 Faneuil Hall Square, Boston, MA 02109 In 1717, six pirates that survived a wreck off Cape Cod were tried for piracy in Boston. The puritan minister Cotton Mather (whose earlier views on witchcraft affected the Salem Witch Trials outcome) made his presence felt, both to condemn piracy, but also offer salvation to the condemned pirates. This tour will explore the collision of the Puritan world and piracy in early Boston. Sign up in advance <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-evening-tours-pirates-and-puritans-cotton-mather-and-the-whydah-trial-tickets-1607195508029?aff=oddtdtcreator">on eventbrite.</a> <hr />   </div>

Join a Park Ranger for a special guided tour exploring Boston's rich history as a city of revolutions.

Ranger's Choice Walking Tour

Military

US Navy

Monuments and Memorials

Living History

Two Park rangers dressed in period clothing, one has a musket to her side and speaks to the audience

Muskets, Men, and Liberty

This program is held on the grass lawn next to the Bunker Hill Monument.

Who fought in the Battle of Bunker Hill? Listen to a ranger dressed in period clothing discuss why three men from different backgrounds stepped onto the battlefield. They each had different ambitions, motivations, and concerns. The program concludes with a musket firing demonstration! Programs are held outside the Bunker Hill Monument and last approximately 30 minutes. For 2025, this program will run June 21 through September 27. Programs will be offered on Saturdays at 11:30am, 2:30pm, and 3:30pm, weather permitting. <hr /> To learn more about the battle, visit the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/historyculture/bhm.htm#battle">Battle of Bunker Hill page</a>. If you have any questions, please <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/contacts.htm">contact us</a>.

Pets are allowed on-leash on the grounds around the Bunker Hill Monument. NOTE: The loud noise from the demonstration may be uncomfortable for some pets.

For 2025, this program will run June 21 through September 1. Programs will be offered on Saturdays at 11:30am, 2:30pm, and 3:30pm.

Listen to a ranger dressed in period clothing discuss why three men from different backgrounds fought in the battle. The program concludes with a musket firing demonstration!

Bunker Hill: Muskets, Men, and Liberty

Infantry and Militia

American Revolutionary War

Ranger talking to a group of people. Faneuil Hall stands in the background.

Enemies to this Country Tour

Tours begin inside the Faneuil Hall Visitor Center and end at Old North Church.

In 1774 Paul Revere and his neighbors in the North End were forced to make difficult and dangerous choices. As sides were drawn, both Patriots and Loyalists labeled the other "enemies to this country." Join a National Park Service Ranger for a free 75 minute walk and decide who the real "Enemies to This Country" were in the months before the breakout of the War for Independence. Tours begin inside the Faneuil Hall Visitor Center and end at Old North Church, covering about 0.5 miles. For 2025, "Enemies to This Country" walking tours will run May 24 through September 28. Tours will be offered Wednesday through Sunday at 11:00am. Sign up in advance on <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-freedom-trail-enemies-to-this-country-tickets-372161985517?aff=oddtdtcreator">eventbrite</a> or day of in person with the Ranger at the Visitor Center desk at Faneuil Hall. *In case of weather, Rangers will offer an indoor option in the basement of Faneuil Hall, also known as the "Find Your Park Space." <hr /> For a self-guided tour of the Freedom Trail, see either the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/virtual-freedom-trail-tour.htm">Virtual Freedom Trail® Tour</a> or download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/planyourvisit/app.htm">NPS App</a>. If you have any questions, please <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/contacts.htm">contact us</a>.

For 2025, "Enemies to This Country" walking tours will run May 24 through August 30. Tours will be offered Wednesday through Sunday at 11:00am.

For 2025, "Enemies to This Country" walking tours will run May 24 through August 30. Tours will be offered Wednesday through Sunday at 11:00am. *In case of weather, Rangers will offer an indoor option in the basement of Faneuil Hall, also known as the "Find Your Park Space." For a self-guided tour of the Freedom Trail, see either the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/virtual-freedom-trail-tour.htm">Virtual Freedom Trail® Tour</a> or download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/planyourvisit/app.htm">NPS App</a>. If you have any questions, please <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/contacts.htm">contact us</a>.

Join a park ranger for a free 75 minute walking tour and decide who the real "Enemies to This Country" were in the months before the breakout of the War for Independence.

For 2025, "Enemies to This Country" walking tours will run May 24 through August 30. Tours will be offered Wednesday through Sunday at 11:00am. *In case of weather, Rangers will offer an indoor option in the basement of Faneuil Hall, also known as the "Find Your Park Space." For a self-guided tour of the Freedom Trail, see either the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/virtual-freedom-trail-tour.htm">Virtual Freedom Trail® Tour</a> or download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/planyourvisit/app.htm">NPS App</a>. If you have any questions, please <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/contacts.htm">contact us</a>.

The Freedom Trail: Enemies to this Country Guided Tour

This tour is best suited for individuals aged 8 and above.

The Black Heritage Trail® Tours typically lasts 1.5 hours.

An NPS Ranger speaking to a group of children in front of a monument, holding an image of soldiers.

Walking the Black Heritage Trail

Join a Park Ranger from the National Parks of Boston to explore the rich history of the Black community in 1800s Beacon Hill. The Black Heritage Trail® showcases residences and community buildings associated with a Black community that thrived on, and near, the north slope of Beacon Hill before, during, and after the American Civil War. Throughout that time, this community struggled and organized for equal rights and access to equal education. Community members championed the movement to abolish slavery and even housed freedom seekers on their journey along the Underground Railroad. This tour lasts approximately 90 minutes. Register for the tour in advance on <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-heritage-trail-tour-tickets-905004281167?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl">eventbrite</a>. It begins at the Massachusetts 54th Regiment across the street from the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/massachusetts-state-house.htm">Massachusetts State House</a> and ends at the <a href="https://www.maah.org/">Museum of African American History</a>, covering about 1.4 miles. <hr /> For the 2025 season from May 24 - September 28, Black Heritage Trail Tours will occur Wednesday through Sunday at 10am and 1pm. Sign up in advance <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-heritage-trail-tour-tickets-153151587521?aff=ebdssbdestsearch">on Eventbrite</a>. If you have a group larger than five people, please <a href="mailto:boaf_mail@nps.gov">e-mail us</a> or call us at 617-429-6760. <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-heritage-trail-tour-tickets-153151587521?aff=oddtdtcreator">Reserve your spot here</a> *In case of weather, Rangers will offer an indoor option in the basement of Faneuil Hall, also known as the "Find Your Park Space." For a self-guided audio tour, see either <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/virtual-black-heritage-trail-tour.htm">The Virtual Black Heritage Trail</a> or download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/mobile-app.htm">NPS App</a>.

Pets are allowed while walking through Beacon Hill. The Museum of African American History only allows service animals into its buildings. Please visit our page on <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm">Accessibility</a> to learn more about <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm#General_Guidelines_for_Visitors_with_Service_Animals">General Guidelines for Visitors with Service Animals</a>.

Guided tours are offered in the summer and into the fall.  For the 2025 season from May 24 - October 13, Black Heritage Trail Tours will occur Wednesday through Sunday at 10am and 1pm. Register for the tour in advance on <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-heritage-trail-tour-tickets-905004281167?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl">eventbrite</a>. *In case of weather, Rangers will offer an indoor option in the basement of Faneuil Hall, also known as the "Find Your Park Space." For a self-guided audio tour, see either <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/virtual-black-heritage-trail-tour.htm">The Virtual Black Heritage Trail</a> or download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/mobile-app.htm">NPS App</a>.

Guided tours are offered in the summer and into the fall. For the 2025 season from May 24 - October 13, Black Heritage Trail Tours will occur Wednesday through Sunday at 10am and 1pm. Register for the tour in advance on <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-heritage-trail-tour-tickets-905004281167?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl">eventbrite</a>. *In case of weather, Rangers will offer an indoor option in the basement of Faneuil Hall, also known as the "Find Your Park Space." For a self-guided audio tour, see either <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/virtual-black-heritage-trail-tour.htm">The Virtual Black Heritage Trail</a> or download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/mobile-app.htm">NPS App</a>.

Join a Park Ranger from the National Parks of Boston on a Black Heritage Trail® Tour to learn about the Black community of Beacon Hill that thrived before, during, and after the American Civil War.

For the 2025 season from May 24 - October 13, Black Heritage Trail Tours will occur Wednesday through Sunday at 10am and 1pm. Register for the tour in advance on <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-heritage-trail-tour-tickets-905004281167?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl">eventbrite</a>. *In case of weather, Rangers will offer an indoor option in the basement of Faneuil Hall, also known as the "Find Your Park Space." For a self-guided audio tour, see either <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/virtual-black-heritage-trail-tour.htm">The Virtual Black Heritage Trail</a> or download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/mobile-app.htm">NPS App</a>.

Walk the Black Heritage Trail®

Enslavement

Religion and Spirituality

Churches

Schools and Education

Civil Rights

Trails

Civil War

Hands-On

These activities are suggested for 8 - 12 year old children, but individuals of all ages are welcome to participate.

The activities range in time duration.

A kid sitting on the ground looking down at an activity he is working on.

Find Your Park Anywhere NPB

Find your park anywhere, from your home to your backyard, with activities spanning the National Parks of Boston. Click on the links to download the activites.  <ul> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/kidsyouth/upload/A-Cleaner-Harbor-Accessible-508.pdf">A Cleaner Harbor</a>: Let's learn how the work of environmentalists helped Boston Harbor become clean enough to swim in!</li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/kidsyouth/upload/An-Island-For-All-Accessible-508.pdf">Create: An Island For All</a>: If you had the chance to create your own island park for everyone to enjoy, what would it be like?</li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/kidsyouth/upload/Contribution-Resolution-Accessible-508.pdf">Explore: Contribution Resolution</a>: Discover how your unique skills and interests can help others in your community today.</li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/kidsyouth/upload/Flotation-Innovation-Accessible-508.pdf">Create: Flotation Innovation</a>: All aboard! Design a ship using household materials and discover how workers in the Charlestown Navy Yard innovated during WWII. Want to follow along with a ranger? Check out this <a href="https://www.nps.gov/media/video/view.htm?id=71A372C5-D165-4F17-9AC2-D768934CE584">video</a>, and download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/upload/Flotation-Innovation-Activity-Sheet-Accessible.pdf">worksheet!</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/kidsyouth/upload/Mapping-Memories-Accessible-508.pdf">Explore: Mapping Memories</a>: Time to tell your story and consider how listening to the stories of others demonstrates compassion.</li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/kidsyouth/upload/Votes-for-Women-Accessible-508.pdf">Learn: Votes for Women!</a>: Explore and discuss how you can advocate for something you care about.</li> </ul> These activities were created in partnership with <a href="https://www.bostonharbornow.org">Boston Harbor Now</a>, <a href="https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-conservation-recreation">Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation</a>, and <a href="https://www.savetheharbor.org/">Save the Harbor/Save the Bay</a>.

Find your park anywhere, from your home to your backyard, with activities spanning the National Parks of Boston.

National Parks of Boston: Find Your Park Anywhere

Climate Change

Coasts, Islands and Atolls

Laborer and Worker

Oceans

World War II

Wilderness

The mess of the USS CASSIN YOUNG which has white square tables with gray food trays on top.

USS Cassin Young Tour

USS Cassin Young sits at the end of Pier 1 of the Charlestown Navy Yard.

Explore above and below the main deck of USS Cassin Young (DD 793), a Fletcher-class Destroyer that served in the Second World War and throughout the 1950s. Learn how such ships were built and see how the sailors lived, served, and made sacrifices aboard. Visitors will be able to see various parts of the ship on the tour, including: the Combat Information Center, the Plotting Room, Officer's Country (or Berthing Area), Ammunition Handling Room, Officer's Mess, Sailors' Berthing Area, Crew Mess, the Galley, Barber shop, and the Bridge. Tours begin on the deck of the ship and last for approximately 45 minutes. Tickets are available for FREE on a first-come, first served basis aboard the ship. Since this tour highlights small spaces, only 12 people are allowed per tour. Visitors must be over 48" in height to safely climb the ladders. For 2025, USS Cassin Young tours will run May 24 through October 13. Tours will be offered Wednesday through Sunday at 11:00am, 2:00pm, and 3:00pm. <hr /> *To learn more about the USS Cassin Young, explore the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/features/bost/DD793/1.0/index.html#mainMenu">USS Cassin Young app</a> or visit the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/uss-cassin-young.htm">USS Cassin Young page</a>. If you have any questions, please <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/contacts.htm">contact us</a>.

For 2025, USS Cassin Young tours will run May 24 through October 13. Tours will be offered Wednesday through Sunday at 11:00am, 2:00pm, and 3:00pm.

Explore above and below the main deck of USS CASSIN YOUNG (DD 793), a Fletcher-class Destroyer that served in the Second World War and throughout the 1950s.

Charlestown Navy Yard: Tour USS CASSIN YOUNG (DD 793)

Ships and Shipwrecks

Cold War

Museum Exhibits

Admission to The Clough House is free. For visiting Old North Church and Historic Site, please visit <a href="https://www.oldnorth.com/admission-pricing/">Admission & Pricing</a> page on their website.

A three-story brick building with three rows of five paned glass windows.

The Clough House

The Clough House is located on Old North’s campus, behind the church, at 21 Unity St, Boston, MA.

The 1715 Clough House remains one of the oldest surviving brick residences in Boston. Now located on Old North Church and Historic Site's campus, the Clough House serves as the home to the exhibit Unearthing Childhood: 300 Years of North End Kids and Heritage Goods + Gifts. <h2>Unearthing Childhood Archaeology Exhibit</h2> A new family-friendly archaeology exhibit is now open in the Clough House! Unearthing Childhood: 300 Years of North End Kids explores the lives of seven real children of diverse backgrounds who lived in Boston’s North End in the 1700s, 1800s, and early 1900s. This multimedia exhibit includes archaeological artifacts on loan from the City of Boston, videos, and activities for families with children. The exhibit is completely free and can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages.  The exhibit is presented in partnership with the City of Boston Archaeology Department and was made possible by a grant from Mass Humanities, which provided funding through the Massachusetts Cultural Council (MCC), a grant from the Cabot Family Charitable Trust, and an anonymous donor. <h2>Heritage Goods & Gifts</h2> Heritage Goods + Gifts is a unique retail space that harkens back to childhood in days gone by. Taking inspiration from the new exhibit, Unearthing Childhood, this gift shop features vintage toys, games, and activities that kids have enjoyed since the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors will find classics like marbles, dominoes, jacks, and building logs. In addition to these throwback items, the shop also offers archaeology kits, gardening items, arts and crafts, specialty foods, sweet treats, and so much more. Stop by and find the perfect gift! For more information, please visit <a href="https://www.oldnorth.com/clough-house/">Old North Church & Historic Site's website</a>.

The exhibit and shop are open from 10am – 5pm, Tuesday through Sunday.

Visit one of Boston's oldest surviving brick residences, the Clough House at Old North Church and Historic Site. The Clough House is home to the free exhibit "Unearthing Childhood: 300 Years of North End Kids," and Heritage Goods + Gift shop.

The Clough House at Old North Church & Historic Site

Archeology

Commerce

Self-Guided Tours - Walking

Circular metal medallion surrounded by brick that says "The Freedom Trail Boston"

Explore the Freedom Trail

Originally conceptualized in the 1950s, the Freedom Trail® is an iconic symbol of Boston. Its red brick line snakes through some of the oldest parts of the City, navigating visitors to some of the most significant historic sites in the Downtown, North End, and Charlestown neighborhoods of Boston. The trail itself does not necessarily tell a narrative. Rather, it aids tourists with a starting point—an opening sampler of Boston's storied, complicated, and multi-faceted history. While many sites are primarily recognized for their role in the American Revolution, all the sites on the Freedom Trail® remained significant because of the role they played in subsequent social, political, and religious movements, controversies, and challenges. <h2>Exploring Boston's History</h2> Some choose to walk the entire 2.5 mile trail, end to end. Others select a handful of sites of particular interest and focus on those places. Visits can be as short as a few hours—however those who wish to enter every historic site and explore what each site has to offer can spend a full weekend along the Freedom Trail. Guided tours are available seasonally from both National Park Service staff and through private organizations. Generally, few public tours walk the entire trail. Many sites are part of Boston National Historical Park, however they are independently owned and operated and may charge admission fees. <h2>Free Self-Guided Audio Tour</h2> The National Parks of Boston have developed a FREE Freedom Trail® Audio Tour for visitors. This tour is available online on our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/freedom-trail-audio-tour.htm">Freedom Trail® Audio Tour webpage</a>, or by downloading the NPS App. Once downloaded, search "Boston National Historical Park" and select "self-guided tours." Our Freedom Trail Audio Tour is also available in Spanish and French online and on the NPS App. Visit <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/freedom-trail-audio-tour-espa%C3%83%C2%B1ol.htm">Freedom Trail Audio Tour - Español</a> or <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/freedom-trail-audio-tour-french.htm">Freedom Trail Audio Tour - Français</a> to listen to the tours.

Originally conceptualized in the 1950s, the Freedom Trail® is an iconic symbol of Boston. Its red brick line snakes through some of the oldest parts of the City, navigating visitors to some of the most significant historic sites in the Downtown, North End, and Charlestown neighborhoods of Boston.

Walk the Freedom Trail

Burial, Cemetery and Gravesite

Colonization and Settlement

Maritime

Maritime - Military

Battlefields

Indigenous and Native Warrior

Religious Freedom

Wars and Conflicts

Colonial/European Contact Conflicts

French and Indian War

Indian and Frontier Wars

War of 1812

World War I

Three story brick building with white furnishes and a white and gilded cupola atop.

Faneuil Hall

Looking to plan your visit to Boston's historic sites? Visit the Cradle of Liberty, <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/historyculture/fh.htm">Faneuil Hall</a>!  The City of Boston owns and operates Faneuil Hall. Since the establishment of Boston National Historical Park in 1974, National Park Service rangers interpret the stories of this historic building. Can't visit in-person or the Hall is closed? Experience Faneuil Hall through our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/faneuil-hall-virtual-tour.htm">virtual tour</a>!  <hr /> <h2>First Floor: Visitor Center and Marketplace</h2> Stop by the NPS Visitor Center located in the first floor of Faneuil Hall, where park rangers and volunteers are eager to provide general information and insider tips. While here, you can also find junior ranger books, maps, brochures, videos, exhibits, and information about sites along Boston's historic Freedom Trail®. You can also explore the different shops in the first floor market.  <h2>Second and Third Floor: Great Hall</h2> The second floor is home to the historic Great Hall. This gathering space has hosted meetings, orations, debates, and protests for over 275 years. Bostonians continue to use the Great Hall to this day. Political rallies, debates, concerts, and natruralization ceremonies are just some of the events that regularly take place here.  When open for public visitation, rangers offer informal Faneuil Hall talks about the history of the building and the Bostonians who have met here.  Take a <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/faneuil-hall-virtual-tour.htm">virtual tour of Faneuil Hall</a> to learn more about the Great Hall. <h2>Fourth Floor: Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company</h2> The fourth floor of Faneuil Hall is home to the headquarters of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts. Their museum and meeting hall are independently operated. Please visit the <a href="https://www.ahac.us.com/">Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company website</a> for more information. Take a <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/faneuil-hall-virtual-tour.htm">virtual tour of Faneuil Hall</a> to experience the headquarers of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company. <h2>Lower Level: Find Your Park Space</h2> In the "Find Your Park Space" in the lower level of Faneuil Hall, watch "Fighting for Freedom: Lewis Hayden and the Underground Railroad." This <a href="https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1205/index.htm">Network to Freedom</a> film follows the story of <a href="https://www.nps.gov/people/lewis-hayden.htm">Lewis Hayden</a> and his family as they seek freedom on the Underground Railroad and become activists living in Boston, Massachusetts, determined to crush the institution of slavery. The film runs for just over 17 minutes and has captions in English, Spanish, French, and simplified Chinese and Vietnamese, as well as audio descriptions. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/media/video/view.htm?id=BA117BF0-97CC-43C0-D0B9010B67E016EB">"Fighting for Freedom: Lewis Hayden and the Underground Railroad"</a> is also available online. During the summer, ranger-guided tours begin in the "Find Your Park Space" in the basement of the Visitor Center.

Service animals are allowed inside Faneuil Hall. 

Visit the Historic Cradle of Liberty's marketplace, Visitor Center, Great Hall, and Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company.

<h2>Faneuil Hall Visitor Center</h2> Winter Hours (October 28 - May 26): <ul> <li>Sunday: Open 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM.</li> <li>Monday - Tuesday: Closed.</li> <li>Wednesday: Open 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM.</li> <li>Thursday: Open 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM.</li> <li>Friday - Saturday: Open 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM.</li> </ul> <h2>The Great Hall</h2> Winter Hours (October 28 - May 26): <ul> <li>Sunday: Open 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM.</li> <li>Monday - Tuesday: Closed.</li> <li>Wednesday: Open 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM.</li> <li>Thursday: Open 12:00 PM - 4:30 PM.</li> <li>Friday - Saturday: Open 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM.</li> </ul> Visit our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/planyourvisit/hours.htm#FH">operating hours and seasons</a> page for more information.

Visit Historic Faneuil Hall

Bronze medallion with words The Freedom Trail Boston set in a red brick sidewalk.

<h2>Select a Self-Guided Audio Tour</h2> Listen online or download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/planyourvisit/app.htm">NPS App</a> to explore Boston with a FREE audio tour of your choice. Download the NPS app from the <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/national-park-service/id1549226484">Apple App</a> store or <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=gov.nps.mobileapp">Google Play</a>. Once the app is installed, follow the tutorial. If you are already in Boston and turned on location access, Boston National Historical Park, Boston African American National Historic Site, and Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park will show up automatically. Otherwise simply tap "Find a Park" and search "Boston". Tap your preferred park unit and then begin to explore! <h3>Explore Boston's Trails to Freedom:</h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/virtual-black-heritage-trail-tour.htm">Black Heritage Trail</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/freedom-trail-audio-tour.htm">Freedom Trail</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/freedom-trail-audio-tour-espa%C3%B1ol.htm">Freedom Trail Audio Tour - Español</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/freedom-trail-audio-tour-french.htm">Freedom Trail Audio Tour - Français</a></li> </ul> <h3>Explore Downtown Boston and Beacon Hill with the following tours: </h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/learn/uggr-bost-audio-tour.htm">The Underground Railroad in Boston Audio Tour</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/boha/learn/high-tide-trail.htm">High Tide Trail Audio Tour</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/learn/women-bh-audio-tour.htm">Women of Beacon Hill Audio Tour</a></li> </ul> <h3>Visit Bunker Hill and take a listen to the following tour: </h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/remembering-revolution.htm">Remembering Revolution: Bunker Hill Monument Audio Tour</a></li> </ul>

Explore Downtown Boston, Beacon Hill, and Charlestown with a self-guided audio tour!

Explore Boston with a Free Audio Tour

LGB American Heritage

Urban America

When open, the active-duty crewmembers of USS Constitution guide visitors through the history and decks of this historic warship. Depending on season and visitor demand, crew may provided informational talks at set locations on board, or will organize timed guided tours, first come, first served.

below deck of the frigate USS Constitution. A shadowed and short deck with people walking around.

USS Constitution below deck

To access USS Constitution, visitors must enter the Navy Yard Visitor Center via a security checkpoint. Photo ID may be required for access. This is for added security for USS Constitution, an active navy ship.

Stepping aboard USS Constitution, you are walking the decks of the Nation's Ship of State and the oldest commissioned ship in the United States Navy. Imagine what life was like for the sailors who lived and worked aboard "Old Ironsides." Today, USS Constitution's naval officers and crew serve as interpretative historians, sharing the history and stories of this ship with visitors. To access USS Constitution, visitors must enter via a security checkpoint at the Navy Yard Visitor Center. Photo ID is required for individuals age 18 and older for access. This is for added security for USS Constitution, an active navy ship. For more information, please see USS Constitution's <a href="https://www.navy.mil/USS-CONSTITUTION/Hours-Visitor-Info/">Hours and Visitor Info page</a>. USS Constitution is operated by the United States Navy, a partner to the National Parks of Boston.

Service animals are allowed on the top deck. For more information on Service Animals, please see USS Constitution's <a href="https://www.navy.mil/USS-CONSTITUTION/Hours-Visitor-Info/">Hours and Visitor Info page</a>.

USS Constitution is open on a limited schedule. For more information, please see USS Constitution's <a href="https://www.navy.mil/USS-CONSTITUTION/Hours-Visitor-Info/">Hours and Visitor Info page</a>.

Step aboard USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned ship in the United States Navy. Naval officers and crew still serve aboard her as interpretative historians.

USS CONSTITUTION: Explore this Historic Ship

For current information about fees, please visit the <a href="https://www.revolutionaryspaces.org/hours-admission/">Revolutionary Spaces website</a>.

A brick two-story meeting house with a tall white steeple

As a former Puritan meeting house and a space for debate during the American Revolution, <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/old-south-meeting-house.htm">Old South Meeting House</a> has exhibits that explore its "proud history of democracy and dissent." Its ongoing exhibit "Voices of Protest" tells the inspiring, sometimes disturbing, and frequently controversial story of Old South Meeting House through the voices of the men and women whose achievements have shaped its history. Today, Old South continues to serve as a catalyst for intellectual thought and energy by sponsoring public forums, debates, concerts, and theatrical presentations year round. For current hours of operation and to learn more about Old South Meeting House's tours and exhibits, visit the <a href="https://www.revolutionaryspaces.org/osmh/">Revolutionary Spaces website</a>. The Old South Meeting House is a National Parks of Boston partner site operated by Revolutionary Spaces.

For current information about admission, please visit the <a href="https://www.revolutionaryspaces.org/hours-admission/">Revolutionary Spaces website</a>.

Old South Meeting House's exhibits that explore the sites rich history of debate during the American Revolution.

For current information about hours, please visit the <a href="https://www.revolutionaryspaces.org/hours-admission/">Revolutionary Spaces website</a>.

Old South Meeting House: Explore the Exhibits at this Space for Debate

Please visit <a href="https://www.oldnorth.com/">The Old North Church website</a> for more information.

Interior of Old North Church with box pews and flags hanging from the gallery.

Walk through the pews and admire the stained glass windows of this Anglican Church originally built in 1723. Old North served many wealthy merchants, government officials, and skilled tradesmen. By the time of the American Revolution, the congregation had divided its support between the "loyalist" and patriot causes. In the steeple of <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/old-north-church.htm">The Old North Church</a> where John Pulling and Robert Newman sent a signal to warn those outside of Boston. Paul Revere had arranged the signal with Pulling just days before: One lantern if British regular troops march out of Boston by land, two if they depart by boats across the river. Take a tour of Old North Church to dive into the history and the integral role Old North played in the American Revolution.  For current hours of operation and to learn more about The Old North Church's tours and programs, please visit <a href="https://www.oldnorth.com/">The Old North Church website</a>. Old North Church is a National Parks of Boston partner site operated by Old North Illuminated.

Walk through the pews and admire the stained glass windows of this Anglican Church originally built in 1723 and learn about the story behind the famed lanterns.

Old North Church: Tour this Historic Church Known for the Two Lanterns

Architecture and Building

Note: Participants should be comfortable in a basement setting and navigating tight spaces. The crypt has low lighting, uneven surfaces, and is not wheelchair or stroller accessible.

Visitors may purchase the Crypt Combo package during normal operating hours. The Crypt Combo is $9 per person when you book online, or $10 at the ticket booth. It includes a self-guided tour of the crypt, general admission to the church’s sanctuary and new exhibit, and an immersive audio guide with 300 years of the church’s secrets and stories. Children 5 and under are free. Visit Old North's <a href="https://oldnorth.doubleknot.com/openrosters/availableevents.aspx?orgkey=3965">online schedule</a> to plan your visit.

Inside a small red-brick crypt with a shelf that has a couple boxes and a coffin shaped box.

Old North Church Crypt Tour

Old North's historic crypt is now open to the public after a 9-month restoration project! Did you know that over 1,100 bodies lie underneath the sanctuary of Old North Church? Explore Old North’s crypt on a self-guided tour. You’ll find out about the burial practices of early congregants, get introduced to some of the notable crypt "occupants" who have rested in this unique space for hundreds of years, and learn about discoveries from recent archeological work. Content: Historical topics discussed include death, burials, and human remains. Note: Participants should be comfortable in a basement setting and navigating tight spaces. The crypt has low lighting, uneven surfaces, and is not wheelchair or stroller accessible. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.oldnorth.com/admission-pricing/">Old North Church's website</a>.

Reservations are not required, but it is possible to reserve tickets in advance. Please visit Old North Church's <a href="https://www.oldnorth.com/admission-pricing/">Admission & Pricing</a> page for more information.

Take a self-guided tour of Old North’s historic crypt, where 1,100 people were laid to rest.

Boston

Overview

Hours

Fees & Passes

Map

Things To Do

Category

Join a Historic Town Meeting at Faneuil Hall

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Ranger's Choice Walking Tour

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Bunker Hill: Muskets, Men, and Liberty

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The Freedom Trail: Enemies to this Country Guided Tour

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Walk the Black Heritage Trail®

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National Parks of Boston: Find Your Park Anywhere

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