Self-Guided Boston Freedom Trail Tour

Key facts

What's included

Itinerary

1. Stop 1

   America’s oldest public park, Boston Common, has seen nearly four centuries of history—from colonial grazing lands to Revolutionary War drills and modern gatherings. Imagine the generations who stood here fighting for freedom.

   5 minutes

2. Stop 2

   Overlooking Boston Harbor, this historic cemetery is the resting place of merchants, artisans, and patriots who shaped Boston’s early story. Its weathered headstones whisper tales of ordinary Bostonians caught in revolutionary times.

   5 minutes

3. Stop 3

   Faneuil Hall, known as the Cradle of Liberty, has hosted fiery speeches since the 1740s. Step inside the meeting hall where colonists first voiced their opposition to British rule.

   5 minutes

4. Stop 4

   The Granary Burying Ground is Boston’s most visited cemetery, where Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, and John Hancock rest among historic gravestones. Each marker tells a story of defiance and independence.

   5 minutes

5. Stop 5 Pass by

   This colonial-era chapel, once home to Boston’s first Anglican congregation, features British architecture and a connecting burying ground, linking visitors to Boston’s earliest settlers.

6. Stop 6

   The State House, with its gleaming golden dome, symbolizes self-governance. Designed by Charles Bulfinch in 1798, it embodies the ideals of the young republic.

   5 minutes

7. Stop 7 Pass by

   Old North Church, famous for the lanterns that sparked Paul Revere’s midnight ride, remains a powerful symbol of revolution. Its steeple and sacred space offer insight into the faith and courage behind America’s fight for liberty.

8. Stop 8 Pass by

   Once a Puritan meeting house, this hall became a hub of rebellion, where the Boston Tea Party was born. It’s a site of protest and revolutionary planning.

9. Stop 9 Pass by

   Boston’s oldest surviving public building witnessed colonial rule and the start of revolution. Outside, the Boston Massacre unfolded, marking a turning point in history.

10. Stop 10

    Park Street Church, rising beside Boston Common, became a center for reform and abolition. Its spire remains a symbol of moral leadership.

    5 minutes

11. Stop 11 Pass by

    This modest home, the oldest in downtown Boston, belonged to silversmith and patriot Paul Revere. Imagine him preparing for his legendary midnight ride.

12. Stop 12

    In Boston Common, the bandstand has hosted concerts, speeches, and celebrations since 1912. It continues to be a lively gathering spot.

    5 minutes

13. Stop 13

    The Civil War memorial on Flagstaff Hill honors Union soldiers. Its bronze figures and reliefs tell stories of sacrifice and unity.

    5 minutes

14. Stop 14 Pass by

    Old City Hall, a French Second Empire masterpiece, reflects Boston’s 19th-century civic pride. Today, it houses restaurants and offices while preserving history.

15. Stop 15

    The site of America’s first public school, this spot celebrates centuries of learning, including Benjamin Franklin’s early education.

    5 minutes

16. Stop 16

    Near the old school site, a statue honors Benjamin Franklin, Boston’s most famous son—an inventor, printer, and statesman.

    5 minutes

17. Stop 17

    This bronze monument commemorates Colonel Robert Gould Shaw and his Black regiment in the Civil War. It’s one of Boston’s most moving memorials.

    5 minutes

18. Stop 18

    Famous for its shops, street performers, and food stalls, Quincy Market connects Boston’s past with its lively present. It’s a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.

    5 minutes

Meeting point & pickup

Meet at the starting point

Boston Common Visitors Center is located on the east side of Boston Common, near the junction of Tremont Street and West Street. It’s a small wooden building on the edge of Parkman Plaza.

Cancellation & confirmation