Freedom Trail

A 2.5-mile red-brick path linking 16 of Boston's most important Revolutionary-era sites, from Boston Common to the Bunker Hill Monument. Following it on your own is free and the single best way to orient yourself in the city's history. It gets crowded in summer and the full walk with stops takes the better part of a day.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to walk?

The full 2.5 miles takes 2 to 4 hours depending on how many sites you enter. Most people spend half a day. You can also do just the downtown half and skip the Charlestown crossing if time is tight.

Where does the Freedom Trail start and end?

It starts at Boston Common near the Park Street T stop and the visitor center at 139 Tremont Street, and ends at Bunker Hill Monument in Charlestown. You can walk it in either direction.

Can I do it in winter?

Yes, the outdoor trail is always walkable, but some indoor sites cut hours and the Charlestown leg is cold and exposed. Bundle up and check individual site hours before you go.

What are the must-see stops?

Granary Burying Ground, the Old State House, Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere's House, the Old North Church, and Bunker Hill. If you only have an hour, the downtown cluster from the Common to Faneuil Hall is the densest stretch.

Is the Freedom Trail free?

Walking the trail is free, it's just a red line on the sidewalk you follow. A few individual sites like the Old South Meeting House and Old State House charge small admission, and guided tours cost money, but the walk itself costs nothing.

Should I pay for a guided tour?

A guided tour with a costumed guide adds great storytelling and is worth it if you like history brought to life. But the free NPS ranger tours (seasonal, from Faneuil Hall) and a self-guided map do the job for free.

Where can I stop to eat along the way?

Faneuil Hall's Quincy Market is the obvious food-court stop midway, but the real move is the North End, right on the trail, for Italian food and pastry at Mike's or Modern.

Is it doable with kids?

Yes, it's a favorite family activity, but 2.5 miles is a lot of little legs. Break it up, bring snacks, and consider ending in the North End for a cannoli reward. Strollers are fine on the sidewalks.

Nearby in Ask Boston

• Boston CommonPark0.14 km · 2 min walk
• Boston Public GardenPark0.52 km · 7 min walk
• Beacon HillNeighborhood0.67 km · 8 min walk
• Boston Public MarketMarket0.8 km · 10 min walk
• Rose Kennedy GreenwayAttraction1.01 km · 13 min walk