For Fourth of July weekend, a friend and I decided to do a New England roadtrip. We stayed in Boston, visited Portland, Maine, and then Newport, Rhode Island.

On The Fourth of July, we explored downtown Boston and spent the holiday walking through (literally) American history and reeducating ourselves on the evolving meaning of liberty and freedom.

In today’s post, I’m sharing everything you need to know about the Freedom Trail in Boston.

What is the Freedom Trail?

The Freedom Trail tells the story of the American Revolution and beyond through landmarks and monuments in downtown Boston. William Schofield, a former travel writer for the Boston Herald, came up with the thinking behind the design of the Freedom Trail. He noticed visitors were having trouble finding the city’s historic landmarks and proposed there be a pedestrian trail that linked together important local landmarks.

How many total historic sites are on the Freedom Trail?

There are a total of 16 official historic sites. Some of these historical landmarks include The Old State House, Paul Revere’s house, the Old North Church, and more.

Where does the Freedom Trail start?

The Freedom Trail starts at Boston Common (above). We were able to find parking on a street nearby and walked over to Boston Common.

Why does the Freedom Trail start at Boston Common?

Boston Common is the oldest public park in the United States. It is located right in the city center and is one of the most commonly visited attractions in Boston.

How long is the Freedom Trail?

The Freedom Trail is 2.5 miles and took us roughly an hour and 15 minutes. The first few sites are are in close proximity to each other, and the time is also based on how fast you are walking, how much time you are spending at each site, etc.

Is the Freedom Trail an outdoor experience only?

No, it is both an outdoor and indoor living history experience. However, due to the pandemic, the historic sites are closed for the time being. You can still walk by them and view the buildings from a distance, but any indoor experience is not permitted until further notice.

What is the best way to experience the Freedom Trail?

It depends. I personally prefer to look up the history behind each site myself and move at my own pace. If you prefer to have a tour guide and move with a group of people, there are trolley tours, group tours, and more. Many of the tour guides have an acting background and people enjoy them because they make the history come alive. Due to the pandemic, all tours are suspended into further notice. You can check out more information on tours for your future visit (here).

Is the Freedom Trail free?

The Freedom Trail is free and something to enjoy at your own leisure.

*Benjamin Franklin’s Statue Site of Boston Latin School*

What is the importance of the Boston Latin School?

The Boston Latin School is the first public school in America. Built in 1635, the school gave the street its name.

What should I bring on the Freedom Trail?

I would bring water and snacks, just in case. There are plenty of restaurants around, and there is the option to pause your walk and check out some of the oldest bars and restaurants along the way. We were on a time crunch and didn’t stop for food or water. I also recommend you wear comfortable clothes and shoes!

*Old State House Museum and Boston Massacre Site*

What is the importance of the Old State House Museum?

This is where John Adams, John Hancock, Samuel Adams, and other patriots debated the future of American self-government and set in motion the American Revolution.

Due to the pandemic, visitors are unable to go inside the Museum at this time.

Paul Revere’s House

Old North Church

Copp’s Hill Burying Ground

How do you get to the last two historic sites on the Freedom Trail?

After Copp’s Hill Burying Ground, we followed the red trail to Charlestown Bridge. Over the Bridge, you’ll find the last two historic sites: USS Constitution and Bunker Hill Monument.

Where does the Freedom Trail end?

The Freedom Trail ends at Bunker Hill Monument. We called an Uber to 43 Monument Square, where Bunker Hill Monument is located, and it took about 15-20 minutes to get to the area near Boston Common where we parked our car.

Have you walked the Freedom Trail before? Are you planning a trip to Boston?

I hope this post was helpful! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask!

Thanks for reading!

Everything to Know About The Freedom Trail in Boston

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