Follow the Freedom Trail, the historic heart of Boston

Boston has set up an original itinerary. The Freedom Trail is a red line drawn through the city that allows tourists to discover Boston's main monuments. The walk retraces the steps of North America's oldest megalopolis and allows you to discover sites linked to the American Revolution and the birth of this nation. Among the sites visited are the Massachusetts Capitol, a statue of Benjamin Franklin, King's Chapel and its cemetery and much more. It's almost 400 years of the city's history! The walk is around 4km long. Don't miss out on this experience during your stay in Boston.

Marker on the ground of the Freedom trail in Boston

- © James Kirkikis / Shutterstock
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The Freedom Trail, follow the red line

Over a distance of more than 4 kilometres, follow in the footsteps of the American Revolution and visit the city's main historic sites. It couldn't be easier! Just follow the red line painted on the ground or the bricks lined up in a row.

Themed guided tours, organised by the rangers and by various service providers, are available throughout the year. You can select your favourite service provider on the Boston Tourist Office website. It takes around 3 hours to complete the entire route.

Freedom Trail in Boston

- © aphotostory / Shutterstock

Highlights along Boston's Freedom Trail

The start of the Freedom Trail is at the Boston Common Tourist Office. Here are a few points of interest to discover along the way.

  • Boston Common Park is a twenty-hectare urban garden. In fact, it's thought to be the oldest public garden in the country!

  • TheMassachusetts State House has been the heart of the state since 1798. It is the seat of the state government of Massachusetts. Its gold-covered dome is instantly recognisable. Free admission.

  • The Granary Burying Ground is home to a number of revolutionaries. Established in 1660, it is the final resting place of many of the country's most illustrious men.

  • TheOld State House is one of the oldest public buildings in the United States. Its position at the intersection of busy streets and buildings makes it the most photogenic building in the city.

  • Quincy Market is home to a renowned shopping complex. It's a bustling place. Shops, cafés and restaurants draw large crowds. Whether you bump into Boston locals or other tourists, you won't be alone!

  • The Paul Revere House is a 17th-century wooden house at 19 North Square. Admission charge, closed on Mondays.

  • The Old North Church is one of the oldest churches in Boston. It is a typical example of colonial church architecture.

Old State House along Boston's Freedom Trail

- © Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock

Exterior of Boston's Quincy Market

- © Tom Zeman / Shutterstock

Practical info

👉 When should you come to Boston's Freedom Trail?

You can walk Boston's legendary Freedom Trail at any time of year. Winter is harsh in Boston Bay, so if you do this walk in winter, plan to take breaks to warm up in the bars or restaurants along the route. Conversely, in summer the entertainment, festivals and café terraces liven up the adjacent streets.

🚌 Getting there

Getting to the Sentier de la Liberté by metro couldn't be easier! Just get off at Park Street station (Red or Green line) or State station (Blue or Orange line). There are also plenty of buses stopping close to the Freedom Trail. Public transport (metro, bus, ferry) is managed by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority. There are many underground car parks in the heart of Boston, but parking is expensive. Allow a minimum of $25 per day.

Where to stay near the Freedom Trail?

⭐Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Harbor on Tudor Wharf

The variety of rooms (double, family) allows any type of family to come and stay here. The equipment in some suites is perfectly adapted. For example, the fully-equipped kitchens, where you can cook your own meals, still meet guests' expectations. Note that this is still a chain hotel with thick carpets and decoration that is starting to date. Swimming pool and fitness centre for the more sporty guests. The Freedom Trail passes close to the hotel, and you can park your car in a paying car park.

Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Harbor on Tudor Wharf Boston
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Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Harbor on Tudor Wharf

3-star hotel with suites for up to 6 people
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by Jude JONES
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