Description
Boston’s historic center may be small, but it packs in so much history.
From an experiment in Puritan exclusiveness to an inclusive modern metropolis, every street, corner, and building whispers stories of the past.
The Boston Massacre and the original Tea Party took place here. Sam Adams, Ben Franklin, and George Washington all roamed its streets.
- Boston Common: Founded in 1634, Boston Common is America’s oldest public park, offering a serene starting point for the Freedom Trail. This historic green space has witnessed centuries of history, from British troop encampments during the Revolutionary War to civil rights rallies in the 20th century.
- Massachusetts State House: Completed in 1798, the Massachusetts State House is a shining symbol of Boston. Its iconic golden dome stands as a testament to the architectural beauty of the city and serves as the seat of Massachusetts’ government. Learn about its role in the state’s legislative process and rich history.
- Park Street Church: Erected in 1809, Park Street Church has been at the heart of many significant events, including the first public anti-slavery address in the U.S. Its towering steeple is a landmark of Boston’s skyline and a powerful reminder of the city’s progressive past.
- Granary Burying Ground: Granary Burying Ground is one of Boston’s oldest and most historic cemeteries. It serves as the final resting place for many notable figures from the American Revolution, including Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, and John Hancock. Visitors can also pay their respects at the grave of Crispus Attucks, the first casualty of the Boston Massacre and a symbol of the fight for freedom. Walking through this somber yet inspiring site offers a profound connection to the individuals who shaped the nation’s early history and fought for independence.
- King’s Chapel: Built in 1754, King’s Chapel is a striking example of Georgian architecture and one of Boston’s oldest churches. Discover its fascinating history, including its ties to loyalist congregants during the Revolution and its enduring role in Boston’s spiritual community.
- Old South Meeting House: See the Old South Meeting House, where plans for the Boston Tea Party were famously set into motion. This historic site, built in 1729, served as a pivotal meeting place for colonists advocating for freedom and justice.
- Old Corner Bookstore: Once a hub for the literary elite in the 19th century, the Old Corner Bookstore published the works of iconic authors like Louisa May Alcott. Today, it stands as a reminder of Boston’s rich literary heritage.
- Old State House: Dating back to 1713, the Old State House was the seat of colonial government and stage for key moments leading to the Revolution. Learn about the Declaration of Independence being read from its balcony and its role in igniting the quest for liberty.
- Boston Massacre Site: Marking the spot where tensions between colonists and British soldiers escalated into the infamous Boston Massacre of 1770, this site serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of independence.
- Faneuil Hall: Known as the “Cradle of Liberty,” Faneuil Hall has been a marketplace and meeting hall since 1742. This historical venue hosted fiery debates and speeches advocating for independence, making it a vital landmark in Boston’s revolutionary history.
