The Faneuil Hall Visitor Center is open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. The Charlestown Navy Yard Visitor Center is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM, and Mondays during summer months.
There are no entrance fees for federally or municipally owned sites like Faneuil Hall, Bunker Hill Monument, and USS Constitution. However, privately owned partner sites charge fees, such as the Paul Revere House: $6 for adults, $5.50 for seniors and college students, and $1 for children ages 5-17.
From Boston, take I-93 North to Exit 28, then follow signs to Charlestown Navy Yard, where history and maritime charm await.
Park at Nautica Parking Garage, 88 Constitution Road, Charlestown. $12-$16 with validation. No overnight parking. No RV or motorcycle specific spots. Street parking not recommended.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Boston National Historical Park is a tapestry of historic sites and landmarks that weave together the narrative of America’s revolutionary past. Located in the heart of Boston, this park is not centered around a lake, but instead, it is a vibrant urban oasis that celebrates the city’s pivotal role in American history.
As you stroll along the Freedom Trail, you are immersed in a world of colonial-era architecture and significant historical milestones. The Old State House, with its golden dome, stands as a testament to the city’s rich heritage, while Faneuil Hall, known as the Cradle of Liberty, echoes with the fervent speeches of revolutionaries past. The Paul Revere House and Old North Church add to the park’s historical depth, each site a living relic of the events that shaped the nation.
In Charlestown, the Bunker Hill Monument rises majestically, a granite obelisk commemorating one of the first major battles of the American Revolution. Nearby, the Charlestown Navy Yard, home to the USS Constitution and USS Cassin Young, offers a glimpse into the maritime history of the United States. The Navy Yard is also a bustling hub of activity, with guided tours of the historic ships and a museum that delves into the yard’s storied past.
In South Boston, Dorchester Heights stands as a significant site, marking the spot where General George Washington compelled the British to withdraw from Boston in 1776. This monument, set against the backdrop of the city’s modern skyline, serves as a poignant reminder of the area’s historical importance.
Throughout the year, visitors can engage in various activities and events. Ranger-led tours provide in-depth insights into the park’s history, while reenactments and historical lectures bring the past to life. During the summer, the park hosts various cultural events, including living history days and patriotic celebrations.
For those seeking to deepen their connection with the park, local businesses and outfitters offer unique experiences. Visit the Bunker Hill Museum to explore the large-scale diorama of the battle, or take a tour of the USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned warship in the world. The nearby cityscape is dotted with artisanal shops, historic taverns, and gourmet restaurants, making Boston National Historical Park a destination that seamlessly blends history with contemporary charm. Whether you are drawn to the area’s historic significance, its vibrant cultural scene, or its enduring architectural beauty, Boston National Historical Park is a place where the past and present converge in a celebration of American history and identity.
- Area (mi²)
- 1
- Annual visitors
- 3 200 000
- Established year
- 1974
Top 3 Facts about Boston National Historical Park
The park includes the USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world, which is operated by the U.S. Navy in cooperation with the National Park Service, and is located at the Charlestown Navy Yard. The ship is over 204 feet long.
In this historic landscape, biodiversity thrives amidst revolutionary landmarks. Marine birds like the barn owl, common tern, and Northern harrier inhabit the shores, while sea beach dock and American sea blite add unique botanical flair. The waters are home to a variety of fish and invertebrates, supporting a rich ecosystem that coexists with the area’s storied past. Visitors can observe these species up close, enhancing their immersive experience of America’s early history.
Discover a landscape sculpted by millennia of glacial activity, where the harbor’s waters lap against islands formed from Paleozoic sedimentary rock, notably the Cambridge Argillite. The area’s unique geology features flat intrusive sills of cooled magma and prominent drumlins, elongated hills molded by glacial ice, adding a serene yet rugged beauty to the shoreline.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Scouting Partnerships
- Virtual Junior Activities
- Arts & Crafts
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan for several days to explore the Freedom Trail, especially during spring when blooming flowers enhance the scenery. Use public transport or walk, as parking is limited. Start at the visitor center, wear comfortable shoes for the 2.5-mile trail, and take breaks. Enjoy meals at nearby eateries before and after your visit. Catch the Boston Marathon in April for an added excitement.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for New England’s unpredictable weather. Comfortable shoes and sportswear are essential. Check the season: warm, humid summers; cold winters. Bring sunscreen, rain gear, and hydration. For longer stays, include camping gear and versatile clothing.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards from nonpredatory animals and 100 yards from predators. Keep pets leashed and children close. Respect nesting areas, especially during spring and summer. Leave no trash and conserve water to protect local flora and fauna.
Stay Informed
Stay informed about weather, fire restrictions, and park rules. Exercise caution on trails, near ledges, and around water. Contact park authorities at 911 for emergencies.
Seasons
Explore historic sites in mild spring weather (40s-60s°F) as blooming flowers enhance the charm. Attend National Park Week events in April, including Decoding the American Revolution Spies, and immerse yourself in revolutionary history. Ideal time for walking tours and outdoor activities.
Summer brings warm temperatures (70s-80s°F) and vibrant events. Attend the Fall Lantern Tours precursor, Magic and Myth in Old Boston, or visit historic sites like Old North Church and Bunker Hill Monument. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, despite occasional humidity.
Experience crisp autumn air (50s-60s°F) and vibrant foliage as you walk the Freedom Trail. Join Oktoberfest celebrations and family activities at historic sites, making fall an ideal time to visit, with comfortable temperatures and festive atmosphere.
Winter’s chill, with January temperatures ranging from 22°F to 36°F, transforms the historic landscape into a serene, snow-dusted haven. Crisp air and potential snowfall create a unique, tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal time for those seeking a peaceful, less crowded experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Boston National Historical Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
You should stay in Boston, Massachusetts, as the park is located within the city and includes sites such as Faneuil Hall, the Bunker Hill Monument, and the Old North Church, all connected by the Freedom Trail.
-
The Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile trail, is more of a historical walking tour than a hiking trail, and it is generally suitable for families. However, it is not typically considered a hiking trail. For more traditional hiking, families might prefer nearby locations like the Blue Hills Reservation or Borderland State Park, which offer more extensive and kid-friendly hiking options.
-
Dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. They are allowed in outdoor areas and pathways but not inside buildings or on ships like the USS Constitution.【1】【3】
-
Parking is not free; it costs between $2 and $16 per day, depending on the location and duration. Some parking tickets can be validated at certain visitor centers or museums, but parking fees still apply.
-
You can visit the Bunker Hill Monument, a 221-foot granite obelisk built between 1827 and 1843 to commemorate the Battle of Bunker Hill from June 17, 1775. Other sites include the Old South Meeting House, where historic town meetings took place, and the USS CONSTITUTION at Charlestown Navy Yard. Additionally, you can explore the Old State House, Paul Revere House, and Old North Church, which played significant roles in the American Revolution.