The Minute Man Visitor Center is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, from April 1 to October 31. From April 20th, it operates from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. The grounds are open from sunrise to sunset year-round.
There is no entrance fee to visit Minute Man National Historical Park. It is free for all visitors.
From Boston, take I-95 to exit 46B, then follow Rt 2A west through Lexington and Lincoln into the heart of America’s revolutionary past.
Free parking at various lots: Liberty Street, Monument Street, and 210 North Great Road. No overnight parking. No fees. Suitable for cars, motorcycles; no specific RV size limits mentioned.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Minute Man National Historical Park, situated in the heart of Massachusetts, is a tapestry of historical significance and natural beauty. Spanning 967 acres across the towns of Lexington, Lincoln, and Concord, this park is a living testament to the opening battles of the American Revolution.
As you wander along the five-mile Battle Road Trail, the colonial landscape unfolds before you, restoring the essence of 18th-century America. The trail leads you to landmarks like the Hartwell Tavern, a restored 18th-century haven now serving as a living history center, and Concord’s North Bridge, where the infamous “shot heard ’round the world” was fired on April 19, 1775.
The park’s historic sites are interwoven with lush forests and rolling hills, creating a serene backdrop for exploration. Visit the Wayside, once home to notable authors like Nathaniel Hawthorne, to delve into the literary heritage of the area.
Seasonal changes paint the park in vibrant hues; spring blooms with wildflowers, summer brings warmth and greenery, autumn is ablaze with foliage, and winter transforms the landscape into a serene winter wonderland. Special events, such as the Patriots’ Day celebrations, bring the park to life with over 750 living history volunteers reenacting Revolutionary War tactics and demonstrating period-specific strategies.
For a deeper immersion, visit nearby towns like Concord, known for its artisan shops and historic charm. Local outfitters offer guided tours and living history experiences, enhancing your connection to this pivotal moment in American history. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a nature lover, Minute Man National Historical Park offers an enriching experience that blends the past with the present in a captivating and evocative way.
- Area (mi²)
- 1.5
- Annual visitors
- 1 000 000
- Established year
- 1959
Top 3 Facts about Minute Man National Historical Park
The park is home to over 250 species of plants and more than 160 species of birds, showcasing a diverse natural landscape along its historic battle sites.
In this verdant oasis, over 160 bird species flit through the skies, with 50 breeding here, amidst a tapestry of rural and developed landscapes. Eastern cottontails, gray squirrels, and white-tailed deer roam freely, while bobcats and fishers make rare appearances. Five species of turtles, including painted and snapping turtles, inhabit the waters, alongside more than 20 species of reptiles and amphibians. The diverse flora and fauna are perfectly complemented by the park’s varied habitats, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Explore a landscape shaped by ancient collisions, where Silurian and Devonian-age granitic rocks, such as the Andover Granite and Sudbury Granite, form the bedrock. Glacial till and stratified deposits from glacial Lake Sudbury sculpt the terrain, with kame deltas like Authors Ridge-Revolutionary Ridge standing as testaments to icy rivers. Ventifacts, sandblasted rocks, dot the barren landscape, a reminder of the harsh winds that followed the ice retreat. The Burlington Mylonite Zone-Bloody Bluff Fault cuts through, a shear zone marking the boundary between Avalon and Nashoba terranes, a geological boundary over 425 million years old.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a half-day to full-day visit, ideally in spring or fall. Start at the visitor center, then hike the 5-mile Battle Road Trail. Anticipate some elevation gain and rocky terrain; bring water and snacks. Rest at historic sites like the Old North Bridge. Enjoy the reenactment of the Battle of April 19, 1775, if visiting in April. Pack meals as dining options are limited.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for unpredictable weather, bring a map, compass, GPS, sunscreen, and a waterproof backpack. Include a first aid kit, snacks, and a portable charger for extended stays.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards. Never feed animals and dispose of trash properly to preserve natural behaviors and habitats. Stay on designated trails to minimize impact. Respect the environment as you would your own backyard.
Stay Informed
Stay informed about weather, fire restrictions, and trail conditions. Exercise caution on trails, near ledges, and water. Contact park authorities at 911 for emergencies. Follow signs and stay on marked paths to ensure a safe adventure.
Seasons
In spring, mild temperatures (50s-60s°F) and blooming flora make for an ideal visit. Experience the 250th Anniversary of Patriots’ Day in April, with living history programs and tactical demonstrations. Enjoy a spring bird walk in May, spotting colorful migrants. Wear layers for unpredictable spring weather.
Experience summer’s warmth (70s-80s°F) amidst historic reenactments. Witness the Battle Road living history event in April-July, with tactical demonstrations and colonial insights. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, this season offers engaging programs and mild weather.
Experience autumn’s crisp temperatures (40s-60s°F) and vibrant foliage from September to November. Enjoy the Archaeology Finds event in October, immersing yourself in historical significance amidst the season’s golden hues. Ideal for a culturally enriching fall outing.
Experience the serene winter landscape from December to February, with temperatures often below 32°F. Though visitor centers and historical buildings are closed, the grounds remain open, offering a tranquil backdrop of snow-covered historic sites and the Concord River. Ideal for photography and quiet reflection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Minute Man National Historical Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the park is Lexington, Massachusetts. The park also extends through the towns of Lincoln and Concord, all of which are in Middlesex County, Massachusetts.
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The Battle Road Trail is the best hiking trail for kids, as it is a relatively flat, 5-mile trail that follows the historic route of the British soldiers and Colonial Militia from April 19, 1775. The trail is a wide, gravel path and passes through scenic areas including farming fields, wetlands, and forests. It is accessible from several parking areas and has clear signage.
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Dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet in length at all times and cannot be left unattended. They are not allowed in any of the park buildings, except for service animals. Owners must also clean up after their dogs and dispose of the waste properly.
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Yes, parking is free. The grounds, trails, and parking areas are open daily from sunrise to sunset without any parking fees.
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The park commemorates the battles of Lexington and Concord, which took place on April 19, 1775, marking the beginning of the American Revolution. These events include the skirmish at Lexington Green, where Captain John Parker and his militia faced British light infantry, and the ambushes along Battle Road, such as near Hartwell Tavern and Parker’s Revenge. These battles involved colonial militia, including Minutemen like William Thorning, and resulted in significant casualties on both sides as British soldiers retreated back to Boston.