Freedom Trail Walking Tour: Boston Common to Paul Revere House (1.2 mi, 105 min)
Walk from the green of Boston Common to the narrow lanes of the North End with a costumed guide who strings together the city's revolutionary sites. This 1.2‑mile, roughly 105‑minute tour is a compact, factual primer on Boston’s colonial and revolutionary landmarks.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early
Check in 15–30 minutes before your scheduled start—tours leave promptly and late arrivals are not accepted.
Wear solid walking shoes
The route is paved but uneven in places; good soles reduce fatigue and slipping on wet stones.
Bring a refillable water bottle
There are few convenient stops along the route; hydration keeps you focused during standing history segments.
Weather-ready clothing
Tours operate in most weather—pack a compact rain jacket or sun protection depending on forecast.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Look for grave inscriptions in Granary Burying Ground that reveal merchant networks and family ties.
- •Pause at the small plaque near the Old State House pointing to the first public reading of grievances—it's easy to miss but rich in detail.
Wildlife
- •Rock pigeons
- •Eastern gray squirrel
Conservation Note
High foot traffic requires care: avoid touching artifacts and stay on marked paths; local preservation groups manage conservation of stonework and historic markers.
The Freedom Trail was established in the mid‑20th century to link key Revolutionary-era sites and make Boston’s complex history readable on foot.
Photographer's Notes
- • Front steps of the Massachusetts State House for the dome and commons
- • Granary Burying Ground for close-up inscriptions and monument shots
- • The narrow lanes of the North End approaching Paul Revere House for atmospheric alley views
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Reliable soles make paved and occasionally uneven sidewalks easy to manage.
Light rain jacketEssential
Spring showers are common—pack a waterproof layer that stows easily.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated on the 1.2‑mile route is important, especially in summer heat.
Small daypack or pouch
Keeps essentials—phone, wallet, layers—handy while you listen and move between stops.
Common Questions
Where does the tour meet?
Depending on the timeslot, meet either at the Boston Common Visitor Center (139 Tremont St) or on the sidewalk in front of 120 Tremont Street; Park Street subway is the closest stop.
How long is the tour and how far will we walk?
The guided route covers approximately 1.2 miles and runs about 105 minutes with multiple short stops.
Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes; the pace is easy with frequent stops. Anyone who can walk short city distances and stand for a few minutes will typically be comfortable.
Can I bring a stroller or wheelchair?
Most of the route is accessible on paved sidewalks, but there are narrow sections and occasional steps near historic sites—contact the operator in advance for specific accessibility needs.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours operate in many conditions, but the operator may cancel for severe weather; cancel at least 24 hours for a full refund per the policy.
Are admissions included for interior sites like Paul Revere House?
No—this walking tour provides exterior and interpretive visits; admissions to museums or house interiors are typically not included.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1.5–2 hours
Location
Boston, Massachusetts
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; expect standing for short periods and gentle walking over city sidewalks.
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