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The Massachusetts State House actually stands on a tract of land that belonged to the most famous signature on the Declaration of Independence. At the time, Bostonians were concerned that many homes and buildings connected with the city’s influential early days were disappearing.įor example, if the commonwealth of Massachusetts had been more forward thinking during the 19th century, we’d be able to visit the Hancock Mansion that once dominated Beacon Hill. We can thank mid-20th century Boston city leaders for today’s Freedom Trail. It’s truly a unique urban experience perfect for anyone interested in early American history and a great way to get to know Boston. I really wish more cities would develop similar immersive experiences. It’s estimated that more than four million people enjoy the Freedom Trail each year.
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Along the way, you’ll pass 16 sites connected with events of the 1770s American Revolution. To do the Trail from start to finish, you’ll start on the east end of the Boston Common and wrap up about 2.5 miles away on the north side of the Charles River at Bunker Hill in Charlestown. You can hop on the Freedom Trail on wherever you first cross the bricks.
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Not only do the plaques make a great photo-op, they also remind you to look up and take in your surroundings. When you spot a line of red bricks running through the sidewalk’s center, you’ve found the Trail.Įvery so often, those bricks are punctuated by bronze plaques. The path is literally embedded in the city sidewalk.
FREEDOM TRAIL BOSTON 16 LANDMARKS FREE
The Freedom Trail is a free urban walking path that weaves through the heart of central Boston. The Freedom Trail’s brick path runs through downtown Boston connecting various sites from the American Revolution and other historic Boston sites, including both the oldest tavern and oldest restaurant in America.
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