Discover how one city could be the Cradle of Liberty, site of the first major battle of American Revolution, and home to many who espoused that freedom can be extended to all.

View of the Colonial Town Meeting program from the desk

Colonial Town Meeting

Rainbow over Faneuil Hall

Paul Revere House Sign

Commandant's House

View of the Navy Yard from the harbor showing the USS Constution, USS Cassin Young and Bunker Hill

Navy Yard from the harbor

Boston

Boston National Historical Park is a unique collaboration of federally, municipally, and privately owned and operated historic sites. Most of the park is along Boston's Freedom Trail®, a 2.5 mile (4 km) walking path marked by a red brick or painted line weaving through Downtown Boston, the North End, and Charlestown.

The trail itself is outdoors and open year round. Every site along the trail has its own hours which vary throughout the season. Please check ahead before planning your visit.

Thanksgiving Day

Christmas Day

New Year's Day

Boston National Historical Park

Please note: Only 20 people are allowed in the Monument at a time.

Be advised: The Monument may close for climbing due to weather conditions and/or other safety considerations.

Memorial Day

Summer

Winter Hours

Bunker Hill Monument

Dorchester Heights marks the site of George Washington's first Revolutionary War victory. The Monument and grounds are currently not open to the public due to ongoing restoration work. The work will be completed prior to March 17, 2026.

Dorchester Heights

The Paul Revere House is a Boston National Historical Park partner site operated by the Paul Revere Memorial Association.

Summer Hours

Christmas Eve

Paul Revere House

Old North is a Boston National Historical Park partner site operated by Old North Illuminated.

Winter

Spring

June

Fall

November 27, 2024

New Year's Eve

Old North Church

The Old State House is a Boston National Historical Park partner site operated by Revolutionary Spaces.

For more visitor information, please visit the Revolutionary Spaces website.

Old State House

The Old South Meeting House is a Boston National Historical Park partner site operated by Revolutionary Spaces.

For more visitor information, please visit the Revolutionary Spaces website.

Old South Meeting House

The Great Hall is operated as a historic site by the National Park Service in partnership with the City of Boston. Faneuil Hall is owned and managed by the City of Boston. The Great Hall is closed to public visitation when City-permitted events are scheduled.

Visitors can find maps and other visiting materials in the Great Hall.

Presidents' Day (Washington's Birthday)

The Great Hall of Faneuil Hall

USS CONSTITUTION is the oldest commissioned ship in the United States Navy. Naval officers and crew still serve aboard the ship. The Navy operates the ship as a historic site in cooperation with the National Park Service.

Spring Hours

Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday

USS Constitution

USS Constitution Museum collects, preserves, and interprets the stories of "Old Ironsides." The museum is a partner of Boston National Historical Park located in the Charlestown Navy Yard.

USS Constitution Museum

USS CASSIN YOUNG is a Fletcher Class destroyer docked in the Charlestown Navy Yard. Park staff operate the ship seasonally. Weather conditions may alter hours without advanced notice.

Off-season

USS Cassin Young

Self-Guided Tours - Walking

Circular metal medallion surrounded by brick that says "The Freedom Trail Boston"

Explore the Freedom Trail

Originally conceptualized in the 1950s, the Freedom Trail® is an iconic symbol of Boston. Its red brick line snakes through some of the oldest parts of the City, navigating visitors to some of the most significant historic sites in the Downtown, North End, and Charlestown neighborhoods of Boston. The trail itself does not necessarily tell a narrative. Rather, it aids tourists with a starting point—an opening sampler of Boston's storied, complicated, and multi-faceted history. While many sites are primarily recognized for their role in the American Revolution, all the sites on the Freedom Trail® remained significant because of the role they played in subsequent social, political, and religious movements, controversies, and challenges. <h2>Exploring Boston's History</h2> Some choose to walk the entire 2.5 mile trail, end to end. Others select a handful of sites of particular interest and focus on those places. Visits can be as short as a few hours—however those who wish to enter every historic site and explore what each site has to offer can spend a full weekend along the Freedom Trail. Guided tours are available seasonally from both National Park Service staff and through private organizations. Generally, few public tours walk the entire trail. Many sites are part of Boston National Historical Park, however they are independently owned and operated and may charge admission fees. <h2>Free Self-Guided Audio Tour</h2> The National Parks of Boston have developed a FREE Freedom Trail® Audio Tour for visitors. This tour is available online on our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/freedom-trail-audio-tour.htm">Freedom Trail® Audio Tour webpage</a>, or by downloading the NPS App. Once downloaded, search "Boston National Historical Park" and select "self-guided tours." Our Freedom Trail Audio Tour is also available in Spanish and French online and on the NPS App. Visit <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/freedom-trail-audio-tour-espa%C3%83%C2%B1ol.htm">Freedom Trail Audio Tour - Español</a> or <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/freedom-trail-audio-tour-french.htm">Freedom Trail Audio Tour - Français</a> to listen to the tours.

Originally conceptualized in the 1950s, the Freedom Trail® is an iconic symbol of Boston. Its red brick line snakes through some of the oldest parts of the City, navigating visitors to some of the most significant historic sites in the Downtown, North End, and Charlestown neighborhoods of Boston.

Walk the Freedom Trail

African American Heritage

American Revolution

Burial, Cemetery and Gravesite

Colonization and Settlement

Laborer and Worker

Maritime

Maritime - Military

Ships and Shipwrecks

Military

Battlefields

Indigenous and Native Warrior

Infantry and Militia

US Navy

Monuments and Memorials

Religion and Spirituality

Churches

Social Movements

Abolition Movement

Civil Rights

Religious Freedom

Voting Rights and Suffrage

Wars and Conflicts

American Revolutionary War

Civil War

Cold War

Colonial/European Contact Conflicts

French and Indian War

Indian and Frontier Wars

War of 1812

World War I

World War II

Women's History

Museum Exhibits

Three story brick building with white furnishes and a white and gilded cupola atop.

Faneuil Hall

Looking to plan your visit to Boston's historic sites? Visit the Cradle of Liberty, <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/historyculture/fh.htm">Faneuil Hall</a>!  The City of Boston owns and operates Faneuil Hall. Since the establishment of Boston National Historical Park in 1974, National Park Service rangers interpret the stories of this historic building. Can't visit in-person or the Hall is closed? Experience Faneuil Hall through our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/faneuil-hall-virtual-tour.htm">virtual tour</a>!  <hr /> <h2>First Floor: Visitor Center and Marketplace</h2> Stop by the NPS Visitor Center located in the first floor of Faneuil Hall, where park rangers and volunteers are eager to provide general information and insider tips. While here, you can also find junior ranger books, maps, brochures, videos, exhibits, and information about sites along Boston's historic Freedom Trail®. You can also explore the different shops in the first floor market.  <h2>Second and Third Floor: Great Hall</h2> The second floor is home to the historic Great Hall. This gathering space has hosted meetings, orations, debates, and protests for over 275 years. Bostonians continue to use the Great Hall to this day. Political rallies, debates, concerts, and natruralization ceremonies are just some of the events that regularly take place here.  When open for public visitation, rangers offer informal Faneuil Hall talks about the history of the building and the Bostonians who have met here.  Take a <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/faneuil-hall-virtual-tour.htm">virtual tour of Faneuil Hall</a> to learn more about the Great Hall. <h2>Fourth Floor: Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company</h2> The fourth floor of Faneuil Hall is home to the headquarters of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts. Their museum and meeting hall are independently operated. Please visit the <a href="https://www.ahac.us.com/">Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company website</a> for more information. Take a <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/faneuil-hall-virtual-tour.htm">virtual tour of Faneuil Hall</a> to experience the headquarers of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company. <h2>Lower Level: Find Your Park Space</h2> In the "Find Your Park Space" in the lower level of Faneuil Hall, watch "Fighting for Freedom: Lewis Hayden and the Underground Railroad." This <a href="https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1205/index.htm">Network to Freedom</a> film follows the story of <a href="https://www.nps.gov/people/lewis-hayden.htm">Lewis Hayden</a> and his family as they seek freedom on the Underground Railroad and become activists living in Boston, Massachusetts, determined to crush the institution of slavery. The film runs for just over 17 minutes and has captions in English, Spanish, French, and simplified Chinese and Vietnamese, as well as audio descriptions. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/media/video/view.htm?id=BA117BF0-97CC-43C0-D0B9010B67E016EB">"Fighting for Freedom: Lewis Hayden and the Underground Railroad"</a> is also available online. During the summer, ranger-guided tours begin in the "Find Your Park Space" in the basement of the Visitor Center.

Service animals are allowed inside Faneuil Hall. 

Visit the Historic Cradle of Liberty's marketplace, Visitor Center, Great Hall, and Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company.

<h2>Faneuil Hall Visitor Center</h2> Winter Hours (October 28 - May 26): <ul> <li>Sunday: Open 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM.</li> <li>Monday - Tuesday: Closed.</li> <li>Wednesday: Open 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM.</li> <li>Thursday: Open 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM.</li> <li>Friday - Saturday: Open 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM.</li> </ul> <h2>The Great Hall</h2> Winter Hours (October 28 - May 26): <ul> <li>Sunday: Open 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM.</li> <li>Monday - Tuesday: Closed.</li> <li>Wednesday: Open 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM.</li> <li>Thursday: Open 12:00 PM - 4:30 PM.</li> <li>Friday - Saturday: Open 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM.</li> </ul> Visit our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/planyourvisit/hours.htm#FH">operating hours and seasons</a> page for more information.

Visit Historic Faneuil Hall

Bronze medallion with words The Freedom Trail Boston set in a red brick sidewalk.

<h2>Select a Self-Guided Audio Tour</h2> Listen online or download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/planyourvisit/app.htm">NPS App</a> to explore Boston with a FREE audio tour of your choice. Download the NPS app from the <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/national-park-service/id1549226484">Apple App</a> store or <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=gov.nps.mobileapp">Google Play</a>. Once the app is installed, follow the tutorial. If you are already in Boston and turned on location access, Boston National Historical Park, Boston African American National Historic Site, and Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park will show up automatically. Otherwise simply tap "Find a Park" and search "Boston". Tap your preferred park unit and then begin to explore! <h3>Explore Boston's Trails to Freedom:</h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/virtual-black-heritage-trail-tour.htm">Black Heritage Trail</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/freedom-trail-audio-tour.htm">Freedom Trail</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/freedom-trail-audio-tour-espa%C3%B1ol.htm">Freedom Trail Audio Tour - Español</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/freedom-trail-audio-tour-french.htm">Freedom Trail Audio Tour - Français</a></li> </ul> <h3>Explore Downtown Boston and Beacon Hill with the following tours: </h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/learn/uggr-bost-audio-tour.htm">The Underground Railroad in Boston Audio Tour</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/boha/learn/high-tide-trail.htm">High Tide Trail Audio Tour</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/learn/women-bh-audio-tour.htm">Women of Beacon Hill Audio Tour</a></li> </ul> <h3>Visit Bunker Hill and take a listen to the following tour: </h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/remembering-revolution.htm">Remembering Revolution: Bunker Hill Monument Audio Tour</a></li> </ul>

Explore Downtown Boston, Beacon Hill, and Charlestown with a self-guided audio tour!

Explore Boston with a Free Audio Tour

Climate Change

LGB American Heritage

Urban America

Reenactments

The two-story old south meeting house with people sitting in the rows of pews during a town meeting.

Town Meeting at Old South Meeting House

Join the National Parks of Boston at Old South Meeting House for compelling reenactments of three historic meetings. Inspired by real words spoken in historic town meetings in Faneuil Hall and around Boston, hear arguments about destruction of private property, historical memory, and the role of a citizen when facing injustice. Debate with your fellow audience members and vote on the issue. Make your voice be heard!   This program lasts approximately 30 minutes to 45 minutes in Old South Meeting House. Stay tuned for more information on our 2025 program offerings.

Pre-registration is highly encouraged. Sign up on <a href="https://revolutionaryspaces.org/explore/upcoming-programs/destruction-of-the-tea/#register">Revolutionary Spaces</a>

Join National Parks of Boston Rangers as we recreate historic town meetings.

Join a Historic Town Meeting at Old South Meeting House

Guided Tours

Ranger talking to a group of people. Faneuil Hall stands in the background.

Enemies to this Country Tour

Tours begin inside the Faneuil Hall Visitor Center and end at Old North Church.

In 1774 Paul Revere and his neighbors in the North End were forced to make difficult and dangerous choices. As sides were drawn, both Patriots and Loyalists labeled the other “enemies to this country.” Join a National Park Service Ranger for a free 75 minute walk and decide who the real "Enemies to This Country" were in the months before the breakout of the War for Independence. Tours begin inside the Faneuil Hall Visitor Center and end at Old North Church, covering about 0.5 miles. Stay tuned for more information on our 2025 program offerings.  *In case of weather, Rangers will offer an indoor option in the basement of Faneuil Hall, also known as the "Find Your Park Space." <hr /> For a self-guided tour of the Freedom Trail, see either the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/virtual-freedom-trail-tour.htm">Virtual Freedom Trail® Tour</a> or download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/planyourvisit/app.htm">NPS App</a>. If you have any questions, please <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/contacts.htm">contact us</a>.

Stay tuned for more information on our 2025 tour offerings.

Stay tuned for more information on our 2025 program offerings.  *In case of weather, Rangers will offer an indoor option in the basement of Faneuil Hall, also known as the "Find Your Park Space." For a self-guided tour of the Freedom Trail, see either the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/virtual-freedom-trail-tour.htm">Virtual Freedom Trail® Tour</a> or download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/planyourvisit/app.htm">NPS App</a>. If you have any questions, please <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/contacts.htm">contact us</a>.

Join a park ranger for a free 75 minute walking tour and decide who the real "Enemies to This Country" were in the months before the breakout of the War for Independence.

Stay tuned for more information on our 2025 program offerings.  *In case of weather, Rangers will offer an indoor option in the basement of Faneuil Hall, also known as the "Find Your Park Space." For a self-guided tour of the Freedom Trail, see either the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/virtual-freedom-trail-tour.htm">Virtual Freedom Trail® Tour</a> or download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/planyourvisit/app.htm">NPS App</a>. If you have any questions, please <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/contacts.htm">contact us</a>.

The Freedom Trail: Enemies to this Country Guided Tour

When open, the active-duty crewmembers of USS Constitution guide visitors through the history and decks of this historic warship. Depending on season and visitor demand, crew may provided informational talks at set locations on board, or will organize timed guided tours, first come, first served.

below deck of the frigate USS Constitution. A shadowed and short deck with people walking around.

USS Constitution below deck

To access USS Constitution, visitors must enter the Navy Yard Visitor Center via a security checkpoint. Photo ID may be required for access. This is for added security for USS Constitution, an active navy ship.

Stepping aboard USS Constitution, you are walking the decks of the Nation's Ship of State and the oldest commissioned ship in the United States Navy. Imagine what life was like for the sailors who lived and worked aboard "Old Ironsides." Today, USS Constitution's naval officers and crew serve as interpretative historians, sharing the history and stories of this ship with visitors. To access USS Constitution, visitors must enter via a security checkpoint at the Navy Yard Visitor Center. Photo ID is required for individuals age 18 and older for access. This is for added security for USS Constitution, an active navy ship. For more information, please see USS Constitution's <a href="https://www.navy.mil/USS-CONSTITUTION/Hours-Visitor-Info/">Hours and Visitor Info page</a>. USS Constitution is operated by the United States Navy, a partner to the National Parks of Boston.

Service animals are allowed on the top deck. For more information on Service Animals, please see USS Constitution's <a href="https://www.navy.mil/USS-CONSTITUTION/Hours-Visitor-Info/">Hours and Visitor Info page</a>.

USS Constitution is open on a limited schedule. For more information, please see USS Constitution's <a href="https://www.navy.mil/USS-CONSTITUTION/Hours-Visitor-Info/">Hours and Visitor Info page</a>.

Step aboard USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned ship in the United States Navy. Naval officers and crew still serve aboard her as interpretative historians.

USS CONSTITUTION: Explore this Historic Ship

For current information about fees, please visit the <a href="https://www.revolutionaryspaces.org/hours-admission/">Revolutionary Spaces website</a>.

A brick two-story meeting house with a tall white steeple

As a former Puritan meeting house and a space for debate during the American Revolution, <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/old-south-meeting-house.htm">Old South Meeting House</a> has exhibits that explore its "proud history of democracy and dissent." Its ongoing exhibit "Voices of Protest" tells the inspiring, sometimes disturbing, and frequently controversial story of Old South Meeting House through the voices of the men and women whose achievements have shaped its history. Today, Old South continues to serve as a catalyst for intellectual thought and energy by sponsoring public forums, debates, concerts, and theatrical presentations year round. For current hours of operation and to learn more about Old South Meeting House's tours and exhibits, visit the <a href="https://www.revolutionaryspaces.org/osmh/">Revolutionary Spaces website</a>. The Old South Meeting House is a National Parks of Boston partner site operated by Revolutionary Spaces.

For current information about admission, please visit the <a href="https://www.revolutionaryspaces.org/hours-admission/">Revolutionary Spaces website</a>.

Old South Meeting House's exhibits that explore the sites rich history of debate during the American Revolution.

For current information about hours, please visit the <a href="https://www.revolutionaryspaces.org/hours-admission/">Revolutionary Spaces website</a>.

Old South Meeting House: Explore the Exhibits at this Space for Debate

Please visit <a href="https://www.oldnorth.com/">The Old North Church website</a> for more information.

Interior of Old North Church with box pews and flags hanging from the gallery.

Walk through the pews and admire the stained glass windows of this Anglican Church originally built in 1723. Old North served many wealthy merchants, government officials, and skilled tradesmen. By the time of the American Revolution, the congregation had divided its support between the "loyalist" and patriot causes. In the steeple of <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/old-north-church.htm">The Old North Church</a> where John Pulling and Robert Newman sent a signal to warn those outside of Boston. Paul Revere had arranged the signal with Pulling just days before: One lantern if British regular troops march out of Boston by land, two if they depart by boats across the river. Take a tour of Old North Church to dive into the history and the integral role Old North played in the American Revolution.  For current hours of operation and to learn more about The Old North Church's tours and programs, please visit <a href="https://www.oldnorth.com/">The Old North Church website</a>. Old North Church is a National Parks of Boston partner site operated by Old North Illuminated.

Walk through the pews and admire the stained glass windows of this Anglican Church originally built in 1723 and learn about the story behind the famed lanterns.

Old North Church: Tour this Historic Church Known for the Two Lanterns

Architecture and Building

The mess of the USS CASSIN YOUNG which has white square tables with gray food trays on top.

USS Cassin Young Tour

Explore above and below the main deck of USS Cassin Young (DD 793), a Fletcher-class Destroyer that served in the Second World War and throughout the 1950s. Learn how such ships were built and see how the sailors lived, served, and made sacrifices aboard. Visitors will be able to see various parts of the ship on the tour, including: the Combat Information Center, the Plotting Room, Officer's Country (or Berthing Area), Ammunition Handling Room, Officer's Mess, Sailors' Berthing Area, Crew Mess, the Galley, Barber shop, and the Bridge. Tours begin on the deck of the ship and last for approximately 45 minutes. Tickets are available for FREE on a first-come, first served basis aboard the ship. Since this tour highlights small spaces, only 12 people are allowed per tour. Visitors must be over 48" in height to safely climb the ladders. Check back later for more information on 2025 tour offerings. <hr /> *To learn more about the USS Cassin Young, explore the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/features/bost/DD793/1.0/index.html#mainMenu">USS Cassin Young app</a> or visit the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/uss-cassin-young.htm">USS Cassin Young page</a>. If you have any questions, please <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/contacts.htm">contact us</a>.

Explore above and below the main deck of USS CASSIN YOUNG (DD 793), a Fletcher-class Destroyer that served in the Second World War and throughout the 1950s.

Charlestown Navy Yard: Tour USS CASSIN YOUNG (DD 793)

Ranger speaking in front of the Bunker Hill Monument to a group that surrounds him in a circle.

Bunker Hill: Taking the High Ground

The tour begins by the Pier One flagpole at the Charlestown Navy Yard.

Join a National Park Ranger in "Taking the High Ground," following the route the British troops took in attacking the colonial defenses of Charlestown during the Battle of Bunker Hill. Tours will last approximately 90 minutes. The tour begins by the Pier One flagpole in the Navy Yard and concludes with a climb of the Bunker Hill Monument (weather dependent). This walk will include a few hills.  Free and open to all. Check back later for more information on 2025 tour offerings.  Check out our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bost/learn/historyculture/bhm.htm">Bunker Hill webpage</a> for videos and resources about the Battle of Bunker Hill and the Monument.

Take a 45-min walking tour through Charlestown with a ranger around the actual terrain where the Battle of Bunker Hill was fought.

Note: Participants should be comfortable in a basement setting and navigating tight spaces. The crypt has low lighting, uneven surfaces, and is not wheelchair or stroller accessible.

Visitors may purchase the Crypt Combo package during normal operating hours. The Crypt Combo is $9 per person when you book online, or $10 at the ticket booth. It includes a self-guided tour of the crypt, general admission to the church’s sanctuary and new exhibit, and an immersive audio guide with 300 years of the church’s secrets and stories. Children 5 and under are free. Visit Old North's <a href="https://oldnorth.doubleknot.com/openrosters/availableevents.aspx?orgkey=3965">online schedule</a> to plan your visit.

Inside a small red-brick crypt with a shelf that has a couple boxes and a coffin shaped box.

Old North Church Crypt Tour

Old North's historic crypt is now open to the public after a 9-month restoration project! Did you know that over 1,100 bodies lie underneath the sanctuary of Old North Church? Explore Old North’s crypt on a self-guided tour. You’ll find out about the burial practices of early congregants, get introduced to some of the notable crypt "occupants" who have rested in this unique space for hundreds of years, and learn about discoveries from recent archeological work. Content: Historical topics discussed include death, burials, and human remains. Note: Participants should be comfortable in a basement setting and navigating tight spaces. The crypt has low lighting, uneven surfaces, and is not wheelchair or stroller accessible. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.oldnorth.com/admission-pricing/">Old North Church's website</a>.

Reservations are not required, but it is possible to reserve tickets in advance. Please visit Old North Church's <a href="https://www.oldnorth.com/admission-pricing/">Admission & Pricing</a> page for more information.

Take a self-guided tour of Old North’s historic crypt, where 1,100 people were laid to rest.

Old North Church: Crypt Tour

Group Size: 1 – 15 people Note: Participants should be comfortable climbing stairs and must keep a close eye on any children in their group. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.oldnorth.com/admission-pricing/">Old North Church's website</a>.

Tours are held for free throughout the day.

large organ with golden pipes on the second gallery floor of a church. Statues of angels flank it.

ONC Gallery Tour

Old North Church offers special themed tours of its gallery. See below for its offerings. <h2>Cheeky Cherub Tour (currently offering)</h2> A paint restoration project is currently underway at Old North to remove layers of white overpaint and reveal some of the church’s colonial-era artwork! Expert craftspeople are uncovering 16 angels in the balcony arches that were painted in the late 1720s and 1730s by congregation member John Gibbs. Visitors to Old North in November and December will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to watch the conservation team in action and see long-hidden history being revealed. For the best views of the paint restoration project, we suggest taking our Cheeky Cherub Tour! One of our knowledgeable Educators will take you up to the sanctuary’s balcony, where you can see the beautiful 18th century cherubs in all their splendor. You’ll learn about the sanctuary’s evolving decor over the centuries, how this artwork is tied to the church’s religious identity, and what tools and techniques the conservation team is using to uncover those cheeky cherubs. <h2>Hidden Histories Tour</h2> Old North’s gallery is a paradoxical space — home to both the church’s undesirable balcony seating and some of the sanctuary’s most costly and ornate items. In this guided tour, you’ll learn about the experiences of early Black congregants, both free and enslaved, who historically sat in the gallery. You’ll also get an up-close look at Old North’s beautiful 1759 pipe organ and the 17th century carved angels flanking it. The tour weaves together the stories of the many people whose labor and contributions shaped Old North into the place it is today. Group Size: 1 – 15 people Note: Participants should be comfortable climbing stairs and must keep a close eye on any children in their group. For more information, visit <a href="https://www.oldnorth.com/admission-pricing/">Old North Church's website</a>.

Visit Old North Church's gallery through a variety of special themed tours.

Old North Church: Balcony Tours

Living History

For this program, National Parks of Boston Rangers dress up in period clothing and present views on women's right to vote. Audience participation is encouraged through reading historically-based quotes on character cards.

This program is designed for ages 10 and up.

three adults in 1800s clothing stand in front of the stage Faneuil Hall as students look on.

Woman's Tea Party Program

This program is held in the Great Hall of Faneuil Hall during the summer.

Join National Parks of Boston Rangers in an interactive program based on the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/articles/boston-womens-tea-party.htm">1873 Woman's Tea Party meeting</a>. On December 15, 1873 Boston’s suffragists held a massive suffrage rally in the Great Hall of Faneuil Hall. Leading suffragists, including Lucy Stone, Frederick Douglass, and Mary Livermore, delivered rousing speeches to a crowd of more than three thousand, furthering the suffrage movement in Boston. Join us in Faneuil Hall as we recreate this historic meeting! This program lasts approximately 30 minutes to 45 minutes in the Great Hall of Faneuil Hall. Stay tuned for more information on our 2025 program offerings.

Service animals are allowed inside Faneuil Hall.

Reservations are not normally required to attend this program.

The Woman's Tea Party program is held on weekends during the summer. Check back for information on the 2025 town meeting program schedule.

Join National Parks of Boston Rangers in an interactive program based on the 1873 Woman's Tea Party meeting.

Check back for information on the 2024 town meeting program schedule.

Raise Your Voice at the Woman's Tea Party

For this program, National Parks of Boston Rangers dress up in period clothing and explore arguments about patriotism, destruction of private property, and the meaning of liberty through the audience reading of historically-based quotes on character cards.

People sitting in chairs in a great hall with a Ranger dressed in period clothing.

Destruction of the Tea Town Meeting

250 years ago, to protest a tax placed upon tea, Bostonians loosely disguised themselves and boarded three tea ships at Griffins Wharf. They worked throughout the night to dump over 300 chests of tea into the harbor. In response to the destruction of over 90,000 pounds of East India Company Property, Parliament passed the Coercive Acts, closing the Port of Boston until the tea was paid for. Today we will be building off a meeting that took place in Faneuil Hall months after the event that became known as the Boston Tea Party. Inspired by words spoken in the Great Hall and around Boston, we will explore arguments about patriotism, destruction of private property, and the meaning of liberty. Join us as we recreate this historic meeting through an interactive program with National Parks of Boston Rangers. This program lasts approximately 30 minutes to 45 minutes in the Great Hall of Faneuil Hall. Available for grades 5-12. Stay tuned for more information on our 2025 program offerings.

Reservations are not normally required to attend this program.

This program is usually held during the summer season. Check back for information on the 2025 town meeting program schedule.

Join Rangers in this town meeting on the Boston Tea Party to explore arguments about patriotism, destruction of private property, and the meaning of liberty.

"The Destruction of the Tea" Town Meeting

Industry

For this program, National Parks of Boston Rangers dress up in period clothing and present views supporting and opposing the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/fugitive-slave-laws-boston.htm">1850 Fugitive Slave Law</a>. Audience participation is encouraged through reading historically-based quotes on character cards.

This program is designed for ages 10 and older.

Interior of a large hall with 2 men and one woman in 1800s clothing, speaking to an audience.

Rocking the Cradle Town Meeting

In May of 1854 Federal Marshals arrested <a href="https://www.nps.gov/articles/-god-made-me-a-man-not-a-slave-the-arrest-of-anthony-burns.htm">Anthony Burns</a> under the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/fugitive-slave-laws-boston.htm">1850 Fugitive Slave Law</a>. Immediately following Burns’ arrest, Bostonians gathered at <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/faneuil-hall.htm">Faneuil Hall</a> to discuss whether they would abide by this federal law or appeal to a higher law of freedom and liberty for all. The eyes of the nation were firmly fixed upon Boston. Join National Parks of Boston Rangers as we recreate this historic meeting through an interactive program. This program lasts approximately 30 minutes to 45 minutes in the Great Hall of Faneuil Hall. Available for grades 5-12. Stay tuned for more information on our 2025 program offerings.

This program is usually offered during the summer season Check back for information on the 2025 town meeting program schedule.

Join National Parks of Boston Rangers in an interactive program that recreates the historic meeting of abolitionists who protested freedom seeker Anthony Burns' arrest.

Join the "Rocking the Cradle" Town Meeting

Enslavement

This tour is best suited for individuals aged 8 and above.

The Black Heritage Trail® Tours typically lasts 1.5 hours.

An NPS Ranger speaking to a group of children in front of a monument, holding an image of soldiers.

Walking the Black Heritage Trail

Join a Park Ranger from the National Parks of Boston to explore the rich history of the Black community in 1800s Beacon Hill. The Black Heritage Trail® showcases residences and community buildings associated with a Black community that thrived on, and near, the north slope of Beacon Hill before, during, and after the American Civil War. Throughout that time, this community struggled and organized for equal rights and access to equal education. Community members championed the movement to abolish slavery and even housed freedom seekers on their journey along the Underground Railroad. This tour lasts approximately 90 minutes. Register for the tour in advance on <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-heritage-trail-tour-tickets-905004281167?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl">eventbrite</a>. It begins across the street from the Massachusetts 54th Regiment Memorial in front of the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/massachusetts-state-house.htm">Massachusetts State House</a> and ends at the <a href="https://www.maah.org/">Museum of African American History</a>, covering about 1.4 miles. <hr /> Stay tuned for more information on our 2025 program offerings.  *In case of weather, Rangers will offer an indoor option in the basement of Faneuil Hall, also known as the "Find Your Park Space." For a self-guided audio tour, see either <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/virtual-black-heritage-trail-tour.htm">The Virtual Black Heritage Trail</a> or download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/mobile-app.htm">NPS App</a>.

Pets are allowed while walking through Beacon Hill. The Museum of African American History only allows service animals into its buildings. Please visit our page on <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm">Accessibility</a> to learn more about <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm#General_Guidelines_for_Visitors_with_Service_Animals">General Guidelines for Visitors with Service Animals</a>.

Guided tours are offered in the summer and into the fall. Stay tuned for more information on our 2025 program offerings.  *In case of weather, Rangers will offer an indoor option in the basement of Faneuil Hall, also known as the "Find Your Park Space." For a self-guided audio tour, see either <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/virtual-black-heritage-trail-tour.htm">The Virtual Black Heritage Trail</a> or download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/mobile-app.htm">NPS App</a>.

Join a Park Ranger from the National Parks of Boston on a Black Heritage Trail® Tour to learn about the Black community of Beacon Hill that thrived before, during, and after the American Civil War.

Stay tuned for more information on our 2025 program offerings.  *In case of weather, Rangers will offer an indoor option in the basement of Faneuil Hall, also known as the "Find Your Park Space." For a self-guided audio tour, see either <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/virtual-black-heritage-trail-tour.htm">The Virtual Black Heritage Trail</a> or download the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/boaf/mobile-app.htm">NPS App</a>.

Boston

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