The city of Boston stands at the mouths of the Charles and Mystic Rivers on the East Coast of the United States of America. Situated on the banks of Massachusetts Bay, Boston features a fine natural harbor. Boston is a city that's been shaped by the sea, but it's her people who have helped shape the history of the USA. Since its inception in 1630, Boston has remained at the epicenter of American political, social, and cultural life. Every street corner, it seems, is a reminder of Boston's role in the American Revolution. Boston is a compact and highly livable city. There are numerous options to explore Boston, but the best way to discover the city is by foot—it's nicknamed "the walking city" for good reason!
The Freedom Trail
The Freedom Trail is a self-guided walking tour that's easy to pick up wherever you see the distinctive red markings on the sidewalk. The two-and-a-half-mile-long trail weaves its way past sixteen historic sites that were instrumental in America's march to independence.Boston Common
The trail officially starts in Boston Common, the oldest city park in America and the centrepiece of a string of parks and gardens affectionately known as "Boston's Emerald Necklace."The State House and Granary Burial Ground
Highlights of the trail include the State House, with its gleaming gold dome, and the Granary Burying Ground, the final resting place of Samuel Adams, Paul Revere, and many of Boston's bravest sons and daughters.
Faneuil Hall
Faneuil Hall, often referred to as "The Cradle of Liberty," was the stage from which Samuel Adams and James Otis fanned the winds of revolution. And just behind them are the Quincy and Faneuil Hall markets, two of Boston's most popular places to eat and hang out.The Paul Revere House
Stop by the 17th-century home of Paul Revere, the patriot immortalised for his famous all-night ride to Lexington, warning that "the British were coming!"Bunker Hill Monument
Walking across the Charles River brings Freedom Trail walkers to the Bunker Hill Monument, where the newly-formed colonial army firststood up to the Red Coats in the American War of Independence.
The US Constitution
The trail concludes at one of the most beloved ships in the United States, the USS Constitution. Launched in 1797, "Old Ironsides" is the world's oldest commissioned naval vessel afloat. Everywhere along the waterfronts of Boston, we are reminded of the city's maritime connections; this is a city with salt in its veins.The Harbour
The harbour is also a great place to board one of the many scenic and whale-watching cruises available, or to sample the fruits of the sea—Boston's seafood.Seafood is so fresh, you'd swear it almost leapt onto your plate! Once you've explored the Freedom Trail, it's time to simply follow your nose—this is a great city to get lost in!
Beacon Hill
Beacon Hill, with its gas-lit streets and Federal-style rowhouses, is one of Boston's most beautiful neighborhoods. On Charles Street, it's easy to lose a few hours in the antique shops hunting down the perfect souvenir of "Old Boston".Newbury Street
Newbury Street, in neighboring Back Bay, is one of America's great shopping avenues, featuring everything from exclusive emporiums to sidewalk stalls.Copley Square
Back Bay also has plenty of places to relax and reflect, such as Copley Square.Trinity Church
Or, you could even join a service at Trinity Church, listed as one of the ten most significant buildings in the United States.Skywalk Observatory
Take the elevator to the Skywalk Observatory in the nearby Prudential Tower to get even closer to the heavens and the best views of Boston.Boston is a city that owes much to its immigrants, who came here filled with hopes, dreams, and traditions.These cultures have become part of Boston's fabric, from the culinary delights of Little Italy to the Irish pubs that quench the thirst of this hard-working city.