Along the Freedom Trail

This small cemetery serves as the final resting place for a number of people whose acts or character changed American history. Situated near a pre-Revolutionary grain storehouse, the cemetery houses the graves of Paul Revere, John Hancock, citizens killed in the Boston Massacre, and the woman whose tales provided her the moniker of "Mother Goose." Other notable graves include those of Benjamin Franklin's parents and Sam Adams.

This graveyard dates all the way back to the 17th century. British troops used the high grounds here as a vantage point to fire on Americans encamped on Breed's Hill during the Revolutionary War. Among the many buried here, are the Reverend Cotton Mather and the man who constructed the USS Constitution, Edward Hartt.

This 221-foot granite obelisk remembers the Battle of Bunker Hill. Rangers provide details about the history of the crucial battle, and seasonal musket-firings add a note of authenticity. Make the 294-step climb to the top of the monument for breathtaking views of Boston. Two little-known facts: the Battle of Bunker Hill was actually fought on Breed's Hill, and the Bunker Hill Monument is actually located atop Breed's Hill. The true Bunker Hill is actually a quarter-mile from the monument.

One of the nation's oldest existing public parks, Boston Common encompasses nearly 50 acres and was once reserved as pasture land by Puritan settlers. In 1634, the area was also used by the military. Today, the park is a popular destination for recreational athletes, joggers, and protesters eager to dedicate themselves to a cause. During winter months, the Frog Pond is a favorite of ice skaters as well.

Built in 1729, this venerable meeting house is Boston's second-oldest church. A number of heated town meetings that led to the Revolution were held here, including one called by Samuel Adams to protest dutiable tea and get it returned to England. Old South was also site of the pre-party assembly that set the mood for the Boston Tea Party. Today, visitors can take guided tours of the building and learn from exhibits and interactive displays what took place during those historic meetings.

This stone monument, surmounted by a bronze figure, serves as a tribute to victims of the Boston Massacre. These citizens, caught in a fray with British soldiers, were the first casualties for a movement that eventually spawned the American Revolution. Although issues of control and taxation figured into the dispute, it was the deaths of these Bostonians that ultimately sparked the rise against foreign control.

For those who paid attention in American History 101, "Old Ironsides" does not need an introduction. One of the original frigates of the US Navy, the "Constitution" was completed in 1797 and is the oldest commissioned, still-afloat warship in the world. Guests are invited to board the storied vessel, which last sailed in 1997, and learn first-hand about its weaponry, its spar, gun and berth decks, its valiant crews, and its many adventures and battles. Guided tours of the ship depart every 30 minutes, and the servicemen who lead the tours are in period dress.

A Boston social and commercial centerpiece since 1742, Faneuil Hall was originally established as a market for merchants, fishermen and vendors. It later hosted inspirational appearances by prominent figures like Samuel Adams and George Washington, which earned it the nickname "Cradle of Liberty." In the 1970s, a major renovation to the aging structure transformed it into one of America's premiere urban marketplaces. Now, it boasts more than 50 shops, 14 restaurants, and 40 food stalls. NB Some folks (and publications) refer to the retail component as Quincy Market.

The oldest home in Boston was built nearly a century before its illustrious tenant's midnight ride. Colonial-era furniture decorates the rooms. Revere lived here and owned this house for 30 years, from 1770-1800. Has original silver produced by Revere, as well as his family furniture.

This is the spot where Robert Newman signaled Cambridge residents of the British approach by sea with two of Paul Revere's lanterns on the night of April 18, 1775. The oldest church building in Boston and still an active Episcopal church, it was designed by William Price from a study of Christopher Wren's London churches. Private benches boxed in with family names helps paint a picture of the past. An excellent museum is hidden in the back of the gift shop next door.