The city of Boston has always been a place of historical importance. In addition to being a lively walkable city with ample attractions, user-friendly transportation, an expansive financial district, top-tier universities, and a gorgeous waterfront, Boston is teeming with history. There's so much to learn and discover with this city's abundance of significant sites, historic cemeteries, reenactments of crucial historical moments, and more.
So whether you are a history buff or just looking to add some lore and exciting facts of yesteryear to your vacation itinerary, here are ten of the most historical things to do in Boston, Massachusetts.
10 Take The Freedom Trail
Affectionately referred to as "the birthplace of the American Revolution," Boston has no shortage of historical spots worth visiting as it was the location of numerous events that ignited the War of Independence. One main attraction, in particular, that's of significant importance is The Freedom Trail.
This landmark actually contains several sites that help to tell the story of the Revolutionary War in April of 1775 and the proceeding events that led to the birth of a new nation—the United States of America.
Inquisitive visitors and history seekers should definitely check out this trail and its fascinating sites while out and about.
9 Visit The Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
A trip to Boston without stopping by the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum isn't really a proper trip to this iconic city.
This floating museum is a fun-filled good time with live reenactments, ship replicas, multimedia exhibits, artifacts, and more.
Crucial events, like the Boston Tea Party of 1773, which took place in this very spot, triggered the American War of Independence.
If you've to check out the epicenter of America, now is your chance, and don't forget to catch one of the entertaining reenactments while you're there.
8 Spend Some Time In Boston Common
Nature and history lovers definitely need to visit the oldest public park in the United States, also known as Boston Common.
Dubbed Boston's Central Park, this green space is located in the heart of the downtown area and was established in 1634. Always intended to be a place where the locals could gather and enjoy leisure activities, Puritan colonists purchased over 44 acres of land to carve out this public park.
Though today's park is not as large as its founding fathers intended, Boston Common is still a beautiful spot in the city for people to kick back and relax in.
7 Learn More At The USS Constitution Museum
Another floating museum that should absolutely be on the most historic itinerary is the USS Constitution Museum.
This particular museum's focal point is the oldest commissioned ship in the United States Navy, which has endured the test of time and survived to this day. Built in 1794, this ship was a part of the very first fleet of US warships.
Only a few years after being built, the USS Constitution made its maiden voyage during the Quasi-War with France and was essential when it came to defeating British frigates during the War of 1812.
Here visitors can marvel at the craftsmanship of this floating relic and learn even more about the US Navy's humble beginnings.
6 Marvel At The View From Bunker Hill Monument
Visitors can take a tour of the Bunker Hill Monument for stunning views and some serious history. Constructed in memory of the lives lost during the 1775 Battle of Bunker Hill, this towering monument sits atop Breed's Hill and stands over 221 feet high.
Located in the very spot where the said battle took place, Bunker Hill played a vital role in the early days of the American Revolution.
You can learn even more about this battle while here, make your way to the top, and marvel at the incredible view from this monument's observation deck.
5 Go To Market At Faneuil Hall
Yet another historical thing to get into while visiting Boston is Faneuil Hall. A well-known marketplace, Faneuil Hall, has been around since 1743.
Not too long ago, this meeting hall was the perfect location for Samuel Adams, James Otis, and other Founding Fathers to deliver memorable speeches and their message to the masses.
This now waterfront marketplace is a part of Boston National Historical Park and consists of several buildings, including Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, North Market, and South Market.
Here, visitors can check out this fascinating historical site on their own or as part of The Freedom Trail.
4 Stop By Castle Island
Boston's Castle Island is a hidden historical gem off the beaten path that offers history buffs a chance to combine their love of the past with some beach time and even some festive events depending on the season.
A former 17th-century military fortification and 19th-century US military base, this lovely island (actually, a peninsula) is home to an urban park, museum, incredible waterfront views, and ample history.
Open from Memorial Day to Columbus Day, Castle Island is definitely worth a visit if you happen to be in the area.
3 Take A Tour Of The Paul Revere House
History enthusiasts should also make it a point to take a tour of The Paul Revere House. Not only is Revere's House the oldest in downtown Boston, but it is also the former home of the man who made one of the most famous rides in American history.
A true sight to behold, this historic home is brimming with artifacts from the past. So if you always wanted to know more about the man who bravely made that midnight ride, then check out the place he once called home.
2 Check Out Old North Church
Speaking of Paul Revere's Midnight Ride, the Old North Church also had an important role on that fateful night. Built in 1723, Old North is the city's oldest church and was once considered the tallest building in all of Boston.
Thanks to its towering stature at the time, American history was forever changed.
Here visitors can learn about how this Georgian-style place of worship helped alter the course of The American Revolution, tour the church's on-site museum, and admire its overall impressive architecture.
1 Enjoy The Afternoon At Public Garden
Finally, for nature enthusiasts, who also love their history, a trip to America's oldest public botanical garden is definitely in order.
Built in 1837, this picturesque green space has played an essential part in showcasing this city's history and has even had a movie cameo or two.
Here, visitors can marvel at statues of key historical figures like George Washington or see the famous "Make Way for Ducklings" statues—all while taking in all the vivid hues, gorgeous foliage, and fragrant flora.
Public Garden also has a fairly large pond that guests can enjoy via a swan boat.