Touring the Freedom Trail: 16 student-friendly landmarks in Boston

If you're looking for a student tour destination that captures the heart, history, and progress of America- Boston, Massachusetts is one of the best options out there.

Home to 16 of the nation’s most significant historical sites, the Freedom Trail tells a powerful story of rebellion, unity, sacrifice, and American courage. In just one day, you can walk the two-and-a-half-mile path from Boston Common to the Bunker Hill Monument and encounter invaluable landmarks along the way. Students stay engaged and active as they explore old buildings, burial grounds, and monuments that bring to life the stories of the leaders and citizens who shaped our nation and its democracy. 

1. Boston Common

Established in 1634, it’s America’s oldest public park. Once the site of public hangings—including pirates, witches, and criminals—the Common later became a rallying place for anti-Vietnam War and civil rights demonstrations, including one led by Martin Luther King, Jr.

2. Massachusetts State House 

One of the nation’s oldest working state capitols, this building is renowned for its Federal-style architecture and iconic golden dome. Inside, the Great Hall showcases artifacts and paintings that celebrate Massachusetts history. From the terrace, visitors enjoy sweeping views of Boston Common and the city beyond.

3. Park Street Church

Its 217-foot steeple once greeted travelers as they approached Boston. Here, the first rendition of “America (My Country ’Tis of Thee)” was sung, and abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison delivered his first fiery anti-slavery speech in 1829. The church has hosted continuous worship services since 1809.

4, Granary Burying ground 

Dating back to 1660, this cemetery is the final resting place of John Hancock, Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, and Benjamin Franklin’s parents. The stones are remarkable works of art, often carved with “Soul Effigies”—winged skulls symbolizing the soul’s ascent to heaven—as well as images of the Grim Reaper, Father Time, and poetic epitaphs.

5. King’s Chapel & Burying Ground

Founded in 1686, King’s Chapel was Boston’s first Anglican congregation. Inside stands the oldest pulpit in continuous use in America, while its adjacent burying ground is the city’s first. Visitors can tour the crypt and bell tower, hearing the toll of a bell cast by Paul Revere. Exhibits explore themes of religion, tolerance, and justice in early America.

6. Boston Latin School Site / Benjamin Franklin Institute

America’s first public school, founded in 1635, educated many notable figures including Benjamin Franklin, whose statue now marks the site. The school inspired the model for public education across the nation.

7. Old Corner Bookstore 

Boston’s oldest commercial building, once a gathering place for 19th-century literary greats such as Hawthorne and Longfellow. Today, it houses a Chipotle—making it a convenient midway stop for lunch on your trail walk!

8. Old South Meeting House

Colonial Boston’s largest building and a hotbed of revolutionary debate. In 1773, more than 5,000 colonists crowded inside to protest the tea tax, sparking the Boston Tea Party.

9. Old State House

Here, the Declaration of Independence was first read publicly in Boston from the balcony on July 18, 1776. Outside, the Boston Massacre unfolded in 1770, an event that fanned the flames of revolution.

10. Boston Massacre Site

Marked by a circular monument on the cobblestones, this is where British soldiers killed five colonists in 1770—the first bloodshed of the Revolution. The victims are buried nearby at Granary Burying Ground.

11. Faneuil Hall

Nicknamed the “Cradle of Liberty,” Faneuil Hall hosted passionate debates and protests that fueled independence. Today, it’s a bustling marketplace filled with shops, food stalls, and lively street performers.

12. Paul Revere House

Boston’s oldest surviving residence and the home of the famous “Midnight Rider.” Visitors can see authentic 18th-century furnishings and learn about the daily life of Paul Revere and his family.

13. Old North Church

Boston’s oldest standing church, where lanterns signaled “one if by land, two if by sea” on April 18, 1775. Its architecture, original box pews, and historic 1726 clock make it a favorite stop.

14. Copp’s Hill Burying Ground

The city’s largest colonial cemetery, it offers sweeping views from its hilltop perch. During the Revolution, British troops used this vantage point to direct artillery fire at Breed’s Hill. One headstone even bears bullet holes from soldiers’ target practice.

15. USS Constitution

Step aboard the world’s oldest commissioned warship still afloat, nicknamed “Old Ironsides” for its legendary strength during the War of 1812. The adjacent museum offers interactive exhibits and digital displays that bring naval history to life.

16. Bunker Hill Monument

A 221-foot granite obelisk commemorating the Battle of Bunker Hill, where colonial forces stood their ground against the British. It takes 294 steps to get to the top, where you’ll see panoramic views of the city below.

Boston: A Premiere Student Tour Destination

Walking the Freedom Trail is more than a history lesson—it’s a chance to stand where revolutionaries once gathered, to reflect on the sacrifices that shaped the nation, and to connect with stories of courage that continue to inspire.