Is the walk to Bunker Hill Monument difficult?

Yes, it is considered a challenging walk due to the steep incline of the streets leading to the monument. Additionally, if you choose to climb the monument, there are 294 steps and no elevator.

Can I go inside the USS Constitution?

Yes, visitors can usually board the ship for a self-guided walk through the decks. Note that adults must show a valid government-issued photo ID to pass through naval security.

What is the best time to start this walking route?

Starting around 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM is ideal. This allows you to visit the ship before the largest crowds arrive and ensures you have enough daylight to enjoy the views from the monument.

Is this neighborhood stroll family-friendly?

Absolutely. Children often enjoy the hands-on exhibits at the USS Constitution Museum and the open green spaces at the Training Field and Bunker Hill. Be aware that the hill climb may be tiring for very small children.

Are there restrooms along the Charlestown walking route?

Yes, public restrooms are located at the USS Constitution Museum and the Bunker Hill Museum, which is situated directly across from the monument grounds.

Is the Bunker Hill Monument free to visit?

Access to the monument grounds and the climb to the top is generally free, though it is managed by the National Park Service and may require a climbing pass during busy periods.

Can I find food and drinks near the end of the walk?

Yes, the walk ends at the historic Warren Tavern, and there are several other local cafes and eateries along Main Street in Charlestown.

How do I get back to downtown Boston from Charlestown?

You can take the Orange Line from Community College Station, or walk back to the Navy Yard to take the MBTA ferry to Long Wharf, which offers great views of the skyline.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step away from the bustling city center and discover the historic soul of Charlestown on this self-guided walk through Boston's oldest neighborhood. This walking route takes you deep into the heart of America’s maritime and revolutionary past, offering a blend of industrial heritage and colonial charm. You will begin at the water's edge, exploring the legacy of the United States Navy before ascending the hills where the course of the American Revolution was forever changed. This neighborhood stroll is perfect for those who want to see the iconic landmarks of the Freedom Trail at their own pace without the pressure of a group schedule. The journey begins at the Charlestown Navy Yard, a site that served the nation for nearly 175 years. Here, the presence of 'Old Ironsides'—the USS Constitution—sets a powerful tone for the maritime history you will uncover. As you move inland, the landscape shifts from industrial docks to the quiet, gas-lit streets of a quintessential 19th-century village. You'll pass through the historic Training Field, a site once used by colonial militias, before tackling the ascent to the Bunker Hill Monument. While the climb is steep, the reward is a profound connection to the 1775 battle that proved the American colonists could stand their ground against the British Empire. This self-guided adventure concludes at one of the most historic taverns in the country, where the atmosphere of the 1780s is still palpable. Throughout this travel experience, you will encounter architectural gems, hidden parks, and some of the best viewpoints in the city. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a history enthusiast, this walking tour Boston offers a comprehensive look at the events and people that shaped the nation. Because this route includes significant elevation changes and the option to climb the monument's stairs, it is categorized as a challenging route, but the historical depth and scenic beauty make every step worthwhile.

Highlights

Board the USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world

Discover the industrial heritage of the 19th-century Charlestown Navy Yard

Walk through the historic Training Field where colonial militias once gathered

Climb to the top of the 221-foot Bunker Hill Monument for panoramic city views

Step back in time at the Warren Tavern, a favorite haunt of Paul Revere

Admire the well-preserved Federal and Greek Revival architecture of Charlestown

Tour Stops (5)

USS Constitution Museum

Begin your exploration at the gateway to American naval history. The USS Constitution Museum serves as the memory bank for 'Old Ironsides,' the legendary wooden-hulled frigate launched in 1797. Here, you can learn about the ship’s undefeated record in battle, most notably during the War of 1812. The museum brings the stories of the sailors to life, detailing the grueling daily routines and the incredible craftsmanship required to keep such a vessel afloat. It is a testament to American resilience and engineering. Take a moment to appreciate the massive timber construction and the stories of the 'Iron' sides that deflected British cannonballs, earning the ship its famous nickname.

Charlestown Navy Yard

As you walk through the Charlestown Navy Yard, you are standing on one of the oldest shipbuilding facilities in the United States. Established in 1800, this yard transformed the neighborhood into a hub of industrial innovation. Look for the granite dry docks—some of the first in the nation—and the historic 'Ropewalk' building, which once produced nearly all the cordage for the U.S. Navy. The yard transitioned through the era of sail, steam, and steel before closing in 1974. Today, it is a National Historic Site where the industrial past meets modern waterfront living, providing a unique perspective on how Boston helped project American power across the globe.

Training Field

Moving away from the water, you enter the Training Field, a peaceful green space with deep roots in the community. This land was set aside in the 1640s for the training of the local militia, a necessity in the early days of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. During the Revolutionary War, Charlestown was largely burned to the ground by British forces, and this field became a focal point for the neighborhood’s eventual rebirth. Surrounding the park, you’ll see beautiful examples of 19th-century architecture. It serves as a quiet transition point from the maritime hustle of the Navy Yard to the residential heart of Charlestown.

Bunker Hill Monument

Rising 221 feet above the skyline, the Bunker Hill Monument marks the site of the first major battle of the American Revolution. On June 17, 1775, colonial forces faced off against the British army here. Although the colonists eventually retreated, their performance proved they could withstand the professional British military. The granite obelisk, completed in 1842, was one of the first monuments of its kind in the United States. If you choose to climb the 294 steps to the top, you'll be rewarded with a 360-degree view of Boston and the harbor. The statue out front depicts Colonel William Prescott, who famously ordered his men not to fire until they saw 'the whites of their eyes.'

Warren Tavern

Your self-guided walk concludes at the Warren Tavern, one of the most historic drinking establishments in America. Built in 1780, it was one of the first buildings erected after the British burned Charlestown. The tavern is named after Dr. Joseph Warren, a patriot leader who died at the Battle of Bunker Hill. This was a frequent gathering place for figures like Paul Revere and even George Washington. As you look at the low-beamed ceilings and historic memorabilia, you can almost hear the echoes of revolutionary plotting. It is the perfect spot to reflect on your journey through Charlestown while enjoying the atmosphere of an authentic 18th-century New England tavern.

Frequently Asked Questions

The full walk typically takes 2 to 3 hours. This includes roughly 45 minutes to explore the USS Constitution and museum, and another 45 minutes to visit the Bunker Hill Monument and its museum.