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The 10 Best Freedom Trail Tours in Boston

Explore the history of the original New England patriots.

From day trips to weekend getaways, our biweekly Traveler newsletter shows you the best of New England and beyond.

A Freedom Trail Foundation tour guide in Boston Common. / Photo provided by Freedom Trail® Foundation

Whether you’re a Boston local or a tourist here for the weekend, you’re probably familiar with the red-brick road of the Freedom Trail, a quintessential landmark as recognizable as our beloved Citgo sign. But unlike Kenmore’s iconic sign, there’s no debate over the historical significance of the Freedom Trail. With 16 sites over 2.5 miles, stretching from Boston Common to Charlestown, the Freedom Trail paints a picture of the American Revolution, and the vital role our city played in the nation’s independence. Next time you’re looking to revisit the roots of our city, check out one of these tours to find the experience that works best for you.

Boston By Foot Heart of the Freedom Trail

Dust off your U.S history knowledge in a 90-minute, 0.7-mile tour of downtown Boston’s most famous landmarks from the nation’s path to independence. From Faneuil Hall to the first public school in America, you’ll be guided through the stomping grounds of the original New England patriots.

$8-$15, Samuel Adams Statue, Faneuil Hall, Boston, 617-367-2345, bostonbyfoot.org .

Boston By Foot: Boston By Little Feet

Described as a “child’s-eye view” of the Freedom Trail, this condensed version of their Heart of the Freedom Trail tour is designed specifically for children ages 6-12. Covering 0.7 miles and 10 historic spots in 60 minutes, the Boston By Little Feet tour is built to pack the city’s history into shorter attention spans.

$10-$12, Samuel Adams Statue, Faneuil Hall, Boston, 617-367-2345, bostonbyfoot.org .

Boston Duck Tours

The duck boats are as iconic as Boston itself, so why not use these semi-aquatic vehicles to tour the city? On any Duck Tour, you can see Freedom Trails sites like the Granary Burying Ground, Boston Common, and Faneuil Hall, as well as slightly more modern landmarks, like Cheers. Plus, you can receive discounts at the Museum of Science, the New England Aquarium, shops, and restaurants with your ticket.

$10.50-$42.99, 9 a.m. to 1 hour before sunset, Prudential Center, 53 Huntington Ave., Museum of Science, 1 Science Park, New England Aquarium, Central Wharf, Boston, 617-267-3825, bostonducktours.com .

Free Tours By Foot Freedom Trail Tour

With Free Tours by Foot, you name your price. This 2-hour, 1-mile tour of Freedom Trail sites including the Old Corner Bookstore, Park Street Church, and Boston Common tells an “epic story of Boston’s rise and America’s birth.” And at the end, the price is up to you.

April to June, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday at 10:30 a.m., June 20-Labor Day, everyday at 10:30 a.m., Labor Day to November, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday at 10:30 a.m., November-April, weekends at 10:30 a.m., Park Street T Station, Boston, 617-299-0764, freetoursbyfoot.com .

Lessons on Liberty Freedom Trail Walking Tour

With tours conducted by classically trained historians, Lessons on Liberty promises to be “Boston’s most historically accurate tour,” providing “little known facts and details” about colonial Boston’s landmark events, from the Stamp Act to the Boston Tea Party. If you’re craving an even more authentic experience to transport you back in time, visit Lessons on Liberty founder Gary Gregory’s colonial print shop, The Printing Office of Edes & Gill .

$8-$14.95, Boston Common Visitors Center, 139 Tremont St., Boston, 857-205-1775, lessonsonliberty.com .

Old Town Trolley Tours Trolley and Freedom Trail Package

If you’re looking to get the most out of a day spent sight-seeing in Boston, consider bundling a walk of the Freedom Trail with a trolley tour of the entire city. With Old Town Trolley Tours Trolley and Freedom Trail Package, you can experience a narrated hop-on, hop-off ride from the Pru to the waterfront and a 90-minute walking tour of the Freedom Trail. As a bonus, your ticket grants you free admission to the Old State House Museum and Boston’s Dreamland Wax Museum.

$25.46-$54, Old Town Trolley Tours, November-March 9 a.m.-4 p.m., April-October 9 a.m.-5 p.m., A Walk Into History Tour, daily tours at 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 200 Atlantic Ave., Boston, 855-396-7433, trolleytours.com .

The Freedom Trail Foundation’s Walk Into History

On this 90-minute tour, you’ll see 11 out of 16 official Freedom Trail sites, including Boston Common, the Massachusetts State House, and the Granary Burying Ground, where you can visit the graves of noteworthy Revolutionary figures like Samuel Adams and Paul Revere.

$7-$14, daily tours at 2 p.m. 2:30 p.m., 3 p.m., 4 p.m., Boston Common Visitor Information Center, 139 Tremont St., Boston, 617-357-8300, thefreedomtrail.org .

The Freedom Trail Foundation’s African American Patriots

Gain a perspective on the American Revolution that your history classes might have missed through a tour that delves into the stories of African-American patriots in Boston. With discussion of notable figures like Crispus Attucks, Prince Hall, and Peter Salem, the Freedom Trail Foundation sheds light on the often lesser-known histories.

$8-$14, February, select Saturdays and Sundays at 12:45 p.m., Boston Common Visitor Information Center, 139 Tremont St., Boston, 617-357-8300, thefreedomtrail.org .

The Freedom Trail Foundation’s Lantern Tour

Explore the darker side of Boston’s history guided by a costumed Freedom Trail Player and the eerie glow of lantern light. You’ll hear stories of murders, assassins, and witch trials while visiting Freedom Trail locales like King’s Chapel Burying Ground and the Boston Massacre site. Recommended for visitors 12 years of age and older.

$8-$14, September-October, select Thursdays and Saturdays at 7 p.m., ArtsBoston Booth, Faneuil Hall, Boston, 617-357-8300, thefreedomtrail.org .

The Freedom Trail Foundation’s Revolutionary Women

This Freedom Trail tour is all about the women behind the Revolution, and the ladies who followed in their forward-thinking footsteps. Covering the same 11 sites as the Walk Into History tour, Revolutionary Women shifts the focus to tell the stories of female game-changers like Abigail Adams, Harriet Beecher Stowe, and Susan B. Anthony.

$8-$14, March, select Saturdays and Sundays at 12:45 p.m., Boston Common Visitor Information Center, 139 Tremont St., Boston, 617-357-8300, thefreedomtrail.org .

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Visitor guide, subscribe to our, e-newsletter, online store, the freedom trail®, walk through america’s history.

The famous Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile red-brick trail through Boston’s historic neighborhoods that tells the story of the American Revolution and beyond. From the Old North Church to Faneuil Hall, and through resonant burying grounds, visit the temples and landmarks of the Revolutionary Era.

Freedom Trail Sites | Map of the Freedom Trail |  Freedom Trail Walking Tours  | FAQ

Freedom trail sites.

Begin your journey at the Boston Common Visitor Information Center located at 139 Tremont Street and conclude at the USS Constitution in Charlestown.

BOSTON COMMON

Massachusetts state house, park street church, granary burying ground, king’s chapel & burying ground, boston latin school site/benjamin franklin statue, old corner bookstore, old south meeting house, old state house museum, boston massacre site, faneuil hall, paul revere house, old north church, copp’s hill burying ground, uss constitution - old ironsides, bunker hill monument.

The Boston Common is America’s oldest public park, purchased from Wm. Blackstone in 1635 to be used as common grazing land for the feeding of  cattell . The British militia used it as a  trayning  field.  

The Common has also been the site of hangings, duels, public celebrations and spirited oratory. Today it continues to host public celebrations as well as concerts, ice skating, Shakespearean plays, holiday festivities, sports activities and public rallies.  

Designed by Charles Bulfinch, the State House was completed in January 1798 at a cost of $133,333 (more than five times the budget). John Hancock, a wealthy merchant, patriot, signer of the Declaration of Independence and the first elected Governor of Massachusetts originally owned the land. The oldest building on Beacon Hill is now the seat of the Massachusetts state government. The golden dome, one of Boston’s distinguishing landmarks, wasn’t always gilded. It was originally built of wood. Paul Revere & Sons was commissioned in 1802 to cover it with copper to prevent water leakage. In 1874, the dome was gilded with 23-karat gold leaf.

Park Street Church acquired the nickname Brimstone Corner, both in reference to the fire-and-brimstone sermons and to the gun powder that was stored in the crypt during the War of 1812. Founded in 1809, the Church’s 217-foot white steeple was the first landmark a traveler saw upon approaching Boston.  

On July 4, 1829, abolitionist William Lloyd Garrison gave his first public anti-slavery address here, and two years later, on July 4, the hymn America, better known as My Country ’Tis of Thee, was first sung on the Church steps. 

So named because of its proximity to Boston’s first granary, this is the most visited burying ground in Boston and the final resting place of many prominent Bostonians. Buried here are John Hancock, Samuel Adams, nine governors, all five Boston Massacre victims, Paul Revere, Ben Franklin’s parents and Peter Faneuil.

Under orders from King James II in 1686, land was seized, and the first Anglican Church was constructed. By 1749, the original wooden structure was too small for the congregation, and so the Georgian chapel was constructed around the original church.  

Adjacent to King’s Chapel is Boston’s first burying ground. Here you will find the graves of John Winthrop, Massachusetts’ first governor; William Dawes, Paul Revere’s compatriot who also made the ride to Lexington, and Mary Chilton, believed to be the first woman to step off the Mayflower.    

Embedded in the sidewalk in front of Old City Hall is the mosaic City Carpet, which commemorates the site of the first public school in the U.S., Boston Latin School (1635). Among the school’s alumni are Ben Franklin, John Hancock, Samuel Adams, Charles Bulfinch and Ralph Waldo Emerson. 

Richard Greenough’s statue of Ben Franklin, erected in 1856, prominently stands in front of Old City Hall. Look closely at Franklin’s face. The sculptor said that he found  the left side of the great man’s face philosophical and reflective and the right side funny and smiling.

The original building on this site was the home of Anne Hutchinson, who was banished from Massachusetts in 1638 for her unorthodox religious views. By the mid-1800s, the Old Corner Bookstore was a flourishing literary center. Here, Ticknor and Fields published works by Dickens, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Tennyson, Hawthorne, Emerson, Longfellow, Oliver Wendell Holmes, Elizabeth Barrett Browning and Julia Ward Howe among others. The Atlantic Monthly, a Boston institution, was originally published here as well. Today, the building continues as a place of commerce. 

Built in 1729, this is the second oldest church in Boston. The largest building in colonial Boston, Old South was used for public meetings when the angry crowd outgrew Faneuil Hall. Many of the crucial events that led up to the Revolution took place here. The most famous of the meetings was held on December 16, 1773, when over 5,000 gathered to protest the tax on tea.  

During the British occupation of Boston in 1775-1776, British troops desecrated this sanctuary of freedom by using it as a stable and riding school, while drinks were served from the balcony. The pulpit and pews were chopped into firewood and the library was used as kindling. 

On another note, Phillis Wheatley, the first female African American published poet, was a full member of the Meeting House. An original copy of her work is on permanent display here.  

Built in 1713, the Old State House is Boston’s oldest surviving public building. It was the center of political and commercial life, housing the merchant’s exchange (a precursor to today’s stock exchange) on the ground floor and the royally appointed government offices and the freely elected members of the Assembly of the Massachusetts Bay Colony on the upper floors.  

The site played a central role in the story of rebellion, from James Otis’ 1761 speech against the Writs of Assistance to the Boston Massacre in 1770 to the reading of the Declaration of Independence from the east balcony in July 1776.  

Adjacent to the Old State House, a ring of cobblestones commemorates the Boston Massacre. Five men were killed in this clash between Colonists and Redcoats. Among the slain men was Crispus Attucks, the first African American to die for the patriotic cause.  

Interestingly, John Adams and Josiah Quincy, loyal to justice as well as the patriotic cause, defended the British soldiers. All but two were acquitted. The guilty had their thumbs branded and were then set free. 

The building was a gift from wealthy merchant Peter Faneuil in 1742. Faneuil Hall served as a meeting place and an open-air market. It was here that Bostonians met to form their opposition to British authority. As a result of the impassioned speeches by such patriots as Samuel Adams and James Otis, the nickname Cradle of Liberty was earned, especially when citizens rallied against the Sugar Act, the Stamp Act, the Townsend Acts and the landing of British troops.  

Charles Bulfinch enlarged the building in 1806. After the Revolution, Bostonians continued to gather at Faneuil Hall for the anti-slavery speeches of William Lloyd Garrison, Wendell Phillips and Frederick Douglass. The women’s rights movement, early temperance rallies and nearly every war since 1812 have been debated within these walls. 

Built around 1680, the Paul Revere House is the oldest remaining structure in downtown Boston, and only official Freedom Trail site that is a home. It was from here that its famous occupant set out for the midnight ride. Revere was not only a patriot, but also an expert silversmith, copper manufacturer, part-time dentist, engraver and the father of 16 children. As many as eight children lived here with him, along with his mother, his first and (after 1773) his second wife.  

It was from this steeple that Sexton Robert Newman hung two lanterns on April 18, 1775, to signal the beginning of Paul Revere’s momentous ride. The action is widely regarded as the spark that ignited the American Revolution.  

Built in 1723, Old North is Boston’s oldest church building. See a wealth of historic works, including the first bells brought to the Colonies, its original 18th-century brass chandeliers and clock, and the 17th- century carved angels that were captured by a Colonial privateer. More than 1,000 individuals lay in rest in the underground crypt, including the Royal Governor’s second-in-command at Lexington and Concord.

Copp’s Hill was Boston’s largest colonial burying ground, dating from 1659. Some notables buried here include the Mather family, a very prominent New England ministerial family; Edmund Hartt, builder of the USS Constitution; Robert Newman, who hung the lanterns for Paul Revere’s ride, and Prince Hall, anti-slavery activist, Revolutionary soldier and founder of the African Grande Masonic Lodge. Copp’s Hill is also the final resting place of countless free African Americans.  

Because of its height and prominent location overlooking Boston Harbor, the British used the burying ground to aim their cannons on Charlestown during the Battle of Bunker Hill. Target practice was also conducted here. Be sure to take a look at the grave marker of Daniel Malcom, a member of the Sons of Liberty.

Launched in Boston in 1797, the USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world. Her nickname was earned during the War of 1812 when British cannonballs appeared to bounce off her impenetrable hull and the seamen cried out Huzzah! Her sides are made of iron! Today she is manned by an active duty U.S. Navy crew and docked in the Charlestown Navy Yard.

The Battle of Bunker Hill was one of the bloodiest battles of the American Revolution. "Don’t fire until you see the whites of their eyes!" became the legendary battle cry, according to lore, and immortalized the determination of the ill-equipped Colonists who stood facing the powerful British Army on June 17, 1775. Today the 221-foot granite obelisk commemorates the site of this first major battle. 

Map of the Freedom Trail

Freedom trail walking tour operators.

Stop by a Visitor Information Center to purchase a ticket. Tours leave from the red brick line in front of the Boston Common Visitor Center. 

Freedom Trail® Foundation — Official Freedom Trail Tours®

• (617) 357-8300

Boston By Foot, Inc.

• 87 Mount Vernon Street
• (617) 367-2345

Boston Town Crier - Tours of Freedom Trail

• (617) 794-7512

Hub Town Tours: Freedom Trail Small Group Tour

• 7 Marshall Street
• +1 (844) 482-8696

Tour of the Freedom Trail

• Boston Common Visitor Center
• (978) 741-1170

Action Tour Guide: Self-Guided Walking Tours in Boston

Boston Freedom Trail & Bunker Hill GPS self-guided audio tours: Experience the rich history of Boston and its role in the American Revolution with the Freedom Trail & Bunker Hill…

Activities & Events

Heart of the freedom trail guided walking tour.

This 1 hour tour is the perfect introduction to Boston’s Revolutionary history! Visit some of the key sites along the world-famous…

Road to Revolution Guided Walking Tour

Explore the makings of a revolution! From the Boston Massacre to Paul Revere’s midnight ride, the birth of the American Revolution…

Tour: Benjamin Franklin - Son of Boston

Celebrate the life of Benjamin Franklin on this guided walk along his homes and haunts in Colonial Boston. Born in Boston, he came…

Guided Tour: Footloose on the Freedom Trail

A Boston tradition! Footloose on the Freedom Trail is a 3-hour guided walking tour of the entire Freedom Trail from the Boston…

Freedom Trail FAQs

How long is the freedom trail.

The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile red-brick path featuring a unique collection of 16 historic sites throughout Downtown, the North End, and Charlestown. How much time it takes to see the entire Trail depends on how much time one dedicates to each site.   Most guided walking tours take around 90 minutes and cover 1 mile of the Trail. 

Where does the freedom trail start?

We recommend starting your journey at the Boston Common Visitor Information Center at 139 Tremont Street and concluding at the USS Constitution in Charlestown. However, the suggested Freedom Trail route is based solely on geographical location, and sites can be visited in any order.

Does it cost money to experience the Freedom Trail?

There is no fee associated with walking the Freedom trail, making it the perfect activity during your visit to Boston! There is, however, a fee associated with admission to some historic sites and guided walking tours. Visit the map above for more information on site admission.

How do I buy walking tour tickets?

Tickets to guided tours of the Freedom Trail can be purchased online or at the Boston Common Visitor Information Center (139 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02108). 

Is the Freedom Trail wheelchair-accessible?

Yes, the Freedom Trail and guided walking tours are wheelchair accessible. 

Are dogs allowed on the Freedom Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on the Freedom Trail as it is a path on city sidewalks and in public spaces such as Boston Common, Bunker Hill Monument grounds, and Charlestown Navy Yard.  Dogs are not permitted in the historic burying grounds or the historic sites’ buildings.  Please call historic sites directly to inquire about service animals.

Where can I find maps of the Freedom Trail?

A downloadable map of the Freedom Trail can be found here .

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Freedom Trail

For the average Bostonian, life in the New England colonies during the 17th century was, as you might’ve guessed, not exactly one of ease and leisure. Before they were built by stone or brick masonry, homes were small, dank, drafty and made entirely of wood. This building practice was abolished toward the advent of the 1700s due to the susceptibility of fire. Most of the population subsisted as farmers, the drinking water was unsafe, medicine was still in the Dark Ages, and the average lifespan was just shy of 40 years. These were arduous and challenging times and living under the yoke of an oppressive foreign monarchy would eventually prove too much to bear and, thus, a revolution was born.

Comprised of 16 places of interest, each one a milestone in the evolution of Boston from English colony to independence, the Freedom Trail is an essential component of any trip to Boston . This historic attraction literally lays out Boston’s colonial history before you on the very streets where the city’s most transformative events unfolded several hundred years ago.

The thinking behind the design of the Freedom Trail is attributed to William Schofield, a former travel writer for the Boston Herald. He noticed that visitors eager to immerse themselves in the city’s historic past were having trouble finding the landmarks they were looking for. Schofield proposed a solution – Link the most important sites in a numbered sequence along a clearly marked, easy to follow trail that could be walked from end to end without the chance of getting rerouted or lost. There was also the idea that the Freedom Trail would’ve been a typical path to walk for the average colonist back in the day, further enhancing the sensation of traveling back in time.

Discover the magic of wintertime in Boston and embark on a historical “Transportainment ® ” adventure!

BEST WAY TO SEE THE FREEDOM TRAIL

Get MORE out of your summer in Boston aboard the iconic Old Town Trolley and see the best first!

As one of the most important cities instrumental in the forging of the republic Americans know today, the word ‘freedom’ takes on an even deeper meaning in the city of Boston. Rated by Forbes as one of the Top-Ten Best Tours in the city, Old Town Trolley Tours  has applied that concept to how their tours are conducted by offering all-day hop-on, hop-off access. That means you can get off at any of the 18 stops anywhere in the city and explore the surrounding area for as long as you like. When you’re ready to re-board, simply return to the nearest pick-up/drop-off point and hop-on for more Boston adventuring! When it comes to the famous Freedom Trail, the trolley is never too far away from either of the 16 places of interest outlined on the red-brick path. As a matter of fact, the trolley stops at many of the landmarks along the Freedom Trail , making it easy and stress-free to take it all in along with the rest that this magnificent city has to offer!

Freedom Trail History

The Freedom Trail was the brainchild of local journalist William Schofield, who in 1951 suggested building a pedestrian trail to link together important local landmarks. These landmarks included Paul Revere’s house, the Old North Church , the Old State House , and the Old South Meeting House , all of which are historical gems. Schofield and then Boston Mayor John Hynes advocated for an organized route that linked them all together. Businessmen and women, elected officials, and non-profit organizations rallied together to designate a walking trail on Boston’s sidewalks in front of 16 historically significant locations.

Birth of the Freedom Trail

And so, the Freedom Trail was born. Just a few short years later, 40,000 people were walking the trail each year. And in 1958 the red line was added to clearly mark the trail. After being taken over by the National Park Service and being incorporated into Boston National Historical Park, the Freedom Trail was visited by more and more people. Today, more than three million people take the walk each year.

The Freedom Trail Includes 16 Official Historic Sites

Where Does the Freedom Trail Start

The start of the Freedom Trail is Boston Common . The length of the trail is 2.5 miles (4.0 km) and takes about 90 minutes to complete, but if you want to visit the sites along the way, it can be a whole day affair. The end of the trail is at the USS Constitution Museum . If you’re driving there, parking is available at the Boston Common Garage.

What To See on the Trail

An outdoor and indoor living history experience. You can begin your tour in the beginning, middle or the end, visiting the sites in any order you choose. The official start of the trail begins at Boston Common. The trail winds its way to the other sites including the Massachusetts State House, the Park Street Church (open summer time only), Granary Burying Ground, Kings Chapel, Kings Chapel Burying Ground, Benjamin Franklin Statue & Boston Latin School, Old Corner Book Store, Old South Meeting House, Old State House, Site of the Boston Massacre, Faneuil Hall, the Paul Revere House, the Old North Church, Copp’s Hill Burying Ground, the Bunker Hill Monument and the USS Constitution.

Each site offers a compelling look into the rich past of the American Revolution . Adults and children of all ages can learn the fascinating stories of the people, the places and the events that took place in colonial Boston as they walk the Freedom Trail.

Self-Guided Tours

A walk along the Freedom Trail can be experienced however you wish. If you’re one who likes to take your time, linger and learn; a self-guided tour may be just what you’re looking for. The Freedom Trail guides are another great way to see the sites and learn more about each one.

As one of the most popular historical tours in all of New England, the Freedom Trail’s Walk into History tours entertain and enlighten millions of guests each year. The 18th century costumed guides add a dramatic element to the tour; each one is a local Bostonian with a deep historical knowledge of the trail. You’ll hear intriguing tales of how the patriots and the colonists fought for freedom and how they succeeded in establishing what we know as the United States of America. Each tour is 90 minutes in length and is designed for individuals, groups, schools and more.

Boston Old Town Trolley Tours

Old Town Trolley is a convenient way to explore The Freedom Trail while maximizing your vacation time. With multiple stops along the 2.5 mile historic trail, you can hop on and off at the sites you want to visit and learn about the rest during our fully narrated 90 minute historic sightseeing tour. Find the lowest price and money-saying packages by purchasing tickets direct through our website.

Things To Do Nearby

Black Heritage Trail

The Black Heritage Trail features various homes, memorials, and sites that are significant in the history of Boston’s 19th century African American community. The first slaves arrived in 1638 and by 1705 there were over 400.

Approximate time to allow: 2 hours.

African Meeting House & Museum

Dedicated in 1806, the African Meeting House is the Oldest African American Church and was the First African Baptist Church. Over the years it also served as a school and a community meeting place. It was here that William Lloyd Garrison founded the New England Slavery Society, making it the center of the abolitionist movement. In 1972, the building was acquired by the Museum of Afro-American History and it was restored in 1987. Today, the museum commemorates African American history from slavery to the abolitionist movement, with a focus on educational equality.

OLD SOUTH MEETING HOUSE

Designed by architect Robert Twelves, the Old South Meeting House, one of the first stops along the Freedom Trail heading north, was built in 1792 in the red brick Georgian style with a steeple in the front and was originally a church. At the time it was built, it was the largest building in Boston and was the host to many gatherings that were too large for Faneuil Hall to accommodate. It holds a special place in the history of America as the place where Sam Adams and the Sons of Liberty rallied for support and organized the Boston Tea Party. Opened to the public in 1877 as a museum and meeting house, the Old South Meeting House, located between Washington and Devonshire streets along the Freedom Trail is one of the country’s first museums of American history .

USS CONSTITUTION

The order came down directly from the lips of this nation’s first commander-in-chief back in 1794. George Washington wanted to fortify the nascent nation under his watch with a Navy. Six frigates were built, which included the USS Constitution. She was built entirely in Boston and was the largest building project the city had ever seen. Today ‘Old Ironsides,’ the name she acquired during the War of 1812, stands as the oldest commissioned warship in the world still harbored here in the place of her birth. No longer asked to defend a nation against foreign aggression, the USS Constitution, one of the last stops along the Freedom Trail north of the Charles River , serves the public by promoting understanding of the Navy’s role in war and peace through active participation in public events and education through outreach programs, public access, and historic demonstrations.

  View this post on Instagram   Blue skies over Boston 💙 📸: @jgibsphoto . . . . . . . #oldtowntrolley #visitboston #boston #city #bostonian #newengland #thingstodoinboston #bostonlife #bostonbound #bostonusa #usa #america #history #familyfun #igboston #bostongram #bigcity #massachusetts #bostonmass #citylife #cityphotography #cityscapes #bostonlove #bostonma A post shared by Old Town Trolley Tours (@oldtowntrolley) on Jul 3, 2019 at 1:27pm PDT

Boston Summer Nights Tour and Charles River Cruise

Watch history shine under the moonlight! Discover Boston’s illustrious story aboard the Old Town Trolley and the Charles River Boat on this exciting evening tour. Take part in a unique adventure as the sun sets over the Charles River.

THE SITE OF THE BOSTON MASSACRE

On March 5, 1770, an angry mob gathered on Boston’s King Street demonstrating their rage over losing their jobs against the British Crown. Eventually, eight redcoats fired on the rabble resulting in several fatalities and injuries. This conflict became the rallying cry for patriots against their foreign oppressors by the likes of Paul Revere and Samuel Adams. The event caused the expulsion of British troops in Boston until their return four years later. The official marker on the Freedom Trail of this tide-turning event is located at the intersection of State and Congress Streets in Downtown Boston, outside the Old State House, a few yards away from where the Massacre took place. If you’re in town for a March wedding, you might be able to catch the reenactment that the Bostonian Society organizes for the public on the anniversary of the event.

THE BOSTON COMMON

As the oldest public park in the United States, the Boston Common is the starting point of the famed Freedom Trail. Much like New York’s Central Park, The Boston Common is located right smack in the city center and continues to be one of the most visited attractions, not just along the Freedom Trail, but in all of Boston. The story of this city and its people is firmly rooted in the history of this place beginning hundreds of years ago when the land was owned by its citizens and used as a grazing ground for cattle. After the Revolutionary War, the park became a popular locale for public speeches and rallies. Now, the Common offers a variety of activities and events, including theater and musical performances year round.

BOSTON GHOST TOUR

Old Town Trolley Tours invites you to explore Boston’s darker side aboard the city’s only “frightseeing” ghost tour , Ghosts & Gravestones. You’ll visit the streets where the Boston Strangler once prowled and hear local tales of murder and mayhem, ghosts and ghouls.

BOSTON TEA PARTY SHIPS & MUSEUM®

As the site of many game-changing historical events that helped galvanize a nation towards independence, the Boston Tea Party is widely-acknowledged as the tinder that helped spark a revolution. Located in the heart of the city’s Seaport District , this multi-sensory museum allows visitors to relive history with interactive exhibits, full-scale restored 18th-century ships, and a fully immersive tour led by a passionate team of historical actors that really puts the events commemorated by the Freedom Trail into perspective. As part of their commitment to bringing the events of this period into a sharper perspective, there is the opportunity to carouse with colonialists over a spot of tea and re-enact the Boston Tea Party itself!

  View this post on Instagram   2 months from today we’ll be throwing tea in the harbor at the 245th Anniversary and Annual Reenactment of the Boston Tea Party! How will YOU be participating? #huzzah #tossthattea #december16 #bostonteaparty #bostonhistory #americanhistory A post shared by BostonTeaPartyShips (@bostonteapartyships) on Oct 16, 2018 at 2:16pm PDT

Approximate time to allow: 30 minutes.

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Huzzah! Welcome to Boston’s Top Walking Tour!

Walk & Talk Boston’s tour of The Complete Freedom Trail is designed to be unique, fun and informative. You will always be led by a highly experienced guide who can not only share the story of the origin of the American Revolution, but expand and explore new subjects when you want to ask questions that are not part of the tour. The Freedom Trail connects sixteen historic locations in Boston, and your guide will tell the story of the people and events that propelled Colonists to war with the most powerful nation in the world.

My Complete Freedom Trail tour is the most highly rated tour that visits Bunker Hill and the USS Constitution!

My tours are not: Crowded! (I set a maximum of 16 guests.) Not costumed! I never thought wearing period clothing enhanced the narrative. I do not tell bad jokes. You might get a laugh here and there, but never at the expense of the men and women who built our city and nation.

My tours are: focused on making every tour the “best ever” and a highlight of your time in Boston.

We were brand new in 2022!  I had a wonderful inaugural first season and fantastic year in 2023 with many sold-out tours and 1400 guest from around the US and the world. I can’t wait for Spring 2024 to hit the streets again with you, my curious and enthusiastic visitors!

Check out the About page for more. And then check out the Complete Freedon Trail tour!

Big News! (Well, big for me!) My little company earned the Viator/TripAdvisor Badge of Excellence . So, yes, I’m the new tour in town, but no one has better reviews! Just look! 

Welcome! You've found Boston’s best Freedom Trail tour!

Did you know this is the only tour that actually visits all stops on the freedom trail.

Tour Description: Complete Freedom Trail

Revolutionary Story

Story: Forgotten Heros of the Revolution

James Otis & Dr. Warren

Story: Women of the Revolution

Story: Washington's Unlikely Champion

General Henry Knox

Boston Blog — What’s On Our Mind!

The uss constitution’s sister ships.

by markwalkandtalk | Jun 30, 2022 | Uncategorized

If you happen to take our "Complete Freedom Trail" tour, we end at the most famous warship in the world, the USS Constitution. She's over 220 years old and remains a commissioned ship in the US Navy. One of the fun things about leading people on tour is that I'll get...

From an Angry Speech to Death on the Battlefield: The Final Days of Dr. Joseph Warren

by markwalkandtalk | Aug 16, 2021 | Uncategorized

There’s an overlooked series of events that had they unfolded differently, may have changed the course of the American Revolution.  Samuel Adams used every anniversary of the Boston Massacre to remind patriots of the tyranny of the British government. The fifth...

Where Should We Stay When Visiting Boston?

by markwalkandtalk | Aug 21, 2020 | Uncategorized

It’s a Small, Walkable Town Boston is compact and getting around without a car is pretty easy. Almost all of the major attractions in Boston would fit inside the same area as New York’s Central Park. As long as you stay in or near the city center, the highlighted...

Fights for Independence

Birth of America

Freedom Trail® Boston

Every step tells a story.

The Freedom Trail is a unique collection of museums, churches, meeting houses, burying grounds, parks, a ship, and historic markers that tell the story of the American Revolution and beyond.

Explore Tours

Walk into history®.

The Freedom Trail Foundation's most popular tour highlights the revolutionary history that took place at 11 of the 16 official Freedom Trail historic sites.

Tour Schedule

Daily, 10 am, 11 am,  12 noon, 1 pm  (plus 2 pm Sat. & Sun.) Purchase Tickets  

North End Tours highlight official Freedom Trail historic sites such as Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere House, Old North Church, and Copp’s Hill Burying Ground, and other historic places in Boston’s oldest neighborhood.  

Starting May 4 Saturdays  1:30 pm, 2:30 pm Sundays 1:30 pm

Private & Custom

All Freedom Trail tours led by 18 th -century costumed guides are excellent for families, school field trips, corporate team building, incentives, and convention activities. These tours can be customized to fit your group's schedule and are available year round. 

Photos from the Trail

What People Are Saying

Yelp review.

The Freedom Trail is one of the iconic touristy things to do in Boston, and there's a reason for that. I did the full trail many, many years ago but decided to go with this shorter, more compact trail with our family. The 1.5 hour length is the right duration for kids, and our guide, Jeremiah Poope (his actual last name!), kept it interesting the entire time. He has been a tour guide in Boston for many years, and he had a ton of interesting stories and facts beyond the typical revolutionary war factoids.

Email Review

We had a wonderful time and your guides were wonderful. They were energetic, informed, and brought history to life. Thank you once again!

TripAdvisor Review

We only had 1 day to explore downtown Boston, and this tour was a great way to see several different sites, learn about history, and get a bit of walking in. We were a few minutes late for the start of the 1pm tour but easily able to catch up and join in.. Our tour guide was fantastic! One member of my group uses a wheelchair, and the guide was great about leading the WHOLE tour through accessible entrances to sites and to sidewalks with curb cuts so that all of us could participate without feeling singled out.

Great tour with Isaiah Thomas! Great local guide who was very engaging and a walking encyclopedia of Boston history. It was a nice 1.5 hr walking tour hitting most of the south end Freedom Trail points of interest. For the money, it’s hard to beat!

The Freedom Trail Walking tour presents full of historic knowledge and our guide, Parker, provides us the best experience for this amazing learning adventure. That is to say, in this tour you can also learn about the myth and the truth of the history we learned from our textbooks. I would recommend anyone who visit Boston and is interested in learning history or simply just want to listen to funny stories

Freedom Trail Preservation

Boston's iconic 2.5 mile-Freedom Trail connects 16 nationally significant historic sites, each one an authentic treasure. Thanks to preservation efforts, these cultural assets are still intact, which makes Boston truly unique as one of the few places in America to experience the actual sites and learn the history they tell while walking through modern city streets.

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Freedom Trail Tour

Tour Information

Freedom Trail

Freedom trail highlights.

• Boston Common
• Massachusetts State House
• Park Street Church
• Granary Burying Ground
• King's Chapel
• Old South Meeting House
• Old Corner Bookstore
• Old State House
• Boston Massacre Site
• Faneuil Hall
• and much more!

This page provides details of our free Boston Freedom Trail Walking Tour, including tips on directions, times, and sights covered.

Searching Availability...

Tour Description

Boston's historic center may be small, but it packs in so much history.

From an experiment in Puritan exclusiveness to an inclusive modern metropolis, every street, corner, and building whispers stories of the past.

The Boston Massacre and the original Tea Party took place here. Sam Adams, Ben Franklin, and George Washington all roamed its streets.

Before you take our tour, read our Freedom Trail Map and Guide for advice on parking, food, and maps.

Join Free Tours by Foot as we stroll the Freedom Trail's ancient streets, past historic cemeteries and colonial stone houses all the while hearing tales of rebellion, war, and the independence of a nation.

It's the epic story of Boston's rise and America's birth.

Before taking the tour, read up on some of the sites and characters covered on our Freedom Trail Sites List.

Sights we cover on the tour:

Reservations:  REQUIRED.  Click here to reserve . Groups of 6 or more must  contact us  before booking.

Where:  Outside the  Park St. T Station  on the eastern edge of Boston Common ( map ). The tour ends at Faneuil Hall.

Duration:  Approximately 2 hours. Tour distance is approximately 1 mile (1.6K)

When:  View our  full tour schedule .

This tour runs year-round

• Take this tour anytime with our  GPS-enabled audio tour app .

Cost:  This tour is free to take, and you get to decide what, if anything, the tour was worth when it's done. A  name-your-own-price tour  is a tour for anyone's budget.

Save even more money with a  Boston tourist discount pass .

GPS Enabled Self Guided Tour of Boston

Can't make one of our guided tours? No problem, we have recorded some of our best tour guides giving their tours and put them up in an audio format. 

Each tour offers an offline option to view the map and hear the audio of each walk so you don't need to have GPS maps running with the app.

Here is how it works:

• Purchase an Audio Tour
• Receive a confirmation email with all the details.
• Enjoy the tour(s).

Even if you don't download any tours, you will still have access to valuable information on sightseeing.

Listen to a sample of our Freedom Trail Tour.

And much, much more

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

Exiting nps.gov

Alerts in effect, freedom trail audio tour.

Last updated: December 20, 2023

Park footer

Contact info, mailing address:.

Boston National Historical Park 21 Second Ave Charlestown, MA 02129

617 242-5601

Stay Connected

Visiting Boston, MA: 17 Things to Do in Boston on Your Trip 

Steve Cummings

May 9, 2024

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When you visit Boston, you can experience the best of several worlds! Walk the Freedom Trail, catch a game at Fenway Park, eat your weight in fresh seafood, and more. It is truly a unique place to visit. In fact, there are so many fun things to do in Boston that it can be difficult to know where to start. Don’t worry! We created a list of some of Boston's best things to do to get you started! 

1. Do a Self-Guided Tour of the Freedom Trail 

Stretching 2.5 iconic miles, the Freedom Trail winds through Boston. It is a self-guided tour that links 16 historic sites all visitors should see, covering the United States’ revolutionary period and the crucial role Boston played in it. It’s also one of the top-rated things to do in Boston since everyone can decide how quickly or slowly they want to take it in. It also winds through some of the most notable neighborhoods in the city, which you won’t want to miss. 

2. Catch a Game at Fenway Park

Any sports fan should have Fenway Park on their list of things to do in Boston! Fenway Park is the oldest baseball stadium in Major League Baseball and is even ranked as a notable site on the National Register of Historic Places. Even if you don’t catch a game at Fenway Park, you can still check out the stadium and see the home of the Red Sox! There are tours throughout the year, even when baseball isn’t in season. 

3. Enjoy Delicious Italian Food in North End 

For a hearty meal that tastes right out of Italy, there is no better place than Boston’s North End. Considered the Little Italy of Massachusetts, this neighborhood has endless delicious, authentic Italian food options. You won't be disappointed if you’re looking for pizza, pasta, or a breathtaking dessert. If spectacular Italian food sounds good to you, make sure you add this notable neighborhood to your list of things to do in Boston! 

4. Relax in the Boston Public Garden

The Boston Public Gardens creates a beautiful green space in this huge city where visitors and locals can relax. The Boston Public Garden and Boston Commons have been in the city for decades. No matter the season, you can find something to do here: take a walk, play sports, or appreciate the flowers. If you hit the right season, you can also take a ride in one of the iconic Swan Boats.

5. Check Out the New England Aquarium 

If you have little ones in tow, make sure the New England Aquarium is on your list of things to do in Boston! This aquarium has a fantastic display of coral reefs in the Giant Ocean Tank and exciting animals like sharks, penguins, and sea turtles. You could spend hours wandering this aquarium, not to mention the shows and enrichment opportunities offered every day. 

6. Tuck Into a Meal of Seafood by the Water

Spending so much time by the waterfront, you’re bound to get a craving for seafood at some point! Good thing, too: some of Boston’s best cuisine is seafood. Since the city has constant access to fresh seafood, you can enjoy amazing fresh oysters, lobster, clam chowder, and more during your trip. At least one stunning seafood meal should be on your list of things to do in Boston! 

7. Visit the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum 

This art museum adds something special to the arts scene in Boston. The former home of Isabela Stewart Gardner, a notable art collector, has architectural touches reminiscent of a Venetian palace. The most popular pieces have remained where Isabella kept them, so it has an authentic feel. If the art wasn’t enough, there is also a beautiful courtyard full of flowers, which makes for a great photo background. 

8. See the Harvard Grounds in Nearby Cambridge, MA

Harvard is known worldwide as a top university, so it is naturally a tourist attraction. Visitors can learn about the history and grounds of the university through free campus tours. While the academics are iconic, the campus is also worth seeing. If you want a tour, book in advance, as they tend to fill up! 

9. Check Out the Harbor or the River from the Water

With so much sparkling water, Boston has plenty of opportunities to get out and enjoy boating culture! From the Charles River to the Boston Harbor, there is no shortage of places to rent a boat or grab a spot on a boat tour. If you have little ones along, Duck Boat tours are extremely popular. They allow you to do an amphibious boat tour with views on land and water. It’s a unique and fun way to get out on the water!

10. Reenact History at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum 

To get into one of the most famous historical events in Boston, head to the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum. This interactive museum lets you throw (imitation) tea into the harbor, explore the ship, and learn about this pivotal event. Two of the three ships involved in the event have been recreated. It’s an excellent way to interact with history in a hands-on way you won’t forget! 

11. Do Some Shopping on Newbury Street 

If you want to put retail therapy on your list of things to do in Boston, you must check out Newbury Street! This is undeniably the best place in Boston for high-end shopping, with notable brands like Chanel alongside boutiques. You can keep the fun going with the eclectic mix of restaurants, cafes, and cultural attractions if you need a break from the shopping. 

12. Appreciate Art at the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA)

Sitting on the water in the Seaport District, the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) is an impressive sight and a must among things to do in Boston for art-overs. There are over 60,000 square feet worth of galleries with rotating exhibitions. Plus, admission is free on Thursday evenings. If contemporary art isn’t your favorite, there are many other notable art institutions in Boston, like the Museum of Fine Arts and the MassArt Museum, to check out.  

13. Step into the Past at the Paul Revere House

You may pass by the Paul Revere House if you check out one of our other can’t miss things to do in Boston: the Freedom Trail. This historic house, built in 1860, was actually the home of Paul Revere, and it is still 90% true to the original home despite several renovations. It gives you a proper look at the past and great information on an American patriot. It’s worth a visit! 

14. Sample the Best Donuts in Town

For those with a sweet tooth, there are some donuts waiting for you on the things to do in Boston list! Boston is known for its donuts, which span hole-in-the-wall shops, chains, and professional pastry shops. Whether you want a classic “dunkin” or something fancier, you’ll find plenty of options. For the best experience, make sure you order at least one of the classic Boston Creme donuts!

15. Get a Pint at a Local Brewery 

While Samuel Adams is arguably the most well-known brewery in town, there are plenty of breweries to visit and tour. If you head up to Jamaica Plain, you can visit the Samuel Adams Brewery there, which has been in operation since 1987. Take a tour, do a tasting, or both! If Sam Adams isn’t your style, don’t worry! There are plenty more you can try. Aeronaut Brewing Company and Trillium Brewing Company are a few favorites, but there are more than enough to explore! 

16. Catch a Comedy Show 

Though Boston is known as an academic city, it has its fair share of comedy clubs, too! In fact, some notable comedians, like Conan O’Brien, came up through the Boston comedy scene. If you head to the Theater District, you can hop from club to club and grab a bunch of laughs. There are tons of options, but a few favorites include The Wilbur Theatre, Laugh Boston, ImprovBoston, and Giggles Comedy Club. 

17. Take a Hike at the Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park 

If you enjoy being outdoors, don’t forget to leave the city a bit. Boston Harbors Islands National and State Park is just outside the city center, encompassing over 30 islands and peninsulas. As you’d expect, there are lots of trails, viewpoints, and campsites to help you get to know Boston’s beautiful nature. Plus, the ferry ride there makes for a gorgeous view! 

Exploring Boston

Whether you want to explore history or Boston’s contemporary culture, you can do both in Boston! The city has interactive museums and unique experiences that bring history to life. Enjoy the delicious cuisine, nightlife, or natural beauty when not taking in history. Though it can be hard to decide what to put on your list of things to do in Boston, this list should give you a good place to start! 

I’m Steve. I’m an English Teacher, traveler, and an avid outdoorsman. If you’d like to comment, ask a question, or simply say hi, leave me a message here, on Twitter (@thefrugalexpat1). Many of my posts have been written to help those in their journey to financial independence. I am on my journey, and as I learn more I hope to share more.  And as always, thanks for reading The Frugal Expat.

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9 places to nosh on bagels in southern Maine

From old-school spots to foodie favorites, there's a 'hole' lot to try.

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Bread and bagels at The Works Cafe in downtown Portland. Photo by Aimsel Ponti

From New York-style boiled bagels to Montreal-inspired wood-fired ones, there’s lots of great bagels in southern Maine and several shops have the accolades to back that up.

In 2023, Bon Appetit named bagels from Rose Foods and Rover Bagel among the best in the country.

Two years before that,  Food & Wine Magazine put Rover, Forage and Scratch Baking Co. on its list of best bagels in the U.S.

Whether you like yours toasted with cream cheese or as the bread for your breakfast sandwich, you can find plenty of styles and flavors from Biddeford to Brunswick.

BEACH BAGELS

The offerings at Beach Bagels include a French toast and marble bagel, and the cream cheese menu comprises spreads like strawberry, olive and honey walnut. Along with breakfast sandwiches, Beach Bagels has hearty breakfast options like omelets and pancakes. Best of all, you’re steps away from a beach stroll. Just don’t let the seagulls steal your bagel. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily WHERE: 34 Old Orchard St., Old Orchard Beach. beachbagels.yolasite.com ______________

Dutchman’s opened in 2022 as a pop-up housed at Nomad pizza in Brunswick’s Fort Andross building. It’s since become a permanent fixture there and uses the pizzeria’s wood-fired ovens to bake its bagels. The hand-shaped, honey-boiled bagels come in plain, roasted garlic, poppy and a bagel-of-the-day flavor.

WHEN: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday to Sunday WHERE: Fort Andross, 14 Maine St., Brunswick. dutchmans.me ______________

FORAGE MARKET

Making bagels at Forage Market involves a two-day aging process. The bagels are naturally leavened with wild yeast starter and baked next to a hardwood fire. There are usually five flavors available, including sesame and garlic. Breakfast sandwiches (including vegan options) are available. Forage also has a location in Lewiston. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 123 Washington Ave., Portland. foragemarket.com _____________

MISTER BAGEL

There are 10 or so Mister Bagel locations in Maine, including South Portland and Falmouth. It all began with the Portland location, which was the first bagel shop to open in Maine. The late Rick Hartglass started Mister Bagel in 1977, and it is still a family business. Music fans will appreciate the breakfast sandwich menu, which includes The David Bowie (bacon, egg and American cheese), the Jimmy Buffett (egg with roast beef and cheddar) and The Lady Gaga (avocado, salt and pepper, with or without egg).

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 599 Forest Ave., Portland. misterbagelforestave.com ______________

At Rose Foods, the menu varies depending on the day, but there are usually six to eight flavors available. For example, should you pop in on a Friday, you’ll find a poppy and onion bialy (a cousin of the bagel that is not boiled). Rose Foods also makes a number of bagel sandwiches, including the Classic Nova with Nova lox and the Classic Whitefish. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily WHERE: 428 Forest Ave., Portland. rosefoods.me

______________

ROVER BAGEL

At Rover Bagel, you’ll find wood-fired plain, poppy, sea salt, sesame and everything bagels available most of the time, and the spread game here is strong with cream cheese options like lemon-thyme-honey cream and chili-garlic.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 10 West Point Lane Suite 10-204, Biddeford (Pepperell Mill). roverbagel.com

______________ Advertisement

SCRATCH BAKING CO.

You haven’t lived until you’ve experienced the line of devoted fans waiting for Scratch Baking Co. to open, especially on weekend mornings. Along with the popular Maine sea salt, plain and other everyday flavors, Scratch has a daily special bagel. There’s honeyed rosemary on Wednesday and jalapeno cheddar on Thursday. Scratch is also famous, at least to locals, for its P-Cheese spread. It’s a pimento cheese recipe made with cheddar, mayo, roasted red peppers and seasoning and was passed down to co-owner and head baker Allison Reid by her grandmother, Mern.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 416 Preble St., South Portland. scratchbakingco.com ___________

THE MAINE BAGEL

The Maine Bagel is a drive-thru with several breakfast and other kinds of sandwiches available. With a bagel list that features egg and bialy among the standards, the family-owned spot is the perfect place to stop on your way to Pine Point Beach. The Maine Bagel really shines with a dozen kinds of cream cheese spreads, including raisin-walnut, lox, strawberry, cranberry-nut and bacon-chive.

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. WHERE: 117 Route 1, Scarborough. themainebagel.com Advertisement

THE WORKS CAFE

The Works Cafe is an institution on the edge of the Portland’s Old Port. It opened in 1990 as Bagel Works before it changed its name in 2002. The original shop in this regional chain opened in Manchester, Vermont, in 1988, and there are 11 locations around New England, though just the one in Maine. Gone are the ’90s-era banana-walnut bagels and cold pizza cream cheese, but The Works Cafe is still a reliable place to grab a salt, multigrain or cinnamon raisin bagel, among others. The menu also has bowls, sandwiches and smoothies.

WHEN: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily WHERE: 15 Temple St., Portland. workscafe.com

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