Discover the Rich Heritage of Boston's Black Heritage Trail
Explore the Black Heritage Trail in Boston, a captivating journey through the city’s rich African American history and cultural contributions.
The Black Heritage Trail in Boston offers an enlightening journey through the city’s African American history. This captivating route takes you through significant sites, showcasing the contributions of Black Bostonians to the nation’s history, culture, and civil rights movements. As you stroll along the trail, you’ll encounter beautifully preserved homes, historic landmarks, and informative plaques that narrate the powerful stories of resilience, struggle, and achievement. Perfect for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike, the trail invites you to reflect on the past while enjoying the charming streets of Beacon Hill.
A brief summary to Black Heritage Trail
- 46 Joy St, Boston, Beacon Hill, Massachusetts, 02114, US
- +1508-228-9833
- Visit website
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Start your visit early in the day to enjoy a quieter experience along the trail.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the trail involves a fair amount of walking on cobblestone streets.
- Consider downloading a guided tour app for additional insights and stories about each site along the trail.
- Take advantage of the nearby cafes for a quick refreshment break during your exploration.
Getting There
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Walking
If you're starting from Boston Common, head north along the Tremont Street path until you reach Park Street Station. From there, take the Green Line (C or D train) towards Government Center. Get off at the next stop, which is Park Street. Exit the station and walk east towards Beacon Street. Continue walking straight until you reach Joy Street. Turn right on Joy Street and continue walking until you reach 46 Joy St, the entrance to the Black Heritage Trail.
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Public Transit
If you're near South Station, take the Red Line towards Alewife. Get off at Park Street Station. Once you exit the train, follow the signs to the Green Line and transfer to the C or D train towards Government Center. Get off at Park Street. From here, walk east towards Beacon Street, then turn right onto Joy Street. Continue walking until you reach the Black Heritage Trail at 46 Joy St.
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Walking
From the North End, head west along Hanover Street until you reach the Government Center area. Turn left onto Court Street and follow it until you reach the intersection with Tremont Street. Turn right on Tremont, and then take a left onto Beacon Street. Walk straight until you reach Joy Street, then turn right. Continue to 46 Joy St for the Black Heritage Trail.
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Subway and Walking
From Kenmore Square, take the Green Line (B train) towards Government Center. Get off at the next stop, which is Park Street. Exit the station, and walk east towards Beacon Street. Turn right onto Joy Street, and continue walking until you reach 46 Joy St, where the Black Heritage Trail begins.
Discover more about Black Heritage Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
20 Hancock St
0.1 km
Explore the historic elegance of 20 Hancock Street in Boston's Beacon Hill, a captivating embodiment of the city's rich architectural heritage.
George Middleton House
0.1 km
Explore the George Middleton House, a historic gem in Beacon Hill, Boston, showcasing stunning Federal architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Beacon Hill Monument
0.2 km
Discover Boston's rich history at the Beacon Hill Monument, a stunning tribute to the city's past and a must-visit for all travelers.
Louisburg Square
0.3 km
Explore the historic elegance of Louisburg Square in Beacon Hill, Boston – a tranquil retreat filled with stunning architecture and rich history.
Francis Parkman House
0.4 km
Discover the Francis Parkman House, a historic landmark in Boston's Beacon Hill that celebrates the life of a renowned historian and writer.
John Adams Courthouse
0.4 km
Explore the John Adams Courthouse in Boston, a rich historic landmark celebrating American justice and architectural beauty.
Acorn St
0.4 km
Experience the historic charm of Acorn Street in Boston's Beacon Hill, a picturesque cobblestone street perfect for leisurely strolls and memorable photos.
Boston Foundation Monument
0.4 km
Discover the Boston Foundation Monument, an iconic tribute to history nestled in the charming Beacon Hill neighborhood, perfect for every traveler.
King's Chapel
0.5 km
Discover the architectural beauty and historical significance of King's Chapel, a must-visit Anglican church in Boston's downtown, where history and serenity meet.
Kings Chapel Burying Ground
0.5 km
Explore Kings Chapel Burying Ground, Boston's oldest cemetery, rich in history and tranquility amidst the vibrant city life.
Beacon Hills
0.5 km
Explore Beacon Hill, Boston's historic neighborhood filled with charming architecture, unique shops, and rich cultural experiences that capture the essence of the city.
City Hall Plaza
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Boston at City Hall Plaza, where history, culture, and community converge in an iconic urban landscape.
Charles Street Meeting House
0.5 km
Discover the Charles Street Meeting House, a historic landmark in Boston's Beacon Hill, offering a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage.
Boston Latin School and Benjamin Franklin Statue
0.5 km
Explore the historic Boston Latin School and the Benjamin Franklin Statue, a cornerstone of American education and a tribute to one of its founding fathers.
The Great Elm
0.5 km
Discover The Great Elm in Boston's Beacon Hill: a historic landmark surrounded by charming streets and rich culture, blending nature with history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Museum of African American History
0.0 km
Explore the profound legacy of African Americans at the Museum of African American History in Boston, a key destination for cultural education and reflection.
The Vilna Shul
0.2 km
Explore the rich heritage of Boston at The Vilna Shul, a cultural center and museum dedicated to Jewish history and community engagement.
Otis House Museum
0.2 km
Step back in time at the Otis House Museum in Boston, where history comes alive through captivating stories and stunning architecture.
Massachusetts State House
0.2 km
Explore the historic Massachusetts State House, a symbol of governance and architectural beauty in Boston's Beacon Hill, with guided tours and rich history.
Nichols House Museum
0.2 km
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of Boston at the Nichols House Museum in the heart of Beacon Hill, a must-visit historical landmark.
Old West Church
0.2 km
Explore the architectural beauty and rich history of the Old West Church, a serene landmark in Boston's West End, perfect for cultural enthusiasts and spiritual seekers.
Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Regiment Memorial
0.3 km
Explore the Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Regiment Memorial, a powerful tribute to African American soldiers and a key landmark in Boston's rich history.
Park St Pl
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Park St Pl in Boston, a historic urban plaza filled with culture, events, and stunning architecture.
Boston Athenaeum
0.3 km
Discover the Boston Athenaeum, a historic library and museum that celebrates literature and art in the heart of Boston.
Emmets
0.4 km
Discover the heart of Irish culture at Emmet's in Boston, where traditional cuisine, lively atmosphere, and warm hospitality await every visitor.
Granary Burying Ground
0.4 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich history of Granary Burying Ground, Boston's iconic cemetery and final resting place of American heroes.
Park Street Church
0.4 km
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of Park Street Church, a historic landmark and vibrant center of faith in downtown Boston.
Boston Common Frog Pond
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting Boston Common Frog Pond, a year-round destination for relaxation, recreation, and unforgettable memories in the heart of Boston.
William Hickling Prescott House
0.4 km
Discover the historic William Hickling Prescott House in Boston, a captivating museum showcasing 19th-century life and architecture.
Tadpole Playground
0.4 km
Discover the joy of play at Tadpole Playground, a charming oasis in Boston's Beacon Hill perfect for families and visitors of all ages.
Essential places to dine
Grotto
0.2 km
Experience the essence of Italy at Grotto in Boston's Beacon Hill - where exquisite flavors meet inviting ambiance.
Ma Maison
0.3 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Ma Maison, a charming bistro in Beacon Hill that brings Parisian flair to Boston.
Harvard Gardens
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of America at Harvard Gardens – Boston's premier brunch and lunch destination in Beacon Hill.
No.9 Park
0.3 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at No.9 Park in Downtown Boston - where culinary artistry meets elegant dining.
1928 Beacon Hill
0.4 km
Savor the fusion of American and French cuisine at 1928 Beacon Hill, where elegance meets comfort in Boston's historic neighborhood.
Peregrine
0.5 km
Experience the rich flavors of Italy at Peregrine, an Italian and Mediterranean restaurant in Boston's historic Beacon Hill neighborhood.
Toscano
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Toscano in Beacon Hill, Boston - where tradition meets elegance in every dish.
CLINK. and The Liberty Bar
0.5 km
Experience fine American dining at CLINK., where history meets modern culinary excellence in Boston's iconic Liberty Hotel.
Figs
0.5 km
Discover Figs in Boston's Beacon Hill: where artisan pizzas meet Italian tradition in a cozy bistro atmosphere.
Cobblestones a Beacon Hill Eatery
0.5 km
Experience modern American cuisine at Cobblestones in Beacon Hill, where history meets culinary excellence in a cozy setting.
Bin 26 Enoteca
0.5 km
Discover the essence of Italy in Boston at Bin 26 Enoteca – where exquisite cuisine meets an exceptional wine selection.
Yvonne's
0.6 km
Discover Yvonne's in Boston: A premier New American restaurant offering exquisite cuisine and an inviting bar atmosphere for unforgettable dining experiences.
75 Chestnut
0.6 km
Experience the heart of American cuisine at 75 Chestnut in Beacon Hill, where every meal tells a story of flavor and tradition.
RUKA
0.7 km
Discover RUKA in Boston - where sushi meets Peruvian cuisine for an unforgettable dining experience.
Back Deck
0.7 km
Discover Back Deck: A family-friendly bar & grill in Downtown Boston offering delicious American cuisine with New England charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Vico Style
0.4 km
Explore Vico Style, Boston's premier vintage clothing store in Beacon Hill, offering a unique selection of timeless fashion treasures.
Whitney + Winston
0.4 km
Explore Whitney + Winston, a charming Boston gift shop offering unique children's clothing and thoughtful gifts in the heart of Beacon Hill.
Soodee
0.5 km
Discover fashion at Soodee, a charming clothing store in Beacon Hill, Boston, offering stylish attire and exceptional service.
Crush Boutique
0.5 km
Discover unique women's fashion and accessories at Crush Boutique in Boston's historic Beacon Hill, where style meets elegance.
Thieves Next Door
0.5 km
Uncover unique jewelry and home treasures at Thieves Next Door, a charming boutique in Boston's historic Beacon Hill neighborhood.
December Thieves
0.5 km
Explore December Thieves, Boston's charming boutique for unique clothing, handbags, and jewelry in historic Beacon Hill.
ouimillie
0.5 km
Explore the stylish offerings of Ouimillie in Boston's historic Beacon Hill, where unique fashion meets local craftsmanship.
Green Eyed Daisy
0.5 km
Explore Green Eyed Daisy, a charming women's clothing boutique in Beacon Hill, Boston, offering stylish apparel and unique accessories.
Vintage Taste - Women and Men's New and Modern High-end Consignment
0.5 km
Discover the charm of sustainable fashion at Vintage Taste, Boston's premier high-end consignment shop for men and women.
Flat of the Hill
0.5 km
Explore unique gifts and local treasures at Flat of the Hill, a charming gift shop in Boston's historic Beacon Hill neighborhood.
Underground Express Souvenir Shop
0.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and vibrant gifts at the Underground Express Souvenir Shop in the heart of Boston's Downtown Crossing.
Unique Boutique
0.6 km
Explore Unique Boutique in Downtown Boston for stylish clothing and accessories that reflect local trends and sustainable fashion choices.
The Corner Mall
0.6 km
Discover the vibrant shopping scene at The Corner Mall in Downtown Boston, where trendy stores meet delightful dining in a lively atmosphere.
Primark
0.6 km
Explore affordable fashion at Primark in Downtown Boston, where style meets savings in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
State Street Express
0.7 km
Explore the heart of Boston with unique gifts and local treasures at State Street Express, your go-to gift shop in downtown.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Tip Tap Room
0.2 km
Savor the essence of Boston's culinary scene at The Tip Tap Room, where American flavors meet an impressive beer selection in a cozy atmosphere.
The Hill Tavern
0.2 km
Discover the charm of The Hill Tavern, a cozy bar in Boston's Beacon Hill, offering a perfect blend of historic ambiance and vibrant social scene.
Teddy's on the Hill
0.2 km
Experience the heart of American cuisine at Teddy's on the Hill in Boston's historic Beacon Hill, where warm hospitality meets delicious flavors.
Carrie Nation Cocktail Club
0.3 km
Discover the historic charm and modern mixology at Carrie Nation Cocktail Club, a premier cocktail bar in the heart of Boston.
Roxanne's
0.4 km
Experience the best of Boston nightlife at Roxanne's, where innovative cocktails meet a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of downtown.
Better Sorts Social Club
0.5 km
Discover Better Sorts Social Club, Boston's top spot for innovative cocktails, small plates, and a vibrant atmosphere in Downtown Crossing.
The Last Hurrah
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Last Hurrah, Boston's must-visit bar for craft cocktails and a lively ambiance.
The Sevens Ale House
0.5 km
Experience the heart of Boston's nightlife at The Sevens Ale House, where delicious American cuisine meets a lively sports bar atmosphere.
jm Curley
0.6 km
Savor the essence of American grilling at jm Curley, a vibrant spot in Downtown Boston for brunch, cocktails, and unforgettable dining experiences.
Cheers
0.7 km
Experience the iconic Cheers pub in Boston's Beacon Hill, where American cuisine meets a rich history and a vibrant atmosphere.
The Bell In Hand Tavern
0.7 km
Discover the heart of Boston's nightlife at The Bell In Hand Tavern, a historic bar offering delicious food, drinks, and lively entertainment.
Durty Nelly's
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Durty Nelly's, a charming pub in Boston offering delicious food, a great drink selection, and live entertainment.
Sip Wine Bar and Kitchen
0.8 km
Experience exquisite wines and delectable American cuisine at Sip Wine Bar and Kitchen, Downtown Boston's premier dining destination.
Avery Bar
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Boston at Avery Bar, a premier cocktail destination in the heart of the city, offering unique drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Ward 8
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant cocktail culture at Ward 8, a must-visit bar in Boston's West End offering creative drinks in a lively atmosphere.
