Explore the Historic Old State House: A Journey Through Boston's Past
Discover Boston's Old State House, a historical gem that reveals the city's revolutionary past and the birthplace of American independence.
The Old State House in Boston is a captivating historical landmark that offers tourists a glimpse into the city's revolutionary history. As the oldest surviving public building in Boston, it stands as a testament to the rich heritage and pivotal events that shaped the nation. Visitors can explore its fascinating exhibits and immerse themselves in the stories of the American Revolution.
A brief summary to Old State House
- 206 Washington St, Boston, Downtown, Massachusetts, 02109, US
- +1617-720-1713
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience, as weekends can be quite busy.
- Check the museum's schedule for special events and guided tours for a more enriched experience.
- Don’t miss the balcony where important announcements were made, offering stunning views of the city.
- Take time to explore the surrounding area; many historical sites are within walking distance.
- Photography is allowed, so capture moments inside the museum, but be respectful of other visitors.
Getting There
-
Walking
If you are starting from Boston Common, head northeast on Tremont Street towards Park Street. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with Washington Street. Turn left onto Washington Street and walk for about 0.5 miles. The Old State House will be on your left at 206 Washington St.
-
Subway
From Park Street Station, take the Red Line inbound towards Ashmont/Braintree. Get off at Downtown Crossing Station (one stop). Exit the station and head towards Washington Street. Walk straight for about 0.2 miles, and the Old State House will be on your right at 206 Washington St.
-
Walking from Faneuil Hall
Starting from Faneuil Hall, walk southwest on Congress Street towards State Street. Continue onto State Street and then turn right onto Washington Street. Walk for about 0.3 miles, and the Old State House will be on your left at 206 Washington St.
-
Walking from North End
If you are in the North End, head south on Hanover Street towards Commercial Street. Continue straight onto State Street and then turn left onto Washington Street. Walk for about 0.5 miles, and the Old State House will be on your right at 206 Washington St.
Discover more about Old State House
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
28 State Street
0.1 km
Explore the iconic 28 State Street in Boston, an architectural gem blending history and modernity in the heart of the city.
John Winthrop - First House Site Marker
0.1 km
Explore the John Winthrop - First House Site Marker, a key historical landmark in Boston, reflecting the city’s colonial heritage and the life of its first governor.
Bill Russell Statue on City Hall Plaza
0.1 km
Explore the Bill Russell Statue in City Hall Plaza, a stellar tribute to Boston's basketball legend and a symbol of community and sportsmanship.
Samual Adams Memorial
0.2 km
Explore the Samual Adams Memorial in Boston, a historic landmark celebrating the spirit of American independence and the legacy of one of its Founding Fathers.
Samuel Adams Statue
0.2 km
Explore the Samuel Adams Statue in Boston's Government Center, a tribute to the revolutionary spirit and a symbol of American independence.
Josiah Quincy III Statue
0.2 km
Explore the historic Josiah Quincy III Statue in Downtown Boston, a tribute to a significant American figure and a centerpiece of local heritage.
Boston City Hall
0.2 km
Explore Boston City Hall, a stunning example of Brutalist architecture and a vibrant center of civic engagement in the heart of Massachusetts.
Boston Latin School and Benjamin Franklin Statue
0.2 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.
City Hall Plaza
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Boston at City Hall Plaza, where history, culture, and community converge in an iconic urban landscape.
King's Chapel
0.2 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.
Ben Franklin House
0.2 km
Explore Boston's Ben Franklin House, a historical landmark celebrating the life of one of America's Founding Fathers in a vibrant urban setting.
Faneuil Hall Marketplace
0.3 km
Experience the charm of Faneuil Hall Marketplace, where shopping, dining, and history come together in the heart of Boston.
John Adams Courthouse
0.3 km
Explore the John Adams Courthouse in Boston, a rich historic landmark celebrating American justice and architectural beauty.
The New England Holocaust Memorial
0.3 km
Explore the profound and moving New England Holocaust Memorial in Boston, a tribute to resilience and a vital reminder of history's lessons.
Ebenezer Hancock House
0.3 km
Explore the Ebenezer Hancock House in Boston, a historical gem showcasing colonial architecture and rich American heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Revolutionary Spaces
0.0 km
Explore the heart of America's revolutionary history at Revolutionary Spaces in Boston, where the past comes alive through immersive exhibits and engaging storytelling.
Boston Massacre Site
0.0 km
Explore the historic Boston Massacre Site, a pivotal landmark where the fight for American independence began. Immerse yourself in revolutionary history.
Court Square
0.1 km
Discover the historical charm and vibrant atmosphere of Court Square in Downtown Boston, a perfect blend of culture, architecture, and community spirit.
Boston Sign
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant Boston Sign, a symbol of the city's spirit and a perfect backdrop for your unforgettable travel memories.
Old Corner Book Store
0.2 km
Explore the historic Old Corner Book Store in Boston, a literary landmark that once hosted the greats of American literature and shaped the city's cultural heritage.
Boston's Old City Hall
0.2 km
Discover Boston's Old City Hall, a stunning historical landmark showcasing exquisite architecture and rich civic heritage in the heart of downtown.
Faneuil Hall Visitor Center
0.2 km
Immerse yourself in Boston's rich history at the Faneuil Hall Visitor Center, your gateway to exploring the city's vibrant past and culture.
Boston Irish Famine Memorial
0.2 km
Explore the Boston Irish Famine Memorial, a moving tribute to the resilience of Irish immigrants during the Great Famine, located in the heart of Boston.
Old South Meeting House
0.2 km
Explore the Old South Meeting House, a historic museum in Boston, where America's fight for freedom began. Discover rich stories and vibrant history.
The Innovation Trail
0.2 km
Discover the Innovation Trail in Boston, a captivating journey through the city’s rich history of creativity and groundbreaking ideas.
Post Office Square
0.2 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Post Office Square, an urban park in Downtown Boston, where relaxation meets vibrant city life.
Kings Chapel Burying Ground
0.2 km
Explore the historic Kings Chapel Burying Ground, Boston's oldest cemetery, where the past meets the present in a tranquil setting.
Faneuil Hall Cheers
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant dining scene at Faneuil Hall Cheers, where American flavors meet Boston's rich history in a lively atmosphere.
Freedom Trail Foundation
0.2 km
Discover the Freedom Trail in Boston, a historic path that showcases 16 significant sites from the American Revolution and beyond.
Essential places to dine
Bostonia Public House
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of New England at Bostonia Public House - your go-to spot for brunch, live music, and unforgettable dining in downtown Boston.
Union Oyster House
0.3 km
Experience Boston's rich culinary history at Union Oyster House - America's oldest continuously operating restaurant serving fresh seafood delights.
Vintage Restaurant and Lounge
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of fine dining and nightlife at Vintage Restaurant and Lounge in Downtown Boston.
No.9 Park
0.5 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at No.9 Park in Downtown Boston - where culinary artistry meets elegant dining.
Yvonne's
0.5 km
Discover Yvonne's in Boston: A premier New American restaurant offering exquisite cuisine and an inviting bar atmosphere for unforgettable dining experiences.
Grotto
0.5 km
Experience the essence of Italy at Grotto in Boston's Beacon Hill - where exquisite flavors meet inviting ambiance.
Tresca
0.5 km
Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at Tresca in Boston's North End – where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Lucca Restaurant
0.5 km
Discover Lucca Restaurant in Boston's North End for an authentic Italian dining experience with exquisite cuisine and fine wines.
Bricco
0.5 km
Experience exquisite Italian dining at Bricco in Boston's North End—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Antico Forno
0.6 km
Experience authentic Southern Italian cuisine at Antico Forno in Boston's historic North End - where every meal tells a story.
RUKA
0.6 km
Discover RUKA in Boston - where sushi meets Peruvian cuisine for an unforgettable dining experience.
Back Deck
0.6 km
Discover Back Deck: A family-friendly bar & grill in Downtown Boston offering delicious American cuisine with New England charm.
Bacco Ristorante & Bar
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Bacco Ristorante & Bar in Boston's historic North End - where every meal is a celebration.
Carmelina's
0.6 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors at Carmelina's in Boston’s North End – a culinary experience you won't forget.
The Daily Catch North End
0.7 km
Experience authentic New England seafood at The Daily Catch in Boston's historic North End.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
State Street Express
0.0 km
Explore the heart of Boston with unique gifts and local treasures at State Street Express, your go-to gift shop in downtown.
Artists for Humanity - The Store
0.2 km
Explore the vibrant creativity of Boston at Artists for Humanity - The Store, where local art meets unique souvenirs for every traveler.
Job Tyler's General Store
0.2 km
Explore Job Tyler's General Store in Boston's Faneuil Hall Market for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the city's spirit.
Neighborhoods
0.3 km
Discover the best souvenirs and local crafts at the Souvenir Store in Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston's vibrant shopping destination.
Best of Boston
0.3 km
Discover unique Boston-themed gifts and local artisan crafts at this charming gift shop, perfect for souvenirs and keepsakes.
Urban Outfitters
0.3 km
Discover Urban Outfitters in Boston for a stylish mix of clothing, beauty products, and home goods that reflect contemporary urban culture.
Boston Stone Gift Shop
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at the Boston Stone Gift Shop, the perfect place to take a piece of Boston home with you.
Primark
0.4 km
Explore affordable fashion at Primark in Downtown Boston, where style meets savings in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.
The Corner Mall
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant shopping scene at The Corner Mall in Downtown Boston, where trendy stores meet delightful dining in a lively atmosphere.
Underground Express Souvenir Shop
0.5 km
Discover unique souvenirs and vibrant gifts at the Underground Express Souvenir Shop in the heart of Boston's Downtown Crossing.
Shake the Tree
0.5 km
Discover unique clothing and gifts at Shake the Tree, a charming boutique in Boston's historic North End, where local artisans shine.
LIT Boutique
0.5 km
Shop unique women's fashion at LIT Boutique in Boston's North End, where style meets local charm and quality.
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 Boston Gift Shop
0.6 km
Discover unique souvenirs and gifts at The Boston Gift Shop, the perfect place to capture the spirit of Boston.
Olde North Square Gift Shoppe
0.7 km
Explore Olde North Square Gift Shoppe for unique Boston souvenirs and local artisan gifts in the heart of the historic North End.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Last Hurrah
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of The Last Hurrah, Boston's must-visit bar for craft cocktails and a lively ambiance.
Better Sorts Social Club
0.3 km
Discover Better Sorts Social Club, Boston's top spot for innovative cocktails, small plates, and a vibrant atmosphere in Downtown Crossing.
The Black Rose
0.3 km
Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at The Black Rose, Boston's beloved Irish pub offering authentic cuisine and a lively atmosphere.
The Bell In Hand Tavern
0.3 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
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Durty Nelly's, a charming pub in Boston offering delicious food, a great drink selection, and live entertainment.
Roxanne's
0.3 km
Experience the best of Boston nightlife at Roxanne's, where innovative cocktails meet a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of downtown.
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.
Wicked Craft Co.
0.5 km
Discover craft cocktails and delightful dishes at Wicked Craft Co., a top bar and restaurant in Boston's historic North End.
Teddy's on the Hill
0.5 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.
Parla
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Italy at Parla, Boston's premier cocktail bar and brunch destination in the heart of the North End.
Biddy Early's
0.5 km
Discover Biddy Early's, a lively Boston pub offering a warm atmosphere, diverse drink selection, and unforgettable local experiences in the heart of the city.
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.
JJ Foley's Bar & Grille
0.6 km
Discover the rich flavors and vibrant atmosphere of JJ Foley's Bar & Grille, a beloved Boston grill and Irish pub experience.
MIA Roof Deck
0.6 km
Experience stunning skyline views while enjoying crafted cocktails at MIA Roof Deck, a lively bar in Boston's historic North End.
The Tip Tap Room
0.6 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.
