If you’re looking for the best walking tour in America — one that combines history, architecture, cobblestone streets, and incredible photo opportunities — it’s hard to beat Boston’s Freedom Trail.
For Photowalks, we kicked off our America 250 journey in Massachusetts, the birthplace of the American Revolution. From Boston Common to Lexington and Cambridge, we explored the sites where the fight for independence began — and show you how to photograph them beautifully with your phone.
Why Start the America 250 Journey in Boston?
Chronologically, Boston is where it all begins.
Before the Declaration of Independence was signed in Philadelphia, before George Washington became president in New York, before the capital was built in D.C., there was Boston.
This is where:
The Boston Massacre took place
The Boston Tea Party was organized
Paul Revere made his famous midnight ride
The first shots of the Revolution were fired nearby in Lexington
If you’re tracing the birth of America, Boston is the logical starting line.
Walking the Freedom Trail: 16 Historic Stops in 2.5 Miles
The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile walking route through downtown Boston marked by a red brick line in the pavement. It connects 16 significant historic sites.
You can explore on your own — just follow the red bricks — or take a guided tour to get deeper context.
Highlights of the Freedom Trail
Boston Common (1634) – The oldest public park in America
Massachusetts State House – With its iconic golden dome
Granary Burying Ground – Final resting place of John Hancock, Samuel Adams, and Paul Revere
Old State House – Where the Declaration of Independence was first read publicly in Boston
Old South Meeting House – Where thousands gathered before the Boston Tea Party
Paul Revere House – The oldest remaining home in Boston
Old North Church (1723) – Where lanterns were hung to signal whether the British were coming by land or by sea. That small act of communication helped change the course of history.
And then the trail winds into the North End — Boston’s historic Italian neighborhood — where history meets cannoli.
