When planning a school trip to Boston, be sure to see some of the historical sites. Boston played a major part in the American Revolution and was the location of quite a few early historical events including the Battle of Bunker Hill, the Boston Tea Party, and the Boston Massacre. One of the most popular and best ways is to visit the historical sites in Boston is to walk the Freedom Trail. This trail is marked with red bricks and leads people on a trail that includes some detailed and incredible data regarding the founding and shaping of our nation.

Make a stop at the USS Constitution, also known as "Old Ironsides." This ship is the oldest warship afloat in the United States today. It was launched in 1797, and played important military roles in the American Revolution, the War of 1812, and various other military endeavors. Students can view part of the ship, and discover more about its history and assembly. After this plan to visit some of the various churches, meetinghouses and burial grounds that are strung along the Freedom Trail. Students can see the Old South Meeting House, where the Boston Tea Party was organized, visit the grave of Samuel Adams, or visit one of the historic churches.

The Paul Revere House is another site that your group will want to make time for. This house is the oldest standing structure in the downtown Boston area, and the place where Revere lived at the time of his famous midnight ride. Visitors will enjoy viewing the kitchen, garden, and chambers, complete with period furniture, some of which was actually owned by the Revere family. Several different activities for students are available upon request. Students can hear a storyteller paint a picture of what really happened in Paul Revere's ride, watch a documentary, or go on their very own guided tour of Paul Revere's neighborhood, and view various sites such as the Old North Church, the famous church where two lamps were hung as Revere's warning sign to indicate that the British were marching from Lexington to Concord. The Granary Burying Ground, where Revere is buried, is also located on the Freedom Trail.

When your group has finished walking the Freedom Trail, take a tour of the Adam's National Historical Park. This park includes the house that was the birthplace of United States presidents John Adams, and John Quincy Adams, as well as the house both presidents later lived in. Students will enjoy viewing these houses, as well as the gardens. Another site of interest is the library building that is adjacent to the large house. The library is a fireproof structure that holds over 14,000 volumes belonging to the Adams family. Guided tours are available on a first come, first serve basis. One more option is a trip to Castle Island. This site contains the five sided Independence Fort that once protected the Boston harbor during the War of 1812. The decision was eventually made to extend the mainland outwards, so it is technically no longer and island. Students will enjoy touring Independence Fort, and Castle Island is also an excellent place for a picnic, or simply a place to get out some of your students extra energy.

More hubs about Boston and Travel:

Boston: Overview

Boston: Theater and Arts

Educational Tours