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Old State House
206 Washington St, Boston, MA 02109, United States
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An
Review №1

The Old State house is an amazing to place to visit for everyone but especially for history nerds! Like many places on the Freedom trail the Old State House is full of incredible relics and information, as well as an inviting, helpful, and very knowledgeable staff. One of their newish exhibits, Reflecting Attucks, is a refreshing take on the infamous Boston Massacre. We were fortunate enough to have a spontaneous guided tour of the exhibit by Sylvia, one of the exhibits masterminds. It was amazing to learn all the history this amazing place has to offer. I hope to come back soon!

Ma
Review №2

I love all the buildings the styles Boston is a very special place to myself. You can take the fairy from here to my town Provincetown

Jo
Review №3

Originally constructed in 1713 - this is where the Declaration of Independence was originally read to Bostonians.

Fr
Review №4

Nice place to see some history!! It costs 12 dollars per person for adults and for that you get to see a pretty nice antique building with lots of information on the history of Boston and the significance of the site, the place where the Boston Massacre took place. There are restrooms on the bottom floor and theres a nice gift shop.

Ca
Review №5

Some things were not available, which is a little disappointing but they have to play by the COVID rules. Just glad they were open! Enjoyed my visit.

Je
Review №6

The history is amazing! The architecture is beautiful! A must for anyone who likes to know how we came to be the United States of America...instead of the American Colonies under Englands thumb! Or the history of Boston itself...A must for anyone who is interested in American History, anyone visiting Boston to learn the citys history, and for anyone need that was born and/or raised/transplanted to this area/state...so in other words EVERYONE!! (And FYI...Im born and raised lol)Im playing tourist in my home states capital! You should try it...you see things & places through a new, fresh set of eyes!

Br
Review №7

One of the oldest buildings in Boston. They have a great museum guide that was very informative. And do your research on who has the right to vote. Because she will test you and you cant leave onto the next exhibit room until everyone gives the five answers. There are 3 floors that you can see. The bathrooms are in the basement. There is a spiral staircase that is picturesque. The admission cost is $9.00 dollars. Theres also a gift shop on the ground floor. Be sure and get your Boston baked beans candy there!

Du
Review №8

It was cool. I always like when the staff tell you about the building and the history behind it. But this was not the case at this place. Infact it was mostly self guided.

MA
Review №9

The history is just standing tall in the middle of gigantic skyscrapers in Downtown boston.

De
Review №10

Staff are so good at telling the historical background of the building but the exhibit floor is way too small

Al
Review №11

Stop 5 of the Old Town Trolley Tours, the Old State House Museum was free with our ticket! While the exhibition space is small and limited, the area was packed with so much knowledge! They also offer a small talk over and outside where the Boston Massacre occurred. The 6-minute multimedia show upstairs also has an audio re-enactment of the event itself.

Se
Review №12

This place is AMAZING! I came here to do research for a novel I’m writing. Not only is the Old State House a wonderfully preserved historical building, but it also houses an incredible museum and tour. The tour was fantastic, packed with lots of great stories and details about early American History. I highly recommend it!

Tr
Review №13

The Old State House was am interesting stop along the Freedom trail. Its full of information about the beginnings of U.S. government. Its definitely more geared toward teens and adults but it was nice that they included some hands on exhibits for the little ones, such as a brick laying exhibit with sponge blocks to play with. I was surprised that kids under 18 are admitted for free!

G
Review №14

This was the ninth and one of the most significant sites we visited along Bostons Freedom Trail. Be sure to visit the museum inside the building to learn about significant events in the citys history that took place here, such as the announcement of US independence from Britain from the buildings balcony. The museum also describes past and present preservation initiatives, including the effort to spare the building from demolition. The museum is small and can be visited in an hour or less.Fun fact: There is a subway station directly underneath the building, accessible via stairs adjacent to the museum entrance. The building had to be reinforced while the subway tunnel was being excavated.

Da
Review №15

If you happen to be around Quincy Market then the Old State House is just around a 10 minute walk. You absolutely have to check out the beautiful architecture of one of the oldest surviving public building in the U.S. The historic building is surrounded by tall, modern, steel and glass buildings which totally contrast and sets it apart from the rest of the scenery.

Al
Review №16

Great historical place.There is a admission fee, but that would be covered if you get the Go City Card Boston, including the bus tour.They are also providing guided tours, talking about self-government and the Boston Massacre.

Da
Review №17

Our docent was pretty incredible and made for a high quality experience. She did a great job explaining the history of the location, and connecting it with current events. She even tactfully managed some of the more uninformed adults in our group very well. It was a shorter tour than most, but very engaging. I would recommend visiting.

Ch
Review №18

Very contrast with the building design but it’s so perfect fit in their own way! The atmosphere brings back to old time of Boston town!

Br
Review №19

The Old State House (US$10 per adult) is one of the important stops on the Freedom Trail in Boston. Here you will find a very good American Revolutionary Museum which spells on in good detail the events leaving up to the American Revolution, including the infamous Boston Massacre which happened just outside this building. Opening Hours are 9-5pm daily.The Old State House was built in 1713, making it one of the oldest standing and functioning buildings in the United States. This was original seat of power colony of New Englands, a national landmark and another nice example of Georgian period architecture that you can see in this area of Boston.Within the Old State House, you will find a gift shop with a large collection of Freedom Trail souvenirs, similar to what you will see at the Faneuil Market. You then visit the rooms which house the American Revolutionary Museum collection.The museum collection is a comprehensive set of displays which detail events as they occurred and led to the American Revolution from the British Crown. There are historical items, paintings and furniture on show as well, helping bring the information to life. You can browse the displays that are of interest and see all in 20-30 minutes or give more attention to them and easily find yourself here for an hour or more.We found the upstairs rooms, decorated with period furnishings to be particularly interesting. There are a couple of rooms with interactive and hands-on experiences which children will enjoy more than the traditional museum inclusions at the Old State House.Note: There are free tours of this historic building every 30 minutes starting on the ground floor. Attending one of these might be a good way to experience the Old State House if you dont fancy an independent visit as much.In the end, we felt the $10 entry fee was steep for this attraction but having saved a bit by purchasing the Freedom Trail combo ticket (see below), we didnt mind. The museum collection helps visitors build up an understanding of New England during the American Revolutionary period, something that is important when it comes to getting the most of your visit to the Freedom Trail attractions.Note: At the Old State House, you can buy a combo ticket ($16 per adult) that includes entrance into the Old South Meeting Hall and the Paul Revere House, giving you a $3 savings compared to buying each ticket individually.

Ki
Review №20

Very neat place and one of the few places that had about 3 rooms or so for as my kids put it.We can touch things Our kids are 8 and 10 and by the 7th day were upset that so many places they could just look and were not allowed to touch. The old State House had about 3 interactive rooms for the kids and so we could actually enjoy a bit more instead of the usual I am board

Jo
Review №21

I enjoyed this exhibit a lot

So
Review №22

Tours were informative. Small museum. Can see all with an hour or linger to take in the history.

Ch
Review №23

Nice review of how our country fought for our freedom from the British.

Sa
Review №24

One of the oldest public buildings in the United States...One of the landmarks on Bostons Freedom Trail, it is the oldest surviving public building in Boston, and now serves as a history museum operated by the Bostonian Society. Small, and cramped, but I guess thats what it used to be like, so I can’t really blame the structure since it was made years back by ancestors. Lots of history and its part of the freedom trail which is good.The building has been nicely restored and inside its furnished in the way it would have looked in the early days of Boston. The museum exhibits were well-organized and there were many interesting historical artifacts on display. The short-guided tour was educational and worth the time. You dont need to spend a lot of time at the Old State House, 20 or 30 minutes is more than enough time, so stop by and take in some history.The Boston Massacre spot is just near to it, was an incident in which British Army soldiers shot and killed five people while under attack by a mob.Heard every 4th of July they read the declaration of independence here.

Ke
Review №25

The building was built in 1798 and was designed by the famous eighteenth-century architect Charles Bullfinch. In addition, he designed the United States Capitol in Washington, DC. The interior of the building is magnificent, and the flag hall is located under the dome to collect the flags of the civil war period. Frescoes about Reveres Flying Riding News and the Boston Tea Party Case decorate the Senate staircase. A famous wooden fish, Massachusetts sacred cod, hangs in the lobby of the House, demonstrating the importance of fishing here since 1784. Underground archives and museums contain precious historical documents such as the Mayflower Peace Treaty.

Ch
Review №26

The first one notices is the size of this cute little building beleaguered by the towering modern ones. I just had to go inside. The antique architecture is the most enjoyable part, but if you love learning the history of our nation, then you, too, will find something to love about this spot. Also, the gift shop was great as I ended up buying nine small books each holding an important document of our nation.

Er
Review №27

Great experience. I was here in 2019 at 4th of July.

Da
Review №28

This was the site of the Boston Massacre in 1770 where five Bostonians in a protesting mob died under fire from British troops. I am adding two exterior photos and a shot of the plaque out front of the building. It is my understanding that the event actually took place at the bottom of the steps of the side door.

ha
Review №29

I love history and while visiting Boston I had to visit the Old State House. It’s a beautiful building in the middle of a bustling city. Major turning points in the American history happened in this building. If your in the area definitely make an effort to visit.

Co
Review №30

This is the oldest surviving State House in the US, now a museum. This is the site of the Boston Massacre as well as the building where the Declaration of Independence was first declared from. 7th stop on the Freedom Trail.

Ka
Review №31

I have not paid for a tour but I love looking at this building. Even if you dont do the tour, definitely come see the building and read about its history. The balcony and lion/unicorn are very cool to see.

Ma
Review №32

I wasn’t able to go inside as I had a stroller and two kids and it’s not wheelchair accessible but this is definitely a place to see if you have the chance. The massacre site is just behind it and we saw that. It helps to know the history of what actually happened. When you know what happened you can picture what those involved saw at the time and how their surroundings might have affected the outcome of the massacre.

Ch
Review №33

Neat place to visit and learn about more of Boston’s rich history. Enjoyed the live play, “The Petition” and it was definitely worth the few dollars to go in and explore. Check Groupon for extra savings!

Jo
Review №34

An amazing piece of American history. A very important stop on the Boston Freedom Trail. Dont let the price of the tour deter you from this very necessary history lesson. The staff do a wonderful job at telling the story.Restored twice since its call to be demoloshied in 1881 it is well worth the visit.

Pe
Review №35

Lovely building. The museum is not that great but the guides are offering beautiful history lessons. If you are a US citizen I think you should put away any other activity and come here for a lesson on history. After all is your country.

Be
Review №36

This historic building has been dwarfed by skyscrapers, so you come upon it almost as a surprise. Its on a little triangle between busy thoroughfares. Yet, it retains its 18th century elegance and sense of history. This is where the Boston Massacre happened - the guides will tell you. Heres to the guides - They do a fantastic job. Ive taken two separate tours with two separate guides. Theyre all fantastic!

Yu
Review №37

A wonderful museum worth visiting and the staff are very passionate about the history behind it! Dont miss the tour! Highly recommended

Ch
Review №38

This was one of my favorite places on the Freedom Trail. So much history and they have done a great job of laying it in an easy to read/follow format.

Te
Review №39

Its anazing how well maintained this is. So much to see. When you learn about historical events that occurred just in the area, its absolutely remarkable.

Fu
Review №40

Definitely worth a visit if you are in the area. A lot of history is there. Suggest one look into some of the tours available and schedule accordingly. Also, look into the renovation history, for you might be disappointed otherwise.

An
Review №41

Great lectures. Beautiful building. My daughter was free because shes under 18 and I was free because Im a veteran.

e
Review №42

Site has free guides inside that explain the buildings history

Pa
Review №43

With the ability to download and listen to stories of the Boston Tea Party to the local Historian filling in the blanks, this is a must see building on the Freedom Trail! It continues to be a meeting place for locals and is open foe weddings, debates and occasionally even a town meeting.

Al
Review №44

A large but physically small piece of Boston history. Character cards are given upon arrival and they are useful during the guided tours. You may also tour the building on your own although it adds a bit more excitment if you follow a guide. There are only stairs, no elevators so it might not be the best for people who may have difficulties taking the stairs. However, there is still a nice room with lots of history in it on the main floor.

Se
Review №45

It small and fun to explore, but maybe not worth the cost of admission. Its quite cramped since you have to fight with an ocean of tourists to move around in tiny hallways and rooms, but everything is beautifully preserved. Maybe try to go here at an off time, as peak hours are going to be a little miserable.

Be
Review №46

Still standing amongst its towering neighbors, this historically significant building is a visual prompt to remind us all of the humble beginnings of this great nation.

Et
Review №47

Definitely give this place a visit if youre in the Boston area.

Ch
Review №48

A small but lovely museum focus on the revolution of Boston, specifically about the Boston Massacre. They have lots of talks and shows and scheduled every half an hour so a great place to spend some time to learn about the history of Boston.

Al
Review №49

The Old State House was built in 1713, and is over 300 years old. It sits in the middle of Boston. Old State House was built on the site of the Bostons first Town House which burned in 1711. Originally it was the government office for the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Later it became the meeting place of the Massachusetts Assembly.On March 5, 1770 a large crowd gathered at the Old State House and began to harass a British sentry, soon another 8 soldiers arrived to support. Tensions rose, snowballs, rocks and clubs were used on the sentries. The soldiers fired into the crowd, killing five Bostonians and wound others. This incident would become known as “The Boston Massacre.” Right in front of the Old State House there is a commemoration of the Boston Massacre.We visited the Old State House in Boston on the 4th of July, On July 18, 1776 was read from the balcony of the Old State House. This reading is a tradition that has been held nearly every year since. Unfortunately the crowds were too large to get into the Old State House. However we were able to see the Boston Massacre commemoration. If you are in Boston on the 4th of July make the effort to go and listen to the reading of the Declaration of Independence.

Ka
Review №50

Amazing staff really! we had such a great time visiting this place and listening to the guide of the tours. They know there stuff and they are passionate about it. For someone who love history it was perfect!

St
Review №51

The history of this building and the surrounding area was great! The vendor outside selling roasted chestnuts was very nice. We started our walking tour of the Freedom trail here after touring the building.

An
Review №52

The Old State House is one of the oldest public buildings in the United States. Originally built in 1713, it served as the Mass. General Court. Later, in 1830 to 1841 it served as Bostons City Hall.This building sits on the freedom trail and now serves as a history museum.Inside the museum are artifacts collected by the Bostonian Society, the Council Chamber in Boston, before the American Revolution, a multi-media presentation on the Boston Massacre, revolutionary characters and more.Admission is $10.00 US for adults, $8.50 for Seniors (62+) and Students. Youth (6-18) are free (doesnt apply to groups of 10 or more).Massachusetts Teachers, EBT cardholders, US Military, and Veterans are Free.It is open 7 days a week, all year round.

Sa
Review №53

Excellent displays on the start of the fight for liberty. Highlights have to be the talks that occur every 30 minutes during the day. If you use the Old Town Trolley tour, you get free entry to this site too. Highly recommended.

Me
Review №54

The Old State House is a historic building in Boston, Massachusetts. It is one of the oldest public buildings in the United States. The history of this building and the surrounding area was great. The building itself is magnificently located in the midst of all of the tall glass-covered buildings. Must-visit!

An
Review №55

There is a surprising lack of large history museums in Boston. Several smaller locations including The Old State House attempt to piece together the rich history of the area by showcasing some of the artifacts and recreating the history and events leading to the American Revolution along the Freedom Trail in central Boston.You should pay to visit this museum and others. Visiting the interior and experiencing the exhibits really adds depth to an otherwise easy walk along the trail. This museum has a large display about the events leading to the Boston Massacre and the harsh treatment of Boston by Great Britain leading to the Revolution. There are also recreations of how the interior looked during that time and its place in history.There are several discount passes available which are worth the price. Once you see one of these small museums, you will want to see more for a richer experience.

Wi
Review №56

Good scenery but small exhibition space

韓國
Review №57

I didnt pay for the enterence as I am not American, not really looking for all those history.

Yo
Review №58

To appreciate the history of the United States of America you have to visit or simply take a stroll down Washington street where it was written by amazing people. This building is a statement to the world that such a nation can stand tall and independent in the face of danger.

Di
Review №59

I stayed to hear the story about the Boston Massacre thrice and the history of the state house twice. The guides are very animated and knowledgeable. It was disheartening to learn the fate of the John Hancock house. Preserve history!

Sh
Review №60

I think it would have been a better overall experience if we had a guided tour. The museum portion was interesting to me but very short and quick to go through. What really soured our time here was the rude young lady who worked in the gift shop area. I almost never point out bad customer service unless its really bad and both my friend and I had separate but rude experiences with her.

As
Review №61

The Old State House was interesting, but not overly interesting. The exhibition space is rather small - and that is fine, but the astounding $10 for a student ticket is an overkill for what the House has to show on the inside. I understand that it is a historical house and a lot of funds are needed for its preservation. However, the exhibition was not that fascinating. A highlight of my visit was the free, 30-minute long performance of some historical meetings that took place in the House and in Philadelphia, that were significant in the American Revolution.I also enjoyed the interactive part of the kids-focused exhibition, where you could experience some of the different smells that were inspired by certain places and times in Boston.

ma
Review №62

Enjoyed the tour, our guides especially 1 the one young woman with glasses was, exceptionally knowledgeable and fun to listen to!

Wh
Review №63

Alot of interesting information

Th
Review №64

Nice stop on the freedom trail. Lots of need courtyards around the area to explore. Its still an acting church. Very very cool!

Ra
Review №65

It perches right in the middle of modern high rises, which is a fascinating juxtaposition of history.

Mo
Review №66

Great place to learn about Boston history love the plays over the summer months.

Br
Review №67

Museum was ok - the building itself is magnificent located in the midst of all of the tall glass covered buildings. By preserving places like this, new generations of Americans are able to visit these sites and really learn what the history of our Country is. It brings the history lessons to life to be standing there and hearing the same stories that you heard in elementary school of the Revolution and the Boston Massacre.

An
Review №68

Wonderful history and museum

Na
Review №69

Wonderful tour!!!!!! I do not know that much about history but I enjoyed it.

Bi
Review №70

Another fine stop on the freedom trail. Worth the few bucks to see inside too

J
Review №71

It is definitely worth walking by and seeing where the Boston Massacre occurred (actually happened in the middle of the busy intersection, so the city of Boston made a semi-plaque on the side walk to keep tourists safe). The museum is extremely small and lacking in so many ways, especially in a city filled with awesome sites. I got in for free and still dont think it was worth it (stayed 12 minutes)

je
Review №72

Great visit for my honeymoon

Di
Review №73

Nice place of British-American History..Well maintained museum..Staff is good..Must visit place in Boston..

Ra
Review №74

Very great museum with rich information that will take you back in time and really help you understand the Boston experience. Free for veterans, but well worth visiting even if you pay the entry fee.

Ki
Review №75

Excellent! A MUST see if you are ever in Boston. The history that tool place here, its worth your time. Take the trolley your, and make sure you get off at this stop.

le
Review №76

What makes this place interesting are the entertaining guides. You could look round it in 10 minutes by yourself, but the 25 minute talks really bring the history and characters to life. The Boston Massacre talk was fascinating, and they’re included in the ticket price.

Ge
Review №77

The annual 4th of July reading of the Declaration of Independence by the Captain Commanding of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts should be seen by everyone at least once!

Jo
Review №78

Historic location. Well staffed. Informative. A must see to learn about our origins and to keep from suffering the same fate as our ancestors. Walk the freedom trail

Ma
Review №79

I’ve visited multiple times over the last few years and always enjoy the Old State House. The artifacts are neat, including a bottle of tea leaves from the Boston Tea Party and many of the exhibits are interactive. The talk on the Boston Massacre was well done and you could even get your thumb branded at the end, which was a very memorable touch. This was the first time I got to see Dolly and Cato, the short production about John Hancock’s wife and slave. The actors were phenomenal and it led to a really good discussion about those who have been forgotten in our history books. You can easily spend 1-2 hours here if you take advantage of all they have to offer. A must on the Freedom Trail

Pe
Review №80

The inside is absolutely beautiful! If youre ever in the area Id totally recommend stopping by Daisys Discounts and The Memory Den. If you need a quick rest stop by the Hotel Rexford and definitely check out The Third Rail if you get the chance.

Al
Review №81

12$ gets you a wealth of knowledge. Both guides we had that day were out of the world. It was really cool to see how the legislative system was ran back in the colonial age. The lady who gave the Boston massacre tour was so lively. She really made you feel like you were there that night it happened. Do yourself a solid and go visit if you are in town.

Do
Review №82

One of the most historic places in the city. Well maintained.

Be
Review №83

Great little piece of history. We learned more about the state house feom the trolley driver than we did from the actual tour itself. I do believe they offer a guided tour and Im sure more info would be provided with that over the self guided tour . Also go Boston pass

La
Review №84

Great look into Bostons early history. The live presentations held upstairs made it all come to life. Definitely recommend.

Jo
Review №85

Great place to understand some of Bostons history.

Mi
Review №86

This is a great place to watch the British troop reenactment of the Changing of the guard. Make sure to bring your camera. Check out the gift shop inside.

Th
Review №87

This is one of the best places you should visit if youre in Boston.

Ry
Review №88

Small museum with lots of exhibits. They had a table discussion about the massacre and a dressed character from that period

Je
Review №89

Went on a walking tour around this area with tickets I bought at Nathanael Hall. Very informative and I would recommend it highly

Da
Review №90

Have your family rent or watch the HBO mini series: John Adams. This movie produced by Tom Hanks and based on the historical biography written by David McCullough, winner of the Pulitzer Prize is outstanding and will prepare your family for the sites along the Freedom Trail. Here, on the Fourth of July, the Declaration of Independence is read each year to the public, just as it was spoken in 1776. The movie begins in front of this Old State House, the site of the Boston Massacre. So much history happened right here!

Wa
Review №91

United States Declaration of Independence~~ If u are lucky, u will see and hear a man read it who stands on the balcony.

Pe
Review №92

Its a pretty impressive piece of history. Beautiful in architecture, but pretty small though. Yet its a great landmark for our city.

Is
Review №93

Wow amazing to know the building is still up! And used as a train station !! You can come here every July 4th at around 10AM and they will read you the Declaration of Independence like when they first got it and made everyone gather around to read it! Its a tradition!

Ab
Review №94

If you happen to be around Quincy Market then the Old State House is just around a 10-minute walk. You have to check out the beautiful architecture of one of the oldest surviving public building in the U.S. The historic building is surrounded by tall, modern, steel and glass buildings which contrast and sets it apart from the rest of the scenery.

Di
Review №95

One of the best place to see in Boston. Depicts history of America and Boston effectively. Exhibits on both floors are quite informational.

Le
Review №96

Good tour.

To
Review №97

Very nice restoration of an historical building. The revolutionary museum is well thought-out and the building history informative.

Sh
Review №98

This was a neat historical location in Boston. The history behind the building was so cool. The preservation of the building was also incredible

Ro
Review №99

Boston is BEAUTIFUL, so glad Holland America gave us a day to tour. Paul Reveer,s copper work on the State House was gorgeous still.

Da
Review №100

Nice informative little museum...a must for history buffs

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.5 Rating
  • Address:206 Washington St, Boston, MA 02109, United States
  • Site:https://revolutionaryspaces.org/
  • Phone:+1 617-720-1713
Categories
  • History museum
  • Historical landmark
  • Museum
  • Tourist attraction
Working hours
  • Monday:Closed
  • Tuesday:Closed
  • Wednesday:Closed
  • Thursday:10am–4pm
  • Friday:10am–4pm
  • Saturday:10am–4pm
  • Sunday:10am–4pm
Highlights
  • Active military discounts:Yes
  • Live performances:Yes
Amenities
  • Good for kids:Yes
  • Toilets:Yes
  • Restaurant:No
Crowd
  • Family friendly:Yes
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