Visitor guide
Plan Your Freedom Trail Walk
Everything you need to know before you follow the red line.
Where does it start?
At Boston Common, near the Visitors Center at 139 Tremont Street. Take the T to Park Street (Red or Green line). Parking garages under the Common are convenient but pricey.
How long is it — and how long does it take?
The official route is about 2.5 miles. Allow 2–3 hours for a quick visit, 3–4 for the classic experience, or a half day or more if you plan to go inside museums and linger over lunch. Compare our itineraries.
What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes — there are cobblestones and brick sidewalks
- A fully charged phone (and a battery pack)
- Headphones if you're using an audio tour
- Water, especially in summer
- Layers, rain gear or sunscreen depending on the season
- Cash or card for admissions and snacks
Where to eat
Quincy Market at Faneuil Hall (stop 11) and Hanover Street in the North End are perfectly placed for lunch. See where to eat along the trail.
Do you need a guide?
- Follow the red line independently — free and flexible, but light on stories.
- Join a traditional guided tour — lively guides, fixed schedule, usually a partial route.
- Use a self-guided audio tour — stories on demand, at your own pace.
For travelers who want a guide's storytelling with the freedom to explore independently, we recommend the WalknTours audio tour.