Stop 1 of 16 · Downtown · mile 0
Boston Common
America's oldest public park and the trail's starting point.
Why it matters
British troops camped here before marching to Lexington and Concord in 1775.
Visiting Boston Common
Established in 1634, Boston Common began as shared grazing land for the town's cattle. Over the centuries it has hosted militia drills, public hangings, protest rallies and concerts.
During the occupation of Boston, British regulars encamped on the Common — and it was from here that troops set out on the night of April 18, 1775.
The Visitors Center on Tremont Street is the natural place to pick up the red line and start walking.
This stop is in Historic Downtown Boston. Read the complete Freedom Trail guide to plan the rest of your walk.