Old State House image

Old State House

Tourist attraction Museum Historical landmark History museum

One of the Most Reviewed History museums in Boston


Address

206 Washington St, Boston, MA 02109, United States

Website

www.revolutionaryspaces.org

Contact

+1 617-720-1713

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (1.9K reviews)


Working Hours

  • Thursday: 10 am to 5 pm
  • Friday: 10 am to 5 pm
  • Saturday: 10 am to 5 pm
  • Sunday: 10 am to 5 pm
  • Monday: 10 am to 5 pm
  • Tuesday: 10 am to 5 pm
  • Wednesday: 10 am to 5 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: Boston (52) building (35) House (31) history (28) State (27) museum (20) visit (16) Massacre (15) Freedom (13) American (12)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 daniel d. 2 years ago on Google
    Very nice, well preserved, older building. You can imagine the speakers of yore orating the assembly. The other rooms were equally well presented.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 BradJill 6 years ago on Google
    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 England's, 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 don't 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 didn't 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.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Koldo T. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) This is a historic US building. Built in 1713, it is the oldest building in Boston and was once home to the colonial government of the United Kingdom. It is one of the many historic points along the Freedom Trail. It was the site of the Boston massacre of March 5, 1770, which was the spark that saved the United States Revolution. (Original) AEBetako eraikin historikoa da. 1713an eraiki zuten, eta Bostongo eraikinik zaharrena da, eta Erresuma Batuko Gobernu kolonialaren egoitza izan zen. Freedom Trail (Askatasunaren Bidea) zeharkatzen duen puntu historiko ugarietako bat da. 1770eko martxoaren 5eko Bostongo sarraskiaren lekua izan zen, Estatu Batuetako Iraultza salbatu zuen txinparta izan zena.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 John J. 2 years ago on Google
    Took the Boston Massacre tour with Louise as my guide. She did an excellent job. She was very knowledgeable and answered all my questions. The tour lasted for 1.5 hours and it covers the old State House and old South meeting place. It was $22 and you stand and walk the whole time, so keep that in mind. You can visit without taking the tour and pay less, but the tour is worth it.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Bryan S. 11 months ago on Google • 111 reviews
    The Old State House is another example of living history right in the middle of Boston. In all honesty, as you walk around the building today, it's almost hard to imagine those moments you've read about in history books since you were a kid taking place where you're standing. It's fascinating and a bit humbling in the moment if that makes any sense. Like a lot of great Boston landmarks, the Old State House is just right there, in between a lot of more modern buildings.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Bridgette D. 5 years ago on Google
    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 can't 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. There's also a gift shop on the ground floor. Be sure and get your Boston baked beans candy there!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kelly C. 1 year ago on Google • 415 reviews
    I received a free invitation to attend a tour here and was pleasantly surprised by the talk. July 2023 was the first time I have ever been inside the Old State House. There were several school tour groups on the first floor, making this house crowded. No elevators that I could find.

  • 5/5 James P. 2 years ago on Google
    Was once the seat of power of the American British colonies. Now it sits in the shadow of a giant office building. The Boston Massacre occurred right outside and helped to fan the flames of revolution in the colonies. Docents were friendly and super informative. Displays were interesting and well presented. Admission to the Old State House also includes admission to the Old South Meeting House. Interesting for American history buffs.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tom O. 1 year ago on Google
    Great museum for the history of the Old State House and The Boston Massacre. Two floors of exhibits with a small basement exhibit about the historical renovation of the building. A brief gathering with someone to discuss the building/massacre followed by Q&A. Expect to spend at least one and one-half hours inside but both my friend and I spent about 4 hours reading every detail! Admission include entrance to Old South Meeting House just down the block. Highly recommend.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dejan B. 2 years ago on Google
    When approaching this colonial style house it catches your eye standing so small but elegant around central Boston high rises. It was where the Boston massacre happened and later it became the first State house (the New is the golden domed one by the Boston Common park). Today it houses a small, but informative museum with a reasonable fee which also includes access to Old south meeting house close by.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Ryan 1 year ago on Google
    History oozes out of this structure. Reasonably priced ticket to see the building. Outgoing staff. A must see in Boston.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 James P. 11 months ago on Google • 378 reviews
    Historical statehouse with historical artifacts and displays from the countries found to present day on display. There is a gift shop and an educational scavenger hunt for kids or the kids at heart with a cool prize for its completion.

  • 4/5 Robert M. 1 year ago on Google • 329 reviews
    $12 to see the museum. Lots of exhibits. Full of history. Nice selection of souvenirs at the gift shop.

  • 5/5 Alex P. 3 years ago on Google
    Neat spot to visit along the freedom trail where the Boston Massacre occurred. The museum inside has a lot of info and artifacts from the period. You can easily spend 30 mins - 1 hour here peeking into the past. The same ticket is also valid for the Old South Meeting House which is right down the road and also recommend.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Aleksandr F. 2 years ago on Google
    A site of former British government and Boston massacre. History abound, knowledgeable curators, cute little souvenir shop on ground floor, clean restrooms, small museum inside. We enjoyed the visit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Francisco A. 5 years ago on Google
    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 there's a nice gift shop.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Behzad T. 4 years ago on Google
    This historic building has been dwarfed by skyscrapers, so you come upon it almost as a surprise. It's 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. Here's to the guides - They do a fantastic job. I've taken two separate tours with two separate guides. They're all fantastic!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sonia 2 years ago on Google
    Wanted to see the (old state house) oldest surviving public building. It was built in 1713 as the seat of the British colonial government. The Declaration of Independence was first read to Bostonians from the east balcony of the old state house in July, 1776! It also happens to be right where the Boston massacre took place!! A stop on the Freedom Trail so don’t miss it especially if you love history!!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jose O. 2 years ago on Google
    A cool place of American history that is a must see. So much happened here. Just take it all in and go inside if you can and have the time.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 SM 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing building such a historic building. I enjoyed my day trip in Boston taking several pictures of downtown and the old state house ,Quincy market, Columbus Park , And Faneuil Hall. I had a wonderful day and Boston never seems to disappoint
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 江戸川一 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) "Fall out4" Good Neighbor, Hancock's root castle. (Original) 『Fall out4』グッドネイバー、ハンコックの根城。
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mark G. 4 years ago on Google
    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
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anthony F. 4 years ago on Google
    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!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Wei H. 2 years ago on Google
    The East side balcony is the famous place of this building. The massacre mark is just here on the street.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 gonews 0. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Spectacular place that represents the history of this great country. Here the Declaration of Independence of the United States was read from a balcony. Contrast the 13th century architecture with the skyscrapers next to it. An incredible and unmissable place in this magical city, Boston, Massachusetts. (Original) Espectacular lugar que representa la historia de este gran país. Aquí se leyó desde un balcón la declaración de Independencia de Estados Unidos. Contrasta la arquitectura del siglo XIII con los rascacielos al lado. Un lugar increíble e imperdible de esta ciudad mágica, Boston, Massachusetts.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nirmal 2 years ago on Google
    A Historic monument, must-visit if you are in Boston. Beautifully maintained , built in 1713 I guess. Lots of tourists arrive here during the day, so if you plan to spend a quiet moment, visit early in the morning.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rosemary 1 year ago on Google
    I really loved the woman I spoke to here. She was very knowledgeable and discussed many topics and answered all my questions. There is really a lot to learn here and see.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Danago 5 years ago on Google
    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.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Seth Adam S. 5 years ago on Google
    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!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alexander Jake M. 5 years ago on Google
    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.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jon R. 8 months ago on Google • 202 reviews
    The staff was informative, pleasant and engaging. Content itself brilliant. Highly recommend

  • 4/5 Greater N. 1 year ago on Google • 129 reviews
    The site of the Boston massacre is right outside this historic state house! The building is a museum now, and has a plethora of colonial era artifacts: highlight being some tea. Although the state house is definitely a propaganda machine (not fully expression the point of views of both sides, the state house is still very enjoyable. Funnily enough, a poll showed most people disagreed with the acts of the Boston Tea Party...I was not expecting that. Definitely a cool visit, just come in knowing the bias of the museum.

  • 5/5 Luke M. 1 year ago on Google • 108 reviews
    The amount of history inside the Old State House is palpable. The exhibits are informative and do a wonderful job of modernizing information to make it feel relevant to today's issues. The staff is helpful and well-educated, as well. This is well worth the price you pay, and a must-stop for those interested in the American Revolution and the days leading up to the Boston Tea Party.

  • 4/5 Andrea G. 1 year ago on Google
    Going earlier in the morning would be the best time. There is a lot of history here, and it is very enjoyable when you don't feel rushed through. There is staff on every floor to help with information, and restrooms are on the basement floor. If you get the chance, take a photo of the massacre from the upstairs window. Then you won't be trying to zoom all the way out for a photo of the circle later. If you can avoid the restrooms do they are super small. Feel like this location is a lot about the gift store.

  • 5/5 Nour PES Mobile 2. 4 years ago on Google
    This is one of the best places you should visit if you're in Boston.

  • 4/5 White D. 4 years ago on Google
    Alot of interesting information

  • 4/5 Cassie B. 4 years ago on Google
    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.

  • 3/5 Wayne G. 4 years ago on Google
    A somewhat dry look at the events that led to US independence from England. We visited as part of the Free Fun Friday program and were given "identities." Unfortunately, they weren't used for very much along the way through the museum.

  • 5/5 Anthony H. 4 years ago on Google
    Wonderful history and museum

  • 5/5 Duc H. 2 years ago on Google
    Old State House The Old State House, built in 1713 on the site of the first Town House, is the oldest surviving public building in Boston. The building served as a meeting place for the exchange of economic and local news and was said to be the center of politics in the colonies. The Declaration of Independence was read from the balcony on the east side of the building, and just below it is the spot where the Boston Massacre took place. The Old State House is one of the most important public buildings in the U.S. Source: Trolleytours.com

  • 5/5 RoadHogBugra 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Greetings to those who stole the photos I took (Original) Çektiğim fotolari çalanlara selam olsun

  • 5/5 Joceline L. 4 years ago on Google
    Originally constructed in 1713 - this is where the Declaration of Independence was originally read to Bostonians.

  • 5/5 Bowen P. 3 years ago on Google
    Freedom

  • 5/5 Clint W. 3 years ago on Google
    We will not conform.

  • 5/5 Millie O. 1 year ago on Google
    This historical museum is an intriguing place to visit when you’re in Boston. If you love history or are fascinated by it, I recommend coming here and asking the staff at the museum many questions. They were all very personable and eager to answer all questions for you.

  • 5/5 Sam C. 1 year ago on Google • 81 reviews
    Beautiful architecture and magnificent history with this building. To see the building in its size compared to the rest of the city that has grown around it is truly awe inspiring. And to be standing 3 ft away from where the Declaration of Independence was read for the first time ever?...jaw dropping!!!!

  • 4/5 James W. 1 year ago on Google
    House museum it was fairly good I just wish there was more audio for people who don't have the ability to read through everything. In the Old South Church they had audio recordings you could download and it was fantastic. I would love to have something like that here.

  • 5/5 Mary D. 2 years ago on Google
    This historic building is soo cool because it’s where the Declaration of Independence was read from the balcony!

  • 5/5 Nick V. 3 years ago on Google
    Museum is shut because of covid

  • 5/5 Jorge Luis D. 1 year ago on Google
    Galleries well explained, friendly staff, and a really cool gift shop. It’s part of the freedom trail, so you will find it really quick.

  • 5/5 Matt G. 1 year ago on Google
    Been going to Boston for years and never once walked into the Old State House. But I did for the first time and it's definitely a great little spot to learn about some old history, along with a few unique little shops within. Like a little shopping plaza inside.

  • 3/5 Derrick T. 4 years ago on Google
    staff are so good at telling the historical background of the building but the exhibit floor is way too small

  • 5/5 Casey C. 11 months ago on Google
    A historical location you'll visit as part of your Freedom Trail walk. Standing in front of the Old State House, the location where the Boston Massacre occurred, is a profound experience. It's typically a bit busy, as it's located near main roads and walkways, with pedestrians coming and going, but it's quite easy to approach. There's no cost to see the outside of it, and the location doesn't require waiting in line or navigating barriers. I didn't go inside, but it's worth a visit just to see the structure itself. The site of the Boston Massacre is marked by a large circle inset with the date, March 5, 1770, in front of the Old State House (original place of colonial governance). There's something tragic yet poetic about the juxtaposition of historical events when you stand there in person. It feels altogether *real*. There are occasional music performances in front of the Old State House as well, if you want to pause a moment and soak it in.

  • 4/5 Dunke L. 4 years ago on Google
    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.

  • 3/5 Frans W. 1 year ago on Google
    I liked the exhibit about the time around the Boston Tea Party. To paint the picture of the why and how. But to compare the Tea Party with the events of January 6th 2021 is veeeery tricky. That needs a lot more explanation. Not every riot is a freedom fight…..imho.

  • 5/5 Mallary M. 1 year ago on Google
    Awesome museum right above the metro entrance. It was not stroller friendly, but it was a pretty neat look into history. Nice gift shop too. When you buy a ticket here you get a ticket to see Old South Church. Save room for both so it doesn't go to waste.

  • 5/5 Alex S. 5 years ago on Google
    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.

  • 5/5 MAD-TJ T. 4 years ago on Google
    The history is just standing tall in the middle of gigantic skyscrapers in Downtown boston.

  • 5/5 Rachel M. 3 years ago on Google
    It’s still as beautiful as it was 20 years ago

  • 5/5 Andrew H. 4 years ago on Google
    Great lectures. Beautiful building. My daughter was free because she's under 18 and I was free because I'm a veteran.

  • 5/5 Doug V. 4 years ago on Google
    One of the most historic places in the city. Well maintained.

  • 5/5 Joseph M. 4 years ago on Google
    History is cool

  • 4/5 abeness88 4 years ago on Google
    Cool area

  • 5/5 Pamela J. 4 years ago on Google
    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.

  • 4/5 Hevert M. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) A must see in Boston, where history, ancient architecture and modernity coexist! (Original) Visita obligada en Boston, donde conviven la historia, la arquitectura antigua con la modernidad!

  • 4/5 Komal S. 4 years ago on Google
    One of the old and historic buildings of Boston!

  • 5/5 Charles D. 4 years ago on Google
    😎

  • 4/5 Susana Z. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful

  • 5/5 Mary C. 4 years ago on Google
    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.

  • 5/5 Bill O. 4 years ago on Google
    Another fine stop on the freedom trail. Worth the few bucks to see inside too

  • 5/5 Deivid F. 4 years ago on Google
    Show

  • 3/5 moshe k. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) A must-see in US history in a city that is the cradle of American independence (Original) פרק חובה בהיסטוריה של ארה"ב בעיר שהיא ערש העצמאות האמריקאית. כך יוצרת מדינה צעירה אתוס לאומי

  • 5/5 Christian L. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) A nice place to visit, a must stop for the Freedom Trailer. However it is not worth entering, there is a museum that does not complement much more than can be found online (Original) Un lindo lugar para visitar, parada obligada del Freedom Tráiler. Sin embargo no vale la pena entrar, hay un museo que no complementa mucho más de lo que se puede encontrar por internet

  • 4/5 Ian M. 4 years ago on Google
    Pretty neat

  • 4/5 LAND R. 3 years ago on Google
    Very cool place to see close to the Boston Massacre awesome Place highly recommended if you're in Boston stop here good pictures

  • 5/5 E C. 3 years ago on Google
    A beautifully preserved piece of Revolutionary War Era history. There were two floors of self guided exhibits. A docent on each floor were very knowledgeable. There are clean restrooms in the basement and a subway station underneath. Unfortunately this building is not handicap accessible. There is a beautiful contiguous spiral staircase that connects the three floors. Don't miss the plaque on the sidewalk in front of the Old State House that commemorates the site of the Boston Massacre.

  • 5/5 karyn w. 3 years ago on Google
    Inside is a train station. Very convenient. Love the architecture.

  • 5/5 Carlos 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Nice contrast to the skyscrapers (Original) Bonito contraste con los rascacielos

  • 4/5 Lorenc L. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) The Old Government was built in 1713 and is the oldest surviving public building in Boston. The building served as a meeting place for the exchange of economic and local news and is said to be the center of colonial politics. The Declaration of Independence was read from the balcony on the east side of the building, and just below is the site of the Boston massacre. The Old Government is one of the most important public buildings in the United States. (Original) Το παλιό κυβερνειο χτίστηκε το 1713 και είναι το παλαιότερο δημόσιο κτίριο που σώζεται στη Βοστώνη. Το κτίριο χρησίμευσε ως τόπος συνάντησης για την ανταλλαγή οικονομικών και τοπικών ειδήσεων και λέγεται ότι είναι το κέντρο της πολιτικής στις αποικίες. Η Διακήρυξη της Ανεξαρτησίας διαβάστηκε από το μπαλκόνι στην ανατολική πλευρά του κτηρίου, και ακριβώς κάτω είναι το σημείο όπου έγινε η σφαγή της Βοστώνης. Το παλιο κυβερνειο είναι ένα από τα πιο σημαντικά δημόσια κτίρια στις Η.Π.Α.

  • 3/5 Marcus C. 4 years ago on Google
    Small museum. Nice restored historical building but small collection.

  • 5/5 Monk K. 2 years ago on Google
    So rich in history!! Built in 1729 and still in use today! Was not open in my visit, but a vital bit of American history!! A must see!!

  • 5/5 Eric G. 4 years ago on Google
    Great experience. I was here in 2019 at 4th of July.

  • 5/5 jason f. 3 years ago on Google
    Awesome tour and knowledgeable staff about the exhibits. Interactive displays for kids.

  • 5/5 java 5. 2 years ago on Google
    The stories a lot of physical things to pick up and feel very fun

  • 5/5 Chris S. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice review of how our country fought for our freedom from the British.

  • 4/5 Mauricio P. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing architecture The clock it's an incredible pice Worth visiting and checking out


Call +1 617-720-1713 Open on Google Maps Open on TripAdvisor

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✗ Wheelchair-accessible car park
  • Service options
    • ✓️ On-site services

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