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Exploring Charlestown in Boston

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Bunker Hill Monument

Bunker Hill Monument. Photo courtesy of Jared Kofsky.

The oldest neighborhood in Boston, Charlestown was built in 1629, although it was originally separate from Boston. Exploring this scenic waterfront neighborhood, you’ll discover many attractions relating to outdoor beauty and Boston heritage, as well as many delicious restaurants, cafes and lively bars. To help you plan your itinerary, here are some suggestions for exploring Charlestown in Boston.

Spend some time in Paul Revere Park

One of Boston’s most scenic stretches of land is located in Charlestown, specifically Paul Revere Park. Encompassing five acres (two hectares), Paul Revere Park features a playground, a performance stage, public mosaic art, green space for sunbathing and playing sports, and a fishing pier with views of Boston Harbor. Animal lovers will be happy to know this is a popular place for dog walking. Paul Revere Park is also part of the Boston Harborwalk, a trail taking you through Boston’s waterfront neighborhoods and downtown for a scenic and educational experience.

Tip: A fun way to get to Paul Revere Park is walking over the Charles River Dam and Locks system (also known as the Gridley Dam), which runs adjacent to the North Washington Street Bridge. Part of the journey is playing the “Charlestown Bells” by hitting pipes with mallets. Although there’s only one chime still working, walking the locks is a quintessential Boston experience.

Visit the Charlestown Navy Yard

Established in 1800, a visit to this Boston attraction allows you to see an important part of the Boston National Historic Park. The Charlestown Navy Yard played a pivotal role in the effectiveness of the U.S. Navy, as it was here that over 200 warships were built and thousands were serviced and preserved. Today the Navy Yard features 30 acres (12 hectares) of the original 129.5 acres (52 hectares), showcasing 20 original industrial and military buildings; Dry Dock 1 (built in 1827 as one of the country’s first dry docks); three piers; important artifacts like Navy documents; and battleships like  the USS Constitution, and the USS Cassin. Bonus: It’s on the water, so the site makes for a great photo opp.

See the Bunker Hill Monument

Located in Monument Square, the Bunker Hill Monument — a 221-foot (67-meter) granite obelisk — pays homage to the American colonists’ effort and determination against the powerful British troops during the America Revolutionary War’s Battle of Bunker Hill. Despite losing to the British, the inexperienced but resolute colonists put up an admirable fight, putting down a large number of enemy soldiers and proving they did have a chance in the war. Interestingly, the majority of the battle wasn’t fought on Bunker Hill, but on Breed’s Hill, the site where the monument resides. After seeing the Bunker Hill Monument, continue exploring Boston’s Freedom Trail in reverse, as this is one of the last stops (there are 17 in total) before the USS Constitution. Some other historic stops along the way include the Paul Revere House, King’s Chapel Burying Ground, Boston Common, the site of the Boston Massacre and the Old State House.

-Jessica Festa

Exploring Charlestown in Boston from Boston Things to Do


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