This site is in the cute little town of Concord, and the site itself has a beautiful visitor center (former Buttrick family residence) which contains a small informational exhibit. What's really nice is the outdoors. There's a garden space where you have a good lookout of the North Bridge, a significant location where the Minute Man faced the British Army. The path to the bridge is not too far of a walk, and you can see a beautiful memorial quoting Ralph Waldo Emerson's poem "the shot heard round the world." I also liked the plaque honoring the graves of the British soldiers since a lot of lives were lost on both sides for American Independence. The bridge is a great scenic walk and great to do for both history and nature lovers. read more

North Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Concord, Massachusetts

Apart from being an important part of American History, this park is GORGEOUS! The North Bridge overlooks a steady stream with trees along the banks. Plaques and monuments are erected over the places where one of the first battles of the American revolution was held. Plenty of space for walking as well read more

North Bridge - Monument - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Concord, Massachusetts

Easy spot to pop off and check out... It's very impactful when you think about all that has taken place in this area read more

See all

A must stop while in Concord, MA so much history here if you are interested in American history. We enjoyed learning about the history of this place. I won't bore you with writing the story but you can google and read about it. We were here in late November and all the fall foliage had fallen and all left was the bare trees. I was told that autumn is beautiful here with a lot of colors all around. It's a free national park and there is free parking. Take a stroll around the park, maybe pack a picnic and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. read more

See all

This is really great to see- just be aware it's a quarter mile hike to the bridge. Gift shop and bathrooms with a great little 8 minute movie. read more

If you're interested in Revolutionary War history then this bridge is a must. There are poems and plaques all along the path to and from the bridge to inform visitors of what happened at North Bridge. There is also a small graveyard for several British soldiers who were killed in this battle with the Minutemen. It is a short visit to this site. It is connected to the old manse (owned by the Trustees open seasonally), and two other historical sites owned by the National Parks. There are bathrooms on site but I am not sure they are open year-round. Most of this area is accessible by wheelchair although the path is not paved. Grave of British Soldiers They came 3000 miles and died To keep the past upon its throne Unheard beyond the ocean tide Their English mother made her moan April 19, 1775 read more

See all

The North Bridge in Concord, Massachusetts is the place where the "shot heard around the world" took place, where the beginning of the battle of Concord. This war is significant as it was the beginning of America's war for independence. It was here on this bridge that on the morning of April 19, 1775, the militia from Concord and surrounding towns came to battle the British. The British held the bridge and then Colonel John Buttrick ordered to attack. This caused the British to retreat. The night before, Paul Revere and other riders had sounded the alarm to let everyone know that the British were coming. Right by this bridge are graves of two British soldiers that died during this battle and is marked by a tomb stone "Grave of British Soldiers" with a poem that was written by James Russell Lowell, an American poet. There is also a large sculpture/ statue of a minute man as well just across the bridge if you wish to visit. The North Bridge is located at Minute Man National Historic Park in which it is free to visit and there is also free parking across from this bridge. This part of the national park is also dog friendly but there are no restrooms located here. As my husband, our little girl dog and I were walking over to the North Bridge, we spotted a megaphone that you crank so you can hear a brief history lesson about the North Bridge. There are free stories and reenactments that occur around here but only during designated times. Unfortunately we missed out the time that we arrived and would have loved to watch. Worth a visit to check out a piece of American history if you find yourself on this part of the United States. read more

North Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Concord, Massachusetts

See all

An appropriate review for Flag Day and the birthday of the United States Army, this is one of the spots that the history buff absolutely can't miss. This is where it all started. This is where, on April 19 1775, began the American Revolutionary War. Provincial minutemen and militia companies numbering approximately 400 engaged roughly 90 British Army troops at this location. The battle was the first instance in which American forces advanced in formation on the British regulars, inflicted casualties, and routed their opponents. It was a pivotal moment in the Battles of Lexington and Concord and in American history. The significance of the historic events at the North Bridge inspired Ralph Waldo Emerson to refer to the moment as the "shot heard round the world." This first instance of Americans fighting in military order and firing to deadly effect on British troops was a key turning point in the Battles of Lexington and Concord. It precipitated the British retreat back to Boston and is regarded as one of the most significant events in American history. The current wooden pedestrian bridge, an approximate replica of the bridge that stood at the time of the battle, was built in 1956 and extensively restored in 2005. The bridge and the surrounding 114 acres of land make up what is known as the North Bridge unit of the Minute Man National Historical Park and is managed by the National Park Service. There is a large parking lot (with room for buses/RVs) and a smooth natural path through the woods to the bridge and over it. A few different monuments exist along the way including a grave for the British soldiers who died that day, a hand-crank powered audio guide and the large Minute Man monument itself. Don't miss this. It's the birth of the United States! [Review 15238 overall, 740 of 2021, number 1098 in Massachusetts.] read more

See all

A must stop for any history enthusiast. Part of the national park system, and showcasing not only the bridge but Minuteman Statue and a good small museum on Lexington and Concord, this is a pretty spot to take a stroll and take in some history while you're at it. Definitely would recommend including in your itinerary. read more

If you like American history you've got to come here! There's an easy walk on a gravel pathway over the bridge. The visitor's center illustrates the events & participants well. There are connecting pathways for those interested in a longer walk. Two historic houses are close at hand. read more

old wood bridge high over the nearly dry river currents at Concord. This is where Colonials took their first pot-shots at the Mighty British Empire! Rickety, worn-out but scenic views atop a wood structure - high above the trickling water. It bends and arcs higher than your usual colonial bridge.. creaking when groups or families walk over it.... worth a visit for family outings.. 35 min. jaunt. Review: 5 read more

The North Bridge is the site of the Battle of Concord, an important moment in the history of the US. This bridge, although a replica of the original bridge that was on the site, helps one remember and reflect. We think back to those individuals who stood up to fight for their freedom and helped a new nation be born after years of battle. This is one of the places it began. Although this place is full of nature and life that is truly beautiful and peaceful, at one point it was full of the horror of death and misery. It made me remember the poem of Ralph Waldo Emerson, whose familial home is right next to this bridge and whose grandparents witnessed this event: By the rude bridge that arched the flood, Their flag to April's breeze unfurled, Here once the embattled farmers stood, And fired the shot heard round the world. The foe long since in silence slept; Alike the conqueror silent sleeps; And Time the ruined bridge has swept Down the dark stream which seaward creeps. On this green bank, by this soft stream, We set to-day a votive stone; That memory may their deed redeem, When, like our sires, our sons are gone. Spirit, that made those heroes dare To die, and leave their children free, Bid Time and Nature gently spare The shaft we raise to them and thee. Freedom isn't free. And these brave men, paid for our freedom in blood. May the memory of their sacrifice never be forgotten. read more

See all

Great summary of the events by a parking ranger Very interesting and made it very real description of the times and the succession of facts that lead to the revolution.. it Made more real and understandable for me read more

North Bridge - Monument & the north bridge over the Concord river - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Concord, Massachusetts

See all

I'd love to go back when spring really pops to see the amazing flowers/plants that adorn the area. This is a must-visit site to reflect on the Battle of Concord. Park rangers offer guided tours that might interest you. Take them up on it and you will learn a lot. read more

I came at nighttime and laid across the bridge and listened to all the night bugs making their music. The moon was bright and the sky was clear. It was such a beautiful experience. I said a prayer for all the people affected on that day on the North Bridge. It's a place in American history to visit. read more

This is the location of the "shot heard round the world," and the beginning of the American War for Independence. However, you don't have to be a history lover to enjoy Old North Bridge and Minuteman National Historic Park. In the spring, summer, and fall the scenery is beautiful & ever changing. There are gardens and paths to walk and the Concord River flows through. And for those of you who want to learn more history, there is a museum on the site with friendly and informative national park service ranger/staff who will help you learn as little or as much as you would like. I had not expected to be as engaged as I had come for my father but the ranger really knew how to make it interesting for everyone. North Bridge Visitor Center is located in a brick mansion & features a short video about the North Bridge fight, a bookstore and exhibits. This is a great place to go to while away a few hours or even have a picnic and then you can head into Concord for a great lunch, stroll around the town and do a little shopping. read more

History. Revolutionary War History. Let's be honest, you walk over a bridge over a river. That in and of itself is no big deal. You can do that anywhere. So what makes this one special? The history. To think of what happened here almost 250 years ago. The shot heard round the world. The American Revolution. To think of how times have changed. Paul Revere rode his horse here. He was one of the lucky ones. He had a horse. Most of the minutemen had to walk. No smart bombs. No computer updates to know the position of the enemy. No photos being posted on Instagram. Not even electricity. When a tax on tea was worth fighting a war. Even if you don't want to read the placards and think about the history, it's still a damn fine bridge to walk over. read more

See all

AN ABSOLUTELY MUST DO! A FREE NATIONAL PARK & FREE PARKING. This is where the American Revolution began. I love to go places where there are a number of interesting things to do. Beautiful New England Fall Foliage, Nature Walking/Exercise & Learning about History. This place gets 3 Checks. Over 1 Million Visitors a year from all over the world make a Trek here to Concord MA. The Park preserves sites where Colonial militia men & the British clashed. Major Buttrick of Concord issued the order for the Colonists to Fire. This is where that famous expression - "The Shot Heard Round the World" was born. Reading about this in school is kind of boring but being here is quite interesting. The Parking lot was full & people were waiting in line but people come in & out & we nabbed a space right away. Inside Tip: There is also another Free Parking lot on the opposite side of the bridge. So if you have no luck check that out. There is a Visitor's Booth here too where you can ask questions. You walk on the trail until you come to The North Bridge. The whole area are was alive with color from the beautiful fall foliage & reflections of nature upon the water. What a site to see from the North Bridge of kayakers paddling their watercraft in the Beautiful New England Fall Foliage. It looks like a postcard. The park rangers said there is a place in town where you can rent the kayaks but not in the park itself. There are Statues here, a Monument & The Grave of the British Soldiers & other points of interested well. We all had a Fun time here & learned a lot while Walking & taking in all that Fresh Air. There was a picnic area here too with some picnic tables or you can just spread out your own blanket & have your own private Fall picnic. Fun Fun Fun for FREE FREE FREE! It used to be, you had to have Mega Bucks & be really rich to have The Good Life, not anymore. The Game has changed. You've Been Upgraded. Now You Can Live Like A King On A Limited Budget! read more

This is another fascinating stop our tour made after Lexington. There isn't much to see but it is the history of what happened here that makes this place intriguing. As with Lexington, get yourself a guide! They will explain, with enthusiasm, exactly what transpired here. There is plenty of walking to be done if you want but our group just went to the bridge, listened to our guide and headed back to the bus. read more

See all

Very historic site. Good free parking and bathrooms. Short walk requried. Graves of the First two English soldiers killed in the Revolutionary War- April 19, 1779 by the American "terrorists." read more

See all

So we stayed the night at a friends house after a Halloween party, during the course of the night her father (military guy... all hush hush) offered to take us on a history tour that would only take about 2 hours, but only if we can get up by a certain time in the morning. I was reluctant at first because I don't normally wake up that early especially after parting all night. I have to say I'm so glad I did, it was really cool. Yes, that's right kids I said history is cool!! What a weird feeling it is to be standing in the very spot where the American Revolutionary War started. To be able to travel down the path of the colonial militia otherwise known as Minutemen and where Paul Revere began his journey to warn people. Honestly it's all a bit surreal; your mind is racing with what ifs! Or you're overwhelmed when you think about what both sides must have thought before firing their first shots. If you follow the path take the bridge and go up the hill you will find a historical house of sorts. First thing you notice is the size of the front door, it's about double maybe triple the size of our current standard front door. From there the architecture is amazing, the crown molding done by hand, the winding stairs, and the room designs. Inside each room, you will find a plethora of antiques and brief history lesson. Of course it wouldn't be complete without a gift shop (all I have to say is thank god they don't make their employees dress or speak the part... that would be hell!!), where you will find books, trinkets, postcards, and many other small items. *** Big shout out to Mr. T for taking us *** No, not that Mr. T, I can see it now "I pity the fool who don't like history" read more

See all

If you are interested in American history and want to spend some nice quiet walk, this is a good place. You can picnic here or walk around. If you walk around it's a big loop that is probably around half a mile in total. Not big but you can see the area where war broke out. read more

I've been here twice and it seems like this area is a few degrees chillier than the rest of the area. It was certainly a bad idea to come on a clear nov or dec day. I was fine throughout Concord; but I didn't last more than 10 minutes here. Today, it was 75-80 all day. When I got to North Bridge, it was chilly and was about 30 minutes before it poured. I thought it was me, but seems like there was plenty of people with jackets on. Maybe it's the grave of British Soldiers that is making this landmark chilly!!! There's also a visitor center here which is why I think this deserves its own review! The Hancock cannon is in the visitor center. Outside the center is a small outlook towards the bridge with a garden adjacent. The center is a quarter mile walk from the bridge. A quarter mile of placid nature scene. This is such a pretty landmark!! The bridge is restored in 2005 which is why it looks so NEW!! I believe this is the 6th bridge to occupy since the battle of 1775. I can't wait to come here during Fall foilage. I bet it's gonna be very gorgeous! read more

See all

After visiting the Lexington Green our Bus Tour continued to the Old North Bridge in the Minuteman National Historical Park. Our tour included the services of a local tour guide who provided us with wonderful insight on what occurred here on April 19, 1775. The Old North Bridge is the site of the American Patriots fired on the British Red Coats. This has become known as "The Shot Heard Around The World," and the American Revolutionary War began in earnest. The bridge that stands here today, is a replica of the one the was here in 1775 but it stands on the original site. Also located here is a Minuteman Statue by Daniel Chester French, that was place here in 1875, on the 100th anniversary of the battle. Two of the Three British Soldiers who died during the battle are buried here and a small monument marks their graves. The Old North Bridge is part of the Larger Minuteman National Historical Site which is a must for any history buff. read more

North Bridge - The grave of two British Soldiers Killed here on April 19, 1775 - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Concord, Massachusetts

See all

Another wonderful historic spot in Concord. If you're lucky and you visit the North Bridge, you can catch a guide giving a speech to a group of school kids, and you can listen in.... for free! This isn't the original bridge - obviously - just look at it! It is a NICE bridge, though. The actual original bridge has been replaced a number of times over, and we only think that this is the location of the original one. Close enough, I guess. We took some nice pictures, and walked up the trail past the bridge to the gift shop house at the top of the hill. It was a nice historic stop in town and I recommend you check it out! read more

Quite an experience to visit the sight where the "Shot heard round the world was fired" in the afternoon of April 19, 1775 which signaled the beginning of American's War of Independence. The battle at the Old North Bridge was the second encounter that day the Colonial Militias had with British troops. Early that morning the British opened fire on the colonials at Lexington's Town green killing 8 and wounding 10 or more, the militia was hopelessly out numbered so they fell into retreat. The British advanced towards Concord on intelligence that there was a weapons cash, ammunition, supplies and that Paul Revere and Sam Adams were hiding somewhere in the area. Upon reaching the the Old North Bridge the force of 100 British soldiers crossed to the other side only this time they would be the ones hopelessly outnumbered by a force of 400 America Militia. This engagement was the first time the militias had opened fire on the British. British troops then retreated back to Lexington joining forces with other regiments then headed back to Boston under constant fire during the entire withdrawal. Once the English were back in Boston the colonials began the siege of Boston, the course of the American Revolution had been set. read more

See all

Disclaimer: I am an American history buff. Especially when it comes to colonial times leading up to and through the American Revolution. This is one of the best American historic sites you could visit if you ask me. When you visit the Old North Bridge you are visiting the site where colonial rebels first launched an organized resistance against the British. This is the site of "the shot heard 'round the world." The first skirmish of that day, April 19, 1775 happened a few miles away in Lexington on the Lexington Green. However, on the Lexington Green the British basically fired on colonial rebels with little to no resistance from the few rebels they faced. By the time the British reached the Old North Bridge site they faced full blown resistance from colonial rebels who had picked up their arms and were ready to take an aggressive stand against British oppression. Unfortunately the original bridge has been replaced several times but there are memorials on each side of the current bridge and the Old Manse House currently still sitting slightly off of the road witnessed everything that happened that day almost 250 years ago. read more

Just visited the lovely North Bridge today to soak up some history about the battle of Concord. The view was spectacular, and the park rangers were so informative and nice. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes and bring snacks with you on this lovely path. It's a very clean path, so please pick up after yourself.. not that I saw any litter there. Enjoy read more

See all

Our nation's historical landmarks always impress me so much. This bridge was no less impressive. There are a lot of photo opps and a walking trail from the house to the bridge. My parents used to canoe on the river and we saw some canoers which was neat. There was a school field trip there aa well, and the tour guide gave an enthusiastic recollection of the facts, so we tagged along. read more

North Bridge - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Concord, Massachusetts

The North Bridge is a very beautiful historic park and museum that you could probably spend all day at. I only scratched the surface of the things you could look at because I was passing through the area with my girlfriend and her family. The museum that I went into was very well organized and some of the artifacts that they had were amazing. As a history major and someone who loves to read and see history, this place was definitely satisfying. The park area that you can walk around was beautiful in terms of the foliage and the sheer amount of open space that you could walk around. The best part, of course, is the bridge itself where the Revolutionary War began. Again, as someone who studies history, being able to physically stand where our country, the United States of America was born, was simply amazing. I highly recommend stopping here and devoting the better part of your day to it because you will need that much time to enjoy all the North Bridge had to offer. If you are someone like me who enjoys history or even someone who wants to learn more about the Revolutionary War, this is definitely the place for you! read more

I love history! Went to Walden pond and also decided to check out some of the favorites of Concord while we rolled through town. Tip, not many lights so if the sun's setting...just come another day! Unfortunately, North Bridge was our last stop and the sun was setting around 5pm, so that's our fault for getting there a bit late, but it would be nice if they set up just a few more lamp lights near the bridge so that visitors could at least have a better idea where they were walking. Other than that, the place was lovely. The bridge is smaller than expected from pictures, but walking on it still gives me a sense of history and wonder so it's still worth going to check off the list. Winter: when I went the snow covered the entire ground and I got a little bit excited walking around and taking pictures that I did not realize I was walking on the outer edge of the frozen lake until I heard mild cracking beneath my feat, so WATCH OUT FOR THE WATER! A ton of people built tiny snowmen all throughout the area and the bridge itself is nice at sunset. I will come again during the spring or fall for the colors! read more

How could you not love the history here? I love that the area around North Bridge looks just like I would have expected it to in 1775....rolling hills, lovely greenery and great fall colors. This is a great historic spot and definitely worth a visit if you're in the area! read more

Brought my 1 and 2 year old up for a Sunday morning visit. The rain cleared nicely for a bit and there weren't a lot of people, better for us. Always a fun time walking down to the bridge. Clean and well maintained. Wonderful visitors center and the rangers went above and beyond to help two young boys have a good time read more

It all started here at a bridge! Ok. So here is where the "Shot Heard 'Round the World" actually happened. If you have any interest in American history, you have to visit this spot. It isn't much to see ... just a bridge crossing a river and two monuments marking the event, as well as a burial marker for the British soliders who died here ... but if you have any sense of imagination whatsoever, you should be able to flash back to that infamous day of April 19, 1775 when the entire course of history changed. It all started here at a bridge! read more

This is a really nice stop in Concord. It is a small area but there is just something nice about it. It is next to the Old Manse not too far from town. A worthy stop read more

My family enjoyed learning about the history of this place and the sacrifices that were made so long ago that paved the way to help make America what it is today. read more

Interesting stop The visitors center doesn't offer much though the 8 minute video was nice with re-enactors and actors illustrating what happened at this location. The grounds are spacious with nice plantings, nice paths, and there many views of the river and the bridge. The walk to the bridge is about a quarter of a mile and is a problem for those with mobility issues. I enjoyed the brief visit. read more

For a patriot sympathizer like me, North Bridge is where it's at. I mean that in the nerdiest, most awkward way possible. There are enough markers, monuments and other signage to give you a good idea of what went on during the brief engagement at North Bridge, and if you walk up the path alongside the field, you'll eventually find a visitor center with more information, maps, videos, etc. There is also a viewing area up there, from which you can see most of the field where the colonists gathered, and the bridge beyond that. North Bridge is an amazing place, and a must-visit. read more

Amazing! It was definitely special being here on Patriot's Day. I could really envision how all of history went down. Specially with the guys all dressed up like colonials and the narrator depicting every moment. It was really nice, I recommend coming here with your kids. read more

Nice to see and walk on a piece of U.S. history.