My first review of the year goes to the USS Constitution, my last stop on the Freedom Trail and one of my favorites. I have read in some people's reviews that visitors should skip visiting the old boat, I couldn't disagree more! It is free to visit! So, that's a great plus! Nothing to lose! It was launched in 1797 so it's the oldest warship you can visit in USA! Pretty unique, right? It is a fun adventure to explore it, wear comfy shoes because you will climb down a few levels. Great views and lots of old cannons on the main deck! The "Old Ironsides" has a huge history, check out the official website before your visit. Opened on certain days: Wednesday- Sunday from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm USS Constitution is an active-duty ship and US Navy members are around if you have questions, nice and full of useful information. You can do your own tour, at your leisure and pace. My favorite. There's information to read around, you can see the sailor's quarters, small exhibits, old artifacts on view. Just be careful, because some stairs are steep and some spots have low ceilings. This is the oldest commissioned ship still afloat, so check it in the Charlestown Navy Yard. It's an unique occasion! For us, exploring the ship was a great experience, felt like kids, wandering through an old ship. Lots to learn and to discover. Get a better understanding of the past! A must visit while in Boston! read more

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GREAT TOUR, BUT DON'T BRING VULNERABLE VALUABLES! In the summer of 2008 I was on vacation, when I visited the USS Constitution in Boston. I had undeveloped film in disposable cameras which I did not wish to have run through the x-ray machine. So I requested a hand inspection instead. But the Navy personnel inspector insisted that the x-ray machine posed no risk to the film and therefore tried to hurry me up because there was a line of people behind me. But I stood my ground. He finally relented to the hand inspection. But not without making me feel guilty about it for holding up the line. I just now (3/13/2026) read another recent review that shows that apparently this policy of speeding up the line even at the risk of damaging visitors' property still stands. Specifically, I read about somebody who had medical equipment that should not be run through a metal detector, and therefore requested a hand inspection. But the naval inspector was very rude to the visitor about it. I even asked Anthropic's "Claude AI" about it today, re: whether I did the right thing re: standing my ground to protect my undeveloped film. The AI emphatically agreed with me, saying that x-ray machines do indeed pose a risk to undeveloped film (but once developed, it's OK). I mention this 18 years later so that the few people who still use disposable cameras will know not to risk undeveloped film going through an x-ray machine. BTW, I converted to digital photography not long afterwards in part because of this. As for the rest of the tour, once I got through the security inspection, it was great. (hence three stars instead of only one star) Just be sure to leave any vulnerable items that you don't want going through an x-ray machine or metal detector at home or at your hotel before you go there. Oh, and if you want to take pictures on board of the ship, use your smart phone or digital camera instead of a film camera. Claude agrees that x-rays are harmless to smart phones and digital cameras. read more

It's cool to be on an old boat, at least in my experience, but the fact that this is still in operation and operated by the US Navy does add an extra unique layer to this historic experience. It is free, and there are tours where the seamen explain Old Ironsides' history and how sailors worked it. You can go down into the interior to see where the crew and the captain ate. Plus you can learn how cannons work. There is a small exhibit you walk through before getting on board with more information about the military battles, and that takes like 10-20 minutes. It's open year-round Wed-Sun which is actually not common in Boston. Go when it's a nice day and learn about history on history. read more

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Visiting the USS Constitution is, quite literally, visiting a well preserved war ship from over 200 years ago. OVER 200 years ago! There was so much about the Constitution (also referred to as Old Ironsides) that amazed me. First, it's size. For being as old as it is, it's sizable. Of course, compared to the ships of today it's diminutive, but it's the use of the space on the Constitution that stands out. The main deck is larger than it looks from the outside with big guns lining the port and starboard sides. Standing there it's an odd feeling to know that you're standing where once stood sailors fighting sea battles during the war of 1812. There are several staircases that you can take below deck, which takes me to Point #2 I had no idea there were 3 decks below the main deck! In the lower decks you'll find steerage components, sailors hammocks, the mess, the captains quarters, the map room, and many others. Each deck is accessible by a staircase. The exterior of the ship has been beautifully restored. The black hull with its white highlights and insignia, along with its swept-back design gives it a sleek look. The ship tour is free, however you need to go through security, as it is considered a military facility. Also, keep in mind that this facility isn't entirely wheelchair accessible. If you find yourself in the Boston area, visit Old Ironsides. It's a true piece of American history. read more

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Also known as "old Ironsides" this is the world's oldest commissioned warship that remains afloat! Prior to entry, you must either present ID or passport and go through a metal detector, similar to airport screening. Entry is free and tours are also offered. The USS Constitution Museum and the USS Cassin Young are within walking distance as well. read more

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Seriously this is such a well-maintained ship that you can actually feel and see yourself in the quarters from long ago. We enjoyed going into the belly and seeing all of the captains quarters as well as where the "regular men" slept. This is included in the Free Trail and was our last stop. Exhaustion was hitting in, so we stopped for a bite before entering at Prima (see that review and do not miss this place if you are visiting the Constitution as it is in walking distance). After getting food in our bellies, it was time to visit the ship. We were welcomed by the working crew (Navy) and they were available to answer questions and seemed to enjoy their post. The view from the top is breathtaking and the ship itself feels like it was just built and could go out for another long trip. Stop in and see it if you are in the area! read more

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Definitely a magnificent ship my dad and I toured. Restored, but original, this ship brings you back to the time where it was used over seas. The best part is the navy still uses the ship to train soldiers! read more

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The young sailors stationed on the USS Constitution were not knowledgeable or engaging, with some being disinterested in answering questions or even brushing off visitors, To the Chiefs Mess you fuckers need to enforce discipline and respect. I dropped off a coin I hope you got it . I left on Friday afternoon before the rain. Your sailors lack the respect for veterans especially a retired Navy Chief ! These two sailors who were selling coins didn't even offer or asked me if I would like to buy a coin. To the museum staff don't tell veterans it's free but a donation is always welcome. You need to shut up! That is all ! Chief (Ret) Deal with confusion during the chaos read more

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Old ironsides herself was one of our last stops on our tour. This is a great little spot with plenty of room to wander around and take a look at the sites. Plenty of street parking, at least, when we were there, and a limited amount of people. Although historical, this didn't seem like a popular spot. read more

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"I'm gonna be iron like a lion in Zion " (Bob Marley) When cannon balls bounced off her hull during the War of 1812, the perplexed Brits assumed the USS Constitution was made of iron and called the ship "Old Ironsides". Little did they know the ship was made of 21" thick Southern Oak reinforced with copper sheathing. We loved our visit to the USS Constitution! We walked through the museum and boarded the ship, worked our way down two very steep ladders, explored the living quarters of the ship, interacted with two of the sailors who were charming and helpful, and felt in awe as we walked the decks of this 200+ year old ship. "Old Ironsides" is still an active Navy vessel and is undefeated in combat with a 33-0 record. read more

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Just an absolutely incredible experience on the countries oldest commissioned war ship. The tour is just awesome and well worth a visit. A national park open to everybody there is so much to see and the sailors are knowledgeable and willing to share their experiences and history with you. I loved it couldn't get enough! It's also one of the stops on the freedoms trail so you cannot miss it! The museum and park office are fantastic as well! read more

During my days of traveling to my former company's Boston area headquarters, I was afforded complete and unfettered free-time during the weekends. Taking full opportunity of this, I visited and took a tour of the USS Constitution. It had recently been rehabilitated, and pleasantly smelled of freshly-cut timber. The tour guide took his responsibilities very seriously, and was quite informative, if not a little stiff. If I ever make my way out in this area again, this will be one of my stops. I highly recommend visiting this piece of American history. read more

Located at the end (or beginning depending on your start) of the Freedom Trail, this was our last stop and honestly we just squeaked in before they closed. They do require a metal detector screening and you need some form of id to tour the ship. When we arrived to the actual ship, we were told they would be closing in 15 minutes. With that said we were only allowed to walk around the top deck. The areas opening to the lower levels were roped off. Not sure if that is because it was close to closing time or if they weren't allowing full access at the time. It was still neat to see the oldest war ship (Old Ironside) afloat but definitely plan to arrive earlier than closing time. read more

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Unfortunately the day we went the actual ship was not open, but luckily the museum was (they are operated by different entities so be mindful of the days and hours they are open). But seeing this ship in person after reading a book about it was jaw dropping! Absolutely stunning. So glad history is being kept alive. USS Constitution: The world's oldest commissioned warship afloat 1794-1797: Congress authorizes construction of 6 frigates to help protect American merchant fleets from attacks by Algerian pirates and harassment by British/French forces. They are designed by Joshua Humphreys and built at 6 different sites. The contract for the CONSTITUTION is given to Edmond Harrt's Shipyard in Boston. Made from more than 1,500 trees (from Maine to Georgia), armed with cannons cast in Rhode Island, and copper fastenings provided by Paul Revere, the vessel is truly a national ship. 1798: After Congress votes it fit for sea, it cruises in West Indies protecting U.S. shipping from French privateers. 1803-1806: President Thomas Jefferson sent her to the Mediterranean to protect American ships from the Barbary pirates. With Captain Edward Preble in command, CONSTITUTION and other ships of the squadron bombarded Tripoli. She hosted the signing of a peace treaty between the US and Tripoli. 1812-1815: War with Great Britain. The war was hardly a month old when CONSTITUTION, on the way from Chesapeake Bay to New York, met a squadron of 5 British ships. Her escape is now legendary; a 3-day, slow-speed chase. Its crew kept her ahead of the English by rowing (known to Sailors as the "white ash breeze"), by attempting to tow her with the ship's boats. Then Lt. Charles Morris suggested "kedging," in which an anchor is carried out ahead of the ship, dropped, and the ship drawn up to it. Aug 19 1812: The fight with HMS GUERRIÈRE took place 600 miles east of Boston. The 2 settled down to a short-range slugfest. At some point, someone is said to have seen British shot bouncing off CONSTITUTION's side, and shouted, "Huzzah! Her sides are made of iron' And so was born the nickname "Old Ironsides." The GUERRIÈRE was so badly damaged, she had to be sunk. Congress awarded Captain Isaac Hull a gold medal. Dec 29, 1812: 30 miles off Brazil. She began a fight with the faster HMS JAVA. American Commodore William Bainbridge was wounded twice, and the ship's wheel was shot away, but for more than 2 hours he fought until, Like GUERRIÈRE, JAVA was too badly damaged to bring home, but before sinking her, Bainbridge had her wheel removed to replace the one she shot away. Commodore Bainbridge also received a gold medal. Feb 20, 1815: 180 miles from Madeira Island. Captain Charles Stewart came upon the British men-of-war CYANE and LEVANT and overpowered them. He hoped to bring his captures home, but ran into a British squadron that retook LEVANT while CONSTITUTION and CYANE returned safely to New York. Captain Stewart received a gold medal from Congress. 1828-1830: Laid up at Boston. During this time the Navy requested the Navy Yard Commanders conduct surveys on all ships to determine how much work would need to be done to bring the ships into commission. This information reached a local publication and it was misreported that the Navy wanted to scrap 'Old Ironsides'. Immediately after that a poem by Oliver Wendell Holmes, called Old Ironsides, was written to generate public support. The Navy paid to refurbish CONSTITUTION. read more

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One of my favorite things on the Freedom Trail. Even if it was raining, we took our time climbing onto the ship before going down the ladder inside. Doing so was like going back in time. The ship has been beautifully preserved and should be a stop for any lover of history! read more

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wouldn't let us below deck so the experience was mid and was kind rude to us. meh meh meh

What I would've done to have this duty station! The tour is free and you go through a quick security screening then to a holding area that has a gift shop and USS Constitution artifacts. We visited on a rainy winter day so I'm sure it is more spectacular in the fall or spring. I also don't know if that contributes to uniform of the day as it doesn't seem natural to have the sailors in the green NWUs--I at least come from the time when we wore dungarees--but I digress! You're on an over 225 year old Naval ship! That is still active, albeit as a museum ship or maybe outreach?! Nonetheless, it's rad! What struck me was how small the inside was. I'm just shy of 6' tall and ducked the majority of the time while touring. Topside as well, it seemed barren though I'm sure things have changed since 1797. If you're a veteran, a historian, a patriot, or just want to imagine yourself back in time, take an hour and give this a tour! read more

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The oldest warship still afloat A real Naval vessel! Built in 1794 Launched in 1797 From Boston now docked here too The tour is amazingly interesting Words like gundeck, scuttledeck, and the head come alive here Simply amazing And free! read more

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How often do you get to go aboard a U.S. Navy Ship? Now ... How often do you get to go aboard history that is a U.S. Navy Ship? Well - Get on the USS Constitution and you can say you did both! This ship is incredible! According to the Navy's website, the USS CONSTITUTION is the WORLD'S OLDEST COMMISSIONED WARSHIP AFLOAT! Stepping on deck was surreal and because it's an actual commissioned ship there was a working crew at the time training. It was definitely an impressive sight to watch members of the crew performing climbing exercises and walking about their ship, listening to guides talk about the different parts of the each area, and seeing the impressive cannons all throughout the ship! We had to pass through security, showing our drivers license and going through a metal detector. I also had to send my purse through the X-ray screener. Once we passed through, it was just wide open space to walk aboard and see the incredible areas of the ship and naval yard. Best part - it's FREE to go on the USS Constitution! read more

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I had some overall issues with touring the USS Constitution, all of which were my own fault. Here are some tips to help you avoid some of my mistakes. First, the ship is closed on Mondays. So plan your trip to the USS Constitution accordingly. Next, you have to have your drivers license or a form of legal ID on you. I made this mistake and had to walk a mile or so back to the hotel. This was a common mistake I witnessed from our tourists as well. So- ID- have it on your person. The USS Constitution is managed by the US Navy so security is similar to what it is like at an airport. It's also considered a national park. Once you eventually make it on to the ship, it's a cool experience. It's the oldest war ship still around. You will be able to explore the different levels of the ship and if you are lucky, will get a first hand rendition of how to load and fire a cannon. The visitor center is packed full of helpful information you can read before touring the ship. I found the staff to be very friendly and helpful. Now, if you don't like old ships or history, this is not the tour for you. Last tip, the ship is open until 6 PM, but if you also want to explore the WW2 ship on site, you will have to watch your clock closely. The WW2 ship closes it's tour by 5:30. read more

USS Constitution - USS Constitution - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Old Ironside! Awesome and gorgeous tall ship, well restored/preserved, with 2 maritime museums beside.

I absolutely loved this tour and being aboard such an incredible piece of Americana. I read about Old Ironsides in school but never figured I'd ever actually be on the ship. The young active duty Navy sailor that gave us the tour was very informative and fun. She had the perfect personality to engage with people and make it all very interesting. Seeing the old guns, sleeping and eating areas and hearing the old war stories made for in amazing afternoon. The museum and gift shop were great as well. Life aboard this ship must have been quite the adventure. If you find yourself in Boston, definitely check this out. I left feeling romantic about history and the sea. read more

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Ship is very cool, views are great, area is so cool. Service members working there clearly hate it, and hate you for being there. Saw them yell at multiple people and try to force medical devices through metal detectors that can't go (as per Doctors and TSA). I have a medical device that can't go through metal detectors, clearly said that, and got absolutely berated. Was explicitly told "I work here, I know it can". Like what does that have to do with my prescribed medical device? After he did not mention is not being a metal detector, he yelled "ITS NOT A METAL DETECTOR, THATS WHAT IVE BEEN TRYING TI TELL YOU". No, all you actually said was that you work here. Congrats, you're employed. I do recommend seeing the site, but be aware that they don't want you there. read more

52 years ago, a young boy got to crawl all over this historic ship under a watchful eye of a grizzled seasoned sailor. This long gone sailor gave me a personal tour. While the tour was likely less than half an hour, I remembered way more than I bet he thought I would. It would launch me into heavy reading on many US military campaigns and battles as well as cementing my path as an Army officer. My recent trip to see this must see active US Navy Historical relic found it well maintained and still mostly sea worthy. The current crew looked fit and pround to wear both current and past uniforms! That pride extends to this ship. Although my adult height had me ducking more than 52 years ago as I scampered up, down and along the decks, I still felt like that boy of the past. The smells, sights and feel were still there. Check to make sure it is in port before you visit as it does sail from time to time! Mobility challenged individuals may not get to see all decks as the ladders are steep. All should visit here at least once. Imagine maneuvering in the winds to line up a broadside barrage or getting skinny before an English ship of the Line fired a bradside at you. Imagine the icy nights in you hammock, or the ear splitting roar of the cannon along with the acrid smell of burnt power and freshly splintter wood. Perhaps image life for weeks at sea getting your daily grog ration, accomodations right next to your shipmmates swinging in unison to the creaking timbers or sharing togetherness at the head. My utmost respect and admiration to the sailors of those days. And most sincere thanks to that long gone sailor who opened my mind to that history. read more

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USS Constitution and the Museum is one of the many stops along the Hop On/Hop Off tour. I'm glad I had checked it out. First, all of us needs to walk through a security screening. From there, we have the opportunity to check out this portion of a museum. From there, we were able to board the USS Constitution ship. Able to walk around the ship, on the deck and to the lower desk. From there, we were able to check out the USS Constitution Museum which housed more of the information about this grand ship. Even if your not interested in war ships, I was still recommend this. read more

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Cool boat to go through. It's a working US boat which is pretty cool. There's also a museum nearby. Definitely a must stop for US history! read more

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SO COOL! It was truly amazing to see the size of this old Navy ship. Imagining it sailing with a full crew was truly mind-boggling. This ship is a national treasure and an great piece of the history of the United States. I'm glad I visited while I was in Boston. The WW2 ship that's also docked in the same area is also worth a visit. Very cool stuff and helps demonstrate the sacrifice past generations have made to protect what we have today! read more

The USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned ship in the US Navy. And the only ship remaining in its fleet that has ever sunk an enemy vessel--which earned the nickname "Old Ironsides" when it withstood the British bombardment during the war of 1812. Open from 10am until 5pm, it's free of charge, but visitors must first enter via a security checkpoint at the Navy Yard Visitor Center. Photo ID is required for people age 18 and older and everyone must pass through a metal detector. The Nautica Parking Garage in Charlestown is the easiest way to park. Located near the Navy Yard, it'll cost you about $20. Parking is so abysmal in Boston. Just use the parking garage. read more

USS Constitution - USS Constitution - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

VERY disappointed in our attempts to see the USS Constitution. We were in Boston for the day on 9/13/24, and visiting the ship was supposed to be the highlight of our walk of the Freedom Trail. We went straight there from North Station and arrived a little before 11 to find the ship missing, and "ship is closed" signs up. We asked at the Museum, and they told us that she had been taken out for some sort of ceremony and would be back in the afternoon, but they didn't think there'd be tours today. We toured the USS Cassin Young next door instead, and then decided to try at least going to the USS Constitution Visitor Center, since we were there. The guards at security told us that only the gift shop was open, but the ship would be back in the afternoon and tours would resume at 4 pm. We walked the rest of the Freedom Trail. While at Faneuil Hall we had chatted with a ranger who confirmed that the USS Constitution was back in port and conducting tours again, so from Boston Common we walked 45 minutes back to the naval yard, arriving at 5 (an hour before closing). The ship was back, but for reasons unknown they had decided not to resume tours today after all. Since we had walked all that way back, we took the opportunity to browse the Visitor Center displays (which TBH aren't worth the trip on their own). Very disappointed in the lack of ship access that day, as well as the misinformation being conveyed by the NPS staff. read more

USS Constitution - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Incredibly preserved 200 year old ship from the War of 1812. You can climb all over the ship and a surprising amount of it is accessible. An amazing thing to experience and it's best enjoyed after visiting the museum. read more

USS Constitution - Inside the boat - watch your head! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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The USS Constitution is a active boat and has been in the history books. It has been around since 1797 and if you go into the boat you can see active personal in there. The ship itself is clean and kept like how it was from back in the day. But it also has some tech stuff there too! Overall if you are in Boston you need to come here and go through security and also you must have your ID with you. There is also a person that talks about the history on the boat and you can go down and see some of the areas. But other areas are blocked off. You can spend as much time on the boat as possible. Walk around from the top part to the end of it and however you want. It is quite large and you'll really get a workout from this place! Don't forget that there is also a museum just a few feet away. It will have some more information about the boat but I did the museum first and then went to the boat! read more

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Experience: 5* Location: 4* Ambience: 5* Price: 5* (free) This was a great experience. A walk into the past to see old iron sides. She is bigger than she looks with three whole levels to explore. Going up and down the stairs is an experience. Learning about her importance to various battles she won was great. Experiencing her and imagining her in her full glory at sea was a neat experience. Talking to the active military workers there about the history and seeing it through their eyes was enlightening. Be sure to check out the USS Cassin Young too to round out your experience. read more

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We had a fun visit to this pay what you wish attraction. Unfortunately the ship was closed on the day we were there, but we spent a decent amount of time in the museum. The museum is set up to be very interactive and is great for kids. You even get to walk through a timeline like you joined the ships crew. Definitely visit if you have some history interest or if you have children. read more

Me and my group greatly enjoyed our time here! We spent about an hour exploring the ship and learning it's history. There are plenty of educational plaques stationed around the ship that teach about how it functioned as a warship, and plentiful guides located on each floor to answer any questions. It's free to enter, you simply need to go through a quick security checkpoint and then you can walk out to the ship. Highly recommend! read more

This was a cool experience. Actually going on board this ship and touring the insides and its history was fascinating.

Spent about an hour and a half here on a two day trip to Boston. I don't think you can miss this on your itinerary. It doesn't cost any money although you can give a donation of your choice when going into the museum. They don't even ask you before going on the ship. So much history! Plus they have another warship there from the 1940s. The USS constitution is the oldest active duty warship in the world, definitely worth going on it and having a look around if you're in Boston. There is also a gift shop, great prices on some little souvenirs even just general Boston souvenirs, much cheaper than the market or the little shops. Enjoy! read more

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Free to enter after a quick but slightly convoluted security check. Remember that this is a VERY OLD, FUNCTIONING naval vessel, so dress appropriately. (Skirts and heels may not be the most helpful if you want to climb down a narrow ladder/staircase backwards.) It's a wonderful, lovingly maintained piece of history. There's plenty of information available not only from the sailors on-site and the posted signs but the nearby museums. Or you can just admire the aesthetics if you prefer-- there's a lot to like. read more

USS Constitution - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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The USS Constitution is the oldest shop still on the water. This is the last stop on the Freedom Trail and is free to the public for tours. It is maintained by the Navy and located in the Boston Navy Shipyard. This was one of the coolest things to see in Boston! You can walk around the deck and go down two levels to see the cannons and where the sailors slept. Learning the history and relevance of this shop was incredible and should be a must do for everyone visiting Boston! read more

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Incredible take. America. Naval might. Well worth the trek into Boston. I'm a Navy veteran and grew up here in the Commonwealth, yet never had been. The closest I ever got to Old Ironsides was my Navy Good Conduct Medal. Parking available on-site was 18.00 dollars for two hours. Admission on the ship was free. This Old Navy Squid, a Radioman, Second Class Petty Officer had a great time! I talked with several other Navy veterans as well as the active duty crew; very nice people veterans and AD. I felt like I was visiting an old friend. The ship, while very storied, was quite small, and deck to overhead, down below was about five and a half feet. I bought an Ensign and ran it up the main sail for $25.00 and they give you a certificate signed by the Skipper. National Park Service, federal rules apply. Security check and no firearms. I really annoyed and loved my time visiting the ship. Thanks to the Navy crew, and the Skipper! Bravo Zulu. 08OCT2022 read more

USS Constitution - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

This was a bucket list item for me! The ship is remarkably detailed and kept in amazing shape. It is still serviced by active duty sailors and officers. I highly recommend coming to see it if you are a history buff or touring the New England area. read more