Old State House
4.6(2.3K)google
4.0(111)yelp
HistoryHistoric BuildingmuseumGuided TourMust-See
Overview
The Old State House stands proudly amidst towering modern skyscrapers as the absolute oldest surviving public building in Boston, constructed originally in 1713. This beautiful red-brick landmark served as the seat of British colonial government and is the historic site where the Boston Massacre exploded directly outside its doors in 1770. From its ornate royal balcony, the Declaration of Independence was first read proudly to ecstatic crowds of Bostonians, and it now operates as a premier museum of revolutionary history.
Practical Info
Suggested DurationAbout 1-1.5 hours
Best TimeThe best time to visit is mid-week mornings from Monday to Thursday right at its 10:00 AM opening. The striking visual contrast between this historic red-brick Baroque building and surrounding modern skyscraper financial towers looks sharpest in crisp morning light.
Getting TherePerfectly positioned downtown, you can take the MBTA Subway Blue or Orange Line directly to State Station. Fascinatingly, one of the station's main entry stairwells is built right into the basement of the historic structure itself.
Travel Tips
- Never buy a single-entry ticket here. It's managed by Revolutionary Spaces alongside Old South Meeting House. Buy their Joint Ticket to visit both historical sites, which are just a 3-minute walk apart.
- Due to its historic architecture, elevator access is limited to certain floors. Visitors with strollers should check them at the ground floor desk and use a baby carrier for navigating upper rooms.
Photo Tips
Photo Spots
- The circular medallion on the ground right outside the building marks the Boston Massacre Site. This prime photo spot is completely outdoors and free to view without buying museum tickets.
Reviews
Positive
- Boston's oldest surviving public building with the Boston Massacre site right at its doorstep; its perfect location and deep historic roots offer irreplaceable value.
- The Revolutionary War artifacts displayed inside are jaw-dropping with clear multilingual guides, and the interactive multimedia tools are highly engaging and educational.
- The transit convenience is unmatched; the State station for the Blue and Orange subway lines sits right underneath the building, letting you step out seamlessly into history.
- Crowd management is orderly; the staff do a fantastic job ensuring safety security and implementing entry limits, keeping queuing flows clear.
Heads up
- A standalone ticket is slightly pricey; although a combo with Old South Meeting House exists, it offers average value for tourists just doing a quick walk-through.
- Because it's a historic structure, the internal restrooms are cramped and limited in number, often seeing long lines during peak hours, straining facility upkeep.
- Nestled in the modern, high-rise Financial District causes exterior photos to be easily overshadowed by modern skyscrapers, lacking a grand historical atmosphere.
- The internal AC or heating is unevenly distributed during extreme weather, leaving certain small galleries stuffy or freezing, needing better climate control.