Bostonians blazed a trail of freedom from colony to independence. They met in town meetings to argue contemporary issues, they spoke against excessive taxes, and they were among the first to turn the tide of British dominion.

Today the many sites preserved within Boston National Historical Park honor the accomplishments of that revolutionary generation and present a compelling view of the city's role in the nation's history. Each site brings to life the American ideals of freedom of speech, religion, government, and self-determination.

Most of the park's features are connected by the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile walking tour of 16 sites and structures of historic importance in downtown Boston and Charlestown. These sites include Boston's Old State House, Old South Meeting House, Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere House, Old North Church, Bunker Hill Monument, and the Charlestown Navy Yard.

One of the nation's first naval shipyards, Charlestown is the berth of the renowned USS Constitution, a frigate known as "Old Ironsides" since its victories against the British in the War of 1812.

• Walk the Freedom Trail through the historic neighborhoods of the patriots of the Boston Tea Party.
• Visit the Charlestown Navy Yards.
• Take a tour of the USS Constitution, a frigate nicknamed "Old Ironsides" in the War of 1812 when she sank the British frigates Guerriere and Java.