by Christine O'Callaghan

Created on: May 04, 2008   Last Updated: December 09, 2008

On the Path of the Patriots: Exploring Our Nation's Birth in Boston and Beyond

Ready for an unforgettable family adventure where history comes to life? Bring your walking shoes and your imagination and head to Boston, where important Revolutionary War sites rest amidst a vital modern city.

Children will love meandering along Boston's Freedom Trail, a nearly three mile path marked in brick or red paint that passes 16 historic sites. While all of these sites are family-friendly and significant in the history of Boston, several were pivotal in events leading up to the Revolutionary War.

Start at the Boston National Historic Park Service Visitors Center (15 State Street), where you can get free maps and brochures. Strike out on your own or join a tour led by a Park ranger for an overview. The tour won't take you inside the sites, so you'll want to retrace your steps for a more in-depth exploration.

Celebrate freedom of speech at the Old South Meeting House (310 Washington Street), where, among other important topics, the Boston Tea Party was discussed. Now a museum, the early 18th century structure provides the perfect backdrop for its popular scavenger hunts and activity kits for families. Outside the Meeting House, you're once again transported to the past when you stand on the cobblestone circle marking the site of 1770's Boston Massacre.

A favorite for all ages, the Old State House (Corner of State and Washington Streets) is Boston's oldest public building. The original building now operates as a museum showcasing educational exhibits and artifacts of the Revolutionary War era. Kids especially love the interactive "Hands-on History" exhibits and seeing tea from the Boston Tea Party. The museum also hosts a series of Saturday family programs, which offer a variety of hands-on activities related to life in colonial Boston.

No trip to Boston is complete without a stroll through the Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Take a quick break from the throngs and visit its namesake, Faneuil Hall. Designated the "cradle of liberty" in 1763, this former marketplace and meeting hall now hosts a variety of vendors and the museum and armory of an 18th century artillery company. The National Park Service maintains the building's Great Hall and provides educational programs.

For a glimpse of daily colonial life, visit the Paul Revere House (19 North Square), downtown Boston's oldest building. Travel back to the late 1700s as you stroll through two stories of period furnishings and learn more

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