Old City Hall Boston
A historic 1865 Victorian Gothic landmark on the Freedom Trail, featuring the Benjamin Franklin statue.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Best for architecture viewing
Old City Hall Boston
Best Time
Best for architecture viewing

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic 1865 Victorian Gothic landmark on the Freedom Trail, featuring the Benjamin Franklin statue.
"A historical gem with imposing architecture, a must-see on the Freedom Trail."
📸 Photogenic Exterior
The outside is still has the original stonework, statues and courtyard. Very photogenic!
🚶 Freedom Trail Essential
This is stop number 6 on the Freedom Trail and well worth it for history buffs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Victorian Gothic Architecture
Admire the imposing facade with ornate details and pointed arches, a true architectural gem.

Benjamin Franklin Statue
Front of the building
A prominent statue of Benjamin Franklin stands as a key landmark outside the hall.

Freedom Trail Stop
This historic building is a designated stop on the famous Freedom Trail, rich with civic history.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photogenic Exterior
The outside is still has the original stonework, statues and courtyard. Very photogenic!
🚶 Freedom Trail Essential
This is stop number 6 on the Freedom Trail and well worth it for history buffs.
🌳 Shaded by Tall Trees
The exterior is shaded by tall trees, making it a pleasant spot to pause and admire.
🏛️ Architectural Grandeur
Struck by the imposing Victorian Gothic facade, with its ornate details.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photogenic Exterior
The outside is still has the original stonework, statues and courtyard. Very photogenic!
🚶 Freedom Trail Essential
This is stop number 6 on the Freedom Trail and well worth it for history buffs.
🌳 Shaded by Tall Trees
The exterior is shaded by tall trees, making it a pleasant spot to pause and admire.
🏛️ Architectural Grandeur
Struck by the imposing Victorian Gothic facade, with its ornate details.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Old City Hall for its impressive Victorian Gothic architecture and its significant role as a stop on the Freedom Trail. The Benjamin Franklin statue is a notable feature, and the exterior is highly photogenic. Some note that interior access is limited due to its current use as office space and ongoing renovations.
"Historical & Epic building with a nice statue of Benjamin Franklin. This is a really nice location and must see site.
You can walk obviously to all the place on the Boston Freedom Trail.
Th is stop number 6 and is well worth it!"
Paul Vivas
"Boston's Old City Hall is a historical gem nestled in the heart of the city, blending architectural grandeur with a rich tapestry of civic history. As a visitor stepping into its midst, you're immediately struck by the imposing Victorian Gothic facade, with its ornate details and pointed arches that evoke a sense of bygone elegance.
For history enthusiasts or those simply captivated by beautiful architecture, a visit to Boston's Old City Hall is a must. The building stands not only as a monument to Boston's rich heritage but also as a vibrant reminder of the city's enduring spirit."
Kristina Kovalyova
"While walking the Freedom Trial, you'll no doubt pass Boston's Old City Hall. This towering building was constructed around 1865, and features a statue of Benjamin Franklin out front. The outside is shaded by tall trees and very photogenic. History buffs will definitely want to stop and take out their cameras, read the inscriptions on the statues, and enjoy the moment."
Casey
What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old City Hall is conveniently located in downtown Boston and is easily accessible via public transportation. The closest MBTA subway stations are Government Center (Green and Blue Lines) and State (Orange and Blue Lines). Many visitors also reach it by walking as it's a stop on the Freedom Trail.
Yes, Old City Hall is a central point in Boston's historic district. It's a stop on the Freedom Trail and is within walking distance of Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, and the Boston Common.
Walking is highly recommended to explore the area around Old City Hall. It's part of the Freedom Trail, allowing you to discover numerous historical sites on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Old City Hall primarily functions as office space. While the exterior and surrounding grounds are publicly accessible, interior access may be limited or restricted due to renovations. No tickets are typically required to view the building from the outside.
As the exterior is publicly accessible, you can view it at any time. However, if you're hoping to see any interior public art or access specific offices, it's best to check for any public access hours or events, though this is uncommon.
There is no entrance fee to view the exterior of Old City Hall Boston or to see the Benjamin Franklin statue.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The interior of Old City Hall is largely used for office space and has undergone renovations. While some public art may be present, it's not a traditional museum. The main draw is its historical significance and architectural exterior.
While the exterior grounds are generally accessible, specific accessibility information for the interior, if accessible, would need to be confirmed directly with the building management.
The statue of Benjamin Franklin outside Old City Hall is a notable landmark and a point of interest for visitors exploring the Freedom Trail, highlighting Boston's historical connections.
Yes, photography of the exterior of Old City Hall and the Benjamin Franklin statue is encouraged and is a popular activity for visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the area around Old City Hall is bustling with dining options. You can find various restaurants in the nearby Faneuil Hall Marketplace, State Street, and the North End, offering diverse cuisines.
For a weekday afternoon meal around 3:30 PM, consider Bostonia Public House on State Street for a fancier lunch, or State Street Provisions which opens at 11 am. Mariel in Post Office Square is also a gorgeous option for a special occasion.
Bostonia Public House and State Street Provisions are recommended for lunch near Old City Hall. Faneuil Hall Marketplace also offers numerous casual dining choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire exterior facade, especially with the surrounding trees, and the Benjamin Franklin statue are prime photo opportunities. The 'Donkey/Elephant steps' are also a unique feature.
Daylight hours are best for appreciating the architecture. Late afternoon often provides softer, more flattering light for photography.
The combination of the grand Victorian Gothic architecture, the Benjamin Franklin statue, and the 'Donkey/Elephant steps' offer unique photographic perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine a visit with a walk through the nearby Boston Common and Public Garden, where kids can enjoy the playgrounds and the famous Make Way for Ducklings statues. The historical context of Old City Hall can be simplified for children as a grand old building where important city decisions were once made.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for late afternoon light to capture the facade in its best glow. The 'Donkey/Elephant steps' also offer a unique and quirky photo op. Remember that interior access might be limited, so focus on the exterior's grandeur.
🚶 History Buffs
Take time to appreciate the Victorian Gothic architecture and the historical context of the building. Reading the inscriptions on the statues and imagining the civic life that once unfolded here will enhance your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
While the exterior is a preserved historical marvel, the interior has been adapted over time. It now houses office spaces and public art, reflecting its transition from a civic center to a multi-use building. Despite interior changes, the building's historical presence and architectural beauty remain a draw for visitors exploring Boston's rich past.
For those interested in brutalist architecture or the evolution of urban design, Old City Hall offers a fascinating contrast to more modern structures in the city. Its enduring presence on the Freedom Trail solidifies its importance in Boston's historical narrative.
The Freedom Trail Connection
Walking the Freedom Trail allows you to connect Old City Hall with other pivotal locations like Faneuil Hall, the Old State House, and the Massachusetts State House. This makes it easy to incorporate a visit to Old City Hall into a broader historical exploration of Boston.
Visitors often find the area around Old City Hall to be very walkable, with the building itself serving as a picturesque backdrop for photos and a moment of reflection on Boston's past. The proximity to other attractions makes it a convenient and enriching stop for any history buff.
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