Concord Museum Boston
Explore Concord's pivotal role in the American Revolution and its legacy as a literary hub, featuring artifacts from Thoreau and Alcott.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Concord Museum Boston
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Concord's pivotal role in the American Revolution and its legacy as a literary hub, featuring artifacts from Thoreau and Alcott.
"A gem of a museum, packed with history and artifacts, bringing the Revolution and literary past to life."
🎯 Make it a Day Trip
The museum is smaller, but the area offers historic homes, graves, and Walden Pond.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Scavenger Hunt
Engage younger visitors with a scavenger hunt and interactive exhibits.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Revolutionary War Artifacts
Exhibits on the Battle of Lexington and Concord
See muskets, musket balls, and pieces of the North Bridge, crucial to the 'Shot Heard 'Round the World.'

Literary Connections
Exhibits on Thoreau, Alcott, Emerson, Hawthorne
Explore artifacts and stories from Concord's famous literary residents, including the Thoreau family.

The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere
Dedicated exhibit
Discover the events leading up to the Revolution with a captivating display on Paul Revere's famous ride.

Animated Battle Map
Interactive exhibit
One of the coolest things ever seen, this animated map brings the Battle of Lexington and Concord to life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for History Buffs
Getting to Concord
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Make it a Day Trip
The museum is smaller, but the area offers historic homes, graves, and Walden Pond.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Scavenger Hunt
Engage younger visitors with a scavenger hunt and interactive exhibits.
visiting concord/waltham/boston in March! things to do?!
🚗 Transportation Note
A car is recommended for exploring Concord, as public transport is limited.
🎟️ Check for Special Exhibits
The museum occasionally features unique displays, like Christmas trees inspired by children's books.
Is there a Revolutionary War Museum?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Make it a Day Trip
The museum is smaller, but the area offers historic homes, graves, and Walden Pond.
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Scavenger Hunt
Engage younger visitors with a scavenger hunt and interactive exhibits.
🚗 Transportation Note
A car is recommended for exploring Concord, as public transport is limited.
🎟️ Check for Special Exhibits
The museum occasionally features unique displays, like Christmas trees inspired by children's books.
🚶♀️ Explore Historic Downtown
The museum is close to Concord's charming downtown with shops and historic sites.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Concord Museum for its rich collection of Revolutionary War artifacts and its deep dive into Concord's literary history, calling it a 'gem' and 'fascinating.' The animated battle map is a standout feature, and the museum is noted as being family-friendly with interactive elements. While smaller, it's packed with history and well-presented.
"Spectacular display of the timeline of the events of the night before and the day the Revolutionary War began, April 19, 1775. Loved the display of “The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere”. Nicely laid out museum and the format of the descriptions were short enough, yet descriptive to keep the interest of teen boys. A Gem of a Museum!
Stop at the spot Paul Revere was captured between Lexington and Concord. We got lucky and saw the Red Coats and the Colonial Rebels along the trail."
Rebecca Benz
"Fascinating local museum that also contains world-class exhibits on the Battle of Lexington and Concord--where the "Shot Heard 'Round the World" was fired.
Muskets, musket balls, and pieces of the bridge are all present, as are sensitive representations of First Nations, women and people of color through the area's history.
While there, take time to also visit the colonial era graveyards of Concord, where many immigrants and locals born in the 1600s are buried, not to mention prominent 19th c. authors like Louisa May Alcott, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne, and Henry David Thoreau."
Nick Raposo
"Very nice museum! On the smaller side but packed full of history and artifacts. They have a scavenger hunt for the kids as well as several interactive things for kids to do throughout the exhibits. There is also a lot to do right in the area around the museum, so you can make a day of it even though the museum itself only takes about 1-2 hours to go through."
Katie Loveday
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way to reach the Concord Museum from Boston is by car, offering flexibility to explore the surrounding historic sites. If you don't have a car, you can take the commuter rail from Boston's North Station to Concord. However, be aware that train schedules can be infrequent, so plan your travel time accordingly.
Some visitors suggest using ride-sharing services or booking a guided tour that includes transportation from Boston.Concord is a suburban town that was historically built for cars, so getting around without one can be challenging. While the immediate downtown area around the museum is walkable, exploring further afield to sites like Walden Pond or other historical homes might require a car or relying on limited public transport.
Consider a Liberty Ride trolley tour for an overview of the area without extensive walking.There are typically parking lots available near the Concord Museum and in the downtown area. It's advisable to check for any specific parking restrictions or fees upon arrival.
Yes, you can take the commuter rail from Boston's North Station to Concord. The Concord station is relatively close to the downtown area and the museum.
However, it's important to check the schedule in advance as trains do not run very frequently.Yes, several tour operators offer day trips from Boston to Lexington and Concord, which often include visits to the Concord Museum and other historical sites. These tours can be a convenient option if you prefer not to drive or navigate public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Concord Museum typically has set operating hours, but it's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times, as well as any seasonal variations.
Admission fees for the Concord Museum vary. It's recommended to visit their official website or contact them directly for current ticket prices and any potential discounts for seniors, students, or children.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for special exhibits or during peak season, can save you time and ensure entry. Check the museum's website for their ticketing policy.
The Concord Museum often hosts special exhibits that complement their permanent collections. These can range from historical deep dives to thematic displays, like those inspired by children's literature.
It's worth checking their website for current and upcoming special exhibitions.Yes, the Concord Museum typically offers group rates for educational institutions, tour groups, and other organizations. Contact their group sales department for more information and to make arrangements.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Concord Museum showcases the political and cultural history of Concord, with a strong focus on the American Revolution and its literary heritage. You'll find artifacts from the Battle of Lexington and Concord, items belonging to famous authors like Thoreau and Alcott, and displays detailing the town's significant role in American history.
Yes, the Concord Museum is quite family-friendly. They often have interactive exhibits and a scavenger hunt designed to engage younger visitors.
The displays are generally presented in a way that can hold the interest of teens as well.The Concord Museum itself is on the smaller side and can typically be explored in about 1-2 hours. However, many visitors find that combining a museum visit with exploring the surrounding historic sites in Concord can easily fill a half-day or even a full day.
While the museum has informative displays, guided tours might be available, especially for groups. It's best to inquire directly with the museum or check their website for any scheduled tours or audio guides.
The Concord Museum is located in a historically rich area. Nearby attractions include Walden Pond, The Old Manse, Minute Man National Historical Park (including the North Bridge), and various historic homes and graveyards associated with Concord's famous residents.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary at museums. Generally, personal, non-flash photography is often permitted for most exhibits, but it's crucial to look for signage or ask museum staff. Flash photography is usually prohibited to protect artifacts.
While specific exhibits might have restrictions, the museum's artifacts related to the Revolution and literary figures offer compelling visual stories. The animated battle map is also a unique visual element.
Outside the museum, the historic architecture of Concord and its natural landscapes provide excellent photographic subjects.Most museums allow personal photography for social media sharing as long as it's non-flash and doesn't interfere with other visitors' experiences. However, for professional or commercial use, specific permissions are usually required. Always check the museum's guidelines.
Weekday mornings, when crowds are lower, can offer a more relaxed environment for photography. Natural light can also be a factor, so consider the time of day and any window placements within the museum.
You can find photos of the Concord Museum on their official website, social media channels (like Instagram), and through travel blogs or review sites. Searching for 'Concord Museum exhibits' or 'Concord MA history' on image search engines will also yield results.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your museum visit with a walk to nearby historic sites or a picnic at Walden Pond for a full day of family-friendly exploration. The museum's manageable size means you won't overwhelm younger visitors, and the educational content is presented accessibly.
📚 Literary Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during special exhibit times, as the museum sometimes features displays related to children's literature or specific authors, adding another layer to your experience. The museum’s location in Concord also means you’re surrounded by the very landscapes and historical settings that influenced these writers.
🏛️ History Buffs & Revolution Enthusiasts
Beyond the battle, the museum provides context on the political and social climate of the time, showcasing the town's role as a hotbed of revolutionary sentiment. You can also explore the colonial graveyards and other historical markers in the vicinity to deepen your understanding of this pivotal period.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Concord's Revolutionary Roots
Beyond the battlefield, the museum delves into the broader context of the Revolution, showcasing objects that illustrate the daily lives, political tensions, and societal shifts of the era. An animated map of the battle is a standout feature, providing a dynamic and engaging way to visualize the troop movements and strategic decisions. Visitors often remark on how this exhibit brings the history to life in a way that textbooks cannot.
For those interested in the political and cultural history of Concord, the museum provides a comprehensive narrative. It highlights the town's role as a center of intellectual and revolutionary thought, setting the stage for its later fame as a literary hub.
Literary Concord: A Haven for Thinkers
Visitors can explore personal belongings, manuscripts, and artifacts that offer insights into the lives and creative processes of these literary giants. The museum's collection includes items from the Thoreau family, providing a glimpse into their unique lifestyle and philosophical pursuits. These displays are not just about the books they wrote, but about the environment and the community that fostered their groundbreaking ideas.
The museum's connection to these authors makes it a pilgrimage site for literature enthusiasts. It’s a place where you can feel the echoes of their words and understand the historical context that shaped their enduring works. The museum also often features special displays, such as those inspired by children's books during the holiday season, further connecting its exhibits to the literary heritage.
Navigating Concord: Travel and Accessibility
For those relying on public transit, the commuter rail from Boston's North Station to Concord is an option. However, it's essential to meticulously check the train schedule in advance, as trains do not run very often. Once in Concord, the immediate downtown area around the museum is walkable, offering a pleasant experience for exploring local shops and eateries.
To get a comprehensive overview of the area without extensive walking, consider a Liberty Ride trolley tour, which covers key historical points in both Lexington and Concord. This can be a great way to orient yourself and identify spots you might want to revisit later. For families, the museum's interactive elements and scavenger hunt can make the visit more engaging, while the proximity to other historical sites allows for a full day of exploration.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit