Bunker Hill Monument, Boston - Kentmere 400 // Fuji GW690II
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Bunker Hill Monument Boston

4.6
·7k reviews·Boston, United States

A 221-foot granite obelisk commemorating the Battle of Bunker Hill, offering panoramic city views after a 294-step climb.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, easier climb.

CrowdLow
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Bunker Hill Monument, Boston - Kentmere 400 // Fuji GW690II

Bunker Hill Monument Boston

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, easier climb.

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 221-foot granite obelisk commemorating the Battle of Bunker Hill, offering panoramic city views after a 294-step climb.

4.6
(7k reviews)

"A great ending to the Freedom Trail walk, offering rewarding views after conquering 294 steps!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Conquer the 294 Steps

It's a workout, but the views are worth it! Take your time and enjoy the journey to the top.

🗺️ Check Monument Access

Confirm if the monument is open for climbing before your visit. Hours can vary.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Monument's Summit

The Monument's Summit

Top of the Obelisk

Ascend 294 steps for panoramic views of Boston and its harbor. A true test of endurance with a rewarding vista.

Reddit
Battle of Bunker Hill Museum

Battle of Bunker Hill Museum

Across from the Monument

Discover the history of the pivotal Revolutionary War battle through exhibits and ranger presentations.

Reddit
Freedom Trail Finale

Freedom Trail Finale

Charlestown

This iconic obelisk serves as a significant landmark and often a concluding point for those walking the historic Freedom Trail.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Conquer the Climb

Prepare for a leg workout! The Bunker Hill Monument boasts 294 steps to its summit. While the views are rewarding, consider your stamina before ascending. Many visitors recommend it as a great ending to the Freedom Trail walk. Reddit

Check Opening Status

The monument's interior access can vary. Always check the official National Park Service website or call ahead to confirm if you can climb to the top, as it has been closed for renovations or due to events. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, easier climb.
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Rangers offer talks.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Let's #GoXplr the abandoned Quincy Quarries located just outside of Boston, Massachusetts. The first quarry was established by the famous builder, Solomon Willard, who used the stone in Quincy to create the Bunker Hill Monument. The quarry industry in Quincy became very popular and over 50 quarries were establish over its 140 year history. The last quarry was abandoned in 1963. They were opened to...
@goxplr
20.6K likes • 237.4K views

👟 Conquer the 294 Steps

It's a workout, but the views are worth it! Take your time and enjoy the journey to the top. Reddit+1

🗺️ Check Monument Access

Confirm if the monument is open for climbing before your visit. Hours can vary. Reddit+1

Show me the most Boston departure pictures you've ever taken... say no more Not many realize that the Bunker Hill Monument is older than the Washington Monument and stands to commemorate the Battle of Bunker Hill where great patriots fought against a tyrannical government. Guess we haven’t been a fan of kings and queens in Boston for sometime even long before it became more fashionable elsewhere...
aviationboston
202 likes • 0 views
The Bunker Hill Monument in Boston is a 221-foot granite obelisk commemorating one of the earliest and most famous clashes of the American Revolution. Its cornerstone was laid by Marquis de Lafayette in 1825, and after many funding delays the monument was finally finished and dedicated in 1843.   The obelisk marks Breed’s Hill—named after the wrongly remembered “Bunker Hill” on which colonial mi...
_veux_plus_de_vacances
155 likes • 0 views

🏛️ Visit the Museum

The museum across the street offers great context about the battle. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The top offers unique perspectives of Boston Harbor and the city skyline. TikTok

reddit.com

Took from Bunker Hill Monument.

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Conquer the 294 Steps

It's a workout, but the views are worth it! Take your time and enjoy the journey to the top. Reddit+1

🗺️ Check Monument Access

Confirm if the monument is open for climbing before your visit. Hours can vary. Reddit+1

🏛️ Visit the Museum

The museum across the street offers great context about the battle. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The top offers unique perspectives of Boston Harbor and the city skyline. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Bunker Hill Monument for its historical significance and the rewarding views from the summit after climbing 294 steps. The adjacent museum and informative rangers also receive positive mentions, making it a valuable stop on the Freedom Trail. Some note the strenuous climb and the limited space at the top during peak times.

"Very nice experience. Be prepared to conquer the 294 steps. Once you do, there are four nice views of the city. Outside the monument, there are interpretive markers explaining at least six events during the battle. Service dogs are allowed to climb the monument, and pets are not. My boy had little if any problems. I also recommend the museum directly across the street."

Robert Fellner

"Probably our favorite site along the Freedom Trail. You are able to climb up the monument, 294 steps, and see some great views from the top. We also listened to a short presentation about a few of the individuals involved at Bunker Hill and saw their musket be shot. Quite an ordeal of instructions in order to shoot. Don’t let the fact that this is a ways away from all the other sites, definitely a must see."

Jon Harrison

"The monument it open to the public and you can climb the 294 steps at only the cost of your knees. It's a cool view of Boston and a great place to learn about American revolutionary history. Lovely spot on the Boston freedom trail."

Megan Bland

What People Like

Historic significance
Panoramic city views
Challenging climb

What People Dislike

Strenuous climb
Limited top space

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Bunker Hill Monument is located in Charlestown, Boston. You can reach it via public transportation by taking the MBTA's Charlestown Ferry from Long Wharf or the MBTA's Orange Line to the Community College station, followed by a walk. Driving is also an option, but parking can be limited. TikTok

Yes, the Bunker Hill Monument is a key site along Boston's historic Freedom Trail, marking the end of the trail for many visitors. Reddit

Many visitors recommend combining a visit to the monument with the nearby Bunker Hill Museum and exploring the historic Charlestown neighborhood. Reddit

Yes, biking is a great way to explore Boston. There are bike paths that can lead you to Charlestown, and you can lock up your bike near the monument. TikTok

Street parking is available in Charlestown, but it can be competitive, especially on weekends. There are also a few paid parking lots in the area. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Bunker Hill Monument itself is typically free. However, it's crucial to check the National Park Service website for current operating hours and any potential reservation requirements, as access to climb the monument can be limited. Reddit+1

Climbing the Bunker Hill Monument is generally free of charge. The main 'cost' is the physical exertion of climbing the 294 steps. Reddit

Operating hours for the Bunker Hill Monument and its museum can vary seasonally and may be subject to change due to maintenance or special events. Always check the official NPS website for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Yes, visitors can typically go inside the Bunker Hill Monument and climb to the top. However, access has been temporarily closed for renovations in the past, so it's essential to verify its current status. Reddit+1

There are no strict age restrictions, but the climb involves 294 steps. Visitors should be physically able to manage the ascent. Service dogs are allowed, but pets are not. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The climb itself can take anywhere from 10-20 minutes, depending on your pace and how often you stop. Allow extra time for viewing the exhibits at the museum and enjoying the views from the top. Reddit

From the top, you can enjoy scenic views of Boston Harbor, the city skyline, and surrounding areas like East Boston and Winthrop. You might even spot the control tower at Logan Airport. TikTokReddit

Restroom facilities are typically available at the Bunker Hill Museum located across the street from the monument. Reddit

The monument itself involves climbing many stairs and is not accessible for wheelchairs. However, the Bunker Hill Museum across the street is generally accessible. Reddit

The monument commemorates the Battle of Bunker Hill, one of the earliest and most significant battles of the American Revolutionary War, fought on June 17, 1775. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

The summit offers panoramic city and harbor views, perfect for sweeping shots. The monument itself, with its imposing granite structure, is also a great subject from various angles on the ground. TikTok

Yes, you can take photos from the observation platform at the top. Be mindful of other visitors as the space can be small. Reddit

Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the monument's details, while late afternoon offers softer light and potentially stunning sunset views over the city. TikTok

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always check with park rangers if you have specific needs. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the monument's scale and the expansive views from the top. A standard zoom lens is versatile for general shots. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Bunker Hill Monument offers an engaging historical experience for families. While the 294-step climb might be challenging for very young children, older kids often enjoy the adventure and the rewarding views from the top. Reddit The Bunker Hill Museum across the street provides interactive exhibits and ranger talks that can captivate younger minds, explaining the Revolutionary War in an accessible way. Reddit Consider bringing snacks and water, and be prepared for the climb; it's a great way to burn off energy and learn about American history simultaneously. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs & Freedom Trail Walkers

For those walking the Freedom Trail, the Bunker Hill Monument is a significant landmark and often the culmination of the journey. Its historical importance as the site of a pivotal Revolutionary War battle makes it a must-see. Reddit Take time to explore the Bunker Hill Museum to delve deeper into the battle's narrative and the lives of the soldiers. Reddit The monument itself offers a tangible connection to the past, and the climb provides a unique perspective on the strategic importance of the location. Reddit

💪 Fitness Enthusiasts

The 294 steps to the top of the Bunker Hill Monument offer a fantastic, albeit short, workout. It's a great opportunity to test your stamina and enjoy a rewarding physical challenge with a historical backdrop. Reddit+1 The narrow stairwell adds to the unique experience, and the panoramic views from the summit serve as an excellent reward for your efforts. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Battle of Bunker Hill: A Pivotal Moment

The Bunker Hill Monument stands as a testament to the bravery shown during the Battle of Bunker Hill, which took place on June 17, 1775. Although technically fought on Breed's Hill, the battle is commonly referred to as Bunker Hill. This engagement was one of the earliest and most significant clashes of the American Revolutionary War. Despite an eventual British victory, the colonial forces inflicted heavy casualties, demonstrating their resolve and ability to stand against the formidable British army. This fierce resistance boosted American morale and signaled that the conflict would not be easily won by the British. Instagram+1

The monument itself is a 221-foot granite obelisk, a design choice that echoes other famous American monuments. Its cornerstone was laid by the Marquis de Lafayette in 1825, a significant figure in both the American and French Revolutions. The construction faced numerous delays due to funding issues, but it was finally completed and dedicated in 1843. The monument's location in Charlestown offers a strategic vantage point, overlooking the harbor and the city. Instagram

Visitors can learn more about the battle at the Bunker Hill Museum, located directly across from the monument. The museum features exhibits that detail the events of the battle, the lives of the soldiers, and the historical context of the Revolutionary War. Ranger-led programs and demonstrations, sometimes featuring historical reenactors, further enhance the educational experience, bringing the history of this pivotal battle to life. Reddit

Climbing the Obelisk: A Physical and Historical Journey

The most iconic experience at the Bunker Hill Monument is the climb to its summit. With 294 steps, it's a challenging but rewarding ascent that many visitors eagerly undertake. The narrow, winding staircase is a physical test, but each step brings you closer to a breathtaking panoramic view of Boston. Reddit+1

Upon reaching the top, visitors are greeted by four small observation windows offering distinct perspectives of the surrounding landscape. You can see the Boston skyline, the USS Constitution docked in the harbor, Logan International Airport, and even Deer Island. TikTokReddit The space at the top is quite confined, meaning visitors can't linger for too long during busy periods, but the views are certainly memorable. Reddit

It's important to note that the interior of the monument has undergone periods of closure for maintenance and renovations. Travelers are strongly advised to check the official National Park Service website or call ahead to confirm that the monument is open for climbing before their visit. Reddit+1 This ensures you won't be disappointed upon arrival and can plan your visit accordingly. Reddit

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