Concord Museum, Boston - A red sign hanging from the side of a building
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Concord Museum Boston

4.6
·489 reviews·Concord, United States

Explore Concord's pivotal role in the American Revolution and its legacy as a literary hub, featuring artifacts from Thoreau and Alcott.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more immersive

CrowdLow
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Concord Museum, Boston - A red sign hanging from the side of a building

Concord Museum Boston

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more immersive

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.6
(489 reviews)

"A gem of a museum, packed with history and artifacts, bringing the Revolution and literary past to life."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Revolutionary War Artifacts

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.'

Reddit
Literary Connections

Literary Connections

Exhibits on Thoreau, Alcott, Emerson, Hawthorne

Explore artifacts and stories from Concord's famous literary residents, including the Thoreau family.

Reddit
The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere

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.

Reddit
Animated Battle Map

Animated Battle Map

Interactive exhibit

One of the coolest things ever seen, this animated map brings the Battle of Lexington and Concord to life.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for History Buffs

Concord Museum Boston offers a deep dive into the American Revolution and literary history. To avoid crowds and fully appreciate the exhibits, consider visiting on a weekday morning. Weekends can get busy, especially during peak tourist seasons. Reddit

Getting to Concord

While Concord is a charming town, it's not as easily accessible by public transport as Boston. If you're relying on public transit, the commuter rail from North Station is an option, but schedules can be infrequent. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more immersive
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons (weekdays)
Why
Still manageable crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Can be busy
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Did you see something is missing from the Intrpeid? The Concorde is a undergoing a restoration and will he back spring 2024 #concorde #nycmuseum #nyc #intrepidmuseum #nyctravel #aviation #nychistory
@hereinnyc
39.9K likes • 832.1K views

🎯 Make it a Day Trip

The museum is smaller, but the area offers historic homes, graves, and Walden Pond. Reddit+1

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kid-Friendly Scavenger Hunt

Engage younger visitors with a scavenger hunt and interactive exhibits. Reddit

Learn about this rarely exhibited object, now on view in Whose Revolution. A Prospective View of part of the Commons by Christian Remick, Boston, MA, 1768-1770. Concord Museum Collection, Gift of Mr. John Brown, Jr.; Pi409.
concordmuseum
82 likes • 883 views
reddit.com

visiting concord/waltham/boston in March! things to do?!

🚗 Transportation Note

A car is recommended for exploring Concord, as public transport is limited. Reddit

🎟️ Check for Special Exhibits

The museum occasionally features unique displays, like Christmas trees inspired by children's books. Reddit

reddit.com

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. Reddit+1

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kid-Friendly Scavenger Hunt

Engage younger visitors with a scavenger hunt and interactive exhibits. Reddit

🚗 Transportation Note

A car is recommended for exploring Concord, as public transport is limited. Reddit

🎟️ Check for Special Exhibits

The museum occasionally features unique displays, like Christmas trees inspired by children's books. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Historic Downtown

The museum is close to Concord's charming downtown with shops and historic sites. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(489 reviews)

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. InstagramReddit

"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

Revolutionary War artifacts
Literary history exhibits
Animated battle map

What People Dislike

Museum size (can be small)

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. Reddit+1 Some visitors suggest using ride-sharing services or booking a guided tour that includes transportation from Boston. Reddit

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. Reddit Consider a Liberty Ride trolley tour for an overview of the area without extensive walking. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit However, it's important to check the schedule in advance as trains do not run very frequently. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit It's worth checking their website for current and upcoming special exhibitions. Instagram

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. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. InstagramReddit

Yes, the Concord Museum is quite family-friendly. They often have interactive exhibits and a scavenger hunt designed to engage younger visitors. Reddit The displays are generally presented in a way that can hold the interest of teens as well. Reddit

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. Reddit+1

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. Reddit

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. Reddit+1

📸 📸 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. Reddit

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. Reddit Outside the museum, the historic architecture of Concord and its natural landscapes provide excellent photographic subjects. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Concord Museum is a great stop for families looking to blend history with engaging activities. The museum offers a scavenger hunt specifically designed for children, making the exploration interactive and fun. Reddit Beyond the hunt, the exhibits themselves, particularly the animated battle map and artifacts from the Revolution, are presented in a way that can capture the attention of teens and older children. Reddit

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. Reddit

📚 Literary Enthusiasts

For lovers of American literature, the Concord Museum is a must-visit. You'll find artifacts and personal items belonging to literary giants like Louisa May Alcott, Henry David Thoreau, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Nathaniel Hawthorne. InstagramReddit Delve into the lives and inspirations behind classic works like 'Little Women' and 'Walden.'

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. Reddit The museum’s location in Concord also means you’re surrounded by the very landscapes and historical settings that influenced these writers. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs & Revolution Enthusiasts

The Concord Museum is a treasure trove for anyone fascinated by the American Revolution. It houses authentic artifacts from the Battle of Lexington and Concord, offering a direct connection to the events that shaped a nation. Reddit The animated battle map is a particularly lauded feature for its clarity and educational value. Reddit

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Concord's Revolutionary Roots

The Concord Museum is a cornerstone for understanding the American Revolution, particularly the pivotal events of April 19, 1775. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts directly related to the Battle of Lexington and Concord, including muskets, musket balls, and even fragments of the iconic North Bridge. These items offer a tangible connection to the 'Shot Heard 'Round the World' and the bravery of the Minutemen. Reddit

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. Reddit Visitors often remark on how this exhibit brings the history to life in a way that textbooks cannot. Reddit

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. Reddit

Literary Concord: A Haven for Thinkers

Concord, Massachusetts, has long been a magnet for some of America's most influential writers and thinkers, and the Concord Museum celebrates this rich literary legacy. The museum features exhibits dedicated to Louisa May Alcott, author of 'Little Women,' Henry David Thoreau, known for 'Walden,' Ralph Waldo Emerson, a leading Transcendentalist, and Nathaniel Hawthorne. Reddit

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. Instagram These displays are not just about the books they wrote, but about the environment and the community that fostered their groundbreaking ideas. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

Navigating Concord: Travel and Accessibility

While the Concord Museum itself is a manageable size, planning your visit to Concord requires some consideration regarding transportation. Many visitors find that having a car is the most convenient way to explore the town and its surrounding historical sites, as public transport options are limited and schedules can be infrequent. Reddit This is particularly true if you plan to visit places like Walden Pond or other historical homes spread throughout the area. Reddit

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. Reddit Once in Concord, the immediate downtown area around the museum is walkable, offering a pleasant experience for exploring local shops and eateries. Reddit

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. Reddit 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. Reddit

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