Old State House

What it is

The Old State House is a historic colonial government building in Boston, Massachusetts. Constructed in 1713, it served as the seat of the Massachusetts colonial government and later the state government until 1798. The building is widely recognized as the site of the Boston Massacre on March 5, 1770, when British soldiers fired upon colonists. Today it operates as a museum dedicated to Revolutionary-era Boston history. The structure features distinctive British architectural elements including a lion and unicorn statue on its facade, symbols of royal authority that were later removed and then restored.

Checked 2026-08-26

What's inside

The Old State House museum contains exhibits exploring Boston's colonial and Revolutionary history. Visitors can view the Council Chamber where colonial governors met and the Representatives Hall where the Massachusetts assembly convened. Artifacts related to the Boston Massacre are displayed, including interpretive materials examining this pivotal event. The museum presents the building's dual significance as both a seat of British authority and a cradle of American independence. Historical documents, period furnishings, and multimedia presentations help contextualize the political struggles that unfolded within these walls during the decades preceding the American Revolution.

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How long to spend

Most visitors spend approximately one to two hours exploring the Old State House museum. The compact nature of the historic building means the self-guided route through exhibits and restored rooms can be completed relatively efficiently. History enthusiasts or those deeply interested in the Boston Massacre and colonial governance may wish to allocate additional time for careful reading of interpretive panels and examination of artifacts. The site is often combined with walking tours of the Freedom Trail, of which it is a prominent stop. Adjacent historical markers on the sidewalk commemorate the Boston Massacre location.

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Season and crowds

Operator-confirmed hours are Not recorded pending review. Visitors should consult official sources before planning their trip. The Old State House stands in downtown Boston near the intersection of State and Washington Streets, an area busy with commercial and pedestrian traffic throughout the week. Summer months bring increased tourist volume to Boston generally. Winter weather in New England can involve snow and cold temperatures that may affect travel conditions. The building's interior museum provides climate-controlled environment regardless of season. Special commemorative events may occur around the anniversary of the Boston Massacre in early March.

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Tickets

Operator-confirmed prices are Not recorded pending review. Visitors should verify current admission fees through official channels before visiting. The Old State House is operated by the Bostonian Society, which manages the museum and its programming. Historical sites in Boston sometimes participate in combined ticketing arrangements or membership programs with other local institutions. Discounted rates for students, seniors, or children may be available but require confirmation. Some historical sites offer free admission on certain days or to Massachusetts residents, though specific policies for the Old State House must be verified directly. Group rates may apply for organized tours.

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Getting there

The Old State House occupies a prominent location at the intersection of State and Washington Streets in downtown Boston. The site is accessible via multiple public transportation options serving the central business district. The MBTA subway system has nearby stations, including State Street station serving the Orange and Blue lines. The building sits along the Freedom Trail, a marked walking route connecting sixteen historical sites across Boston. Walking from other downtown landmarks is practical given the compact nature of Boston's historic core. Driving presents challenges typical of dense urban centers, with limited parking and congested streets. Water transportation via ferry services connects to nearby Long Wharf.

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What to watch out for

The Old State House is situated amid busy downtown Boston streets with heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic. Visitors should exercise caution at intersections, particularly when photographing the exterior or reading sidewalk historical markers. The Boston Massacre site marker stands in the street median, requiring careful crossing. The building's age means interior spaces include stairs that may not accommodate all mobility needs; visitors requiring accessibility accommodations should inquire in advance. As with any urban tourist destination, personal belongings warrant attention in crowded conditions. The surrounding Financial District empties somewhat on weekends, altering the neighborhood atmosphere. Construction or civic events may occasionally affect nearby street access.

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Photography

The Old State House exterior presents distinctive photographic opportunities, particularly the 1713 facade with its balcony where the Declaration of Independence was first read to Bostonians in 1776. The lion and unicorn statues offer recognizable architectural details. The building's juxtaposition against modern downtown skyscrapers creates compelling visual contrast between colonial and contemporary Boston. Interior photography policies are not recorded and should be confirmed on site. The Boston Massacre markers outside provide context for documentary photography. Morning and afternoon light conditions vary significantly due to surrounding tall buildings. Tripod use in the busy pedestrian area may be impractical or restricted. The balcony view is not generally accessible to visitors.

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Where it is

• 45 min

  2 min walk

  Old Corner Bookstore

  • High · Heritage site
  • Historic monument
• 45 min

  3 min walk

  Old City Hall

  • High · Heritage site
  • Historic monument
• 45 min

  3 min walk

  Faneuil Hall

  • Must see · Heritage site
  • Historic monument

External links

• View on Wikidata