Old State House
Boston’s oldest surviving public building, where the Boston Massacre took place in front of its doors in 1770. It is a small red-brick building surrounded by skyscrapers.
Built in 1713, it was the seat of colonial British government. The Boston Massacre took place at the intersection in front of the building in 1770, and a circular stone marker in the street shows the spot. On July 18, 1776, the Declaration of Independence was first read to the people of Boston from the east balcony, and the reading is reenacted every year on July 4. The building is now a museum with artifacts from the colonial period through the Revolution. Admission is about $15, and it is often sold as a combined ticket with the Old South Meeting House. The contrast of the small red-brick building wedged between glass skyscrapers makes for a striking photo, and the State station exit on the subway is right below it.
Opening hours
09:00/10:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Quincy Market / Faneuil Hall
- Massachusetts State House
- North End
- New England Aquarium
- Freedom Trail
- Old North Church
- Boston Common / Public Garden / Beacon Hill
- Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum