Welcome to Charlestown

Top Experiences

• Get vertical: Climb 294 steps to the Bunker Hill Monument top and enjoy city views while imagining battles of the past.
• Step aboard a 1700s naval vessel: Tour the USS Constitution, and discover why the world's oldest commissioned warship still afloat is nicknamed "Old Ironsides."
• Raise a glass to the patriots: Grab a pint at Warren Tavern, the same pub frequented by George Washington and Paul Revere.
• Cityscape views: The Harbor Walk is a raised section along the water that affords miles of peaceful Boston views.
• Stroll through a park with purpose: Visit the Charlestown Navy Yard, a National Park Service site complete with its own gift shop and museum.
• Freedom Trail sights: Bunker Hill Monument and USS Constitution.

Getting Here

The closest subway stop to the Charlestown Navy Yard is North Station (on the Green and Orange lines), about a 15-minute walk. Take Causeway Street northeast and make a left to walk over the Charlestown Bridge. Take a right on Chelsea Street and right again on Warren Street. Constitution Road will be your next left. From here you can enter the Navy Yard. From Downtown Crossing, take the 93 Bus, which drops you at the Navy Yard. If you’re coming from Downtown, try the water shuttle from Long Wharf near the Aquarium. Boats run on the hour and half hour for the 10-minute ride.

Quick Bites

Emack & Bolio's. This funky ice cream and smoothie shop boast crazy flavors and a rock n' roll vibe. 100 City Sq., Charlestown www.emackandbolios.com.

Sorelle Bakery & Cafe. This neighborhood spot is known for delicious sandwiches and refreshing iced coffees. 100 City Sq., Charlestown www.sorellecafe.com.

Zume's Coffeehouse. A cheerful vibe and friendly service accompany great coffee and housemade burritos at this local spot. 221 Main St., Charlestown www.zumescoffeehouse.com.

Planning Your Time

This little tight-knit community (Boston's oldest neighborhood) is only one square mile. Give yourself two to three hours for a Charlestown walk. A daytime visit affords the best Harbor views. You may want to save Charlestown's stretch of the Freedom Trail, which adds considerably to its length, for a second-day outing. If you drive yourself, be mindful of weekday resident-only parking spots.

This area of Boston has a rough reputation, but overall The Charlestown Navy Yard is generally a safe area.