Boston: Old State House/Old South Meeting House Museum Combo

Walking through Boston’s historic streets, it’s easy to feel like you’re stepping back in time. This combo ticket to Old State House and Old South Meeting House offers a focused, affordable way to explore two of the city’s most significant landmarks along the Freedom Trail. At just $15 per person, this experience packs a lot of history into a single day, making it a solid choice for anyone eager to understand Boston’s revolutionary roots.

We especially love the close proximity of the sites—only a three-minute walk apart—which makes visiting both manageable even if your time is limited. The interactive exhibits and compelling public programs give life to Boston’s past, making history feel relatable and engaging. Plus, kids under 12 can even enter free during a certain week, adding extra value for families.

A possible consideration is that the Old State House isn’t fully accessible, given its many stairs, which could be a challenge for some visitors. The Old South Meeting House is wheelchair accessible, with elevators to the restrooms and lower levels. This tour suits those who appreciate authentic historical sites with rich stories, especially history buffs or families wanting an affordable, well-rounded introduction to Boston’s revolutionary history.

Key Points

• Two historic sites for one ticket make this a budget-friendly choice.
• Proximity of sites allows for easy combination and quick visits.
• Engaging exhibits and programs help bring Boston’s revolutionary story to life.
• Kids under 12 enjoy free admission during specified weeks, ideal for family visits.
• Accessibility varies between sites, so plan accordingly if mobility is a concern.
• Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, with some holiday closures, so always check current hours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Boston’s Revolutionary Past: An Honest Review

When we first considered this combo experience, what drew us in was the chance to see two of Boston’s most iconic colonial buildings with one affordable ticket. At $15, it offers a chance to explore significant landmarks without breaking the bank. The flexibility to enter either site during open hours—anytime between 10 AM and 5 PM—means you can tailor your visit around your schedule, which is especially helpful in a city bustling with sights.

The Old State House: A Window into Royal Authority and Revolution

Constructed in 1713, the Old State House served as the centerpiece of colonial governance. Standing on Washington Street, it was where the governor and royal officials held sway over Massachusetts before the Revolution. Today, it functions as a museum offering thought-provoking exhibits that detail Boston’s transition from royal colony to independent city.

What we love about the Old State House is its authentic architecture and the sense of standing in a place where history unfolded. Visitors get to see the balcony from which the Declaration of Independence was read in 1776—a powerful reminder of Boston’s role in the birth of American independence. Yet, it’s worth noting that the building’s old stairs mean it’s not fully accessible, a small drawback if mobility is an issue.

The Old South Meeting House: The Heart of Colonial Mobilization

Just two blocks away, the Old South Meeting House was built in 1729 and served as the largest public building in colonial Boston. It was the stage for some of the most stirring gatherings that led to the Boston Tea Party and ultimately, the Revolution. Today, it functions as a museum and a locus for public programs that explore free speech, civic engagement, and revolutionary ideas.

Inside, we appreciated the interactive exhibits and public programs that make history meaningful. As one reviewer noted, “Both houses were open. Well worth a visit for history buffs.” The building’s large meeting space gives a sense of the scale of colonial protests and debates.

While the Old South Meeting House is wheelchair accessible, with elevator access to its lower levels, visitors should be aware that the building’s historic architecture includes stairs that are unavoidable if exploring the upper floors.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The combined appeal of these sites lies in their complementary stories: one representing royal governance and the other popular protest. Walking between them in just a few minutes allows you to piece together the story of Boston’s revolutionary movement in a very tangible way.

Another highlight is the value of the ticket—you’re paying only $15 for access to both sites, which is quite reasonable considering what you get. Some reviews have called this “good value for money” and noted that it’s particularly suited for history enthusiasts or families wanting an inexpensive introduction to Boston’s colonial past.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Could Be Better?

The main consideration is accessibility. The Old State House has many stairs, which could limit visits for those with mobility issues. If this is a concern, you might want to plan your visit accordingly or contact the sites ahead of time to clarify access options.

Plus, the operating hours are limited to 10 AM – 5 PM daily, so travelers with tight schedules need to plan carefully to make the most of their visit.

Who Will Appreciate This Experience?

This combo is ideal for history buffs wanting a focused, affordable exploration of Boston’s revolutionary roots. It’s also great for families on a budget, especially during the free admission week for children. Those interested in public history and civic engagement will find the exhibits and programs particularly engaging.

Practical Tips for Visiting

• Take advantage of the anytime entry policy to visit at your convenience during open hours.
• Check the current hours and closures at revolutionaryspaces.org before your visit.
• If visiting with someone with mobility concerns, note the stairs at the Old State House.
• Consider combining this tour with a longer walk along the Freedom Trail for a broader experience.
• Bring headphones or a guidebook if you like to read detailed exhibits at your own pace.
• Remember, kids under 12 can get free admission during the designated week—check the dates before you go.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Boston combo experience offers a well-rounded peek into the city’s revolutionary past. It’s straightforward, affordable, and rich in stories that resonate today. If you’re a history lover or traveling with family, you’ll appreciate the chance to walk through buildings where history was made, with plenty of engaging exhibits to bring the stories to life.

While it’s not a comprehensive tour of Boston’s entire history, it’s an excellent core experience—especially if you want an affordable, flexible way to connect with the city’s colonial roots. The proximity of the sites makes it a convenient afternoon activity, and the insights gained here can deepen your understanding of Boston’s vital role in shaping the nation.

For travelers interested in authentic, meaningful history without the crowds or high prices, this combo is a smart pick.

FAQs

Are both sites open every day?
Yes, both the Old State House and Old South Meeting House are open daily between 10 AM and 5 PM, though you should check current hours and holiday closures before your visit.

Can I visit either site without the other?
Yes. Your ticket grants entry to either site during open hours, so you can choose to visit one or both depending on your schedule.

Is there a guided tour included?
The ticket includes access to exhibits and gallery talks, but it doesn’t specify guided tours. However, the sites often have educational programs and self-guided options.

Is the Old State House wheelchair accessible?
No, the Old State House is not fully accessible due to many stairs. The Old South Meeting House is wheelchair accessible with elevator access on the lower level.

Can I buy tickets on the day of my visit?
Yes, tickets are available on-site during open hours. Booking in advance might be advisable during busy periods, but flexibility is there.

What about children’s admission?
From 2/17/25 through 2/23/25, children 12 and under get free admission. Otherwise, check on site for general policies and discounts.

Does the price include all exhibits?
Yes, your ticket grants access to all exhibits and gallery talks within both sites.

Are food and drinks allowed?
No, food and drinks are not permitted within the sites, so plan to eat before or after your visit.

Is there a recommended order to visit the sites?
You can visit in any order; both are close enough to walk between easily, allowing flexibility based on your schedule.

Can I visit both sites if I only have a few hours?
Absolutely. Both sites are small enough to explore in 1-2 hours, especially if you’re interested mainly in the exhibits and brief tours.

This combo ticket to Boston’s Old State House and Old South Meeting House offers a mix of authentic history, engaging stories, and great value. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts, families, or anyone wanting a meaningful glimpse into the city’s colonial and revolutionary past without a hefty price tag. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Boston traveler, these sites provide a compelling way to connect with the stories that shaped the nation.

You can check availability for your dates here: