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Get InspiredNorth AmericaUnited StatesMassachusettsCharlestown

Charlestown

Massachusetts, United States
Historic Neighborhood·Historic, Gentrified, Diverse
Charlestown
Photo by Lisa Gadbois from Google Places
Charlestown
Photo by Lisa Gadbois from Google Places
Charlestown
Photo by Rogério tiburski Polaco from Google Places
Charlestown
Photo by Lisa Gadbois from Google Places
Charlestown
Photo by Lisa Gadbois from Google Places
Charlestown
Photo by Lisa Gadbois from Google Places
Charlestown
Photo by Lisa Gadbois from Google Places
Charlestown
Photo by Rogério tiburski Polaco from Google Places
Charlestown
Photo by Lisa Gadbois from Google Places
Charlestown
Photo by Lisa Gadbois from Google Places

Charlestown, the oldest neighborhood in Boston, Massachusetts, boasts a rich history dating back to its founding in 1629. Originally a separate town and the first capital of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, it became part of Boston in 1874. Known for its colonial architecture and historic sites, Charlestown has evolved into a diverse residential area with a mix of old-world charm and modern gentrification. Visitors can enjoy waterfront views of the Boston skyline and explore numerous historic landmarks, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and urban explorers.

Charlestown, the oldest neighborhood in Boston, Massachusetts, boasts a rich history dating back to its founding in 1629. Originally a separate town and the first capital of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, it became part of Boston in 1874. Known for its colonial architecture and historic sites, Charlestown has evolved into a diverse residential area with a mix of old-world charm and modern gentrification. Visitors can enjoy waterfront views of the Boston skyline and explore numerous historic landmarks, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and urban explorers.

You might want to ask

Highlights

  • Oldest neighborhood in Boston.

  • Rich colonial architecture.

  • Waterfront views of Boston skyline.

  • Historic sites and museums.

  • Diverse and evolving community.

Before you go: Charlestown essentials

  • Close access to the Charles River and Boston Harbor.

  • Rich colonial history with numerous historic sites.

  • Gentrified area with a mix of old and new.

Getting Around

Charlestown is accessible via the Orange Line Sullivan Square or Community College stops, and the I-93 expressway.

Local History

Explore the neighborhood's rich history by visiting its many historic sites and museums.

Best For

History buffs and urban explorers.

Currency

USD $

Average Cost

$150-$250 p/day

Languages Spoken

English

Waterfront Views

Enjoy stunning views of the Boston skyline from the waterfront areas in Charlestown.

Best time to visit Charlestown

April-June, September-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring offers mild temperatures and is ideal for exploring Charlestown's historic sites.

Best Season

Summer

Summers are warm and perfect for enjoying the waterfront views and outdoor activities.

Best Season

Fall

Fall provides pleasant weather and a great time to explore the neighborhood's rich history.

Winter

Winters are cold, but it's a quieter time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

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Get early access to exclusive partner discounts, tips & user itineraries.

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Location

Charlestown, Massachusetts, United States

Things to do in Charlestown

Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music
From $100

Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music

4.1(681)
Duration: 2h 30min
Charleston
Charleston Harbor History Day-Time or Sunset Boat Cruise
From $45

Charleston Harbor History Day-Time or Sunset Boat Cruise

4.4(3,2 K)
Duration: 1h 30min
Charleston
Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour
From $50

Charleston’s Old South Carriage Historic Horse & Carriage Tour

4.8(10,8 K)
Duration: 1h
Charleston
Haunted Evening Horse and Carriage Tour of Charleston
From $42

Haunted Evening Horse and Carriage Tour of Charleston

4.7(4,2 K)
Duration: 40 min
Charleston
Afternoon Schooner Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise on Charleston Harbor
From $56

Afternoon Schooner Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise on Charleston Harbor

4.5(784)
Duration: 1h 30min
Charleston
Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry
From $43

Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry

4.6(3,8 K)
Duration: 2h 15min
Charleston
Historic Charleston Walking Tour: Rainbow Row, Churches, and More
From $41

Historic Charleston Walking Tour: Rainbow Row, Churches, and More

4.9(705)
Duration: 2h
Charleston
Charleston Haunted Horse and Carriage Evening Tour
From $50

Charleston Haunted Horse and Carriage Evening Tour

4.7(305)
Duration: 45 min
Charleston
Explore on Viator

Natural & historic sites near Charlestown

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Adams National Historical Park

Charlestown, Massachusetts
Protected Area · Educational, Quiet, Reflective
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park

Pawtucket, Rhode Island
Protected Area · Educational, Historic, Serene
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area

Massachusetts
Protected Area · Scenic, Historic, Natural, Expansive
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Boston African American National Historic Site

Charlestown, Massachusetts
Protected Area · Educational, Reflective, Historic, Solemn
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Cape Cod National Seashore

Massachusetts
Protected Area · Rugged, Peaceful, Expansive, Natural
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site

Brookline, Massachusetts
Protected Area · Educational, Calm, Historic, Inspiring
Place
Place
Place

John Fitzgerald Kennedy National Historic Site

Brookline, Massachusetts
Protected Area · Quiet, Educational, Reflective
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Lowell National Historical Park

Lowell, Massachusetts
Protected Area · Educational, Historic, Reflective