• Where is Concord located?
    • Concord is located approximately 25 miles northwest of Boston, making it a historically rich and accessible destination.
  • What historical significance does Concord hold?
    • The town is steeped in military, social, literary, and natural history. The first shots of the American War of Independence rang out on a bridge in the town, marking the beginning of a pivotal chapter in U.S. history.
  • What role did Concord play in the abolitionist movement?
    • Concord was home to places of refuge for runaway slaves, and the progress of freed men and women is documented in various historical sites around the town.
  • Which famous authors are associated with Concord?
    • Five influential authors lived in Concord, and their interconnected lives and literary contributions are recorded in museums and historical landmarks throughout the town.
  • What natural landmarks make Concord special?
    • The Concord River and Walden Pond are famous natural sites, offering visitors beautiful scenery and opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Best Time to Visit Concord, Massachusetts

  • April to June – Pleasant spring weather, perfect for exploring historic sites and gardens.
  • September to November – Mild fall temperatures, ideal for scenic drives and leaf-peeping.
  • July & August – Warm summer months, great for walking tours and outdoor activities.
  • December to February – Cooler months, perfect for cozy indoor visits and holiday charm.
  • Mid-October – Best time for vibrant fall foliage and historical reenactments.

Getting to Concord, Massachusetts

  • By Air
    • Fly into Logan International Airport (BOS) in Boston, about 25 miles away.
    • Other options include Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT), about 50 miles away.
  • By Car
    • Drive from Boston in about 40 minutes via MA-2 West.
    • Accessible from Worcester in about 1 hour.
  • By Train
    • MBTA Commuter Rail on the Fitchburg Line connects Concord to Boston’s North Station.
    • The Concord Station is located near the town center.
  • By Bus
    • Limited bus services are available; train or driving is the most convenient option.

Hotels in Concord, Massachusetts

  • Concord’s Colonial Inn – Historic inn offering colonial charm and modern amenities.
  • North Bridge Inn – Cozy bed-and-breakfast with spacious suites and a quiet atmosphere.
  • Residence Inn by Marriott Concord – Comfortable extended-stay option with kitchenettes and complimentary breakfast.

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1. Old North Bridge


Walk across this historic site and reflect on Revolutionary sights during a meaningful trip.

Old North Bridge

© lspi138/stock.adobe.com

The wooden bridge that spans the Concord River at the confluence of the Assabet and Sudbury Rivers is a replica of the one that was made famous on the first day of the American War of Independence.

On 19 April 1775, 400 colonists outnumbered the British infantry, forcing them to retreat across the bridge. A shot rang out and history was made.

It was “the shot heard around the world”, as Ralph Waldo Emerson described it.

The original bridge had been built in the 1760s but was dismantled in 1793. The present Old North Bridge was built in 2005. It is situated in the Minute Man Historical Park.

2. Concord Museum


Explore colonial artifacts and admire Emerson’s study on an educational family outing.

Concord Museum

© Concord Museum

Concord has a long track record of recording its history. After the bicentennial celebrations in 1836, Cummings Davis started collecting artifacts. In 1886, 2000 of these were transferred to the Concord Antiquarian Society. A year later the house of the saddler, Reuben Brown was purchased for the purpose of housing the collection. Through the years, several additions were made to the complex. Highlights of the collections are a spearhead from the Ice Age, Paul Revere's lantern, Henry David Thoreau's desk and spy glass, a recreation of Ralph Waldo Emerson's study and a gallery devoted to Thomas Dugan, a freed slave who became a successful farmer.

Concord Museum, 53 Cambridge Turnpike, Concord, MA 01742, Phone: 978-369-9763

3. Minute Man National Historical Park


Follow battle trails and learn Revolutionary history on an exciting fall adventure.

Minute Man National Historical Park

© IlluminataPhoto/stock.adobe.com

Minute Man National Historical Park commemorates the first day of the American War of Independence. Within its borders there are several historical sites. North Bridge is the point at which the first shots were fired and where the British suffered their first casualties. The Battle Road Trail marks the route of the running skirmishes between the British soldiers and the Colonial forces. There is a monument at the site where Paul Revere was captured. Barrett's farm was one searched by the British, looking for arms and ammunition. Wayside, the home of several notable American authors is also in the park. The Visitor Center overlooks North Bridge.

4. Sleep Hollow Cemetery


Visit authors’ graves and admire peaceful paths on a quiet retirement stroll.

Sleep Hollow Cemetery

© shootingtheworld/stock.adobe.com

Some of the USA's greatest authors and thinkers are buried in this cemetery. It was designed by Cleveland and Copeland who were influenced the Transcendentalism movement. The natural contours of the Sleep Hollow Cemetery form an amphitheatre and much of the original shrubbery and wild plants were allowed to remain. It was dedicated in 1855 by Ralph Waldo Emerson who was a proponent of the movement and also on the committee that chose the design. Emerson was later to be buried there. The Melvin Memorial to three brothers in the Civil War stands in the cemetery. The Alcott family, Nathanial Hawthorne, Henry David Thoreau and Elizabeth Peabody are also buried there.

5. Hapgood Wright Town Forest


Hike wooded trails and enjoy tranquil nature on an easy weekend escape.

Hapgood Wright Town Forest

© svetamart/stock.adobe.com

The Hapgood Wright Town Forest offers residents of Concord a peaceful and attractive urban recreation area. Originally home to freed slaves who tried their best to farm the infertile land in the mid 1800’s, the forest became Concord’s first conservation area in 2008. There are several trails for nature lovers to explore including the Emerson-Thoreau Amble, the Bay Circuit Trail and the Harry Beyer Assessed Trail Loop. The Fairyland Pond Circuit is especially good for families and takes just 20 minutes. You can park in the small parking area on the east side of Waldon Street and accessible parking is also available at the Assessed Trail entrance.

Walden Street, Concord, MA 01742

6. Walden Pond


Swim or walk where Thoreau lived on a relaxing summer trip.

Walden Pond

© kichigin19/stock.adobe.com

Walden Pond is a 64 acre lake situated in the 335 acre Walden Pond State Reservation. It was declared a National Historical Landmark in 1962. The lake is known as a kettle hole, a depression left by retreating glaciers that fills with water. It was made famous by Henry David Thoreau who wrote about it in his famous work, 'Walden'. For two years he lived in a cabin near the shore, on land owned by his friend, Ralph Waldo Emerson. A replica of his cabin has been erected and signposted. At the same time, ice from the lake was being harvested and exported to tropical countries. The park is open for hiking and water activities.

7. Verrill Farm


Pick fresh produce and savor seasonal treats with the kids during a family visit.

Verrill Farm

© Verrill Farm

Verrill Farm has been in the same family for more than a century. It operated as a dairy farm from 1918 to 1990. Thereafter, the family grew vegetables for the market and later to sell off the farm. A third generation daughter put her baking and other culinary skills to good use on the farm. In 1995, a commercial kitchen and farm stall were erected. Besides fresh produce, a deli, bakery and catering services are offered. Customers can pick their own strawberries and pumpkins. Family entertainment includes festivals, pie-eating competitions and farm-to-table dinners. The farm is open 7 days a week.

11 Wheeler Road, Concord, MA 01742, Phone: 978-369-4494

8. The Old Manse


Tour the historic home and see literary relics on a romantic historical outing.

The Old Manse

© Faina Gurevich/stock.adobe.com

The Old Manse is on Monument Street, with the Concord River behind it. It was built by Ralph Waldo Emerson's grandfather in 1770, the town minister and chaplain to the Provincial Congress and the Continental Army. The house is adjacent to North Bridge. After his death, his widow married his successor, Reverend Ripley, and they continued living in the house. Ralph Waldo Emerson and Nathaniel Hawthorne also lived in the house but at different times. The house remained in the Emerson-Ripley family until 1939 when it was transferred, with all its contents, to the Trustees of Reservations. It is open seasonally.

9. Ralph Waldo Emerson House


Step inside the writer’s world and learn his legacy on a thoughtful educational visit.

Ralph Waldo Emerson House

© Concord Museum

The house was built in 1828 by the Coolidge family. In 1835, Ralph Waldo Emerson acquired the house and six acres of land. He and his second wife moved in the day after their wedding, along with his mother. He lived there until his death in 1882. He paid $3500 for the house but immediately made alterations to the house and gardens. He later purchased another 11 acres, including Walden Pond. He wrote many works at 'Bush' as they called the house, and entertained the literati of Concord. The Ralph Waldo Emerson House is still owned by the family and is operated as a private museum.

10. Concord Free Public Library


Read in quiet corners and explore archives during a peaceful, affordable stop.

Concord Free Public Library

© Concord Free Public Library

William Munroe, who made his fortune selling dry goods and textiles, sought to give something back to his community. He thought that with the rich history of the town, a suitable library would be needed. He lobbied for permission and the resources to erect the grand, Gothic structure which was a departure from the norm at the time. The collections have grown to match the stature of the building. Concord's literary, social, political and architectural history are well documented. Some collections have been digitized and made available online. Concord Free Public Library library is open 7 days a week.

129 Main Street Concord, MA 01742, Phone: 978-318-3300


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers. Concord’s Colonial Inn – A historic stay in the heart of town. Visit Minute Man National Historical Park – Explore the site of the first Revolutionary War battle.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, great for outdoor activities. North Bridge Inn – A charming bed and breakfast near historic sites. Explore Walden Pond – Enjoy hiking, swimming, and a visit to Thoreau’s cabin site.
Fall (September-November) – Stunning autumn foliage and fewer crowds. The Inn at Hastings Park – A luxury boutique inn with New England charm. Take a scenic drive along Route 2 – Experience Concord’s vibrant fall colors.

Plan Your Trip


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