USS Constitution Museum
USS Constitution Museum
4.5
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
At the USS Constitution Museum you don't just learn about history, you EXPERIENCE it! Furl a a sail, fire a cannon, and scrub the decks to learn what life was like at sea over 200 years ago. Located across from the ship in the historic Charlestown Navy Yard. The Museum is private non-profit Museum and is operated separately from USS Constitution (the Ship).
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
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The area
Address
Neighborhood: Charlestown
Charlestown’s hilly roads, narrow streets and gaslight lamps, make it an enticing neighborhood to visit. Follow the Freedom Trail over the Washington St bridge from the North End or take the scenic water locks to Paul Revere Park. Walk through City Square and stroll down cute Main street, wandering up the windy residential streets to Monument Square, where you can learn about the city’s history along with a great view of Boston at the Bunker Hill Monument. While it’s not a huge area, there are some excellent restaurants. Find your way to the Charlestown Navy Yard, which is a developing area with lots of condos and an additional site for Massachusetts General Hospital research centers. Here you will also find the USS Constitution Museum. After you’re done, hop on an MBTA ferry at the dock on Baxter street and zip on over to Long Wharf and the New England Aquarium.
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2,146 within 3 miles
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572 within 6 miles
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
3,645 reviews
Excellent
2,107
Very good
1,114
Average
338
Poor
61
Terrible
27
Kelli
Keller, TX770 contributions
Oct 2022 • Couples
We visited the USS Constitution itself, then went into the museum. There is no set admission fee, but a suggested donation of $5 for kids and $10 for adults. Some of the exhibits are definitely geared toward a younger audience, but we enjoyed them nonetheless and learned a lot. Restrooms onsite were clean. And of course, there’s a gift shop too. Worth a look for service members and anyone who appreciates history.
Written October 25, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
itsWanda
Boston, MA210 contributions
Nov 2021 • Friends
If you are planning to visit the USS Constitution, visiting this museum is a must for you to get a deep understanding of the ship.
You’ll be able to learn from topics ranging from what type wood the ship was made, the names who were aboard, and all the history in between.
There’s no fixed admission fee but there’s a suggested donation amount that you can give, I believe it’s between $10-15 for adults.
This is a great museum for all ages.
You’ll be able to learn from topics ranging from what type wood the ship was made, the names who were aboard, and all the history in between.
There’s no fixed admission fee but there’s a suggested donation amount that you can give, I believe it’s between $10-15 for adults.
This is a great museum for all ages.
Written March 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
tinaNtravel
San Jose, CA1,785 contributions
Sep 2021
This is worth visiting. There isn’t an entry fee, but they do collect donations and the recommended donation amount is provided. It is a rather cute museum, very hands on, and kids will likely enjoy it. First you can watch two 8 minute videos. The first film is about the history of the USS Constitution and how it was named old Ironside. I recommend watching that film for some historical background. The second film highlights some current enlisted folks in the Navy and their thoughts. The Museum also contains a number of displays such as various jobs one might do on a ship, a ship store, a clock, a bell, etc. and as mentioned, a lot of hands-on activities. A restroom is located inside and a gift shop. In addition, in front of the museum, is a dry dock which is huge and worth some pics.
Written September 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Traveller
New York City, NY2,977 contributions
Nov 2021
I visited the USS Constitution Museum in November 2021 as part of doing the Freedom Trail from start to finish. I gave a donation of $10. The museum covered the history of the USS Constitution and related historical events such as the War of 1812 and the Barbary Coast pirates. It was my last stop on the Freedom Trail. As you cross into Charlestown on foot to go to the last stops on the Freedom Trail, I recommend going to the Bunker Hill Monument and Museum first and then the USS Constitution and USS Constitution Museum which is what I did. After I was finished, I took the nearby ferry back to the Long Wharf in Boston which was a nice experience.
Written December 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Bailey G
Orlando, FL108 contributions
Oct 2020
Before I begin, please note that the USS Constitution Museum is DIFFERENT than the USS Constitution tour.
The ship tour itself is free and ran by the National Park Service / Active Military Personnel ( I believe). The Museum is on property, however seems to be privately owned and requires a separate admission fee to get in.
Now that that's been established, let me dive in!
In my review of the ship tour itself, I stated that this is a dream come true for me. As a lover of all thing historical and nautical, it has been on my bucket list to see the ship live and in person. I took the tour and, while I certainly was not disappointed, you don't quite get the full in depth history that lots of us desire.
The museum certainly picks up the slack on that issue! Admission is pretty cheap and military discounts are available. The museum itself has a fantastic collection of artifacts and does a supreme job of taking you through the genesis of this ship through modern times. It has some videos, it has a second story geared for more hands on learning for the children.
While we weren't able to take in the museum to its fullest extent (given we had a train to catch), it is certainly worth taking the time to visit while you're there anyways.
Overall I highly recommend to those who are lovers of history. Whether that's American, nautical or military history, you will certainly come out learning a lot more about something that has been an integral part of our country. I would say this is also really good for families, given the children experiences incorporated into the museum, however with any type of museum that is meant for more mentally mature individuals, this many not be right for everyone.
My wife just happened to be fairly taxed physically that day, as well as mentally from all of the other historical sites we visited leading up to this day, so she had a hard time fully enjoying it. I spent about 2 hours, could've spent a little more again if we weren't on a time crunch, fully taking in everything it had to offer.
The ship tour itself is free and ran by the National Park Service / Active Military Personnel ( I believe). The Museum is on property, however seems to be privately owned and requires a separate admission fee to get in.
Now that that's been established, let me dive in!
In my review of the ship tour itself, I stated that this is a dream come true for me. As a lover of all thing historical and nautical, it has been on my bucket list to see the ship live and in person. I took the tour and, while I certainly was not disappointed, you don't quite get the full in depth history that lots of us desire.
The museum certainly picks up the slack on that issue! Admission is pretty cheap and military discounts are available. The museum itself has a fantastic collection of artifacts and does a supreme job of taking you through the genesis of this ship through modern times. It has some videos, it has a second story geared for more hands on learning for the children.
While we weren't able to take in the museum to its fullest extent (given we had a train to catch), it is certainly worth taking the time to visit while you're there anyways.
Overall I highly recommend to those who are lovers of history. Whether that's American, nautical or military history, you will certainly come out learning a lot more about something that has been an integral part of our country. I would say this is also really good for families, given the children experiences incorporated into the museum, however with any type of museum that is meant for more mentally mature individuals, this many not be right for everyone.
My wife just happened to be fairly taxed physically that day, as well as mentally from all of the other historical sites we visited leading up to this day, so she had a hard time fully enjoying it. I spent about 2 hours, could've spent a little more again if we weren't on a time crunch, fully taking in everything it had to offer.
Written January 17, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
seeingtheworld5
America42 contributions
Jul 2022 • Couples
This was an excellent history museum, especially for children! Was expecting the usual boring exhibits, but was blown away by them instead! Definitely a good teaching tool, especially for home schoolers. Worth the price of admission.
Loved the tattoo table where for a small fee they applied a temporary nautical themed tattoo. What an inventive way for the museum to make more money. Kudos to employee who thinks outside of the box!
Loved the tattoo table where for a small fee they applied a temporary nautical themed tattoo. What an inventive way for the museum to make more money. Kudos to employee who thinks outside of the box!
Written July 30, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
debp
Atlanta, GA323 contributions
Sep 2022
This museum is fantastic and very interactive. My extended family of adults all enjoyed the exhibits. Most interactive museums are totally geared towards the lowest common denominator or children. The interactive exhibits here could be enjoyed by children and adults alike. This was our absolute favorite place in all of Boston from pub tours, Museum of Fine Arts, and the Freedom Trail. Some of the interactive exhibits were truly educational and some were for a surprise laugh and insight. Great job.
Written September 27, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Hermann S
San Pedro Sula, Honduras246 contributions
Jun 2021 • Solo
The place is amazing. The entrance fee is up to you as it is only working through donations. The recommended fee to get in is between $10-$15 US dollars. The museum is good for the family as it has movies, games and also a nice souvenir shop.
After or before the museum you can also visit for free the USS constitution Warship which is dated from the 1800's and a World War II Battleship. They are amazingly cool.
After or before the museum you can also visit for free the USS constitution Warship which is dated from the 1800's and a World War II Battleship. They are amazingly cool.
Written June 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Bob Kieffer
3 contributions
Jul 2022
We recently visited the Charlestown Navy Yard, Museum, and USS Constitution. It was definitely a high point of our trip . The early history of the US Navy is a compelling story of ship building and unbelievable heroism in foreign waters. Standing on the deck of the planet's longest functioning ship is inspiring. The sailors on board are great at explaining how the ship functions. The Museum fills out the experience with great historical events and stunning art. Our day started by taking the water ferry from our hotel-Marriott Long Wharf Hotel. I highly recommend this mode of transportation.
Written August 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
SML-Travels
Perry Hall, MD77 contributions
Jun 2021
I've made several trips to the USS Constitution over the last 35 years. It feels like this museum has been dramatically expanded in recent years. They do an excellent job of explaining the construction of Old Ironsides, her history, and what life was like for the sailors aboard her.
Written August 4, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Barbara G
Murfreesboro, TN175 contributions
How much time should we plan to visit this museum? (We’re 2 seniors, with no kids.)
ejavos
South Lyon, MI41 contributions
I’m sorry I haven’t seen the question sooner! I think 1 hour would be fine. There isn’t much walking involved, but there are some stairs and tight spaces on the ship itself. We had no lines to get in really, maybe 5 people in front of us. The Cityview trolley stop is right in front of the museum.
ronao769
2 contributions
Can we do our own tour of the freedom traIL or do we have to pay and tour?
kcs2689
Marion, OH129 contributions
You can easily follow the trail (just follow the red trailed marked on the sidewalks). But you might want to consider an inexpensive tour guide who will provide lots of interesting information about what you are seeing. Our group felt we would have missed a lot without the benefit of our guide
stdur12
Columbus, OH5 contributions
We are in town July 12-14th and the website shows the USS Constitution is closed due to docking schedule. What does that mean? Thank you.
kcs2689
Marion, OH129 contributions
The ship is in dry dock for restoration. It is really something very unique to see while it sits totally out of the water. We were able to board the ship and to explore the main deck and the one below it. I'm not sure if you can still due that due to the restoration schedule. I know they still have to move the cannons back onto the ship, so this could make it off limits to visitors awhile. Please don't let this discourage you from visiting. The museum is amazing (especially if you have school age children). And, even if you can't board the ship, you'll love seeing her in dry dock.
Andrew T
Columbia, SC1 contribution
About how long does it take to see the museum and tour the ship? Also what time of day is the lest busiest in July?
Helene S
Houston, TX1,768 contributions
I would go early in the morning. The museum can be done in 30 minutes or several hours depending on your level of interest. Talk to the crew on the ship. They tell the story best!
trailmix_26
North Jackson, OH11 contributions
I can't find prices?
ReviewsByAZ
London, UK856 contributions
It's free. You can donate whatever you feel is appropriate.
How close is parking ?
Kathleen
Castle Shannon, PA160 contributions
If you go on their website there are directions to the Nautica Parking Garage where I think you can get discounted parking.
helpinghand2015
Wakefield, UK
We are in Boston from 9 September for three full days. Will it be possible to tour the ship during this period? I understand it's in dry dock at this time, so it's not clear if the ship is available for visitors. Also, can visitors simply turn up on the day and buy a ticket.
Thank you,
Helpinghand 2015
USSCM_1
Boston, MA
Hi Helpinghand 2015,
Yes, visitors are still able to explore USS Constitution’s top (spar) deck while in dry dock. In September, the Ship will be available for boarding in the afternoons from 2:30-6:00 Tuesday through Friday and 10:00-6:00 on weekends (closed Mondays)*. Visiting USS Constitution is free and does not require any advance ticketing since boarding is done on a first-come, first-serve basis. However, please be aware that visitors must pass through a security inspection and show federal or state photo identification, such as a driver's license or passport, before going aboard the Ship. Visitors under the age of 18 do not require a photo identification card.
Also, as you may or may not be aware, the USS Constitution Museum and the Ship are operated separately. The Museum, open daily from 9:00-6:00, provides interactive exhibits, hands-on gallery programs, and a vast collection of artifacts that connect visitors of all ages to the stories of “Old Ironsides.” For more information on visiting the Museum, please visit our website.
*The hours listed above are subject to change at any time. The Navy’s website provides the most up-to-date information on visiting the Ship.
We look forward to welcoming you in September!
-The Visitor Experience team at the USS Constitution Museum
USS Constitution Museum (Boston) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about USS Constitution Museum
- USS Constitution Museum is open:
- Sun - Sat 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- We recommend booking USS Constitution Museum tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 9 USS Constitution Museum tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience USS Constitution Museum:
- Boston City View Bicycle Tour by Urban AdvenTours (From $68.00)
- Boston Harbor Sightseeing Cruise (From $40.54)
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- Go City: Boston All-Inclusive Pass with 40+ Attractions and Tours (From $74.00)
- Go City: Boston Explorer Pass - Choose 2, 3, 4 or 5 Attractions (From $54.00)
- Hotels near USS Constitution Museum:
- (0.34 mi) Green Turtle Floating Bed and Breakfast
- (0.35 mi) Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Harbor on Tudor Wharf
- (0.61 mi) Courtyard by Marriott Boston Downtown / North Station
- (0.33 mi) Constitution Marina's Bed & Breakfast Afloat
- (0.71 mi) Hotel Indigo Boston Garden, an IHG Hotel
- Restaurants near USS Constitution Museum:
- (0.11 mi) Dovetail Restaurant & Shop
- (0.06 mi) Daniel's Bakery
- (0.20 mi) Brewer's Fork
- (0.14 mi) 7-Eleven
- (0.14 mi) Tedeschi Food Shops
- Attractions near USS Constitution Museum:
- (0.12 mi) Charlestown Navy Yard
- (0.12 mi) Massachusetts Korean War Memorial
- (0.25 mi) Night Rider Private Charters of Boston
- (0.26 mi) USS Constitution
- (0.15 mi) Cityside Harbor Shuttle