USS Constitution
USS Constitution
4.5
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tours & experiences
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Top ways to experience USS Constitution
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.
Best nearby
Restaurants
2,058 within 3 miles
Attractions
559 within 6 miles
See what other travelers are saying
- ynkhtr1926 contributionsGreat experience but Adults need a government ID to get on the boatVisited a 3yo and 5yo on a summer vacation. We visited the naval museum and went aboard the Constitution and it was wonderful. Here are our takeaways: 1. Plan your transportation: It's not exactly in the heart of Boston, nor is it really close to any particular T stop. You could uber easily but with young kids needing car seats that wasn't an option. We got off the orange line at North Station (TD garden) and from there it was about a 1 mile walk but it's very safe and pleasant, would recommend a stroller with kids 2. The museum is a must do, it has something for all ages and it's "free" but they do suggest donations which we happily obliged. Nice activities for kids but also really well done from a history perspective. Very informative, the artifacts they have are awesome. 3. The USS Constitution was very cool, it is truly an amazing piece of history. One thing of note is you need an ID (i.e. Driver's license, passport, etc) to get on the ship as it is considered an active naval location. We were traveling light from the hotel and my wife didn't have her ID so she had to wait outside. 4. There is another modern warship that is also available for exploration but the kids decided they were done after the constitution so we didn't get to see that but it looked interesting.Written August 17, 2022
- L ThompsonChicago, Illinois111 contributionsA great piece of history in BostonSuch a cool piece of history alive in Boston. The ship is huge and there are so many things to see on board. Even navy sailors are on board to answer questions. The boat is free and the museum has a suggested donation entrance fee of $10+. The museum was super interactive for children and even kept my 16 yr old brother entertained! Overall, so much information and a great part of history to learn about in Boston.Traveled with familyWritten June 22, 2022
- HappyFamily43082Westerville, Ohio365 contributions15 Year Old's HighlightThis was the best part of our trip to Boston, according to our 15 year old. Admission to the ship is free, but the Museum is well worth the donation. We used our Boston Go Card. The gift shop is in the Museum. Visiting this ship makes you proud to be an American! The men and women stationed on this ship were very courteous and answered all of our questions.Written August 18, 2021
These reviews are the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor checks reviews for fraud.
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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
2,399 reviews
Excellent
1,563
Very good
594
Average
177
Poor
54
Terrible
11
LookingForFamilyFun
Houston, TX1,733 contributions
Aug 2022
Access to the ship was easy, security tries to make it a quick but safe process, it is an active US Navy Ship so it still gets the security in addition to a historic ship. The museum about the ship was very diverse, not real interactive for kids but if you like to read the panels and learn about the shipyard it has about 30-60 minutes of content.
The ship itself is fun to be aboard, but limited to the main deck and the gun deck below. Just a couple panels to read on each deck so you do not get a lot of history or content beyond those signs. There are crew members in costume and if you engage them you may get some additional information.
A greater environment could be created with some activities for visitors (knot tying or engaging stories from crew). But if you appreciate the history of the ship and what it meant to a growing nation it is neat to stand on the decks and be amazed with the rigging required to operate a sailing ship of the US Navy.
The ship itself is fun to be aboard, but limited to the main deck and the gun deck below. Just a couple panels to read on each deck so you do not get a lot of history or content beyond those signs. There are crew members in costume and if you engage them you may get some additional information.
A greater environment could be created with some activities for visitors (knot tying or engaging stories from crew). But if you appreciate the history of the ship and what it meant to a growing nation it is neat to stand on the decks and be amazed with the rigging required to operate a sailing ship of the US Navy.
Written August 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
MKTBE
Topeka, KS2,949 contributions
Jun 2022 • Friends
The USS Constitution was built in the shipyard in the North End of Boston. It was launched in Boston in 1797. The newly formed United States realized that they now had a need to protect their shores. It is the oldest commissioned warship afloat. The greatest glory for Constitution, came during the War of 1812. The Constitution's crew defeated four British frigates during three separate engagements. In battle, the USS Constitution earned the nickname "Old Ironsides" because it appeared as if enemy cannonballs could not penetrate the ship's strong oak hull. The USS Constitution is one of the last stops on the Historic Freedom Trail, and definitely worth the walk to explore the historic ship and nearby museum!
Written June 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
On the Flight!
McKinney, TX24 contributions
Jun 2022 • Couples
Very impressed with this ship! The workmanship was incredible.
We did not go into the museum by the dock because they required masks. :-(
The museum by the dry dock was nice but they required a "donation" just to use the bathroom. :-(
Still worth stopping by and learning about the history behind this ship.
We did not go into the museum by the dock because they required masks. :-(
The museum by the dry dock was nice but they required a "donation" just to use the bathroom. :-(
Still worth stopping by and learning about the history behind this ship.
Written June 18, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Jennifer O
Fords, NJ150 contributions
Apr 2022 • Family
Very interesting to see the ship up close. There are guides throughout the ship available to answer questions and tell stories. Make sure you go below deck! There were tarps covering the openings to the ladders so it was easy to miss if you didn’t know it was there. Be very careful going down, the stairs are steep and the roof is low so don’t hit your head!
Written April 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
random_tangent
Mountain View, CA64 contributions
Oct 2021
The USS Constitution is a gorgeous ship that has been well maintained. The crew were friendly and knowledgeable. They took time to explain the history of the ship including how life was for the sailors who manned her two centuries ago.
It's a must-see if you have interest in the Navy, tall-ships, or history.
It's a must-see if you have interest in the Navy, tall-ships, or history.
Written October 11, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Connie C
Dallas, TX738 contributions
Jun 2021 • Couples
We walked from Bunker Hill to this area. That said, we came in through the back instead of the main entrance. You have to show ID and go through security to get to tour the ship. Fully vaccinated people aren’t required to wear masks. A person in costume greets you first and explains what to expect going aboard. It is an awesome ship, loved it. It is beautifully maintained. Being seniors we decided not to go below deck as the ladders are steep. There were a number of costumed people on board to explain how the ship faired. Deboarding we noticed all the jelly fish in the water around the ship, just interesting.
Written June 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
JeffB32
Bloomfield Township, MI4,086 contributions
Apr 2022
It is a little bit off the beaten path, but definitely worth the quick Uber ride. Everything is free and interesting to learn about old time Navy from the young Navy personnel that man/woman the ship. Make sure to stretch before you board (not really) as there a flights of stairs to climb below and once down there be prepared to be bent over the entire time...headspace is only about 5.5 feet. So interesting to see how the sailors lived and all the cannons.
Written May 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
08lj
Charleston, SC185 contributions
Nov 2022
Great option for learning and experiencing some history. You can walk through the ship and read some about it along the way. There are also sailors on board that are happy to chat. It's free, just have to go through a metal detector. We road the ferry back downtown from the nearby dock. Also the free (donation suggested) museum nearby was very hands on and would be especially good for kids.
Written December 21, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
C R
Pacific Grove, CA29 contributions
Oct 2022
THis is the oldest floating ship in the US Fleet. It has a storied history and is known by most of us as, "Old Ironsides.' There were sailors on the boat who were sailing it out of the harbor the next day. We were leaving so missed it. It doesn't happen frequently but you might want to find out when to watch it.
Written October 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Bill C
Severna Park, MD53 contributions
Oct 2021
We toured the USS Constitution, Old Ironsides, a fast 44-gun Frigate that fought in the War of 1812, as well as the Visitors Center next to it. Both are free, but you do have to go through security to get in which requires showing an ID (why, I have no idea). The ship is still an active duty ship in tthe U.S. Navy, and is crewed by U.S. Naval personnel. They are on board in period costume and love to answer any question you may have. The ship itself is in great condition and immaculately maintained. A real showboat. The Visitors Center is more about the history of the Charleston Navy Yard which is interesting. To get a detailed history of the ship, go to the USS Constitution Museum across the yard (100 yards away). It is excellent. Admission fee is optional. They suggest $15 and it is well worth it. Visiting the USS Constitution is a must-do if in Boston.
Written October 4, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
03Teresa
Hampton, IA10 contributions
Can you get on the ship now or is it under construction? I am visiting the week of Aug. 12th and would like to visit. Also, are there long lines? Is it closed on just Mondays or also Tuesdays? there seems to be reviews that say 2 different things. Thanks.
NickTnReb
Chattanooga, TN147 contributions
Open and not under any renovations that I saw when I visited a few weeks ago. I got there early and hardly any line but seemed to be a constant flow of people getting on and off all the time, I spent nearly an hour just hanging out and watching all the goings on and such. I believe it is only closed on Mondays but I could be wrong.
Ulises B
Guadalajara Metropolitan Area, Mexico2 contributions
Donde compro boletos, donde abordo y cuanto dura? Tiene guia en español?
Entre Viajes e Historias
Buenos Aires, Argentina453 contributions
Hola Los boletos se incluyen con el del Museo. Esta ubicado en el mismo lugar que el museo y puedes recorrerlo cuando terminas con el. Es una visita corta. Saludos
LeanEagle
Aalst, Belgium89 contributions
Planning to visit at the beginning of October. But I can't find any information as to whether the ship itself will be open for the public or not because of the restorations.
Bostonian2016
Boston, MA63 contributions
I understand that the ship is now open post renovation. Usually 10-5 during most days. There is also a Museum there which is also worth going to.
eskdunning
Hermitage, TN265 contributions
Wondering how much time to allow for the USS Constitution and Bunker Hill. Is two hours enough for both or might we feel rushed if we only had a two- hour window of time?
Larry W
Rochester, NY21,295 contributions
We just visited there a couple weeks ago, and the answer is, "it depends" on what you choose to do between those two attractions. First, the USS CONSTITUTION is there, but not yet open (as of our visit on Friday, July 28). It had just returned from the shipyards, and the ship was still closed. It may have re-opened since then. If it is closed, you will only be able to do a "walk-by" which will only take you a few minutes. The museum nearby is good for a 30-40 minute visit as well, with lots of interesting stuff inside.
From the USS CONSTITUTION up to the Bunker Hill site & monument will take you a good ten minute walk, all uphill, so leave a little time for that in your equation. Then, once you get up the hill, it all depends on what you want to do. There is a great re-enactment speaker dressed in period clothes, who will speak for about 15-20 minutes. There follows an exhibition on firing the muskets of the day which is another 5-10 minutes. If you care to walk up the almost-300 steps of the monument itself for the view, add another 15 minutes (assuming that you are in shape).
So in summary, two hours much be a bit rushed, but it could be done if you didn't stop too long at any one attraction. BTW, if the CONSTITUTION is still closed, there is a destroyer at the pier, the USS CASSIN YOUNG (spelling?) that you can board and tour, so that may be on interest as well. (Then again, I am a retired Navy Captain, so these things interest me perhaps more than most.)
I hope you enjoy your day there!
Larry
USParkLover
Ohio77 contributions
Also, planning to park at the nearby Nautica Garage. Are spaces typically available on a Saturday?
K C
Boston, MA121 contributions
There is usually enough parking in garages but try street parking first. Meters ARE in effect everyday EXCEPT Sunday's and holidays. Max parking at meters ... 2 hours. There are some free, no meter spaces but READ THE SIGNS...if the space is assigned to a condo building you will be towed.
USParkLover
Ohio77 contributions
I know she's dry-docked currently. Wondering how much time to allow to see the USS Constitution, museum and a walk around the Navy Yard?
rkreilly
Saint Joseph, MI100 contributions
1-2 hours, depends on how long you stay in museum and how much you read. Ship can be done in about 45 minutes, including time to talk to workers, but it's 45 minutes well spent!
Mac776
Tucson, AZ277 contributions
Good places to eat nearby?
0325johanna
Boston, MA119 contributions
The USS Constitution is just around the corner from Boston's North End. Plan to eat in the North End. There are restaurants everywhere! Try Bricco Salumeria and Pasta Shop located at 11 Board Alley (behind 241 Hanover Street).
Bcyouletme
Papillion, NE39 contributions
I know she is dry docked, but can we still go inside the ship? We went a few years back and there was an option to buy a coin onboard, but I had no cash, and I really want it now lol. Thanks in advance!!
KimWN333
Nashville, TN78 contributions
Yes, you can go aboard. Its free. You can only go on two decks though due to repairs. Good news is that there is a museum and gift shop right there where you could get a coin.
USS Constitution (Boston) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about USS Constitution
- USS Constitution is open:
- Wed - Sun 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- We recommend booking USS Constitution 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 21 USS Constitution tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience USS Constitution:
- Boston's "Little Italy" North End Pizza & History Walking Food Tour (From $49.00)
- Boston Signature Dinner Cruise with Buffet (From $149.02)
- Best of Boston Tour (From $160.00)
- Boston Harbor Sunset Cruise (From $48.00)
- Boston Harbor Brunch Cruise (From $74.67)
- Hotels near USS Constitution:
- (0.15 mi) Green Turtle Floating Bed and Breakfast
- (0.85 mi) Courtyard by Marriott Boston Downtown / North Station
- (0.61 mi) Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Harbor on Tudor Wharf
- (1.03 mi) Boston Yacht Haven Inn & Marina
- (0.96 mi) Hotel Indigo Boston Garden, an IHG Hotel
- Restaurants near USS Constitution:
- (0.12 mi) Dunkin'
- (0.26 mi) Brewer's Fork
- (0.17 mi) Dovetail Restaurant & Shop
- (0.19 mi) Style Cafe Boston
- (0.24 mi) Pier 6