USS Constitution

Museum · Inner Harbor

USS Constitution

Museum · Inner Harbor

2

Charlestown, MA 02129

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USS Constitution by null
USS Constitution by null
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USS Constitution by null
USS Constitution by null
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USS Constitution by null
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USS Constitution by null
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USS Constitution by null
USS Constitution by null
USS Constitution by null
USS Constitution by null
USS Constitution by null
USS Constitution by null
USS Constitution by null
USS Constitution by null
USS Constitution by null
USS Constitution by null
USS Constitution by null
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USS Constitution by null
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Highlights

Oldest commissioned warship, explore decks, learn Navy history  

Featured in Conde Nast Traveler
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Charlestown, MA 02129 Get directions

navy.mil
@uss_constitution

Information

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Charlestown, MA 02129 Get directions

navy.mil
@uss_constitution
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@USSConstitution

Features

wheelchair accessible entrance
wheelchair accessible seating
restroom
wheelchair accessible parking lot
assistive hearing loop
wheelchair accessible restroom

Last updated

Aug 21, 2025

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@cntraveler

12 Best Museums in Boston You'll Want to Visit | Condé Nast Traveler

"The USS Constitution, the world’s oldest-commissioned warship still afloat, is berthed on a dock at Charlestown’s Navy Yard, where it’s part of the Freedom Trail and open to the public with free admission. Step onto the 220-plus-year-old wooden ship, and you’ll learn about life in the Navy from active-duty sailors. Be sure to glance upward for a sense of the scale of this seasoned vessel and its soaring masts, and take narrow steps down to three of the lower decks and peek into the captain’s quarters. Across the pier from the ship, the privately owned USS Constitution Museum (which has suggested admission fees) offers added insights, so you can understand the significance of “Old Ironsides” and life on the high seas." - Andrew Sessa, Elizabeth Wellington

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-museums-in-boston
View Postcard for USS Constitution
@cntraveler

USS Constitution

"Zoom out. What’s this place all about?USS Constitution, the world’s oldest-commissioned floating warship, is berthed on a dock at Charlestown’s Navy Yard. Step onto the 22-plus-year-old wooden ship—free of charge—and you’ll learn about life in the Navy from active-duty sailors. Down the wharf, the privately owned USS Constitution Museum (which has a suggested admission fees) offers added insights, so you can understand the significance of “Old Ironsides” and life on the high seas. A permanent collection is defining: How was it?The USS Constitution gives you the opportunity to get a sense of life and work on a late-eighteenth-century U.S. Navy ship—one that remains in working order. Once on the ship, a glance upward will give you an understanding of the scale of this seasoned vessel and its soaring masts. Next, take narrow steps down to the top three lower decks and peek into the captain’s quarters. When you’re done checking out the ship, make sure to walk over to Dry Dock 1, among the oldest dry docks in the United States (and an engineering marvel), where the navy conducted maintenance on the Constitution, most recently from 2015 to 2017. The nearby USS Constitution Museum gives you the chance to take an even deeper dive into the history of the ship, especially its early-eighteenth-century heyday, through experiential, interactive exhibits. Among the artifacts you’ll encounter: is an axe that helped build the ship 225-plus years ago, and through hands-on exhibits you can also learn how to fire a cannon or furl a sail. The exhibition “Today’s Crew,” meanwhile, helps you get to know the contemporary sailors serving aboard the ship today. What did you make of the crowd?Because both the ship and the museum are stops on the Freedom Trail, waves of people join the line for the USS Constitution, which moves fairly quickly. You’ll notice most of your fellow travelers are retirees or families with ecstatic kids in tow. If you’re serious about engineering, maritime culture, or the navy—or you’re just plain into history—you’ll love visiting the warship. On the practical tip, how were the facilities?You need to show a state-issued ID to walk onto the ship since it’s an active military base. Unfortunately, the USS Constitution is not accessible because it’s been restored to its 1812 state. The museum is accessible, though. Any guided tours worth trying?A sailor offers a brief introductory presentation every 15 minutes, providing a rundown of the history of the ship and walking you through her storied history and contributions to the Navy. From there, you can explore the ship at your own pace. At the museum, you’ll find daily self-guided scavenger-hunt-style programming and activities. Gift shop: What will we find?The ship has a small gift area, where you can buy USS Constitution merchandise include ball caps, tote bags, patches, and coins. There are also flags, which you can immediately have flown aboard the ship before you take them home. The museum shop’s offerings are more abundant, though not always as relevant, from Boston beans candy to children’s books and bags made out of sails. Any advice for the time- or attention-challenged?For a quick stop, head straight to the USS Constitution and skip the museum. And if you want to see this beauty set sail, visit Boston on the Fourth of July." - Elizabeth Wellington

https://www.cntraveler.com/activities/boston/uss-constitution
View Postcard for USS Constitution

Chad Wheelwright

Google
What a piece of living history! This was one of the coolest experiences I have ever had. To walk the deck and the lower levels of such an amazing piece of our countries history. To stand where some of our most fearless military members have stood. To be in the hull of history. If you are in the area, do yourself a favor and come experience this one! The stories these beams and planks hold..

Jon Harrison

Google
Another very interesting site (Bunker Hill is a definite). The USS Constitution requires identification to enter so we had to show our Driver’s Licenses, our kids were fine to enter with us. The ship was very impressive, their larger ropes, pulleys, and various levels were interesting. Lots to explore, no tickets needed, a Must See.

Eric Schulze

Google
The USS Constitution was a fun adventure. It literally looked like Captain hook's ship straight out of Peter Pan. You can walk along the deck and go down below deck to see different areas of where the sailors would have lived.

Kris Boddicker

Google
This vessel is quite a cool ship to see. It was great to be able to go below deck to see the cannons and how the men lived. There are displays throughout with QR codes for videos of more information. There is so much to see, and it's free. The sailors aboard are knowledgeable. The museum is close by and does cost to go in.

Delilah Cruz

Google
Admired from afar but better than from pictures. There is something nostalgic that occurs when you see history with your own eyes. Honoring the memory of those that served while celebrating my son's birthday. Great times and lasting memories.

Andrew Smith

Google
Really top notch experience checking this ship and its history out. Free to tour, but parking was a bit of a challenge. The service men on board were awesome and happy to share their knowledge. Worth a stop if you're in Boston. Didn't take more than an hour or two to soak in all the sights.

BJ Redford

Google
If you love history and seeing old things, definitely visit. An amazing part of history with the unique opportunity to walk where soldiers have walked for hundreds of years. Friendly staff and easy access with metered parking close by. See the museum first to better appreciate what you get to experience firsthand while on ship.

Michael Rollins

Google
Nice boat, absolutely steeped in history. The navy staff on hand to tell you more about the boat and its history are phenomenal, very knowledgeable, and really friendly. It's free to go aboard, which is especially nice as that's pretty rare in the States. It's not massive, to be honest, there's plenty of old boats you can find in the UK, which are bigger, but it's been beautifully restored and seems well maintain.
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Christie L.

Yelp
Seriously this is such a well-maintained ship that you can actually feel and see yourself in the quarters from long ago. We enjoyed going into the belly and seeing all of the captains quarters as well as where the "regular men" slept. This is included in the Free Trail and was our last stop. Exhaustion was hitting in, so we stopped for a bite before entering at Prima (see that review and do not miss this place if you are visiting the Constitution as it is in walking distance). After getting food in our bellies, it was time to visit the ship. We were welcomed by the working crew (Navy) and they were available to answer questions and seemed to enjoy their post. The view from the top is breathtaking and the ship itself feels like it was just built and could go out for another long trip. Stop in and see it if you are in the area!
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Jesse S.

Yelp
The young sailors stationed on the USS Constitution were not knowledgeable or engaging, with some being disinterested in answering questions or even brushing off visitors, To the Chiefs Mess you fuckers need to enforce discipline and respect. I dropped off a coin I hope you got it . I left on Friday afternoon before the rain. Your sailors lack the respect for veterans especially a retired Navy Chief ! These two sailors who were selling coins didn't even offer or asked me if I would like to buy a coin. To the museum staff don't tell veterans it's free but a donation is always welcome. You need to shut up! That is all ! Chief (Ret) Deal with confusion during the chaos
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Jason B.

Yelp
Old ironsides herself was one of our last stops on our tour. This is a great little spot with plenty of room to wander around and take a look at the sites. Plenty of street parking, at least, when we were there, and a limited amount of people. Although historical, this didn't seem like a popular spot.

Anon A.

Yelp
Ship is very cool, views are great, area is so cool. Service members working there clearly hate it, and hate you for being there. Saw them yell at multiple people and try to force medical devices through metal detectors that can't go (as per Doctors and TSA). I have a medical device that can't go through metal detectors, clearly said that, and got absolutely berated. Was explicitly told "I work here, I know it can". Like what does that have to do with my prescribed medical device? After he did not mention is not being a metal detector, he yelled "ITS NOT A METAL DETECTOR, THATS WHAT IVE BEEN TRYING TI TELL YOU". No, all you actually said was that you work here. Congrats, you're employed. I do recommend seeing the site, but be aware that they don't want you there.
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Dan R.

Yelp
"I'm gonna be iron like a lion in Zion " (Bob Marley) When cannon balls bounced off her hull during the War of 1812, the perplexed Brits assumed the USS Constitution was made of iron and called the ship "Old Ironsides". Little did they know the ship was made of 21" thick Southern Oak reinforced with copper sheathing. We loved our visit to the USS Constitution! We walked through the museum and boarded the ship, worked our way down two very steep ladders, explored the living quarters of the ship, interacted with two of the sailors who were charming and helpful, and felt in awe as we walked the decks of this 200+ year old ship. "Old Ironsides" is still an active Navy vessel and is undefeated in combat with a 33-0 record.
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Benjamin B.

Yelp
During my days of traveling to my former company's Boston area headquarters, I was afforded complete and unfettered free-time during the weekends. Taking full opportunity of this, I visited and took a tour of the USS Constitution. It had recently been rehabilitated, and pleasantly smelled of freshly-cut timber. The tour guide took his responsibilities very seriously, and was quite informative, if not a little stiff. If I ever make my way out in this area again, this will be one of my stops. I highly recommend visiting this piece of American history.
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Shula R.

Yelp
Located at the end (or beginning depending on your start) of the Freedom Trail, this was our last stop and honestly we just squeaked in before they closed. They do require a metal detector screening and you need some form of id to tour the ship. When we arrived to the actual ship, we were told they would be closing in 15 minutes. With that said we were only allowed to walk around the top deck. The areas opening to the lower levels were roped off. Not sure if that is because it was close to closing time or if they weren't allowing full access at the time. It was still neat to see the oldest war ship (Old Ironside) afloat but definitely plan to arrive earlier than closing time.
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Dani C.

Yelp
Unfortunately the day we went the actual ship was not open, but luckily the museum was (they are operated by different entities so be mindful of the days and hours they are open). But seeing this ship in person after reading a book about it was jaw dropping! Absolutely stunning. So glad history is being kept alive. USS Constitution: The world's oldest commissioned warship afloat 1794-1797: Congress authorizes construction of 6 frigates to help protect American merchant fleets from attacks by Algerian pirates and harassment by British/French forces. They are designed by Joshua Humphreys and built at 6 different sites. The contract for the CONSTITUTION is given to Edmond Harrt's Shipyard in Boston. Made from more than 1,500 trees (from Maine to Georgia), armed with cannons cast in Rhode Island, and copper fastenings provided by Paul Revere, the vessel is truly a national ship. 1798: After Congress votes it fit for sea, it cruises in West Indies protecting U.S. shipping from French privateers. 1803-1806: President Thomas Jefferson sent her to the Mediterranean to protect American ships from the Barbary pirates. With Captain Edward Preble in command, CONSTITUTION and other ships of the squadron bombarded Tripoli. She hosted the signing of a peace treaty between the US and Tripoli. 1812-1815: War with Great Britain. The war was hardly a month old when CONSTITUTION, on the way from Chesapeake Bay to New York, met a squadron of 5 British ships. Her escape is now legendary; a 3-day, slow-speed chase. Its crew kept her ahead of the English by rowing (known to Sailors as the "white ash breeze"), by attempting to tow her with the ship's boats. Then Lt. Charles Morris suggested "kedging," in which an anchor is carried out ahead of the ship, dropped, and the ship drawn up to it. Aug 19 1812: The fight with HMS GUERRIÈRE took place 600 miles east of Boston. The 2 settled down to a short-range slugfest. At some point, someone is said to have seen British shot bouncing off CONSTITUTION's side, and shouted, "Huzzah! Her sides are made of iron' And so was born the nickname "Old Ironsides." The GUERRIÈRE was so badly damaged, she had to be sunk. Congress awarded Captain Isaac Hull a gold medal. Dec 29, 1812: 30 miles off Brazil. She began a fight with the faster HMS JAVA. American Commodore William Bainbridge was wounded twice, and the ship's wheel was shot away, but for more than 2 hours he fought until, Like GUERRIÈRE, JAVA was too badly damaged to bring home, but before sinking her, Bainbridge had her wheel removed to replace the one she shot away. Commodore Bainbridge also received a gold medal. Feb 20, 1815: 180 miles from Madeira Island. Captain Charles Stewart came upon the British men-of-war CYANE and LEVANT and overpowered them. He hoped to bring his captures home, but ran into a British squadron that retook LEVANT while CONSTITUTION and CYANE returned safely to New York. Captain Stewart received a gold medal from Congress. 1828-1830: Laid up at Boston. During this time the Navy requested the Navy Yard Commanders conduct surveys on all ships to determine how much work would need to be done to bring the ships into commission. This information reached a local publication and it was misreported that the Navy wanted to scrap 'Old Ironsides'. Immediately after that a poem by Oliver Wendell Holmes, called Old Ironsides, was written to generate public support. The Navy paid to refurbish CONSTITUTION.
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John S.

Yelp
One of my favorite things on the Freedom Trail. Even if it was raining, we took our time climbing onto the ship before going down the ladder inside. Doing so was like going back in time. The ship has been beautifully preserved and should be a stop for any lover of history!
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Tara C.

Yelp
A bit of a walk to get there, mainly hard for handicap. The museum cost money $10, there is a free gift store. To tour the boat it's across the way from the museum and also cost a separate fee... the trolley does stop at this location!
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Caleigh T.

Yelp
I had some overall issues with touring the USS Constitution, all of which were my own fault. Here are some tips to help you avoid some of my mistakes. First, the ship is closed on Mondays. So plan your trip to the USS Constitution accordingly. Next, you have to have your drivers license or a form of legal ID on you. I made this mistake and had to walk a mile or so back to the hotel. This was a common mistake I witnessed from our tourists as well. So- ID- have it on your person. The USS Constitution is managed by the US Navy so security is similar to what it is like at an airport. It's also considered a national park. Once you eventually make it on to the ship, it's a cool experience. It's the oldest war ship still around. You will be able to explore the different levels of the ship and if you are lucky, will get a first hand rendition of how to load and fire a cannon. The visitor center is packed full of helpful information you can read before touring the ship. I found the staff to be very friendly and helpful. Now, if you don't like old ships or history, this is not the tour for you. Last tip, the ship is open until 6 PM, but if you also want to explore the WW2 ship on site, you will have to watch your clock closely. The WW2 ship closes it's tour by 5:30.
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Kris P.

Yelp
What I would've done to have this duty station! The tour is free and you go through a quick security screening then to a holding area that has a gift shop and USS Constitution artifacts. We visited on a rainy winter day so I'm sure it is more spectacular in the fall or spring. I also don't know if that contributes to uniform of the day as it doesn't seem natural to have the sailors in the green NWUs--I at least come from the time when we wore dungarees--but I digress! You're on an over 225 year old Naval ship! That is still active, albeit as a museum ship or maybe outreach?! Nonetheless, it's rad! What struck me was how small the inside was. I'm just shy of 6' tall and ducked the majority of the time while touring. Topside as well, it seemed barren though I'm sure things have changed since 1797. If you're a veteran, a historian, a patriot, or just want to imagine yourself back in time, take an hour and give this a tour!
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Vanessa W.

Yelp
We had a fun visit to this pay what you wish attraction. Unfortunately the ship was closed on the day we were there, but we spent a decent amount of time in the museum. The museum is set up to be very interactive and is great for kids. You even get to walk through a timeline like you joined the ships crew. Definitely visit if you have some history interest or if you have children.
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Miatsu K.

Yelp
I absolutely loved this tour and being aboard such an incredible piece of Americana. I read about Old Ironsides in school but never figured I'd ever actually be on the ship. The young active duty Navy sailor that gave us the tour was very informative and fun. She had the perfect personality to engage with people and make it all very interesting. Seeing the old guns, sleeping and eating areas and hearing the old war stories made for in amazing afternoon. The museum and gift shop were great as well. Life aboard this ship must have been quite the adventure. If you find yourself in Boston, definitely check this out. I left feeling romantic about history and the sea.
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Israel G.

Yelp
The oldest warship still afloat A real Naval vessel! Built in 1794 Launched in 1797 From Boston now docked here too The tour is amazingly interesting Words like gundeck, scuttledeck, and the head come alive here Simply amazing And free!
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Lena M.

Yelp
How often do you get to go aboard a U.S. Navy Ship? Now ... How often do you get to go aboard history that is a U.S. Navy Ship? Well - Get on the USS Constitution and you can say you did both! This ship is incredible! According to the Navy's website, the USS CONSTITUTION is the WORLD'S OLDEST COMMISSIONED WARSHIP AFLOAT! Stepping on deck was surreal and because it's an actual commissioned ship there was a working crew at the time training. It was definitely an impressive sight to watch members of the crew performing climbing exercises and walking about their ship, listening to guides talk about the different parts of the each area, and seeing the impressive cannons all throughout the ship! We had to pass through security, showing our drivers license and going through a metal detector. I also had to send my purse through the X-ray screener. Once we passed through, it was just wide open space to walk aboard and see the incredible areas of the ship and naval yard. Best part - it's FREE to go on the USS Constitution!
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Dylan S.

Yelp
Very interesting and cool historical battleship. Makes you feel like a sailor on the ship, as you descend deeper down into the ship, you can see all the other components like the sleeping quarters etc. and all the other stuff, as well as cannons and weaponry. Overall it is definitely a fun place to go while visiting Boston.

Thomas L.

Yelp
VERY disappointed in our attempts to see the USS Constitution. We were in Boston for the day on 9/13/24, and visiting the ship was supposed to be the highlight of our walk of the Freedom Trail. We went straight there from North Station and arrived a little before 11 to find the ship missing, and "ship is closed" signs up. We asked at the Museum, and they told us that she had been taken out for some sort of ceremony and would be back in the afternoon, but they didn't think there'd be tours today. We toured the USS Cassin Young next door instead, and then decided to try at least going to the USS Constitution Visitor Center, since we were there. The guards at security told us that only the gift shop was open, but the ship would be back in the afternoon and tours would resume at 4 pm. We walked the rest of the Freedom Trail. While at Faneuil Hall we had chatted with a ranger who confirmed that the USS Constitution was back in port and conducting tours again, so from Boston Common we walked 45 minutes back to the naval yard, arriving at 5 (an hour before closing). The ship was back, but for reasons unknown they had decided not to resume tours today after all. Since we had walked all that way back, we took the opportunity to browse the Visitor Center displays (which TBH aren't worth the trip on their own). Very disappointed in the lack of ship access that day, as well as the misinformation being conveyed by the NPS staff.
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Nolan R.

Yelp
Incredibly preserved 200 year old ship from the War of 1812. You can climb all over the ship and a surprising amount of it is accessible. An amazing thing to experience and it's best enjoyed after visiting the museum.
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Ray F.

Yelp
52 years ago, a young boy got to crawl all over this historic ship under a watchful eye of a grizzled seasoned sailor. This long gone sailor gave me a personal tour. While the tour was likely less than half an hour, I remembered way more than I bet he thought I would. It would launch me into heavy reading on many US military campaigns and battles as well as cementing my path as an Army officer. My recent trip to see this must see active US Navy Historical relic found it well maintained and still mostly sea worthy. The current crew looked fit and pround to wear both current and past uniforms! That pride extends to this ship. Although my adult height had me ducking more than 52 years ago as I scampered up, down and along the decks, I still felt like that boy of the past. The smells, sights and feel were still there. Check to make sure it is in port before you visit as it does sail from time to time! Mobility challenged individuals may not get to see all decks as the ladders are steep. All should visit here at least once. Imagine maneuvering in the winds to line up a broadside barrage or getting skinny before an English ship of the Line fired a bradside at you. Imagine the icy nights in you hammock, or the ear splitting roar of the cannon along with the acrid smell of burnt power and freshly splintter wood. Perhaps image life for weeks at sea getting your daily grog ration, accomodations right next to your shipmmates swinging in unison to the creaking timbers or sharing togetherness at the head. My utmost respect and admiration to the sailors of those days. And most sincere thanks to that long gone sailor who opened my mind to that history.
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Alex T.

Yelp
SO COOL! It was truly amazing to see the size of this old Navy ship. Imagining it sailing with a full crew was truly mind-boggling. This ship is a national treasure and an great piece of the history of the United States. I'm glad I visited while I was in Boston. The WW2 ship that's also docked in the same area is also worth a visit. Very cool stuff and helps demonstrate the sacrifice past generations have made to protect what we have today!
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Stephanie S.

Yelp
Cool boat to go through. It's a working US boat which is pretty cool. There's also a museum nearby. Definitely a must stop for US history!
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Ken O.

Yelp
USS Constitution and the Museum is one of the many stops along the Hop On/Hop Off tour. I'm glad I had checked it out. First, all of us needs to walk through a security screening. From there, we have the opportunity to check out this portion of a museum. From there, we were able to board the USS Constitution ship. Able to walk around the ship, on the deck and to the lower desk. From there, we were able to check out the USS Constitution Museum which housed more of the information about this grand ship. Even if your not interested in war ships, I was still recommend this.
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Brooke C.

Yelp
This was a cool experience. Actually going on board this ship and touring the insides and its history was fascinating.

Valarie V.

Yelp
Spent about an hour and a half here on a two day trip to Boston. I don't think you can miss this on your itinerary. It doesn't cost any money although you can give a donation of your choice when going into the museum. They don't even ask you before going on the ship. So much history! Plus they have another warship there from the 1940s. The USS constitution is the oldest active duty warship in the world, definitely worth going on it and having a look around if you're in Boston. There is also a gift shop, great prices on some little souvenirs even just general Boston souvenirs, much cheaper than the market or the little shops. Enjoy!
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Melanie B.

Yelp
The USS Constitution is the oldest commissioned ship in the US Navy. And the only ship remaining in its fleet that has ever sunk an enemy vessel--which earned the nickname "Old Ironsides" when it withstood the British bombardment during the war of 1812. Open from 10am until 5pm, it's free of charge, but visitors must first enter via a security checkpoint at the Navy Yard Visitor Center. Photo ID is required for people age 18 and older and everyone must pass through a metal detector. The Nautica Parking Garage in Charlestown is the easiest way to park. Located near the Navy Yard, it'll cost you about $20. Parking is so abysmal in Boston. Just use the parking garage.

Kevin G.

Yelp
Tour was excellent a lot of great history and make you very thank full to our for fathers
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Sarah B.

Yelp
What a great place to devour history! Great for kids and families. They have good educational videos and signs for everything, visitors center, gift shop, and all taken with donations.
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Lucas K.

Yelp
This was a bucket list item for me! The ship is remarkably detailed and kept in amazing shape. It is still serviced by active duty sailors and officers. I highly recommend coming to see it if you are a history buff or touring the New England area.
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Michael R.

Yelp
August 2024 - Busy place ... great museum ... check open times and dates! I learned something: Old Ironsides was built with Live Oak wood that made it as strong as iron!!! Interesting ship ... watch your head.
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Todd B.

Yelp
Experience: 5* Location: 4* Ambience: 5* Price: 5* (free) This was a great experience. A walk into the past to see old iron sides. She is bigger than she looks with three whole levels to explore. Going up and down the stairs is an experience. Learning about her importance to various battles she won was great. Experiencing her and imagining her in her full glory at sea was a neat experience. Talking to the active military workers there about the history and seeing it through their eyes was enlightening. Be sure to check out the USS Cassin Young too to round out your experience.
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Francine L.

Yelp
The USS Constitution is a active boat and has been in the history books. It has been around since 1797 and if you go into the boat you can see active personal in there. The ship itself is clean and kept like how it was from back in the day. But it also has some tech stuff there too! Overall if you are in Boston you need to come here and go through security and also you must have your ID with you. There is also a person that talks about the history on the boat and you can go down and see some of the areas. But other areas are blocked off. You can spend as much time on the boat as possible. Walk around from the top part to the end of it and however you want. It is quite large and you'll really get a workout from this place! Don't forget that there is also a museum just a few feet away. It will have some more information about the boat but I did the museum first and then went to the boat!
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Julia M.

Yelp
Me and my group greatly enjoyed our time here! We spent about an hour exploring the ship and learning it's history. There are plenty of educational plaques stationed around the ship that teach about how it functioned as a warship, and plentiful guides located on each floor to answer any questions. It's free to enter, you simply need to go through a quick security checkpoint and then you can walk out to the ship. Highly recommend!

PackUpNGoNow L.

Yelp
MUST DO WHEN VISITING BOSTON A visit to the USS Constitution is a must-do for anyone visiting Boston. How to Get There: start the adventure by taking a MBTA ferry that departs from Long Wharf that is in front of the Boston Marriott Long Wharf hotel. The Long Wharf is next to the Boston Aquarium and is where many tourists sign up for tour buses (e.g. Boston Duck, Hop On Hop Off) and harbor cruises. The MBTA Boston Harbor City Cruise ferry costs only $3.70 one way (half price for seniors and free for children under 11). The ferry runs every 15 - 30 minutes depending on the time of day. Purchase tickets after you board the ferry - no need to buy tickets on the app in advance. The short ferry ride takes you to Charlestown - it is a short 10-15 minute walk to the naval yard. TRAVEL TIP: riding any of the MBTA ferries is a fun and inexpensive way to do a tour of the Boston harbor. After passing through a security check, you enter a small visitor center with a few exhibits. Watch the short films that give a history of the naval yard before visiting the ships. The USS Constitution and USS Cassin Young are part of the Boston National Historical Park. Admission is free (the USS Constitution Museum is independently operated and is not free). Confirm that the ships are open on the day of your visit (not open 7 days a week). The USS Constitution is the actual warship and is not a replica ship. As a history buff, it was amazing to explore the deck and below deck. There was no tour happening during our visit. The USS Cassin Young is a naval destroyer. Unless you are part of a tour, you will only be able to walk on the deck of the destroyer. We were lucky to do a free tour of the destroyer with a National Park Service ranger. Reserve a space on the tour when you board as the tour is capped to 15-20 people. Reconsider taking the tour if you have young children or are unable to climb up and down steep narrow ladder steps. The 45 minute tour took us inside the destroyer. It was fascinating to visit the quarters of the crew, the store, the computer room, the kitchen and dining/game area and even the tiny bathroom. We even saw how "easy" it was to manually move the large weapons on the deck. Our group asked a lot of questions which made the tour even more informative. We did not visit the USS Constitution Museum. Based on reviews, the museum is targeted towards elementary school children. It was drizzling on the day of our visit so we also did not visit the nearby Bunker Hill Monument and museum.
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Anna M.

Yelp
Free to enter after a quick but slightly convoluted security check. Remember that this is a VERY OLD, FUNCTIONING naval vessel, so dress appropriately. (Skirts and heels may not be the most helpful if you want to climb down a narrow ladder/staircase backwards.) It's a wonderful, lovingly maintained piece of history. There's plenty of information available not only from the sailors on-site and the posted signs but the nearby museums. Or you can just admire the aesthetics if you prefer-- there's a lot to like.
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Sunny P.

Yelp
The USS Constitution is the oldest shop still on the water. This is the last stop on the Freedom Trail and is free to the public for tours. It is maintained by the Navy and located in the Boston Navy Shipyard. This was one of the coolest things to see in Boston! You can walk around the deck and go down two levels to see the cannons and where the sailors slept. Learning the history and relevance of this shop was incredible and should be a must do for everyone visiting Boston!
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Henry P.

Yelp
Incredible take. America. Naval might. Well worth the trek into Boston. I'm a Navy veteran and grew up here in the Commonwealth, yet never had been. The closest I ever got to Old Ironsides was my Navy Good Conduct Medal. Parking available on-site was 18.00 dollars for two hours. Admission on the ship was free. This Old Navy Squid, a Radioman, Second Class Petty Officer had a great time! I talked with several other Navy veterans as well as the active duty crew; very nice people veterans and AD. I felt like I was visiting an old friend. The ship, while very storied, was quite small, and deck to overhead, down below was about five and a half feet. I bought an Ensign and ran it up the main sail for $25.00 and they give you a certificate signed by the Skipper. National Park Service, federal rules apply. Security check and no firearms. I really annoyed and loved my time visiting the ship. Thanks to the Navy crew, and the Skipper! Bravo Zulu. 08OCT2022

Tom R.

Yelp
My nephew came to town and as he is interested in joining the navy, I took him for a tour of the USS Constitution. We had a wonderful time exploring this perfectly maintained 1800s warship, he ca=hatted up several of the onboard crewmembers plus got to meet the Captain. IMO the USS Constitution is the best show in Boston and free at that. Be sure to save some time to visit the Museum.
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Chris L.

Yelp
Beautiful boat. In amazing condition. So neat to be able to walk around all the decks and see a warship from hundreds of years ago. Our kids had a blast going between decks and exploring all the nooks and crannies.
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Julie C.

Yelp
Omg you must see this oldest ship in active duty USS CONSTITUTION. Nicknamed "old Ironside" for not sinking after having 19 Cannonballs in her sides, she is available to tour in Boston harbor and absolutely beautiful!!! Must see this!!
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Scott H.

Yelp
Amazing historic location in boston. Fantastic museum with Hands-On exhibits. I attended as part of a local conference and they catered. Food was excellent. Got to meet with the co and XO of the ship.
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Altovise L.

Yelp
What a neat place! It's so cool. I'm not a war or military history buff but this was fascinating to me. I loved the stories from the servicemen. I really enjoyed looking at the momentous and artifacts. This is great for all ages!
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Gerald H.

Yelp
Was cool, we stopped here but on a weekday during Covid it looked like they were closed up for the day. I wouldn't say they are closed totally for COVID as there are markings on the ground near where a line would be formed marking off where 6ft begins and ends. Stopping here on a weekday probably is what did it - they may only be open for tours or walk arounds during the weekend only. Not sure. Cool to stop and to be honest I didn't want a tour.
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Wanda A.

Yelp
My friend and I explored Charlestown Navy Yard, this is also the last stop of the Freedom Trail. We visited the USS Constitution where admission is free but you'll have to go through security and show an ID. What a view to see outside and inside of this massive ship, and to hear the history and events of what the ship gone through. Definitely a must visit whether you're local tourist or not!
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Arthur O.

Yelp
Amazing historical site to visit while you are spending time in Boston. Navy service members on board are very friendly and helpful. There are interactive cots and cabins on board and you can look into the different rooms. You definitely should check out the U.S.S Constitution museum as well if you find time. The fact that it was pouring when I went really added to the experience. Accessible by most tour buses and also by Blue Bike. 10/10 experience!
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Bill G.

Yelp
What a great experience. This tour is so well done by the guides, who are active duty Navy. They show the respect and deference that this great ship deserves. It was a wet and rainy day, but worth the wet jacket and shoes to get the opportunity to take this tour. This is a must in your list for a trip to Boston!
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Anthony G.

Yelp
For my 500th review I wanted to skip a bunch of places I visited in Boston/New England because I wanted to talk about one of my favorite moments of my recent trip: Going aboard the USS Constitution. I first remember reading about this amazing warship when I was in middle school and read about it's exploits in First Barbary War and the War of 1812. I love history, and this ship is full of it actually being named by George Washington himself. Also it's interesting to note, this is still a fully commissioned ship of the US Navy and US sailors still serve on her. It was certainly a pleasure to speak with the sailors who serve on the Constitution. They are friendly and are very willing to answer any you may have. From what I found out, in order to keep its commissioned status it must travel at least 1 nautical mile a year and it does sail on the 4th of July. I also later found out that at night, it does first one canon shot. I took a boat tour of Boston to be able to see it from the ocean, it was so amazing to hear it go! Gave me goosebumps! You need to come see this incredible warship/piece of history if you visit Boston!
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Nico Samneil S.

Yelp
Sadly they close at 5pm. But you can see the ship from the outside the fence. There are navy personnel guarding since this is an active navy vessel.

Kristen K.

Yelp
Stunning. Absolutely incredible to walk the ship and see all of the history. Our nation exists because our soldiers fought on this ship, which is wild considering how different it is to ships today! We also got to talk to some naval officers stationed on board and they were awesome!