Paul Revere House
19 North Square, North End, Boston, MA, 02113
Located in the city’s North End and built around 1680, the Paul Revere House is the oldest residence in downtown Boston. It’s famous for being the house that industrialist and military officer Revere left from in 1775 on the night of his famous “midnight ride” to warn his compatriots that the British were coming to arrest them. The building now serves as a house museum alongside the adjacent Pierce-Hichborn House.
The Basics
Through the years the home has been lived in by many other families and served various purposes including as a bank, grocery store, and cigar factory; however, the building was purchased by Revere’s grandson in 1902 and restored by the Paul Revere Memorial Association from 1907 to 1908, allowing it to now serve as a house museum along with the adjacent Pierce-Hichborn House. Walking inside, visitors are able to appreciate the 17th-century appearance and original artifacts like historic documents and Revere’s silverware. Knowledgeable staff and information panels are there to help answer any questions you may have.
The house is an attraction offered through the Go Boston Card, a flexible sightseeing pass. Or you can also book a Freedom Trail tour, which includes a stop at the home.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The site is small so you’ll probably only need about 20 to 30 minutes to explore but it’s worth a visit to learn about its history.
- The house is fully accessible, with a level entrance on the ground floor; an elevator in the visitor center allows access to the second floor.
- Keep in mind that the home has narrow doorways, uneven flooring, and low light that may be challenging for some visitors.
- Only cash and checks are accepted for admission.
How to Get There
The Paul Revere House is located on the Freedom Trail between Faneuil Hall and Old North Church, and is within easy walking distance of other attractions. Because of the one-way streets and limited parking around the house, getting there by subway, on foot, and via bike is recommended. Take the green line to the Haymarket or Government Center stops; the blue line to Aquarium or Government Center; or the orange line to Haymarket.
When to Get There
Throughout the year, events are held on site, including visits from Paul Revere and his family members, in which performers bring the historical stories to life, and craftsmen demonstrations; check the Paul Revere House website for the latest updates. Also, keep in mind that the home is closed on Mondays, from January through March.
The North End Neighborhood
In addition to its many historical sites, the North End is also home to a community of Italian Americans, creating what is known as Boston’s Little Italy. Delis, butchers, salumerias, bakers, wine bars, and restaurants line the narrow streets, making the area a popular location for food tours as well as a good place to grab a bite to eat.
Ways to explore
Explore the Paul Revere House on a self-guided tour, during which you can appreciate 90 percent of the building’s original 17th-century structure, furnishings typical of the time when Revere and the original owner lived there, and Revere family artifacts. Knowledgeable staff and illustrated information panels are there to help answer questions.
While you can book individual tickets to the museum, the Paul Revere House is offered through the Go City® Boston All-Inclusive Pass. You can also book a Freedom Trail walking tour, which includes a stop here.
Accessibility
Despite being a 17th-century historic building, the Paul Revere House has been adapted to be fully accessible.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Small bag, cash for payment (preferred over card payment)
What to wear
Comfortable shoes, season-appropriate jacket
Not allowed
Eating, drinking, chewing gum, and photography are prohibited inside the building.
Amenities
Gift shop, accessible restrooms with changing tables
Address
The Paul Revere House is located on Boston’s Freedom Trail, between Faneuil Hall and Old North Church, and is within easy walking distance of other attractions. Getting there by subway, on foot, or by bike is recommended.
Driving
Because of the one-way street system and limited parking around the Paul Revere House, it’s best not to drive here. If driving is preferred, book a rideshare or taxi instead.
Public transportation
It’s easy to reach the Paul Revere House by metro, aka “the T.” Take the Green Line to Haymarket or Government Center stations, the Blue Line to Aquarium or Government Center, or the Orange Line to Haymarket.
Best times to visit
The house is open from 10am, with seasonal closing hours. It closes at 4:15pm between November and mid-April, and at 5:15pm from mid-April until the end of October.
Best days to visit
The house is open daily from April to December, but is closed on Mondays from January through March. During the summer, visit on a weekday for a somewhat quieter experience.
Best months to visit
Boston in general is more comfortable between spring and fall (April–October), as winters are very cold. However, you may enjoy a quieter visit to the house in the winter.
Special events
Many seasonal events are held throughout the year, including those revolving around key historical dates and craft demonstrations. Check the calendar of events on the attraction’s website.
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