There is no better time to visit Concord, Massachusetts than April. The flowers have begun to bloom, the weather is warming up, and it’s a historically significant month for the town. The battle that began the American Revolution took place on April 19th, 1775, so you’ll likely witness re-enactments and celebrations as you explore the town. With so much to see, why not explore Concord on your own with a self-guided walking tour?
Minute Man National Historical Park
As the American Revolution began at Minute Man National Historical Park, so should your walking tour through Concord. The opening battle that gave birth to the United States is brought to life before your eyes. Explore the sites, structures, and battlefields that have been preserved and protected throughout the centuries. You can visit the North Bridge, Hartwell Tavern, Battle Road Trail, and so much more.
The grounds, trails, and parking areas are open daily from sunrise to sunset.
The Old Manse
The Old Manse is a beautiful Georgian house built on the Concord River in 1770 and has been home to famous American authors such as Ralph Waldo Emerson and Nathanial Hawthorne. Emerson even drafted his influential essay “Nature” in the upstairs study, while his friend Henry David Thoreau planted the heirloom vegetable garden.
The grounds are open year-round, daily from sunrise to sunset.
Concord Museum
Check out the remarkable collection on display at the Concord Museum. You’ll see the famous lantern used by Paul Revere, Revolutionary War artifacts, the desk Henry David Thoreau wrote “Walden” on, and items from Ralph Waldo Emerson’s study. You’ll see engaging exhibits that resent concepts of liberty, independent thinking, and environmental preservation.
Open year-round, Tuesday through Sunday from 10am-4pm. Walk-in visitors are welcome.
Verrill Farm
Verrill Farm is among the oldest agriculturally sustained lands in the United States. You can take a tour of the 150 acres of land, learn about the 40 different crops that are grown there, and check out the farm stand. There’s also an on-site kitchen, deli, and bakery which feature local specialty foods and prepare mouthwatering dishes.
Open daily year-round from 8am-7pm.
Walden Pond State Reservation
A National Historic Landmark, Walden Pond State Reservation is not only a place you can swim, picnic, canoe, and hike. It’s an important part of American history, as it is the very land that inspired Thoreau’s classic work, “Walden.” Walk around the famous pond and even visit the replica of Thoreau’s single-room cabin.
Open from 5am to a half-hour after sunset year-round.
The Thoreau Society Shop at Walden Pond
The Thoreau Society Shop at Walden Pond is a must-stop shop for anyone who enjoys not only Thoreau, but nature in general and other Concord historical authors. You can ask the knowledgeable staff questions about the local plants and wildlife. Be sure to pick up merchandise like books, apparel, artwork, cards, or even a drink and snack.
The shop is open year-round with daily hours that vary by season. Check out their website for details.
Brister’s Hill
Nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike should head to Brister’s Hill. There you’ll experience a one-mile, self-guided interpretive trail in the historic Walden Woods honoring Henry David Thoreau. You’ll find the author’s words carved in granite along the trail, imparting words of wisdom.
Free, open year-round from sunrise to sunset.
It’s time to get out and explore Concord this April, so don’t let it pass you by! Download our walking tour app as your guide and learn about this amazing town and all it has to offer.
