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Lexington, Massachusetts for History Buffs

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Lexington is iconic for being “the Birthplace of American Liberty.” History buffs should make a pilgrimage to this famous town and plan a weekend around exploring historic sites. Here are some of our recommendations for can’t-miss tours, sites, and attractions.

Historic Lexington Tours

Lexington Battle Green Walking Tours

The  Lexington Battle Green is where “the first blood was spilt in the dispute with Great Britain.” There’s no better way to explore this National Historic Landmark than with the Lexington Battle Green Walking Tours. During the hour-long tour you’ll learn about the notable sites around the green, such as the Henry H. Kitson Minuteman Statue, the Old Belfry, the Revolutionary War Monument, and the Old Burying Ground

Liberty Ride Trolly Tour

The Liberty Ride Trolly Tour lets you hop back in time for a full 90-minute guided trolley tour. This award-winning tour will take you to see the incredible historic sites and attractions of Lexington and Concord. Your guide – wearing authentic period dress for full immersion – will regale you with stories about the Battle of Lexington and Concord, as well as life in Colonial America. 

Buckman Tavern

After it was built in 1710, Buckman Tavern became a gathering place for many locals and travelers. Most notably, Captain Parker and his militia gathered in this tavern to await the oncoming British Redcoat troops. The downstairs looks much as it did during those days, giving visitors a glimpse into the past. The upper floor contains galleries for rotating, special temporary exhibitions any history buff would love to see.

Hancock-Clarke House

On April 19th, 1775, patriots Samuel Adams and John Hancock were staying at the Hancock-Clarke House when they were awakened by Paul Revere warning them of the arrival of British troops. This historic building has an award-winning herb garden that contains traditional herbs of the 18th century. It also features exhibitions related to the enslaved and indentured black populations of Lexington in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.

Munroe Tavern

Built in 1735, Munroe Tavern was commandeered by the British Redcoat troops on their retreat back to Boston on the afternoon of April 19, 1775. The exhibits within the Tavern show two different perspectives of that day. Downstairs, visitors get a look at the British perspective of the event while upstairs, the story’s focus shifts to the people whose home was taken over by enemy soldiers. Other highlights include the Munroe Tavern Gardens and the room where President Washington dined when he visited the Tavern in 1789.

History comes to life in Lexington, whether you’re being led around by knowledgeable experts or exploring the town on your own. With all of the monuments, colonial buildings, and notable sites, there’s no shortage of things to do and see for history buffs.

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