USS Constitution
'Old Ironsides,' the world's oldest commissioned warship still afloat, docked in the Charlestown Navy Yard.
The call
Worth it if you are watching the budget and you only have one day.
Why
- 01
Boarding a 1797 frigate crewed by active-duty Navy sailors is a real, free, surprisingly tangible piece of history — kids love the cannons and the masts.
Our read - 02
The catch: it's across the harbor from downtown, boarding requires a security screening and sometimes a wait, and the adjacent museum is a separate building.
Our read
Is it a fit?
Go if
You are watching the budget
On a budget, USS Constitution still earns its price.
You only have one day
Even on a tight schedule, USS Constitution earns the hours.
You are traveling with kids
With kids, USS Constitution works.
You are traveling solo
Solo, USS Constitution works.
Think twice if
You are traveling as a couple
As a couple, it depends on the day.
You want something active
For adventure, USS Constitution is hit or miss.
Plan it well
- Cost
- Free (ID required for ship; museum donation)
- Timing
- Midday; check the Navy's seasonal boarding hours before you go.
- Booking
- No tickets; bring a government-issued photo ID for the ship's security checkpoint.
- Allow
- 1-2 hours
- Accessibility
- Ship decks involve steep ladders and steps; the museum nearby is accessible.
- Getting there
- MBTA Charlestown ferry from Long Wharf, or bus 93; pairs with the Freedom Trail.
Consider instead
Sources and method (2)
- Launched in 1797, 'Old Ironsides' is the world's oldest commissioned warship still afloat; her active-duty Navy crew gives free tours year-round. en.wikipedia.org ↗
- She is berthed at Pier 1 of the former Charlestown Navy Yard at one end of the Freedom Trail. history.navy.mil ↗