Boston Common is the oldest public park in the United States, a 50-acre green space in the heart of downtown Boston that has served the public continuously since 1634.
Originally purchased as shared cattle-grazing land, the Common became the stage for major moments in American history: Colonial militia mustered here before the Revolution, and during the Civil War the park hosted anti-slavery rallies and regiment send-offs. Today it anchors the start of Boston’s Freedom Trail and connects directly to the neighboring Public Garden.
Modern visitors come for the Frog Pond (ice skating in winter, a splash pool in summer), the Central Burying Ground, war memorials, and shaded paths popular with joggers and picnickers. The park is open around the clock and free to enter.
