Before embarking on the Freedom Trail, I looked through the various guides on sale at the tourist center on Boston Common and concluded this was the best. I enjoyed having this to refer to at each stage of the trail. Interestingly written, filled with historical nuggets and images, with a map located where it should be -- in the center spread, where it is easy to find. In the back there are lists of opening hours and entrance fees, as well as indications of wheelchair accessibility. ( )

The Freedom Trail is a two and a half mile trail, marked by red brick along Boston streets, that takes you to some of America's most historic places, such as Old North Church ("one if by land, two if by sea"), Faneuil Hall, and the site of the Boston Massacre.

This little book is splendid, particularly for the individual who prefers to go it alone. A starting point at Boston Common is suggested, and directions are given from there. But the book is hugely informative, with lots of history told in an interesting manner. I particularly appreciated the extensive detail about who is buried in which burying ground. There is a good map, a list of hours and admission fees, information about wheelchair access, and the like.

My copy is the second edition, published in 1993, which I picked up at a used book sale shortly before my trip. I did not, however, encounter any outdated information, other than the fact that the "Big Dig" is now over with!