Concord Museum

Boston's Western Suburbs


Southeast of Monument Sq, Concord Museum brings the town’s diverse history under one roof. The museum’s prized possession is one of the ‘two if by sea’ lanterns that hung in the steeple of the Old North Church in Boston as a signal to Paul Revere. It also has the world’s largest collection of Henry David Thoreau artifacts, including his writing desk from Walden Pond.

Scavenger hunts and other activities make this little museum a great destination for kids. The museum was closed for renovations at the time of research, but is expected to reopen in late 2019.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Boston's Western Suburbs attractions

1. Ralph Waldo Emerson Memorial House

0.06 MILES

This house is where the philosopher lived for almost 50 years until 1882. Emerson was the paterfamilias of literary Concord, one of the great literary…

2. Concord Art

0.31 MILES

Recently celebrating its centenary, this long-standing art center hosts free exhibitions, artist talks and other events. Stop by to see what Concord's…

3. Orchard House

0.37 MILES

Louisa May Alcott (1832–88) was a junior member of Concord’s august literary crowd, but her work proved to be durable: Little Women is among the most…

4. Sleepy Hollow Cemetery

0.42 MILES

This is the final resting place for the most famous Concordians. Though the entrance is only a block east of Monument Sq, the most interesting part,…

5. Monument Square

0.43 MILES

The grassy center of Monument Sq is a favorite resting and picnicking spot for cyclists touring Concord's scenic roads. At the southeastern end of the…

6. Wayside

0.46 MILES

Also known as the 'Home of Authors,' this gracious Colonial mansion was home to three writers of note during the 19th century. Louisa May Alcott,…

7. Bullet Hole House

0.77 MILES

On your way up to Old North Bridge, look for the yellow Bullet Hole House, where British troops purportedly fired at the owner of the house as they…

8. Old Manse

0.82 MILES

Right next to Old North Bridge, the Old Manse was built in 1769 by Ralph Waldo’s grandfather, Reverend William Emerson. Today, it’s filled with mementos,…