Boston: The Freedom Trail App

If you look at your app store there are a bunch of apps for traveling. Some are good, some aren't. I already had a pretty good idea of what I wanted to do while I was in Boston but I wanted to have something that was easy to take with me while doing things like the freedom trail. The National Park Service has a bunch of apps depending on where you are going but their Boston one (the only one I've used) is amazing. it's easy to use, detailed, informative, and perfect for walking around Boston, and getting directions and info without looking too much like a tourist. as long as you aren't stopped in the middle of the street.

This is the app on the app store. All pictures are screen shots I took to show details of the National Park Service app.

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This is how the app shows up on your phone.

This is what it looks like when you open the app. As you can see it's great right off the bat divided into things you will use the most, the sites, tours, and map.

I chose tours here as i was using it mostly for the Freedom Trail. There actual Freedom Trail says it would take between 4-8 hours depending on what you stop to see and do.

First stage after selecting Freedom Trail. It starts with the Visitor Center at the north east corner of the Boston Commons. you can also see there is an info button to select for more information. And a blue route highlighting the steps of the trail. One part i really liked as well was that it showed you how far and how long it would take to get to the next destination at the bottom.

Another graphic from the app. The Old State House is highlighted and if you select info you will get history and details on hours, etc for the old state house. you can go to other steps on the tour from there as well. Also, a really great part, is the bottom left locator button. If you select it, the app will use your data to locate you and you can find your way along the trail that way. Although the Freedom Trail is very easy to follow through Boston if you are easily lost this could be helpful. or if you're like me and wander off the path to do something else for awhile it's easy to find your way back.

Just one more image of the details of the map. both with the freedom trail itself and highlights, street signs, metro stops, and other information.

Specific details. the old North Church after i selected info. It will take you back to the map but also you can read about an overview, visiting, and listen to a short audio tour (use headphones please). the picture is nice too. and at the bottom right you can select next/back to go between the more detailed information stuff about the specific landmarks of the trail.

It also lists the sites along the way so you can scroll down and read more about specific places. This was very helpful.

Overall i had such a great time exploring Boston and the Freedom Trail. i would highly recommend the National Park Service app for use around the city of Boston, an easy to use map, and a detailed adventure through the Freedom Trail in Boston.