Photo courtesy of Greater Boston Convention & Visitors BureauWhen you think of a National Park, you probably think big, real big, like Yellowstone big, but Yellowstone is not alone, and the Boston area happens to have one heck of a National Park within its reach. Historic Concord is home to Minute Man National Historical Park where the opening battle of the Revolution is brought to life. Visitors can explore the actual battlefields and structures associated with the April 19, 1775 Revolutionary War battle that begin shaping the United States into what it is today. 

The grounds of Minute Man National Historical Park are open year-round, sunrise to sunset. Making it ideal for hiking day trip. You may want to plan your visit during the spring or fall when the weather is crisp, cool, and the grounds are free from snow and ice. However, for those who enjoy a cold weather walk, the beauty of the park after a snowfall is stunning. While here, you'll want to explore Battle Road Trail. Five miles that connect historic sites from Meriam’s Corner in Concord to the eastern boundary of the park in Lexington. This trail not only provides a scenic walk, but also shares the history of the famous first battle. Much of the trail is easily walkable and follows along Battle Road, but some sections have you stepping in the shoes of the Minute Men, through farming fields, wetlands, and forests. And who knows, maybe you're visit will coincide with a reenactment of the battle; ideal to bring history to life!

For those who prefer to skip the hike, there are several key points within the park that you should not miss: the Minute Man Visitor Center, Hartwell Tavern, The Wayside: Home of Authors, Concord's North Bridge home of , “the shot heard ‘round the world”, and the North Bridge Visitor Center. British Column — Photo courtesy of Minute Man National Park