World War II US Navy battleship at sea during daytime

Boston Navy Yard

Boston Navy Yard Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historic Site Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Boston Navy Yard, also known as the Charlestown Navy Yard, is a cornerstone of American maritime history. Established in 1800 at the confluence of the Charles and Mystic Rivers, it served as a premier naval shipbuilding and repair facility for nearly two centuries. The Yard’s storied past encompasses the launch of legendary ships like the USS Constitution (“Old Ironsides”), pivotal contributions during both World Wars, and a thriving workforce that included women and minorities. Today, as part of the Boston National Historical Park, the site offers visitors a unique blend of historic ships, interactive museums, and scenic waterfront views—making it one of Boston’s must-see attractions for history buffs, families, and travelers.

This comprehensive guide provides up-to-date information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, top attractions, and travel tips to ensure a meaningful and smooth visit. For official details and the latest updates, consult the National Park Service website and the USS Constitution Museum.

USS Arkansas (BB-33) battleship off Boston Navy Yard in 1944 with Measure 31a, Design 7B camouflage

Rear Admiral Wilson Brown and Miss Lillian E. Earley at the launching ceremony of LST 305 on 10 October 1942 at Boston Navy Yard

APB-38 and APB-39 naval vessels under construction at New York Navy Bos in July 1945

Aerial view of U.S. Navy Boston Naval Shipyard in July 1943 featuring USS Iowa battleship in dry dock, USS Bunker Hill aircraft carrier, and Baltimore-class heavy cruiser

Aerial view of the U.S. Navy Boston Naval Shipyard in Massachusetts on 1 April 1960 showing various ships including USS Wasp aircraft carrier, USS Macon heavy cruiser, USS Hugh Purvis destroyer and others at multiple piers and dry docks

Aerial view of the Boston Navy Yard in 1942 showing destroyers, destroyer escorts, USS Constitution, and Jeffrey Field

Wood engraved view of the navy yard at Charlestown Massachusetts showing ships and dock infrastructure

Historic barque ship Fredonia sailing on water

Historical Overview
Main Attractions
Visiting Hours and Tickets
Getting There & Accessibility
Visitor Amenities
Special Events & Tours
Nearby Attractions
Tips for Your Visit
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion & Call to Action
References

Historical Overview

Founding and Early Development (1800–1865)

The Boston Navy Yard was established in 1800 and quickly became a strategic hub for the United States Navy. Its location allowed for efficient shipbuilding and repair, as well as defense of the Boston Harbor. One of its earliest milestones was the launch of the USS Independence in 1814, followed by the creation of New England’s first naval dry dock in 1833. The Yard’s early years focused on wooden sailing ships, including the legendary USS Constitution, which remains the world’s oldest commissioned warship afloat (NPS History).

Industrialization and Wartime Expansion (1865–1945)

After the Civil War, the Yard transitioned to building steel-hulled, steam-powered vessels. Its facilities expanded to include additional dry docks and modern workshops. During both World Wars, the Yard operated at peak capacity, building and repairing hundreds of ships, including destroyers and landing crafts. The workforce grew to over 50,000 during World War II, with significant contributions from women and minority workers. The Yard launched 303 vessels, commissioned 120 more, and repaired thousands (NPS WWII Article).

Postwar Years, Decommissioning, and Preservation (1945–Present)

Post-World War II, the Yard focused on ship repair and modernization until its closure in 1974. Efforts to preserve its legacy led to the establishment of the Boston National Historical Park, which protects key buildings, dry docks, and historic ships. Today, the Yard is a living museum and a model for adaptive reuse and historic preservation (NPS Article).

Main Attractions

USS Constitution (“Old Ironsides”)

Launched in 1797, the USS Constitution is the centerpiece of the Yard. Famous for its victories in the War of 1812 and its durable oak hull, the ship is open for public tours led by active-duty Navy personnel.

Admission: Free (photo ID required for visitors 18+)
Accessibility: Main deck accessible; lower decks via steep ladders
Hours: Typically 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, Tuesday–Sunday (USS Constitution Info)

USS Constitution Museum

Located adjacent to the ship, the USS Constitution Museum offers hands-on exhibits on ship construction, naval warfare, and everyday sailor life.

Suggested Donation: $10–$15 adult, $5–$10 child (not required)
Hours: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm

USS Cassin Young (DD-793)

This Fletcher-class WWII destroyer is moored nearby and open for tours. Learn about the ship’s service in the Pacific and step aboard for a glimpse into mid-20th-century naval life.

Admission: Free
Hours: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, seasonally (USS Cassin Young Info)

Historic Shipyard Structures

Commandant’s House (c. 1805): The oldest building in the Yard; not open for tours but visible from the grounds.
Ropewalk: A rare industrial site where naval rope was made for over a century.
Dry Dock No. 1: One of America’s oldest operational dry docks, open for exterior viewing (NPS Article).

National Park Service Visitor Center

Start your visit here for maps, brochures, a free orientation film, and ranger-led tour information.

Location: Building 5, Charlestown Navy Yard
Hours: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Visiting Hours and Tickets

General Hours

Grounds: Open daily, sunrise to sunset
Visitor Center: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
USS Constitution: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (Tues–Sun, last boarding at 5:30 pm)
USS Constitution Museum: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
USS Cassin Young: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, April–November

Hours may vary seasonally or for maintenance/holidays. Check NPS Official Site before visiting.

Ticketing

Grounds & Visitor Center: Free
USS Constitution & Cassin Young: Free (USS Constitution requires photo ID for ages 18+)
USS Constitution Museum: Suggested donation
Reservations: Not required for general entry; group tours and educational programs may require advance booking.

Security screening is required to board the USS Constitution. No weapons or sharp objects are allowed. Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult (Visitor Center Security).

Getting There & Accessibility

Location

Charlestown Navy Yard, Charlestown, MA 02129
Visitor Center Phone: 617-242-5601 (NPS Contact)

Transportation

Subway: MBTA Orange Line to North Station, then a 15-minute walk.
Bus: MBTA 93 from Haymarket.
Ferry: MBTA Charlestown Ferry from Long Wharf (Navy Yard Ferry Info).
Car: Limited metered parking and nearby garages (NPS Directions). Public transit recommended.

Accessibility

Grounds, Visitor Center, Museum, Cassin Young: Wheelchair accessible
USS Constitution: Main deck accessible; lower decks not. Service animals welcome (NPS Accessibility).

Visitor Amenities

Restrooms: Visitor Center and Museum
Gift Shops: Visitor Center and Museum
Food: No full restaurants on-site; nearby Charlestown options and seasonal food trucks (Nearby Eateries)
Picnic Areas: Green spaces and Shipyard Park for outdoor meals (Shipyard Park Info)
Playground: Family-friendly facilities available

Special Events & Tours

Ranger-Led Tours: Offered seasonally; check schedules at the Visitor Center or NPS Events.
Living History Events: Reenactments, June Day Parade (BostonCentral), and special commemorations held throughout the year.

Nearby Attractions

Bunker Hill Monument: Walk to the iconic obelisk and museum (Bunker Hill Info)
Freedom Trail: The Navy Yard is a northern anchor for this historic 2.5-mile route (Freedom Trail Info)
Charlestown Neighborhood: Explore historic streets and local dining (Dining Tips)
Boston Harborwalk: Scenic waterfront path (Harborwalk Info)

Tips for Your Visit

Arrive Early: Especially in summer, to avoid crowds.
Bring ID: Required for boarding USS Constitution (ages 18+).
Dress Comfortably: Wear sturdy shoes for walking and climbing ladders.
Plan for Weather: Much of the site is outdoors.
Photography: Allowed, but flash may be restricted in exhibits.
Allow 2–4 Hours: To fully experience the main attractions (Itinerary Tips).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Boston Navy Yard visiting hours?
A: Visitor Center: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm; USS Constitution: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (Tues–Sun); Museum: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm; Cassin Young: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm (seasonal). Always check the official site for updates.

Q: Is there an admission fee?
A: Most attractions are free; the Museum suggests a donation.

Q: How do I get to the Navy Yard?
A: Use the MBTA Orange Line, local buses, or ferry. Parking is limited.

Q: Is the site accessible?
A: Most areas are accessible; the USS Constitution’s main deck is accessible.

Q: Are tours available?
A: Yes, ranger-led tours and special events are available seasonally.

Q: Can I bring pets?
A: Only service animals are permitted.

Conclusion & Call to Action

The Boston Navy Yard offers an immersive journey through American naval history, from the legendary USS Constitution to the bustling shipyard grounds and engaging museums. With free admission to most sites, family-friendly amenities, and proximity to other historic Boston landmarks, the Yard is an essential stop for anyone seeking to explore the city’s maritime and revolutionary past. Plan your visit today, check official schedules, and download the Audiala app for enhanced tours and audio guides. Stay connected by following us on social media for the latest updates and event information.