USS Constitution

USS Constitution, 'Old Ironsides', is the world's oldest commissioned warship still afloat, a three-masted wooden frigate launched in 1797 and undefeated in battle. Berthed in the Charlestown Navy Yard in Boston, she is still crewed by active-duty US Navy sailors, who give tours of the historic ship. Walking her decks, ducking beneath the rigging and beside the cannons, is a vivid step into the age of sail and the early US Navy, she earned her 'Ironsides' nickname in the War of 1812 when British cannonballs reportedly bounced off her thick oak hull.

The ship is free to board (with a security check and ID for adults), and the adjacent USS Constitution Museum (donation-based) adds context with interactive exhibits. She's a key stop on Boston's Freedom Trail and a genuine national treasure.

Don't miss

• Boarding the world's oldest commissioned warship afloat
• Tours by active-duty US Navy sailors
• The decks, rigging, and cannons of an 1797 frigate
• The 'Old Ironsides' War of 1812 story
• The adjacent USS Constitution Museum

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit USS Constitution

Cheapest way inSelf Guided Classic Freedom Trail Location Aware (GPS) Walking Audio Tour4.4★ · 273 travelers2–3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$8 per personSee dates →Most bookedBoston Duck Boat Sightseeing City Tour with Cruise4.6★ · 9,736 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$62 per personSee dates →Top ratedFreedom Trail Walking Tour with Bunker Hill and USS Constitution5★ · 813 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$79 per personSee dates →

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How travelers rate it

Know before you go

• It's free to board, but adults need photo ID and pass a security screening.
• Tours are led by active-duty Navy sailors, check the day's hours, as access varies.
• Pair it with the donation-based USS Constitution Museum next door.
• It's a stop on Boston's Freedom Trail, near Bunker Hill.

A bit of history

Launched in 1797 as one of the first frigates of the new United States Navy, USS Constitution won fame in the War of 1812, most famously defeating HMS Guerriere. Preserved and periodically restored, she remains a commissioned Navy vessel, crewed by active-duty sailors, and a symbol of American naval history.