Old North Bridge Day Trip

Welcome to Old North Bridge in Concord, Massachusetts

A wooden bridge spanning the Concord River, the Old North Bridge (a.k.a. formally The North Bridge) in Concord, Massachusetts (MA), is the location of the first battle of the Revolutionary War and often associated with “the shot heard round the world.” Part of the Minute Man Historical National Park encompassing the full trail of the first battle on April 19, 1775, Old North Bridge is a serene, scenic off-season day trip that is great for family outings and leisurely walks.

There are several historic monuments and structures all within a few walking paces at this site as well as beautiful views of the Concord River and surrounding landscape.

Get more details on exploring the key sites of Minute Man National Park here.

The images included were taken at the start of “stick season” in late November and focus on capturing the scenery viewed from the bridge. I’ll return soon to get pics of the historic monuments and add more information.

How to get to Old North Bridge in Concord, MA

Drive to Monument Street in Concord and park for free at the lot across from the path that leads directly to The North Bridge; this lot is where you can visit the historic Robbins House. Plot directions here. After parking, follow the walkway across Monument Street and walk a few paces to the bridge.

What to see at Old North Bridge

Walk directly across Monument Street on the flat path, and you’ll see, in front of the bridge, the 1836 Battle Monument commemorating the April 19, 1775 battle. Looking left, you’ll see the Grave of the British Soldiers by a stone wall that is part of The Old Manse property boundary.

Tip: You can walk onto the grounds of The Old Manse, where the first Revolutionary War battle was viewed, to start or end your day trip. The grounds of this The Trustees property are open to the public for free.

Continuing onto The North Bridge, I like to pause and see the vistas on both sides of the Concord River.

Late afternoon sky reflections in the Concord River standing on the Old North Bridge.

You’ll see the Old Manse small boathouse on one side, as well as, beautiful afternoon and sunset sky reflections, looking both ways over the Concord River.

Tip: On a bright winter day with clouds, the afternoon and sunset sky reflections here are stunning, and you’ll have more time to take in the history and scenery as the crowds are much smaller.

You can continue walking to see The Minute Man Statue dedicated on April 19, 1875 and then onto the visitor center (reopening in Spring 2023), a brick mansion with grounds overlooking the Concord River.

Old North Bridge is a great day trip destination for families as there is lots to see within a short area and plenty of spots for photographs and taking a break. You can walk your dog on leash here too.

Have you visited this historic site; what’s your favorite thing to see at Old North Bridge?

Leave a comment below to share tips for visiting.