We did the Freedom Trail in one day, but did not tour every site along the way. Also, be aware that some sites close around 4 or 5 pm. We had to go back the next day to see the USS Constitution (the thing my husband was most excited about seeing) because it was closed by the time we got there. If we had known, we would have spent less time in the cemetaries.

The information center where the tour starts has good bathrooms, in a part of Boston where bathrooms can seem a little scarce. Also, my friend had her first panic attack in the Bunker Hill Monument. If you're prone, you might want to skip the climn to the top! Ha!

Thanks for all the great advice everyone!

that's ok, I respect your right to privacy

To gail --thank you for your comment. You made me feel a little less "weird".

Again to cigalechanta, I am sorry to have backed out of your gracious offer. It has everything to do w/me and my professional concerns and nothing to do w/any lack of interest in meeting you. I feel I will be missing a lovely experience.

"But since I did, I am stuck w/it and now feel I must remain anonymous."

Hey, socialworker, are you trying to steal MY identity? ;-)

Rest assured, it is possible to get together with Boston-area Fodorites (Mimi/cigalechanta et al.) and still stay on a relatively anonymous first-name (or even fake first name, gail) basis. Unless you're a public figure in the area whose face is generally recognizable, you're safe in your anonymity; all you need is an e-mail address.

Thanks for the hearty laugh, Anonymous!!You made me think of those funny Citicard commercials.

BuffaloGirl--The Braintree commuter T stop does fill up early, but whenever, I've had to go into Boston on a weekday, I've never had trouble finding a spot at the Quincy Adams stop, which is right off the highway. Very simple to find. Good luck!

Thanks, klw25.

We did the Freedom Trail in a day...or sort of. We stopped at the USS Constitution and never made it on to the Bunker Hill Memorial. It really depends on how many of the museums you stop at along the way. We made the mistake of stopping at each one initially until I figured we were being nickled and dimed. Once we just strolled along, stopped periodically to rest, we were fine. The Trail is not really that long, but it can seem longer. Also, if you are not all that into the period of the American Revolution, it might not appeal as much. For me, the period is one of my favorites, so it meant a great deal to me and I was already familar with most of the sites along the way and the people mentioned.

I'm also thinking August might be kind of brutal. We were there during May and the weather was just perfect - a little cool in the morning and just right in the afternoon. The August heat might make for a more slow go. I think it's worth it, so have fun! Boston is a terrific city!

Just reread these posts - we are all nuts - I have never seen so many topics covered simultaneously in one thread.

Gail, I can't believe you're not "Gail!" It seems to suit you!