The Concord Museum
The Concord Museum educates visitors of all ages about the history of Concord and its continuing influence on American political, literary and cultural life. The Museum’s nationally significant collection serves as a catalyst for changing exhibitions, extended classroom learning, dynamic programs and publications relevant to an ever-changing world. Founded in 1886, the Museum is a center of cultural enjoyment for the region and a gateway to the town of Concord for visitors from around the world.
The Concord Museum has been continuously accredited by the American Alliance of Museums since 1973.
Photo Gallery
Reviews
Connie Strong November 2, 2024
Outstanding curation and interpretation. The displays brought historic individuals and events together in a way that highlighted the synergy of beliefs, personal acquaintance, and cultural opportunity that changed US history. The thinking and work of a handful of individuals and their families in a small community shifted the nation toward personal freedom in ways that resonate today.
Christine Bruggemann October 30, 2024
We visited Concord and tried to go to the museum, but it was closed on that day. So my rating is for the old town itself and for Louisa May Alcott's home, which we were able to visit that day.
The old town of Concord, in the area around the museum, is steeped in history, with several of its Colonial period houses having been homes of notable authors and people who took part in historic events.
Its downtown shopping area is old fashioned and is charming to walk or drive through on a New England autumn day.
We visited on a Monday, which was a good day to find parking available.
The Alcott house, not far from the museum, was quite busy with visitors. It is lovely and picturesque and well worth the visit. It's best to book ahead, but we were lucky to find there had been a last minute cancellation.
I started re-reading Little Men, one of my favourite books from childhood, imagining how this place, with her father's school, inspired Louisa as she sat writing at the little half round built in desk by the window in her room.
So, my visit to Concord was memorable, and I would like to come back and visit the museum!
Andres Ayala October 15, 2024
A museum depicting the history of Concord from colonial times to beyond. I really enjoyed the video presentation of the Battle of Concord. The artifacts displayed were excellent. The museum had two floors of exhibits and it is well done.
Andres A. October 14, 2024
A museum depicting the history of Concord from colonial times to beyond. I really enjoyed the video presentation of the Battle of Concord. The artifacts...
Madden W August 25, 2024
This place was overrun by raiders and a guy named Preston Garvey keeps on telling me another settlement needs our help. But pretty good.
P.S there was a giant lizard in the sewer
Daniel B. August 24, 2024
A really nice museum along the Lexington and Concord route - worth stopping in if you have a Go City Pass that provides you access - though I'm not sure if...
John H. June 8, 2024
A very small yet full museum. Plenty of very unique things to see and to learn about. Staff member Susan was very friendly and knowledgeable of the exhibits...
Andrew Carlisle May 11, 2024
Originally when visiting, I had not planned to come here but changed our plans having extra time. I am glad we did, as the Concord Museum was a top 2 experience during my Boston vacation. Customer service was excellent, from the front desk to everyone stationed throughout the museum. I was very impressed with how state of the art, professional, and excellent all of the displays and notes were throughout the museum. I have been to museums all over Texas, Oklahoma, many more locations, and now Boston, and the Concord Museum stands out as not only a favorite experience in Boston but throughout the country. Normally, I attach pics of some of my favorite sights, but I don't want to ruin the firsthand experience and want you to discover it as I did. I highly recommend that the Concord Museum be a must when planning your travels. I had an amazing time, learned a great deal, and will absolutely be back.
Heather O'brien April 30, 2024
What a great museum. I had never been to this one before as I got confused with another museum, but it covered the Concord area the Revolutionary War along with great art work very impressive
Jacob Richards April 28, 2024
Great place to learn about two important periods of American History. After visiting the North Bridge, we stopped into the museum at the recommendation of the guy at the Concord Visitors Center. The museum collection is very impressive! Highlights for us included the display showing a big map and graphic timeline of the events of April 18-19, 1775, the Old North Church signal lantern, Thoreau's personal affects like his flute and walking stick, and the period rooms displaying many household items from colonial times. This place is definitely worth spending a few hours in during your trip!
Chuhan April 15, 2024
I spent two hours here on a Sunday before they close and I wish I had double the time! The galleries were rich and it was obvious staff have taken great care of the space. A must in Concord.
Gustav Nielsen April 7, 2024
Beautiful place! I loved all the art and history, though one of the employees there kept nagging me about settlements needing help? Please explain what he meant? ;)
Gretchen Bostrom March 11, 2024
A great museum to learn about Concord’s history, the Revolutionary War, and Thoreau, Emerson, and Alcott. The exhibits are interesting. I’m glad I went.
Gretchen B. March 10, 2024
A great museum to learn about Concord's history, the Revolutionary War, and Thoreau, Emerson, and Alcott. The exhibits are interesting. I'm glad I went.
Laurie Boyd January 27, 2024
Beautiful museum. So well done with very knowledgeable staff.
Alt bot January 27, 2024
awesome museum. i saw some raiders but nothing too bad. no need to buy tickets bcs the raiders own the place tho
Robert Anastasio January 12, 2024
Great museum for local history. Renovated in 2018 and everything looks spanking new.
Staff was very helpful and eager to talk about the exhibits.
SethAndBo November 9, 2023
The Concord Museum is a superb display of comprehensive local history—as far back as the indigenous tribes of the Musketaquid land, to the founding fathers of Concord itself, and its well known contemporaries. Profound artifacts piece together this fascinating history in a really well established walkway that travels through this small museum. Scenes display life in Concord in the 1700s, with rooms decorated as they would have been—even a recreation of Emerson’s studio. It’s beautiful, their collection is outstanding, and I love the small size, which aids in feeling connected with these objects of cultural heritage. Friendly staff and an overall wonderful experience.
Debra Mellecker October 9, 2023
We decided to go in on a whim. The docent was exceptionally knowledgale and explained the sequence of events leading up to the first battle. The artifacts were interesting and some are from extremely famous and important people in Massachusetts history. Highly recommend this if you want to know more about why Concord is so important to the history of the Revolutionary war.
Neil Robertson October 8, 2023
I was expecting another museum dedicated to the battle and the beginning of the revolution but it was so much more, the staff were so eager to assist and almost like they were willing you to ask questions so they could share their knowledge. Absolutely loved this place and a reasonable $15 entry. I spent about 3 hours looking around.
Matthew Ingram October 2, 2023
An amazing experience. Incredible to see Thoreau's objects. The guards are wonderfully friendly and seriously authoritative when it comes to the items on display and the local history. Highly recommended.
William B August 22, 2023
Somewhat mixed emotions. Lots of relatively new exhibits with amazing items. Heavy emphasis on women and african american slavery, as well as a few families from Concord. "Presentism" in Interpretation is a serious issue, because facts matter.
Krystyn P. July 4, 2023
What an exquisite gem of a museum! This museum clearly underwent a recent renovation, and the result was a thoughtful history of the region. While it...
Mason Reynolds June 24, 2023
If you're interested in learning about the revolutionary history of the United States, you've found the right spot. Both the displays about local natives and those about the Minutemen who battled for our independence were interesting and educational. In addition, there is a planetarium and space exhibition for space enthusiasts. When I visited with a group, there were well-informed docents in each exhibit room who knew when to provide detailed explanations and when to step aside and let visitors discover things on their own. Id suggest it to anyone looking to waste an afternoon.
Kiara Moore June 4, 2023
The Concord Museum is a lovely museum and well worth the visit. The general adult admission is $15, but there are discounts for seniors, children, and active duty also get in free. The staff was very nice, informative, and available for questions and additional history information. Not only does the museum cover Revolutionary War history, but also reference the early Native Americans that lived in the region and had some examples of their wonderful pottery and clothing. It was interactive with audio sections, a live video sketch map of the Revolutionary War highlights, and a small hidden section on some of the first free blacks in the area who fought in the war. Abolitionists were also covered here and this area also led to Ralph Waldo Emerson study and other fascinating history. I highly recommend it. You can also walk across the street and visit the Ralph Waldo Emerson home right after like I did to get the full experience and more information on his history!
Bill Hardgrove May 12, 2023
Great small museum. Well put together with a great interactive staff. Super friendly and informative
Wanda A. April 16, 2023
My friend and l went to the Concord Museum, where we got to learn about the local history of the area such as the revolutionary battles that took place,...
Jake Sweeney April 13, 2023
If you are looking for a place with rich American Revolutionary history, this is it. The exhibits were engaging and informative both about the indigenous peoples of the area and the Minutemen who fought for our freedom. Plus a planetarium and space exhibit for astronomy buffs. When I went with a group they had very knowledgeable docents in each room who knew when to explain things and when to hang back and let learning happen naturally. Would definitely recommend if you are looking to kill an afternoon.
Lilly A. March 31, 2023
Came for the lantern, stayed for the excellent exhibits. As a museum connoisseur, I am a tough critic. But the Concord Museum does such a nice job covering...
Gina Stark February 21, 2023
Really nice local history museum. Interesting for adults and they provide activities and learning experiences for kids too. Staff is amazingly knowledgeable also.
Peter S. January 29, 2023
Amazing museum and special programs!
James McQuivey December 28, 2022
The recently upgraded museum has expanded facilities, including the long-standing traditional colonial history exhibits as well as a new section with ample exploration of indigenous history. The featured exhibit space is always a winner, featuring local historical, artistic, and cultural special exhibits.
Peter Czipott November 17, 2022
This small but superbly curated museum covers Concord history from the earliest human occupation at the end of the last ice age, through the heyday of the indigenous population and its end with the arrival of the Europeans. It also reviews the experience of Blacks in Concord. Thus it gives a nuanced picture of the town's history while giving due prominence to its role in the Revolution and to its illustrious literary community.
Scott Sessions October 6, 2022
Well done, as in a high quality experience. My opinion is that the best exhibit is the large wall on the second floor that tells the story of the shot heard round the world. Graphics, sound, story, complete with graphics. It tied Emerson to Thoreau and others. I suggest at least 90 minutes.
Mark Pizzi September 14, 2022
Was blown away. We simply never had any idea that we’d walk into such a well curated, clean, well run museum. The artifacts were unexpected and really outstanding. If you have any interest in the beginning g of our country this is a must.
Mary M. August 22, 2022
This is a lovely museum. We enjoyed our visit. The exhibits were interesting and we enjoyed our time there.
Nicole DeMilt August 19, 2022
Amazing tour through Concord's History. A wing dedicated to the Shot Heard Round the World and an amazing walk through the Civil War Era. I learned a lot about the famous abolitionists of the Era.
Carlos Morgado August 18, 2022
Wonderful presentation of early America and its struggle for independence. Definitely worth visiting.
Ray Subasos July 17, 2022
This facility is exceedingly clean and well-organized. Although it is a small local museum, the exhibits are well-made, and there are some spectacular artifacts that make it worthwhile to see when in the area. Extremely friendly staff. I was surprised!
Michael Bauer July 15, 2022
Super must-visit place if you are interested in pre-revolution history. Learn what immediate events led up to the declaration of independence. Many great artifacts and displays that help you understand how events unfolded.
Laurie B. July 14, 2022
Excellent depiction of the battle at the old North Bridge, although, as the park ranger told us, the Minuteman monument is on the wring side. It is near...
Rick B. June 17, 2022
The Concord Museum is a museum of local history located at 53 Cambridge Turnpike, Concord, Massachusetts, United States, and best known for its collection...
Christopher Williams May 31, 2022
This place just kepps getting better with time...
Gabriel Caldwell April 15, 2022
This is a very clean and well-organized establishment. Although it is a small local museum, the exhibits are well-made, with some impressive relics worth visiting while visiting other places in the vicinity. Extremely pleasant staff. I was astonished!
Gina W. April 8, 2022
Amazing! We were pleasantly surprised by this informative museum tucked away in this quaint New England town. We appreciated learning the history of this...
Phylly Goodman April 3, 2022
Wonderful historic building with matching exhibition and revolving shows. Friendly knowledge staff.
Erin Unger February 28, 2022
This was a nice little museum. We really enjoyed the Interactive wall map of Paul Revere's ride the most.
Philip Antinone February 25, 2022
1-2 hours for the visit. A great way to learn about the history surrounding the town and its famous authors. The museum includes the marginal history that was overlooked in a sensible and accurate manner. Be sure to ask questions to the guides! They are experts and have tons of cool extras that you'll miss.
jason laplume January 17, 2022
Super friendly and knowledgeable staff! Great collection. Had an excellent time and will be back.
Claudia Wyatt October 23, 2021
It was a phenomenal experience! Overjoyed by being submerged in history. Extremely moving. Thank you.
Ashley Lorenz October 19, 2021
We went to this museum for the very 1st time about 6 years ago for their annual literary trees exhibit, which was very charming by the way. Our in laws and kids were with us and the guy made the point that by the time we bought those tickets it was nearly a membership so we went ahead with that and actually would return for a couple years on going. The kids are a little older now so we haven't been in a while but it's a it's a very well done museum. Lots of great stuff about the history in the area, and a bunch of is a bunch of activity centers for kids. Fun for all ages and a great stop off. I haven't been there since they finished the edition,I bet it's even more wonderful. Also it's a very quick 10 minute walk into Concord center which has a ton of cute shops and coffee places. If you keep walking you will pass by conquer Academy. Is doctor Dre the other way and you'll hit Sleepy Hollow cemetery, home of author's ridge. This is a great way to get your small town New England experience any time of the year.
John Nesbit October 13, 2021
Excellent overview of local Concord history with a wealth of material from Thoreau. Emerson's study is also re-created.
Tom Butera July 31, 2021
Fantastic museum with artifacts from Paul Revere and 1 of the lanterns that hung in the church tower. The museum has a great movie that gives a better overview of the battle on April 19.
Sam Simons July 25, 2021
Impressive museum. I was surprised this small local museum was well developed and professional. Comprehensive coverage of the connections to Native Americans and women's history along with the expected Rev War and Transcendental wriers.
Highlights for me were Native American artifacts, Thoreau's writing desk, and the original working models of the Minuteman Statue and Seated Lincoln by David French.
The exhibition of the events of April 19, 1775 was outstanding!
I highly recommend visiting.
Sam S. July 25, 2021
Impressive museum. I was surprised this small local museum was well developed and professional. Comprehensive coverage of the connections to Native...
Kiwirain123 July 17, 2021
Man I don't know who you are but your timing's impeccable. Preston Garvey, Commonwealth Minutemen.
D June 16, 2021
Staff was very friendly and informative. Was worth visiting.
Rosemarie Komorowski June 13, 2021
Very interesting and informative guides learned a lot of historical tidbits I was not aware of
George B. May 17, 2021
If you want a place that highlights all the greatest hits of the history of Concord, this is it! Each adult ticket was about $10 but they also have some...
Larry May 15, 2021
Very clean and well organized place. Small local museum but the exhibits were professionally made, some impressive artifacts worth coming out to see while seeing other sites in the area. Extremely friendly staff. I was impressed!
Mason Grimm May 13, 2021
Cool place but theres this guy who asked me to take him and his group of people to this place called "Sanctuary Hills" and then told me theres settlements that needed help.
Natty Hoffman April 28, 2021
This little gem of a museum has a top notch audio visual display of Paul Revere's ride and the subsequent battle. Great for kids; pair this with a visit to the nearby bike trail and you've got a perfect family outing.
Joseph DeWolfe April 17, 2021
A great part of a day trip to Concord. Seeing authentic artifacts from the towns history from the revolution to its authors. Spent about 2 or 3 hours there, the new April 19th exhibit is fantastic!
Martin Luther King K. Rool February 26, 2021
I'm sorry, but there's no time for a visit.
We received word from another settlement that they need our help. I'll mark it on your map.
Charlotte Mick October 11, 2020
Great exhibits, beautiful museum, and friendly staff who can answer any questions you may have!
Deb Miles September 29, 2020
This was a highlight of our visit to Concord. The Paul Revere gallery was wonderful, but the literary artifacts were amazing. The museum was very careful with the number of people booked in advance and sanitizing. I felt very safe there.
Alexander Parson September 6, 2020
Nice museum!
E G August 18, 2020
The great staff with an amazing knowledge of the past history of the town. Very pleased with the safety and protection of me and my family while we visit the museum we will come again soon.!
Eusebio Gonzalez Sr August 18, 2020
The great staff with an amazing knowledge of the past history of the town. Very pleased with the safety and protection of me and my family while we visit the museum we will come again soon.!
RoadTrip NewEngland July 12, 2020
Concord Museum is a great stop in a town with a number of historical house museums. We especially loved seeing Thoreau’s desk
Elle Cunha January 14, 2020
What a wonderful afternoon we had viewing the Christmas Trees with a book for each
Laurie S. October 23, 2018
Astounding that so many of America's most important moments in history are documented by the collections of what some would consider to be a "small" museum....
M M October 8, 2018
Great place to visit. Perfect for the family. Interesting Concord's history. The museum staff are very friendly, the brochures are very informative. The museum have a little store with specialty books and gifts. OMG, the restrooms are immaculate clean. love it.
STEFFANI MAGNUS-REDINGER August 27, 2018
Super accommodation for the Fun Free Fridays crowd. Spectacularly put together, especially for all ages. The scavenger hunt had everyone engaged in learning, and they threw in a bit of fun!
Kristin Bass July 28, 2018
This is a fascinating museum within walking distance of the Louisa May Alcott house. I came across it walking back from Alcott's house to my hotel. There are two floors dedicated to local history, mostly 18th and 19th century.
I especially enjoyed the temporary exhibition on fashion. Honestly, I didn't think the topic would interest me as much as it did. I was drawn in by the panel about how clothes were made, which gave me a new appreciation for the dresses on display. I also enjoyed talking to a docent about the history of the dresses, and why they were so well-preserved. For kids and the young at heart, there's a table where you can design your own fan. I had fun doing that.
It's well worth spending an hour or so here to expand your knowledge of local history.
Ashley P. June 25, 2018
Great tour and great place to read about everything that went on many many years ago. They're currently in the middle of adding on to the museum and when...
R V. January 27, 2010
Though I'm not a Concord native, I enjoyed the museum and the story of the town. They did a great job covering a lot of ground, from the Revolutionary...
