One more place to enjoy near Quincy in Massachusetts
Adams National Historical Park is a remarkable destination that tells the story of five generations of the Adams family, including two presidents of the United States. Located in Quincy, Massachusetts, this historic site preserves the birthplaces of John Adams and John Quincy Adams, the second and sixth presidents, as well as the Old House at Peace field, which served as the family home for four generations. Designated as a National Historical Park in 1946, the site offers visitors an intimate look at the lives, achievements, and enduring legacy of one of America’s most influential families.
The park encompasses several historic structures and grounds that span nearly three centuries of American history. Visitors can explore the humble saltbox homes where John Adams and his son were born, walk through the elegant rooms of the Old House filled with original furnishings, and visit the Stone Library, which houses more than 12,000 volumes collected by the Adams family. The contrast between the modest birthplaces and the grand mansion vividly illustrates the trajectory of the Adams family from colonial settlers to statesmen of national prominence.
History and Culture
The story of Adams National Historical Park begins with the arrival of Henry Adams, who settled in Braintree, Massachusetts, in 1636. The land that would become Peace field was originally purchased by Deacon John Adams, the father of John Adams, in 1720. The two birthplaces on the property, located less than a hundred yards apart, were built in the late 17th century and reflect the simple, practical architecture of early New England farm families. These homes witnessed the childhood of John Adams, who would go on to become a leading voice for American independence, the primary author of the Massachusetts Constitution, and the second president of the United States.
John Adams’s son, John Quincy Adams, was born in the same house in 1767 and served as the sixth president of the United States. The intellectual tradition established by these two men continued through subsequent generations, including Charles Francis Adams, who served as a diplomat during the Civil War, and Henry Adams, a noted historian and author whose autobiographical work received critical acclaim. The Adams family’s commitment to public service, law, and education shaped American political thought for more than a century and is preserved in the archives and artifacts housed throughout the park.
The Old House at Peace field was originally built in 1731 as a summer residence for a wealthy Boston merchant. John Adams purchased the property in 1787 while serving as the first American minister to Great Britain. He and his wife Abigail Adams expanded and renovated the house significantly over the years, transforming it into the elegant Georgian-style mansion that stands today. The home remained in the Adams family until 1927, when it was transferred to the United States government along with its remarkable collection of original furnishings, artwork, and personal artifacts spanning four generations.
What to Do
The guided tour experience is the centerpiece of any visit to Adams National Historical Park. Tours depart from the park visitor center on Hancock Street in Quincy Center and are led by park rangers who bring the history of the Adams family to life with engaging stories and deep knowledge. The standard tour includes transportation by trolley to the historic sites, which are spread across several locations in Quincy. Reservations are strongly recommended, as tour capacity is limited and demand is high during peak seasons.
Exploring the Stone Library is a highlight for book lovers and history enthusiasts alike. This separate structure, built in 1870, was commissioned by Charles Francis Adams to house the family’s extensive book collection. The library’s interior features soaring bookshelves, a fireplace, and the original catalog system maintained by the family. The collection includes works in multiple languages on subjects ranging from law and politics to philosophy and natural science, reflecting the broad intellectual interests of the Adams family across generations.
After completing the guided tour, visitors can explore the grounds independently. The gardens at Peace field are a beautiful space for quiet reflection, featuring the same layout that Abigail Adams designed more than two centuries ago. The flowering perennials, boxwood hedges, and fruit trees create a serene setting that feels far removed from the modern world. Seasonal blooms make spring and summer visits particularly rewarding for garden enthusiasts.
What to See
The John Adams Birthplace, constructed in 1681, is the oldest of the two presidential birthplaces on the site. This modest saltbox home is classic early New England farmhouse architecture, with a steeply pitched roof, central chimney, and simple clapboard exterior. Inside, visitors can see period furnishings that reflect the lifestyle of a colonial farming family. Standing in the room where the second president was born provides a tangible connection to the humble origins of a man who helped shape the nation.
The John Quincy Adams Birthplace, built in 1663, sits just 75 feet from his father’s birthplace. This home was where John and Abigail Adams raised their young family, including their son John Quincy. Visitors can observe the kitchen hearth, where Abigail managed the household and educated her children during the revolutionary era. The proximity of these two birthplaces underscores the remarkable concentration of history found within this modest plot of land.
The Old House at Peace field is the crown jewel of the park. The mansion contains the original furnishings, artwork, and personal belongings of four generations of the Adams family. Visitors can see the dining room where presidents, diplomats, and dignitaries were entertained, the study where John Quincy Adams collapsed at his desk in 1848, and the bedrooms furnished with period textiles. The home feels remarkably lived-in, as though the family has simply stepped out and will return at any moment.
Outdoor Recreation
The grounds of Peace field encompass approximately nine acres of lawns, gardens, and woodland that invite quiet contemplation. The English-style garden features a variety of flowering plants arranged in a design that Abigail Adams herself sketched out in her correspondence. Walking the same paths that the Adams family trod for generations offers a peaceful counterpoint to the intellectual intensity found within the house and library. Benches placed throughout the property encourage visitors to pause and absorb the sense of history that pervades the landscape.
While the park itself is primarily a historic site rather than a recreational area, the surrounding city of Quincy offers additional outdoor experiences. The Quincy Shore Drive provides walking and cycling paths along the coast with views of Boston Harbor and the city skyline. The Blue Hills Reservation, located just a short drive away, offers hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for bird watching and nature observation for those who wish to extend their outdoor experience.
Attractions
The park visitor center features an introductory film that provides essential context for understanding the Adams family story before taking the guided tour. Exhibits in the visitor center highlight key moments in the lives of John Adams and his descendants, including original documents, portraits, and artifacts that are not displayed at the historic homes. The film runs approximately 30 minutes and is an excellent way to begin a visit, especially for those less familiar with the Adams family legacy.
In addition to the standard guided tours, the park offers special programs throughout the year. These include lectures by historians, book discussions focused on Adams family writings, and seasonal events that celebrate holidays as the Adams family would have observed them. The annual naturalization ceremony held at the park on Independence Day is a moving tradition that brings new American citizens to swear their oath on the grounds where two presidents once walked.
The nearby United First Parish Church, also known as the Church of the Presidents, is an essential companion to a visit to Adams National Historical Park. Located in Quincy Center, this granite church is the final resting place of both John Adams and John Quincy Adams, along with their wives First Ladies Abigail Adams and Louisa Catherine Adams. The tombs are located in a crypt beneath the church and are open to visitors who wish to pay their respects to these foundational figures of American history.
When to Visit
Adams National Historical Park is open seasonally, with guided tours typically available from mid-April through mid-November. This seasonal schedule reflects the historic nature of the buildings, which lack modern climate control systems. The peak visitor season coincides with summer months from June through August, when weather is most pleasant and tour schedules are most frequent. Visitors during this period should book tour reservations well in advance, as time slots often sell out days or weeks ahead.
Spring is an especially beautiful time to visit, as the gardens at Peace field come alive with blooming flowers and new foliage. The moderate temperatures of April and May make outdoor exploration comfortable, and the tour groups tend to be smaller before the summer crowds arrive. Constitution Day in September occasionally brings special programming that highlights John Adams’s role in drafting the Massachusetts Constitution.
Autumn offers crisp New England weather and the spectacular fall foliage that Massachusetts is famous for. The historic homes set against a backdrop of vibrant red and gold leaves create memorable photo opportunities. Tour availability typically decreases in October, but the smaller crowds and pleasant temperatures make this an ideal time for visitors seeking a more intimate experience. The final tours of the season often run through the second week of November before the park closes for winter.