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Boston History & Highlights: A Walk Through Time

4.9
(571 reviews)
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Explore Boston on foot with this small group (or private) walking tour. See highlights like Boston Harbor, Custom House Tower, Faneuil Hall, and Quincy Market. Learn the true story behind the Boston Massacre, and if you’re lucky, get a glimpse of government in action at the Massachusetts State House. See Beacon Hill, the Freedom Trail, and the lovely Boston Public Garden. Rest your legs and enjoy time with your local guide.

Overview

Explore Boston on foot with this small group (or private) walking tour. See highlights like Boston Harbor, Custom House Tower, Faneuil Hall, and Quincy Market. Learn the true story behind the Boston Massacre, and if you’re lucky, get a glimpse of government in action at the Massachusetts State House. See Beacon Hill, the Freedom Trail, and the lovely Boston Public Garden. Rest your legs and enjoy time with your local guide.

Itinerary

  • Greenway Carousel

    You'll meet your guide and join the rest of the group.

    15 minutes
  • Faneuil Hall Marketplace

    Your tour starts at Faneuil Hall, where you'll learn about the revolutionaries who first pushed for independence from Great Britain.

    15 minutes
  • Faneuil Hall Marketplace

    From Faneuil Hall, you’ll be able to see Custom House Tower, the first skyscraper built in the city of Boston and originally the location where incoming goods were stored upon arrival to Boston.

  • Old South Meeting House

    You can't visit Boston without learning about the Boston Tea Party. At this former church, hear how Bostonians planned their 1773 act of rebellion and who said "No taxation without representation!

    5 minutes
  • Old Corner Bookstore

    Next, we'll pass the site of Boston's first bookstore, home to publishers of Thoreau’s Walden, Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter, and Longfellow’s Midnight Ride of Paul Revere.

  • Old City Hall

    This hall housed the city council and America’s first public school. Admire its stunning French architecture and snap a photo with the Bronze Donkey.

    10 minutes
  • King's Chapel

    Next, you'll walk through Downtown Crossing, pass Old City Hall, and visit King’s Chapel. If lucky, you might hear the organist on the oldest church organ in the US.

  • Old State House

    Continuing on, you'll stop at the Old State House, where the Declaration of Independence was announced in 1776. Your guide will share both the excitement of that moment and the tragic Boston Massacre.

    15 minutes
  • Boston Common

    Boston Common, the oldest city park in the US, is a favorite for both locals and visitors. As you walk through, you'll see memorials, fountains, and recreation areas, all enjoyed since 1634.

    10 minutes
  • Boston Common

    One of Boston's most popular neighborhoods, this area once declined due to sailors and British soldiers. You'll explore cobbled streets as your guide shares how it became the iconic spot it is today.

  • Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Regiment Memorial

    This lesser-known but significant memorial honors one of the first African American regiments in the Civil War and their colonel, Robert Gould Shaw.

  • Massachusetts State House

    Admire the glittering dome of the historic Massachusetts State House. Learn about John Hancock, the original landowner, and Paul Revere, who presided over the 1795 cornerstone ceremony. Your guide will share how the building has stood the test of time and remains vital to the state’s government.

    10 minutes
  • Boston Public Garden

    Originally part of Boston Common, this cemetery dates back to 1660. You'll pass the graves of famous Revolutionary heroes like John Hancock, Paul Revere, and Sam Adams.

    10 minutes
  • Boston Public Garden

    This lively garden, the first public park in America, is enjoyed by Bostonians for walks, exercise, and relaxation. As you stroll through, you'll learn how it was used during the Revolution and beyond. The tour ends here, a perfect spot to continue your day in Boston.

    15 minutes

Location

Meeting Point Map

Address

191 Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02111, USA

Open Google Map

Experience

Highlights

  • Get personalized attention on 2 hours small group (or private) walking tour for just 16 people or fewer
  • Join your local guide for a fun-filled journey on and off Boston’s famous Freedom Trail
  • Explore some of the sights overlooked by many Boston visitors (and even locals!)
  • Take in the beauty of the architecture and quaintness of Beacon Hill
  • This tour is carbon neutral, operated by a B Corp certified company committed to using travel as a force for good.
  • Inclusions

    • Enjoy a surprise local treat
    • Explore Old City Hall, birthplace of public education in America
    • Get tips on what else to see, do and eat during your stay
    • Begin at Boston Harbor with scenic waterfront park views
    • Pass the Rose Kennedy Greenway, State Street, and the historic Custom House Tower
    • Visit the famous Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market with stunning views
    • Join a friendly, local English-speaking guide and discover some insider secrets of the area
    • Stop at the Old State House, site of the Boston Massacre, and learn its history

    Exclusions

    • Additional food and drink
    • Tips/gratuities for your guide

    Additional Information

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • This is a child-friendly tour. Children under 6 can join for free. Please let us know when booking if you're bringing a child under 6. Children aged 6 to 11 can join at the adult rate. Please inform us at the time of booking if you're bringing a child between 6 and 11, using the special requirements box on the checkout page.
    • We reserve the right to change both the route and places visited within the tour.
    • Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, but please note that this tour covers 4 km (2.5 miles) of walking.
    • Experiences happen rain, shine, or snow. Please dress accordingly.

    Guide Languages

    • English

    Cancellation Policy

    • A full refund will apply if you cancel more than 24 hours before the activity start time.

    • No refund is possible if you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time.

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