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The 15 Best Boston Tours

Get to know one of America's most historic cities with these tours.

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Hoping to experience Boston through the eyes of a local? A guided tour may be just the thing. Factoring in traveler sentiment and expert opinion, U.S. News selected some of Boston's best tours. Whether you're eating your way through the North End or zipping around Boston Common on a Segway, you'll see this New England city in a new light and learn some of its history along the way during these top Boston tours.

The Revolutionary Story Tour

Price: Adults from $76; kids from $38 Duration: 4 hours

Many reviewers call this tour enjoyable and one of the best walking tours they'd ever been on thanks to the engaging guide. Led by a local resident with degrees in history, political science and public policy, the tour takes visitors through the streets of Boston to chronologically retell the story of the American Revolution. Along the 3.5-mile jaunt, you'll pass by a dozen of the sites featured on the Freedom Trail, and you'll also hear about the key players in 18th-century Boston, including John Adams, Benjamin Franklin and Paul Revere.

Tours are offered daily at 9:30 a.m. There is also a 1:30 p.m. tour Thursday through Sunday during the winter months and daily during the summer months through the beginning of November. There is a maximum of 16 people per tour. The company partners with another local guide to provide private tours.

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City Experiences by Hornblower – New England Aquarium Whale Watch Cruise

Price: Adults from $65; kids from $45 Duration: 3.5 hours

Hop on one of City Experience's high-speed catamarans for a whale watching excursion to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. This area is a magnet for whales, dolphins, sea birds and other marine creatures who head there to feed. New England Aquarium naturalists on board offer their insights on whales, answer questions and explain whale behaviors, a big plus for travelers. During your trip, you may see several different species of whales, including humpbacks, finbacks, minkes, sei whales and endangered right whales.

Tours leave from mid-May through early-November from Long Wharf, which is located near the aquarium. Tour frequency depends on the month, but there is at least one per day. Cruisers say the tour is fun and report seeing plenty of wildlife. Combo tickets that include admission to the aquarium are also available. The company also offers sightseeing and sunset cruises.

CityView Trolley Tours

Price: Adults from $42; kids from $20 Duration: 1 hour

The family-friendly hop-on, hop-off CityView Trolley Tours offer a convenient and comfortable way to explore the city and visit its top attractions , something visitors (especially those in Boston for the first time) appreciate. Stops at the New England Aquarium, Quincy Market and Old North Church, among others, make it easy to access sites along the Freedom Trail and other neighborhoods. What's more, guides share fun and informational tidbits along the way.

Trolleys run daily from mid-April to November from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Note: While you can hop on and hop off the trolley as you please, tickets are only valid for one full tour loop. Two-day passes are also available.

Old Town Trolley Tours – Boston Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

Price: Adults from $50; kids from $29 Duration: 1.5 hours

Explore the top sights in Boston on this hop-on, hop-off trolley tour that makes 18 stops. Along the route, you can hop off and explore attractions like Faneuil Hall, the "Cheers" bar, the USS Constitution and the Old State House, and then hop back on at your leisure. Without getting off, you'll tour for about 90 minutes. Trolleys frequently stop approximately every 15 minutes. Participants praise the convenience this tour offers and rave about the entertaining, informative guides. Reviewers also say the tour is a great way to see the city without having to do a lot of walking.

Trolleys run daily from 9 a.m. to 4 or 5 p.m., depending on the time of year. For one-day tours, tickets allow for unlimited re-boarding. Tickets also get you discounted rates for a Boston Harbor cruise as well as discounted entry to the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum. Two-day tickets, as well as the Ghosts & Gravestones evening tour are also available.

Boston Pizza Tours – North End Pizza Tour

Price: From $49 Duration: 2.5 hours

Sink your teeth into some of Boston's best pizza on this walking tour. You'll start your stroll in North End, which is considered Boston's Little Italy. Along the way, you'll pass by five sites on the Freedom Trail, including the Paul Revere House and the Old North Church. The tour cost includes three full-size pizza slices, water and a cannoli. Tourgoers applaud guides for their positive attitudes and entertaining, educational delivery of Boston history. Reviewers are also complimentary of the food.

Tours are generally offered two times daily at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., but a 5 p.m. tour is offered during certain months of the year. Tours are capped at 12 participants. The tour can accommodate vegetarian diets; those with other dietary restrictions (such as vegan diets or food allergies) will need to take a private tour.

Fenway Park Tours

Price: Adults from $25; kids from $17 Duration: 1 hour

Baseball fans and history buffs relish the chance to take a behind-the-scenes peek at America's oldest ballpark. Even non-baseball fans find the tour worthwhile, according to reviewers. The tour takes visitors to important sites within the ballpark, including the world-famous 37-foot-high Green Monster. The excellent guides, full of Red Sox and Fenway Park trivia, offer an entertaining tour and are a hit with participants.

Tours run year-round from 9.m. to 5 p.m. (at 10 a.m. November through March) and start on the hour. On game days, the last tour is scheduled three hours before game time. Fenway Park also offers a variety of other stadium tours, including Day Game Premium Tours and Fenway in Fifteen, a condensed 15-minute tour.

Courtesy of Rose Kennedy Fitzgerald Greenway

Boston Segway Tours

Price: From $69 Duration: 1 or 2 hours

Boston Segway Tours takes visitors on an adventure through the city. Since it's faster to glide than walk, you can cover much more ground on Segway than by foot. As you travel from Boston Common to the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway, your guide takes you by some of Boston's most famous landmarks while always keeping an eye out for riders' safety, according to tour-takers. Pick a two-hour tour to visit Cambridge.

Participants must be 14 or older and weigh at least 100 pounds to ride; additional restrictions may apply.

Urban AdvenTours – City View Bike Tour

Price: From $60 Duration: 3 hours

Exploring Boston by bike is a great way to cover a lot of ground in an exciting, active way. Urban AdvenTours' flagship City View Bike Tour takes participants on a 10- to 12-mile trek through six different neighborhoods. You'll bike through major Boston sites, such as North End, the Boston University campus and Kenmore Square, Fenway Park, the South End, Boston Common and Long Wharf. Along with the comprehensive overview of the city, riders commend the care guides take in making them feel safe.

This tour rides daily at 10 a.m., with additional 2 p.m. departures on Saturday and Sunday during the summer months. The tour is best for those comfortable riding on city streets. Children must be age 10 or older. Adults can upgrade to an electric bike for an additional fee. Urban AdvenTours also offers cycling trips through Cambridge and the Emerald Necklace park system, as well as a family-friendly tour for kids 10 and younger.

Off the Eaten Path Tours

Price: Adults from $95; kids from $40 Duration: 3 hours

On this food tour of the North End – Boston's famous Italian neighborhood – owner Paula Noukos promises more than just samples of tasty food. Besides stopping at popular spots, such as Bricco Panetteria and Galleria Umberto, you'll hear tips on how to shop for the best extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. You'll also learn about the history and architecture of this unique neighborhood, a highlight for reviewers. Travelers are also fond of the guide and appreciate her vast knowledge of the neighborhood.

Tours are generally offered Tuesday through Saturday at 11 a.m. and are limited to 12 people.

Courtesy of Boston Duck Tours

Boston Duck Tours

Price: Adults from $53; kids from $38 Duration: 80 minutes

Quack and splash your way around Beantown with the entertaining Boston Duck Tours, which takes passengers around Boston and into the Charles River on World War II-style amphibious landing vehicles. On the tour, entertaining "conDUCKtors" keep up a lively patter, describing neighborhoods, Boston history, architecture and trivia along the way. A highlight for many visitors is when the vehicle heads into the river offering a different perspective of the city.

Ticket discounts are available for seniors and children 2 and younger. Tours depart from the Museum of Science, the Prudential Center and the New England Aquarium several times a day from mid-March through early-December.

Boston Crawling – Independence Pub Crawl

Price: From $75 Duration: 2 hours

Sip your way through the city at four historic watering holes on Boston Crawling's Independence Pub Crawl. On this tour, you'll visit pubs that have historic significance, drink local brews and hear Boston's "secret" history as you barhop along the Freedom Trail. Reviewers say the tour is informative and fun and applaud the beer recommendations provided by the guides.

Participants can take tours daily at 3 and 7 p.m. There is also an additional noon tour on the weekends. Tourgoers must be at least 21 years old, regardless of whether they're drinking. Tickets include four draft beers of your choice. If you prefer to purchase drinks as you go, you can purchase tickets for a lesser price.

PhotoWalks Tours of Boston – Freedom Trail

Price: Adults from $45; kids from $20 Duration: 1.5 hours

Explore the historic sites of the city and refine your photography skills at the same time on this tour. In addition to visiting Freedom Trail landmarks, such as Boston Common, Park Street Church, the Granary Burying Ground and the Boston Massacre Site, you'll also learn expert tips on how to use your camera or smartphone to take the best pictures – a highlight for many participants. Reviewers are also complimentary of the insightful guides.

Tours run Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday year-round at 1 p.m. The tour is capped at 10 participants, but maybe more during peak times of the year. If you're interested in exploring other neighborhoods or topics, you can sign up for one of PhotoWalks' other tours, including Beacon Hill and the North End, among others.

Courtesy of the Freedom Trail Tour

Freedom Trail Tours – Walk Into History

Price: Adults from $17; kids from $8 Duration: 1.5 hours

The nonprofit Freedom Trail Foundation leads the way on this tour of the Freedom Trail – a milelong path that weaves past some of the city's most historic sites. A costumed guide, in character, leads you to 11 sites, including Boston Common, King's Chapel, the Old South Meeting House, the Boston Massacre site and Faneuil Hall. Reviewers rave about the guides and the characters they inhabit, and highly recommend this excursion over a self-guided tour of the Freedom Trail.

Tours are given daily at 11 a.m., noon and 1 p.m. Other themed tours, including tours that focus on the women of the Revolutionary War and African American patriots, are also available.

Boston Foodie Tours – Boston Public Market & North End Tour

Price: From $90 Duration: 3 hours

Boston Foodie Tours explores two of Boston's famous mainstays: The North End and the Boston Public Market. After enjoying pizza, cannoli and bread in the North End, you'll wind your way to the market to sample doughnuts and ice cream, among other treats. Your tour concludes with a tasting of clam chowder and cornbread. Past tourgoers say this is a must-do experience while visiting Boston.

Tours run Tuesday through Saturday at 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. on Sundays. Tours are not given on major holidays. The company also offers a comprehensive tour of the North End, plus a private foodie outing to Beacon Hill, among other options.

City Brew Tours – Boston Signature Brew Tour

Price: From $89 Duration: 3.5 hours

For an in-depth Boston beer education, City Brew Tours' Signature Brew Tour is a great place to start. During the tour, you'll be chauffeured around the city in a comfortable van, visit three craft breweries, get behind-the-scenes tours and enjoy up to 12 different local craft beers and a snack along the way. Tourgoers laud the knowledgeable guides and love that driving isn't an issue.

City Brew offers this tour Wednesday through Sunday. Outings depart at 4:45 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday. Friday through Sunday, tours begin at noon. All participants must be 21 or older to tour. Tours are capped at 14 participants. A Boston Brew Mystery Crawl is also offered, as are private tours.

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Tags: Tours , Boston , Travel , Vacations , food and drink , New England Vacations , US Vacations

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The 13 best Boston city tours

Get to know the Hub on these culinary and history walks, sightseeing jaunts, market treks and other city tours

Bostonians would sooner root for the Yankees than endure the indignities of a slow-moving city tour with a bunch of non-natives, but that doesn’t mean we still don’t love exploring the best Boston attractions with savvy visitors in tow. From the best free things to do in Boston to the best museums in Boston , the Hub offers plenty of cultural options and activities. While it’s easy to hit the pavement and enjoy “America’s walking city” at your own pace, if you really want to dig deeper and learn all about the area’s rich, unique history and culture, make your plans now to check out these cool Boston city tours.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the  best   things to do   in Boston

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Best Boston city tours

1.  Fenway Park Tour

• Things to do
• Sport events
• Fenway/Kenmore

This is the one you haul all the out-of-towners to—mostly because you can’t wait to go yourself. The hour-long tour includes player and ballpark history and visits to the press box and Pesky’s Pole; depending on the guide, you also might visit the bullpens and peek behind the anachronistic scoreboard. Game-day tours are available as well—hours, options and prices vary, check the website for special event info and restrictions.

2.  Historic Sightseeing Cruise

This narrated, 90-minute sightseeing tour takes you around some of the Harbor Islands while recounting the city’s history as a shipping port, as well as the role that the harbor played in the Revolutionary War. Just prepare yourself for the conditions (tours are offered daily, year-round), as well as the inevitable real estate envy when you sail past all the stunning waterfront condos. 

3.  Samuel Adams Brewery Tour

• price 1 of 4

For a city that’s often hamstrung by booze-related blue laws, Boston sure has a fine collection of breweries. The city’s most famous brewer is Samuel Adams, the Revolutionary and “maltster” after whom the brewery is named. Tours of the Jamaica Plain facility run daily (except for Sundays) and are free, although there is a suggested charitable donation of $2. You’ll taste the malts, smell the hops and enjoy multiple samples.

4.  Boston Public Library Art and Architecture Tour

• Attractions
• Libraries, archives and foundations

You can spend years visiting the BPL and never have proper knowledge of the beauty contained within. These free, volunteer-led tours—no appointment needed—offer architectural insight into both the original Renaissance Revival McKim building and the modernist Philip Johnson wing (added in 1972). Even longtime patrons are impressed by the sheer volume of oils, tapestries and sculptures populating the halls, including the John Singer Sargent murals that took some 30 years to create. 

5.  Freedom Trail Tour

The Freedom Trail  often gets a bad rap among locals, some of whom are tired of the gussied-up guides posing as historical figures as they shuffle tourists through the historical sites. If you don ’ t want to take a guided tour, it ’ s easy to enjoy the lovely self-guided stroll, two and a half miles that remind you of the city’s unparalleled Colonial and Revolutionary history. And if the trail has only whetted your appetite for historical discovery, consider taking a self-guided tour along the Black Heritage Trail or the Women’s Heritage Trail .

6.  Arnold Arboretum Tour

• Parks and gardens
• Jamaica Plain

This Jamaica Plain respite is worth a visit, in part due to the oldest and largest collection of lilac bushes in the world, predating even the founding of the arboretum in 1872. Free weekend tours will help better acquaint you with the vast expanse of flora. Check ahead to confirm hours and weather cancellations, and look into special seasonal themed tours that focus on one species, like the greenhouse collection of potted bonsai plants.

7.  Old State House Tour

• Historic buildings and sites

Designed by Bulfinch and completed in 1798, this magnificent structure replaced the old legislative building across Boston Common, which had been the headquarters of the British government. Included with admission, tours help visitors understand how the Old State House was the political center of Revolutionary Boston. Enthusiastic guides explain how the voices of John Hancock, Samuel Adams, and others rang out from the halls and changed American history forever.

8.  North End Market Tour

Even if you’ve eaten in the North End before,  Boston Food Tours ’  exploration of the neighborhood will take your knowledge to another level by teaching (and feeding) you along the way. On the tour you ’ ll learn how Italians ’ food traditions were adapted to America, while acquiring insider cooking tips and discovering where to buy the very best ingredients. At multiple stops, you ’ ll learn about the very best of the neighborhood, ensuring you ’ ll get more out of your future visits.

9.  Ghosts & Gravestones Tour

Our city’s history is not all puppy dogs and rainbows—death, disease and crime make sizeable appearances as well. By taking a Ghosts & Gravestones tour (days/times vary by season), you will learn about murders and executions like the ones that took place on the Boston Common. Try not to be spooked by stories of paranormal activity at the Omni Parker House or the legend of the Boston Strangler.

10.  Walks with the Local AMC Chapter

The Appalachian Mountain Club wants to show you parts of Greater Boston you’ve never explored before. Year-round hikes and nature walks, both accessible and challenging, take you all around the state (and sometimes New Hampshire, too), lasting anywhere from 3 to 20 miles. Dates and times vary, and walks cost just $1 if you’re not an AMC member.

11.  Castle Island Park and Fort Independence

• South Boston

Locals sometimes forget about the 1850 granite bastion known as Fort Independence, poised at the ocean end of South Boston on Castle Island. It’s a good spot for an all-day picnic, or to pretend you’re going on a medieval raid. Free tours of the fort are offered on summer weekends; check in advance for details.

12.  Boston Lobster Tours

Trap-to-table is the only way to eat your favorite crustacean. Take a tour aboard a legit Downeast-style lobster boat with up to three other friends (bench seating is offered), and cruise around the Boston Harbor for 75 minutes, learning about the local industry and hauling up two traps of your own; whatever is of legal size is yours to keep and (presumably) eat.

13.  City Wine Tours

Two hours of wine drinking under the auspices of learning? Yes, we imagine a few Bostonians would partake. Choose between four neighborhoods—South End, Back Bay, North End or Assembly Row in Somerville—then join an intimate group led by a wine connoisseur. The guide leads you to top-notch hot spots where you’ll learn how to taste, pair and buy fine wines.

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From History to Food: The 15 Best Boston Tours You Have to Take!

History is in every cobblestone step of Boston. From the lanterns hung at Old North Church to alert that the British were coming to the haunted halls of the famous Omni Parker House Hotel, this city has so many stories to tell. It’s no wonder one of the best things to do in Boston is to go on a tour that tells you all about its many historical landmarks. 

But there’s more to Boston than history. A foodie will love spending an afternoon touring the many top dining spots of the city’s beloved North End. And a photography lover would be hard-pressed to find a more beautiful place than Boston’s Beacon Hill, featuring some of the most photographed spots in the United States. And any sports fan would adore meeting the famous Green Monster of Fenway Park.

With so many things to see and do, how do you know which tour is right for you? We’ve compiled our list of the absolute best tours in Boston to help you get started. Stick to these fun and unique Boston tour recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time exploring this historic city!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

The 15 Best Tours in Boston, MA

1. capture the memories of your trip with a photography walking tour.

What’s better than a knowledgeable tour guide? A knowledgeable tour guide who is also an incredible photographer! When you take a photography walking tour of Boston , you’ll be guided throughout this stunning city by someone who can help you capture every moment. 

You’ll follow a carefully planned route to see some of the biggest cultural (and more photogenic) landmarks in the city. You can book either a group tour or a private tour, but either way, you’ll get a one-of-a-kind way of looking at Boston. 

Along the way, your photographer will capture shots of you and your party as you explore Boston. As you learn about the city’s history, you’ll also hear tips and tricks to boost your own photography skills. Once the tour comes to an end, your guide will lead you to a cozy cafe to review your photos and pick out the ones you like. 

You’ll send yourself a postcard with your favorite shot, and you’ll also receive 15 to 20 professionally-edited images in five to 10 days after your tour. This unique Boston tour is a great way to collect beautiful souvenirs of your journey to this historic city.

Try the Boston Photography Walking Tour

2. Eat Boston’s Most Famous Dishes on a Bites of Boston Tour

Learning about Boston’s history is always fun. But learning about the city’s history while eating your way through it is even better.

The Bites of Boston Tour is one of the best Boston tours because you’ll learn about the city in a unique way. You’ll uncover why Boston’s famous foods are so famous in the first place. Where and why was the Boston Cream Pie created? What’s up with the Beantown nickname? And what’s really the best place to get chowder in the city?

You’ll dive into the history of these dishes over the course of a three-hour eating tour of Boston. You’d better arrive on an empty stomach because there’s plenty to dine on throughout the journey. 

You’ll stop by historic restaurants, pubs, and more, where Boston’s best foods were born. You can also upgrade your tour to include a beer tasting at two of Boston’s most beloved taverns.

Take the Classic Bites of Boston Tour

3. Admire the Historic Architecture of the City

Boston is a city like no other, and the architecture plays an essential role in creating that feeling. No matter where you look, you’ll find buildings that feel lost in time, bringing you back to the days of the Revolutionary War. Boston’s history is true American history, and going on an architecture walking tour is a fantastic way to learn more about the people and places that built this country.

You’ll stroll along the historic Freedom Trail, where you’ll walk from landmark to landmark between the famous Faneuil Hall to the beloved Boston Common. Although you’ll hear plenty of historical facts, you’ll also get an in-depth look at the city’s architecture. 

As you stroll the cobblestone streets, you’ll see sights like the Park Street Church, a congressional church that was among the first in the country to advocate for social justice topics like the women’s rights and anti-slavery movements, and the Old Corner Bookstore, the oldest commercial building in Downtown Boston. You learn about the buildings and the stories that happened within their walls.

Learn History & Architecture on a Walking Tour

4. Walk the Freedom Trail with an In-Character Guide

There are many ways to experience the famous Freedom Trail, but the Freedom Trail Walk into History Tour is one of the best tours in Boston. This tour, brought to you by the official Freedom Trail Foundation, is an experience like no other!

Your period-costumed guide will take you through the Freedom Trail, where you’ll walk in the footsteps of great American patriots like Crispus Atticus, John Quincy Adams, and many more. Eleven of the 16 official Freedom Trail historic sites are featured on this 90-minute tour.

See Paul Revere’s final resting place at the Granary Burial Ground, learn about the history of the oldest public school in the US, and explore America’s first public park, the Boston Common. Your knowledgeable guide will help you feel like you were truly there at the start of the United States. 

Walk along Boston’s Freedom Trail

5. Tour One of the Most Beautiful and Historic Theaters in the Country

Boston’s Theater District is home to a number of historic theaters that put on can’t-miss shows. Among them is the beloved Boch Center Wang Theatre. One of the coolest tours in Boston allows you to go behind the scenes at this cultural hub.

The Boch Center Wang Theater Behind-the-Scenes Tour takes you inside this marvel. As soon as you enter this theater, you’ll take in a breathtaking sight. You’ll be greeted by a massive chandelier soaring high above you on the ornately-decorated and mural-filled ceiling, which is held up by gilded marble columns. You’ll know you’re in for one incredible tour as soon as you see this sight!

On this one-hour guided tour, you’ll learn about how the theater, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, came to be and why it’s designed the way it is. You’ll even get the chance to stand on the iconic stage, which once held such incredible acts as Ella Fitzgerald, Queen, Liza Minnelli, and Elton John.

Visit the Historic Boch Center Wang Theatre

6. See the Boston Sights That You’ve Seen in Your Favorite Films

Hollywood is not the only place where you can step into the shoes of your favorite actors. Boston has been home to a number of beloved shows and movies. You’ll be able to see all these iconic spots on the Movie Mile Walking Tour , one of the most unique Boston tours.

On this interactive tour, a local actor will take you to both famous and little-known filming locations of your favorite shows and movies. You’ll sit on the park bench from Good Will Hunting , see where Jack Nicholson hung out in The Departed , and even grab a drink at the original bar from Cheers .

Along the way, you’ll uncover insider secrets from the sets of Fever Pitch , Legally Blonde , Mystic River , and more. It’s the perfect tour for a film lover on a Boston vacation.

Live Out Your Own Filmic Fantasy

7. Take a Historical Tour of one of Boston’s Most Beautiful Locations

When we think of Boston’s history, we often think of the Revolutionary War first. We picture the Boston Massacre or the Boston Tea Party, but Boston has played a role throughout America’s greatest conflicts. And you can take a walking tour that allows you to learn about the part Boston played in the Civil War.

This tour takes you through Beacon Hill, one of the most scenic and historic areas of Boston. On this Beacon Hill Tour , you’ll walk the Black Heritage Trail, which explores the lives of African-Americans in Boston in the 19th century. 

You’ll see homes on the Underground Railroad, visit the African Meeting House, and learn about the struggle for equality throughout the area. You’ll be just blocks from the wealthiest of Boston, but you’ll hear about a very different reality from the lives these Bostonians are living.

There are many historical tours in Boston, but this Boston tour is one-of-a-kind. The struggle of African-American Bostonians is little discussed and even less understood. On this tour, you’ll dive deep into a reality that deserves a spotlight.

Explore Hidden Landmarks in Beacon Hill

8. Go on a Pub Crawl With a Ghostly Theme

Taverns have long played a role in the history and culture of Boston. And with the Haunted Pub Crawl , you’ll be able to walk in the footsteps of the Founding Fathers as they gathered, drank, and planned a new country.

This unique Boston tour takes you to the most notoriously haunted pubs and restaurants of Beantown. You’ll grab a drink as you listen to stories of the Americans who once drank there, from Samuel Adams to John Adams to Paul Revere. 

You’ll also hear more sordid tales of the city. Not all historical figures are quite so friendly. You may or may not see the apparitions of these Boston residents, but you’ll surely feel their presence as the hair on the back of your neck stands up hearing these ghastly tales. You’re going to need more than one drink of liquid courage to spend the evening hearing these incredible stories!

Experience a Haunted Pub Crawl

9. Journey into Boston’s Underbelly on a Trolley Tour

Sure, you could go on a sightseeing tour, but the Ghosts and Gravestones Tour is one of the coolest tours in Boston. Not your average tour, this excursion is considered a “frightseeing” tour. 

On this unique Boston tour, you’ll hop aboard a trolley with a costumed guide who will do their best to scare the pants off you. Don’t worry – they’re pretty friendly, even if the ghosts you may encounter aren’t so much.

On this 90-minute tour, your 17th-century gravedigger guide will tell you Boston’s most gruesome tales. You’ll learn about the story of the Boston Strangler, be guided around the city’s most haunted areas, and hear tales of those who performed the most sordid acts imaginable, often in plain sight.

You’ll also be taken to Copp’s Hill Burial Ground and Granary Burying Ground, Boston’s oldest cemeteries, and visit the gravesites of John Hancock, Paul Revere, and many others. You never know just what you might see on this tour, which is as informative as it is spine-chilling.

Venture to Boston’s Burial Grounds

10. Tour the North End’s Best Dining Spots

Boston’s North End is arguably home to some of the best food in the country. From famous cannolis to fresh seafood dishes, this area of the city is a foodie’s paradise, which is why the North End Secret Food Tour is one of the best food tours in Boston.

You’ll walk along this charming area, filled with quaint and colorful restaurants and gastropubs. On this three-hour tour, you’ll learn about the area’s roots as you’re taken to seven stops. What treats are awaiting you? You can expect fresh pasta courtesy of Boston’s Little Italy, pizza eaten in the shadow of the famous Old North Church, an Italian sandwich like no other, and so much more.

Your guide is as knowledgeable about Boston’s history as they are about the city’s best food. Expect a tour filled with little-known facts and even littler-known Boston treats.

Discover Boston’s North End

11. Journey Through the History of ‘America’s Most Beloved Ballpark’

Speaking as someone who isn’t even a baseball fan, I marvel at Fenway Park every time I see it. It’s the oldest MLB ballpark, and there’s so much history in every square inch of this beloved stadium. A Walking Tour of Fenway Park is one of the best Boston tours and something you truly cannot experience anywhere else.

On a one-hour guided tour, you’ll explore the historic grounds of this Boston icon, home to the Boston Red Sox. You’ll learn about the history of this stadium, which is over 100 years old, as you see Pesky’s Pole, sit atop the famous Green Monster, and take in the views of Boston from the Roof Deck. You’ll then tour the Fenway Park Living Museum, which is home to more than 170,000 stadium artifacts and 150,000 photographs. 

You can take either a public or private tour, but you do get access to features with a private tour you won’t get with a public one. With this upgrade, you may visit a number of additional locations, like the famous Red Seat, the Visiting Team Clubhouse, or the Green Monster Scoreboard.

Get Up-Close Access to Fenway Park

12. Take a One-of-a-Kind Tour on Both Land and Water

What’s the best tour in Boston? Many locals and visitors alike will tell you that there’s nothing quite like a Boston Duck Tour . You’ll climb aboard a World War II-style “Duck” that takes you through the streets of Boston and into the Charles River.

On this 80-minute tour, you’ll be led by a “ConDUCKtor,” who will tell you all about the history of the most significant landmarks of the city. You’ll see the State House, Bunker Hill, the Boston Common, Copley Square, Newbury Street, Quincy Market, and more. 

You’ll hear little-known facts about these iconic locations before you head to the Charles River for the splashdown. From the water, you’ll take in one of the best views around both Boston and Cambridge. This tour is one of the best Boston sightseeing tours available, and you’ll love every minute aboard your Duck.

Book the World-Famous Boston Duck Tour

13. Step Back in Time During an Interactive Tour

There are many great tours of Boston, but few allow you to get in on the fun as much as the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum Interactive Tour . This tour will enable you to relive the Boston Tea Party with live actors, 3D holograms, and replica ships.

When you arrive, you’ll receive a handbill from one of the colonist actors, telling you which part you’ll play. You never know what you might get. Then, you’re off to start a revolution.

In the meeting house, you’ll learn all about the fateful night of December 16, 1773. You’ll then get your own disguise before you begin the march to Griffin’s Wharf. It’s up to you and your fellow revolutionaries to throw crates of tea into the sea. You can also explore the replica ships, designed to look like the original ships from the Boston Tea Party. 

Inside the museum, you’ll watch British soldiers and colonists fight before your very eyes. You’ll then head into a giant wraparound theater where you’ll watch the battle play out.

Become a Part of the Boston Tea Party

14. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth on a Donut Tour

What do you think of when you think of Boston food? Maybe you think of the Boston Cream Pie. Or perhaps a lobster roll springs to mind. But how about donuts?

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, the Underground Donut Tour is easily one of the best food tours in Boston. From Union Square Donuts to Kane’s Donuts to even more under-the-radar stops, you’ll eat your way around the city donut-style. 

You’ll be led from the Financial District to the Boston Public Market, where you’ll sample donuts alongside apple cider as you learn about the history of this massive market. Then, you’ll head into Little Italy and stop at one of the oldest bakeries in the city for a unique treat. Then, it’s back to the Public Market for even more donuts. 

Be sure to arrive with an empty stomach because you’re sure to want to sample as many donuts as you can. And along the way, you’ll learn even more about Boston’s history, making this tour as educational as it is delicious.

Eat Some of America’s Greatest Donuts

15. Look for Whales off the Coast of Boston

Prime whale-watching season in Boston lasts from May to October, although you may see some whales outside of these months. But if you are visiting during this prime season, you’ll definitely want to hop on a Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise . Your knowledgeable guide will tell you all about these stunning creatures as you spot them in the water.

You’ll meet with researchers of the Whale Center of New England aboard this three-hour cruise, who will provide expert commentary as you look for humpbacks, finbacks, and minke whales. You may also spot some white-sided dolphins if you keep your eyes peeled.

With a climate-controlled cabin space and cushioned seating, you’ll be able to search for whales in comfort, even if the weather is getting chilly in Boston. And with a state-of-the-art sound system, you’re sure to hear your guide’s commentary and won’t miss a minute of the whales breaching.

Join a Whale Watching Cruise

There you have it! The 15 best tours in Boston. Do you have any unique Boston tours you’d recommend? Let us know in the comments!

Planning a trip to Massachusetts? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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About the Author:

Jacqueline is a writer and editor pursuing the freelance life to explore the world. Born and raised in New Jersey, she spent her college years in Boston before settling down with her partner and puppy in Monterey, California. When she’s not writing, you can often find her planning her next trip. Road trips are her favorite, whether it’s driving across the country or simply exploring a new city in her own backyard. She loves uncovering the history of every new place she goes. Jacqueline has a restless passion for learning and makes it a goal to pick up a new skill every year. She’s picked up embroidery, crocheting, knitting, and cross-stitching, but she’s hoping to master more languages to help her in her travels. She’s also a published author, with short stories and poetry appearing in several anthologies.

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Walk Into History®

Boston Common Visitor Information Center 139 Tremont Street Boston, MA 02111

Daily, 10 am, 11 am,  12 noon, 1 pm  (plus 2 pm Sat. & Sun.) Purchase Tickets  

About This Tour

Boston's official Freedom Trail tours!  The Freedom Trail Foundation's most popular, introductory, tours highlight the diverse history that took place at 11 of the 16 official Freedom Trail historic sites, featuring Boston Common, Massachusetts State House, Park Street Church, Granary Burying Ground, King's Chapel & King's Chapel Burying Ground, Boston Latin School site/Benjamin Franklin statue, Old Corner Bookstore, Old South Meeting House, Old State House, Boston Massacre site, and Faneuil Hall.  Experience stories of the American Revolution, as well as the history of traditionally underrepresented peoples spanning from the 16 th – 21 st centuries.  

*Boston Town Crier Tours - Endorsed by the Freedom Trail Foundation, however Foundation-led tour tickets are not valid to use on Boston Town Crier-led tours.

Group Tour Information

School, private, or corporate groups may request specific tour dates and departure times here or by calling (617) 357-8300.

General Information

Access route, public transit, what people are saying, yelp review.

The Freedom Trail is one of the iconic touristy things to do in Boston, and there's a reason for that. I did the full trail many, many years ago but decided to go with this shorter, more compact trail with our family. The 1.5 hour length is the right duration for kids, and our guide, Jeremiah Poope (his actual last name!), kept it interesting the entire time. He has been a tour guide in Boston for many years, and he had a ton of interesting stories and facts beyond the typical revolutionary war factoids.

The Freedom Trail Walking tour presents full of historic knowledge and our guide, Parker, provides us the best experience for this amazing learning adventure. That is to say, in this tour you can also learn about the myth and the truth of the history we learned from our textbooks. I would recommend anyone who visit Boston and is interested in learning history or simply just want to listen to funny stories

TripAdvisor Review

We only had 1 day to explore downtown Boston, and this tour was a great way to see several different sites, learn about history, and get a bit of walking in. We were a few minutes late for the start of the 1pm tour but easily able to catch up and join in.. Our tour guide was fantastic! One member of my group uses a wheelchair, and the guide was great about leading the WHOLE tour through accessible entrances to sites and to sidewalks with curb cuts so that all of us could participate without feeling singled out.

Email Review

We had a wonderful time and your guides were wonderful. They were energetic, informed, and brought history to life. Thank you once again!

Great tour with Isaiah Thomas! Great local guide who was very engaging and a walking encyclopedia of Boston history. It was a nice 1.5 hr walking tour hitting most of the south end Freedom Trail points of interest. For the money, it’s hard to beat!

Freedom Trail Store

The Freedom Trail store offers tour ticket discounts, books, such as the Freedom Trail Walking Guide and A Kid's Guide to the Freedom Trail, in addition to other student-friendly and grown-up intriguing books, audio guides, and other Freedom Trail related items.

• Pre-Colonial Mass
• 17th Century Mass
• 18th Century Mass
• 19th Century Mass

Best Boston History Tours

If you are planning a trip to historic Boston you may be interested in taking one of the many Boston history tours available there. There are many tours to choose from but you only have so much time and money to spend.

Boston is a historic city with nearly four centuries of history to explore. With so many Boston historic sites to see, it’s hard to know where to start, what to see or even how to get there.

Fortunately, taking a history tour solves this problem for you because the tours takes you directly to all the important must-see sites.

The tour guides can also answer any questions you may have and give you more detailed, insider information that the travel books don’t have. The tours are affordable and fun and are one of the best ways to explore Boston.

To help you decide which tour is best for you, I’ve compiled a list of what are considered the best Boston history tours. These tours get great reviews from tourists on sites like Tripadvisor and Yelp and are the best-selling tours available.

If these aren’t the type of tours you’re looking for, there are also a number of Boston bus tours available.

The following is a list of the best Boston history tours:

Freedom Trail Tour:

The Freedom Trail Foundation offers many historical tours, including the Walk Into History Tour, the Reverse Walk Into History Tour and the North End Tour, and are led by tour guides dressed in 18th century clothing.

The Walk Into History tour is a 90 minute tour that stops at 11 of the 16 Freedom Trail sites:

Boston Common Massachusetts State House Park Street Church Granary Burying Ground King’s Chapel Site of the First Public School Old Corner Bookstore Old South Meeting House Old State House site of the Boston Massacre Faneuil Hall

The tour starts at Boston Common and ends at Faneuil Hall.

The Reverse Walk Into History tour is the same time except that it begins and ends in reverse locations, starting at Faneuil Hall and ending at Boston Common.

The North End Tour is a 90 minute tour that stops at three of the 16 Freedom Trail sites and various spots in the North End neighborhood, which includes the Paul Revere House, Old North Church, and Copp’s Hill Burying Ground. The tour starts at Faneuil Hall and ends at the North End along the waterfront.

Both public tours and private tours are available. Extended tours are also available. Public tours are available daily throughout the year. Tickets may be purchased online or at the departure location.

Private, group, and school tours are available at a preferred date, time, and departure location. Reservations are required. Contact the Freedom Trail Foundation to book a school, private, corporate, or group tour by calling 617.357.8300

Boston Duck Tours:

Boston Duck Tours offers a guided 80-minute tour aboard a WWII-style amphibious landing vehicle. The tour includes historic sites but isn’t solely a history tour and focuses on sites that made Boston famous. The company offers two tours, one which departs from the Prudential Center and one that departs from the New England Aquarium.

The tour that departs from the Prudential Center includes 36 notable Boston sites:

Prudential Tower Christian Science Church Copley Place/ Arts Square New Old South Church Arlington Street Church Boston Common/ Public Gardens Swan Boats Beacon Hill State House Robert Gould Shaw Memorial Mary Dyer Old Scollay Square/ Government Center Old West Church West End TD Garden Zakim Bunker Hill Bridge Museum of Science Charles River Esplanade Longfellow Bridge Hatch Shell Bunker Hill Main Street, Charlestown Old North Church/North End Rose Kennedy Greenway/North End Parks Holocaust Memorial Faneuil Hall/ Quincy Market Old State House King’s Chapel Granary Burying Ground Make Way for Ducklings Cheers Newbury Street Trinity Church Hancock Tower Boston Public Library

The tour that departs from the New England Aquarium includes 32 notable sites:

New England Aquarium Long Wharf Rose Kennedy Greenway/Wharf District Parks Custom House Old State House King’s Chapel Granary Burying Ground Arlington Street Church Boston Common/ Public Gardens Make Way for Ducklings Cheers Swan Boats Beacon Hill State House Robert Gould Shaw Memorial Mary Dyer Old Scollay Square/ Government Center Old West Church West End TD Garden Zakim Bunker Hill Bridge Museum of Science Charles River Esplanade Longfellow Bridge Hatch Shell Bunker Hill Main Street, Charlestown Old North Church/North End Holocaust Memorial Faneuil Hall/ Quincy Market Christopher Columbus Park

At the end of the tour, the duck boat launches into the Charles River for a view of the Boston and Cambridge skylines. Tours are seasonal. Tickets may be purchased online or in person. Telephone reservations are available for groups of 20 or more.

You can save money on this tour with Boston Duck Tours Coupons & Discount Tickets .

Free Tours By Foot:

Free Tours By Foot offers many different types of guided walking tours which includes the Freedom Trail Tour, North End and Little Italy Tour, Cambridge and Harvard Tour, Kennedy and Irish History of Boston, Beacon Hill Crime Tour, and the Boston Strong Tour: Fire, Flood and Famine.

The tours are a name-your-own-price model which means the company doesn’t charge for its tours and instead asks that you pay what you think the tour was worth. This is to ensure that the tour guide gives you the best tour possible.

The Freedom Trail Tour is a two-hour, one mile-long tour that explores various sites along the Freedom Trail including:

Boston Common Massachusetts State House Park Street Church Granary Burying Ground King’s Chapel Old South Meeting House Old Corner Bookstore Old State House Boston Massacre Site Faneuil Hall and more

The tour starts at the Boston Common and ends at Faneuil Hall. Reservations are required and can be booked online.

The North End Little Italy Tour is a two-hour, one-mile long tour that explores the diverse history of Boston’s North End. The tour includes stops at some of the North End’s most famous and historic landmarks including:

Faneuil Hall Quincy Market Paul Revere House Rose Kennedy’s Birthplace Paul Revere Statue Old North Church St. Stephen Church Copp’s Hill Burial Ground Battle of Bunker Hill Crime of the Century The Skinny House 1919 Flood Black Mass location and more

The tour starts at Faneuil Hall. Reservations are required and can be booked online.

The Cambridge and Harvard Tour is a two-hour, one-mile long tour that explores the history of Cambridge, Massachusetts that spans nearly four centuries. Sites included in the tour are:

Harvard Square Harvard University Cambridge Common Washington Elm Christ Church Harvard Yard Henry Wadsworth Longfellow House and more

Reservations are required and can be booked online.

The Kennedy and Boston Irish Tour is a two-hour, one-mile long tour that explores the history of Irish immigrants in Boston from the time of their arrival in Boston in the 19th century to the rise of Irish-American politicians, such as the Kennedy family, in the 20th century.

The tour includes stops at historical sites that are significant to Boston’s Irish history including:

John F. Kennedy Statue The Old City Hall The State House on Beacon Hill James Michael Curley Statue America’s First Subway Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Birthplace St. Stephen’s Church Mayor Kevin White Statue The Union Oyster House City Hall Plaza Irish Famine Memorial Omni Parker Hotel The North End The Old State House

The Beacon Hill Crime Tour explores the dark and violent history of the Beacon Hill neighborhood which was the location of various murders committed by the notorious serial killer, the Boston Strangler and a famous murder committed by Professor John Webster.

The tour includes stops at notable sites including:

home of Strangler victim Mary Sullivan home of Strangler victim Ida Irga house of Dr. Charles Parkman house of murder victim Dr. George Parkman site of Harvard Medical College site of Charles Street Jail and more

The Boston Strong: Fire, Flood and Famine tour is a two-hour, one-mile long tour about the various tragedies and disasters that have occurred in Boston over the centuries and the cause, effects and aftermath of these events.

The tour includes stops at various sites where these events occurred, including:

Marathon Bombing Site Hotel Vendome Memorial The “Plywood Palace” Site of the Coconut Grove Night Club Fire A Strange Entombment The Scourge of Boston 1721 “Combat Zone” Great Fire of 1872 Boston Irish Famine Statue

The tour starts in front of the Boston Public Library and ends at the Boston Irish Famine Statue.

Boston By Foot:

Boston By Foot offers numerous standard history tours as well as a number of specialty topic tours that discuss more niche history topics.

The standard history tours include the Back Bay tour, the Beacon Hill tour, Boston by Little Feet tour, Heart of the Freedom Trail tour, Reinventing Boston: A City Engineered tour, Road to Revolution tour, the Dark Side of Boston, the Hub of Literary America, the North End: Gateway to Boston.

The Back Bay tour is a 90-minute tour that discusses how the area was once an actual bay that was later filled in and explains how the neighborhood developed in the 19th century to become the center of art and architecture in Boston. The tour stops at locations such as Trinity Church, the Boston Public Library, Old South Church, and various Back Bay townhouses.

The Beacon Hill tour is a 90-minute tour that discusses the history and development of the area from its beginnings as a rural hill to its development as one of the most wealthy neighborhoods that became home to some of Boston’s most prominent citizens.

The Boston By Little Feet tour is a 30 minute walking tour specifically for children between six and 12 years of age. The tour explores sites that played a key role in Boston’s history and also visits some of the oldest landmarks in the city. The tour includes ten sites in downtown Boston.

The Heart of the Freedom Trail Tour is a 90-minute walking tour of the Freedom Trail in downtown Boston. The tour explores the history of Boston from the early days of the Puritan settlement to the American Revolution to its more modern development.

The tour includes stops along 10 historic sites on the Freedom Trail such as the Old State House, Faneuil Hall, King’s Chapel, Old South Meetinghouse, and the site of the first public school in America.

Reinventing Boston: A City Engineered

The Reinventing Boston tour is a 90-minute tour that explores that various public works projects that have transformed Boston over the centuries. The tour discusses topics such as Boston’s maritime wharves, the history of the Boston subway and the Big Dig.

Road to Revolution

The Road to Revolution is a two-hour tour and is the company’s most comprehensive Freedom Trail tour. The tour explores famous landmarks such as King’s Chapel, the Old South Meetinghouse, the Old State House, the site of the Boston Massacre, the Paul Revere House and etc.

The Dark Side of Boston

The Dark Side of Boston tour is a 90-minute tour that explores the city’s more notorious history such as murders, disease epidemics, riots, robberies, disasters and etc. The tour takes place in the North End neighborhood.

The Hub of Literary America

The Hub of Literary America is a 90-minute tour that explores the history of Boston’s literary scene. The tour highlights the homes and hangouts of many prominent 19th century writers such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Henry David Thoreau, Louisa May Alcott, Henry James, Charles Dickens and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

The North End: Gateway to Boston

The North End tour is a 90-minute tour that explores the history behind one of Boston’s oldest neighborhoods. The tour discusses the many phases of the North End’s history such as its early Colonial days, the American Revolution, 19th century wave of immigrants to its modern day appearance.

In addition to these standard tours, the company also offers special topic tours such as:

Adams Family in Boston Bay Village Beacon Hill with a Boo! Ben Franklin: Son of Boston Boston by Bullfinch Boston’s LGBT Past Boston’s Opera House Dams, Bridges & Locks East Boston: Maverick Square and Beyond Educating Boston Fierce and Feminine: Great Women of Boston Finding Aesop’s Fables in Copley Square Footloose on the Freedom Trail Fort Point Channel Grave Undertakings: Boston’s Burying Grounds Historic Waterfront Johnny Termain’s Boston Kendall Square Longwood & Cottage Farm Murder, Martyrs and Mysticism SoWa: South of Washington Street The Flat of Beacon Hill The Making of MIT: From Back Bay to Cambridge The Tipsy Tour: Dram Shops and Drunken Sailors True Lies and False Facts: A Questionable Tour of Boston

Boston Segway Tours:

Boston Segway Tours offers two different tours, a one-hour tour and a two-hour tour, which are conducted on segways.

The one-hour tour starts at State Street and then makes its way to the center of the city, passing through the financial district, then continues on to the harbor before returning to State Street.

The two-hour tour starts at State Street, stopping at the Freedom Trail sites along the way including Faneuil Hall, the Old State House, Boston Common, the Public Garden, Granary Burying Ground, the New State House, King’s Chapel and Park Street Church, before continuing on to the financial district and then to the harbor.

The tour then continues on to Cambridge, exploring the neighborhoods of Beacon Hill, Bay Bay, Chinatown before returning back to State Street via the Rose F. Kennedy Greenway.

Since the segways can’t be operated on sidewalks or through places like Faneuil Hall, the tour company doesn’t offer a full Freedom Trail tour but both of the available tours do stop at various locations along the Freedom Trail that are accessible to segways.

Riders must be at least 14 years old to ride a segway and must weigh between 99 and 300 pounds. Electronic devices are not allowed during the tour for safety reasons so the tour company offers complimentary photos of you and your group on the tour.

Old Town Trolley Tours:

Old Town Trolley Tours offers a hop on and hop off tour where riders can leave the trolley and explore the sites at any time. The tour is a narrated, 1 hour and 50 minute tour that stops at 19 locations:

Faneuil Hall Historic North End USS Constitution and Museum North Station/ TD Garden Downtown Crossing / Historic District Trolley Stop Store / Theater District Cheers Bar Copley Square / Back Bay Christian Science Plaza / Symphony Hall Copley Plaza Mall Prudential Center Fenway Cambridge / Harvard / MIT Beacon Hill / Antique Row State House / Boston Common Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum South Station Boston Convention Center Massport/Black Falcon Cruise Ship Terminal Boston Fishing Pier

You can save money on this tour with Boston Old Town Trolley Coupons & Discount Tickets .

CityView Trolley Tours:

CityView Trolley Tours offers a hop on and hop off tour where riders can leave the trolley and explore the sites at any time. The tour is 45 minutes long and stops at nine locations:

New England Aquarium Paul Revere House / Little Italy North End / Old North Church USS Constitution North Station Old State House / Faneuil Hall Boston Common State House / Beacon Hill South Station / Boston Tea Party Ship Museum

City View Trolley Tours offers tours year round, but hours of operation are limited during the winter. Tickets can be purchased online or over the phone.

You can save money on this tour with Cityview Trolley Coupons & Discount tickets .

Walking Boston:

Walking Boston is a private walking tour of historic Boston by tour guide Ben Edwards. Edwards is a Boston historian with a family history that reaches back to 17th century Boston.

In fact, Edwards is related to Paul Revere through the marriage of his ancestor, Sally Edwards, to Revere’s eldest son, Paul Revere, Jr, and his tour even has a letter of recommendation from the Paul Revere House.

Walking Boston tours cover all of the Freedom Trail sites, several secret spots and goes inside King’s Chapel, Faneuil Hall and all three burying grounds. Walking Boston offers two types of tours: a 4.5 hour tour and a 5.5 hour tour. The 4.5 hour tour includes stops at 15 locations:

Massachusetts State House Boston Common Park Street Church Granary Burying Ground King’s Chapel King’s Chapel Burying Ground Old Corner Bookstore Building Old South Meeting House Old State House Boston Massacre Site Faneuil Hall Paul Revere House (exterior only) Old North Church Copp’s Hill Burying Ground Secret / Hidden Spots

The 5.5 hour tour includes all of the above but also includes a tour of the Paul Revere house and a lunch break at the historic Union Oyster House.

Boston Walking Tours are a more in-depth type of tour for people who are interested in learning more and spending more time exploring the history of Boston.

Due to the length of the tours and the amount of information each tour provides, the tours are a little pricier than the average history tour but is well worth it if you are looking for something better than a simple hour-long tour.

Tours run from March until December. Reservations are required and can be made online or over the phone at 617-670-1888.

Lessons on Liberty Walking Tour:

Lessons on Liberty Walking Tour offers a 90-minute walking tour of Boston’ Freedom Trail. The tours are led by historians and teachers, not actors, dressed in 18th century clothing.

The tours discuss not only the events of the American Revolution but the events that led to the revolution as well. The tours include stops at number of historic sites including:

Boston Common Granary Burying Ground King’s Chapel Burying Ground Boston Latin School Old South Meeting House Old State House Boston Massacre Site Faneuil Hall and more

Tours run from April to October and tours can be booked online.

Sources: “Frequently Asked Questions.”  Boston By Foot , www.bostonbyfoot.org/faq#overlay-context= “Letter of Recommendation from the Paul Revere House.”  Walking Boston , n.d., walkingboston.com/revere-house-letter/ “The Top 10 Best Boston Tours.”  TripAdvisor , www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g60745-Activities-c42-Boston_Massachusetts.html “Boston’s Best Historical Tours.” CBS Boston , boston.cbslocal.com/top-lists/bostons-best-historical-tours/ “Boston Sightseeing Tours.”  Boston Discovery Guide, www.boston-discovery-guide.com/boston-sightseeing-tours.html “The Edwards Family in Boston.”  Walking Boston :, walkingboston.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Edwards-Family-in-Boston-2.1.2016.pdf

Boston History Tours

A walking conversation, a colonial experience...a 21st century adventure.

My BOSTON HISTORY TOUR is an immersive experience into the rhythm of local culture while discovering what makes Boston unique, influential, and relevant to understanding the events, movements, thinking and people that helped shape American society.

Each tour is a personalized walking adventure.

"rick showed me around boston in the greatest way i could think of" - r.w. from israel..

Historic landmarks are the beacons that guide our walk exploring the topography, places, events, people, customs, myths, and legends of the city.  We will visit the well-known Revolutionary War era buildings while avoiding most of the crowds.  We will also explore obscure but memorable sites that were important in their day but are now largely ignored or forgotten.  The famous (and infamous) places, as well as the hidden gems of today, will not be overlooked!

We will try to relive the sights, sounds, and smells familiar to Boston's earlier inhabitants.

As we meander the crooked and narrow streets we will snack on authentic Native American breads, colonial “johnycakes” and the Boston “biskets” Benjamin Franklin fondly recalled in his autobiography. We will relax at local eateries for traditional New England Colonial dishes or rest at a sidewalk café for a world-renowned Boston pastry.

"My visit to Boston wouldn't have been the same without his guidance. He knows A LOT about the city. I learned not only history of the USA but of the city, both about the official and non-official stories and anecdotes, hidden places, culinary treasures, and many fun stories ." - J.C. from Argentina.

Your Walking Partner

Ricky morgan.

Exploring a city on foot is where the locals are met.  If you are like me, authentic travel is never in the must-sees but always in the mundane.  I have lived in Boston on-and-off since 1971, returning again and again to this great walking city that is just waiting to be explored!  Please let me know your interests and I will create a once in a lifetime adventure!

"I had an amazing stay thanks to Ricky. He spent his entire Saturday showing me all the historical sights and local attractions in Boston. It was astonishing to have a local resident showing you also unknown sides to the tourists. I would highly recommend him as your tour guide." - Z.P.  from Wales.

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Top Tours in Boston, MA

Boston tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Walking Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Boston Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour with 14 Stops

2. Freedom Trail: Small Group Tour of Revolutionary Boston

3. Martha's Vineyard Daytrip from Boston with Round-Trip Ferry & Island Tour Option

4. Tour of Historic Fenway Park, America's Most Beloved Ballpark

5. Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran

6. The Revolutionary Story Epic Small Group Walking Tour of Boston

7. Boston Harbor Sunset Cruise

8. Boston Top 10 Highlights - Freedom Trail & ‘Cheers’ Landmark Tour

9. Boston Duck Boat Sightseeing City Tour with Cruise Along Charles River

10. Boston Small-Group Walking Food Tour With Tastings

11. Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum Admission

12. Boston Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour

13. Boston Historic Sightseeing Harbor Cruise with Up-Close View of USS Constitution

14. Boston Freedom Trail Daily Walking Tour

15. Harvard University Campus Guided Walking Tour

16. View Boston Observation Deck Admission Tickets

17. Boston to Plymouth Day-Trip including Quincy, Plimoth Patuxet and Mayflower II

18. Boston Seafood Lovers Adventure

19. 1 or 2 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour with Harbor Cruise Option

20. Martha's Vineyard Day Trip with Optional Island Tour from Boston

21. Boston Signature Dinner Cruise

22. Boston Harbor Sightseeing Cruise

23. Hop-on Hop-off Boston Sightseeing Tour With 24 Stops

24. Salem High Speed Ferry to/from Boston

25. Boston: North End to Freedom Trail - Food & History Walking Tour

26. The Small Group Boston Tour, I know secrets that others don't!

27. Walking Tour Downtown Freedom Trail + Beacon Hill & Copley Square

28. Sightseeing Day Sail around Boston Harbor

29. Boston Small-Group Freedom Trail History Tour Pub Crawl

30. New York City Day Trip from Boston

What travellers are saying.

• Kay Washington DC, DC 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Can't wait to come back! Great tours at a great price, we had a lot of fun with our experience but our favorite drivers were definitely Hummer and Lurch, they were excellent! We actually had Lurch a second time later on when the traffic was absolutely horrific and bumper to bumper- he kept us in hysterics the whole time we were with him between his comedy and singing! Read more Review of: Boston Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour with 14 Stops Written 23 April 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Kelsey L 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great way to see Boston and learn American history along the way! This was a great way to see and learn about so many different neighborhoods while getting a nice walk in at the same time. We learned a lot from Captain Pickles and thoroughly enjoyed his passion for history. Read more Review of: Boston Freedom Trail Daily Walking Tour Written 23 April 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

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THE 10 BEST Boston Historical & Heritage Tours

Historical & heritage tours in boston.

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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

61. Ultimate Boston Audio Tour Bundle

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63. Day Trip from Boston To Salem Witch Exhibits

64. Private Day Trip to Lexington and Concord from Boston

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74. Walking Tour of Boston's Freedom Trail

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76. Lexington and Concord Private Driving Tour

77. Private Food Tour to Freedom Trail-Small Group Walking Tour

78. Guided Walking Tour of Copley Square to Downtown Boston Freedom Trail

79. Full-Day Private Guided Tour of Hammond Castle and Boston

80. Ultimate Cambridge Self-Guided GPS Driving Audio Tour

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88. Evening Ghost Tour of Boston

89. Beacon Hill, Public Garden, Back Bay History + Photo Walking Tour(Small Group)

90. 2-Hour Beacon Hill True Crime Expert Guided Tour

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

Boston’s Historical Gems: 8 Fantastic Spots To Check Out

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When in Boston, foodies, theater aficionados, and sports fans alike are spoiled for choice, but history buffs have it the best of all. Boston is one of the oldest cities in North America, so you could reasonably argue that just about everything you see in the city is a historic site. But if you have limited time, be sure to visit these eight unique spots where you can experience the city’s history and have enough money left over to cover a lobster dinner or two!

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1. John F. Kennedy Presidential Library And Museum

Few museums have surprised me as much as the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library And Museum . I was afraid that it would be a sad, solemn building, but instead, I found beautiful architecture, wonderfully friendly staff, and creative displays. A small display on Kennedy’s childhood is followed by a film detailing his early political career. Together, they do a great job of explaining who the late president was and the social and economic conditions of his time. The main part of the museum, which showcases Kennedy’s presidency, pays homage to the style and media of the early 1960s. Kennedy’s untimely death is addressed in just one small exhibit — the focus is squarely on his life and presidency. Before you leave, be sure to consult your map so that you don’t miss the large section of the Berlin Wall that is permanently on display.

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2. Boston Common

The Boston Common is the oldest city park in the United States and dates to 1634. To say that it’s seen a lot of action over the years is an understatement. Battleground, graveyard, skating rink, execution square, sculpture park, pasture, and baseball diamond: The Common has been all of these and more. It’s a fun place to go for people-watching, festivals, and a serving of fried dough (think of a cross between churros and beignets). But it really comes alive at night — when you can hang out with the dead! Haunted Boston offers excellent nighttime walking tours of the city that focus primarily on the Common. Those who are easily frightened needn’t worry about these ghost tours. The focus is on history and folklore, and while I did glance over my shoulder once or twice, there are no actors or fanciful dramatics designed to make you jump — only good old-fashioned storytelling and a passion for Boston’s history.

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3. Boston Duck Tours

These fun, family-friendly tours on refurbished World War II-era amphibious vehicles include a 60-minute trip on land followed by a 20-minute ride on the Charles River. The Boston Duck Tours provide a good overview of central Boston with a focus on historic sites like Faneuil Hall , Union Oyster House , and the George Washington statue . The atmosphere is a bit on the silly side (there’s mandatory quacking), but the staff members are very knowledgeable and love questions.

To get the best value from these rather pricey tickets ($43 per adult), pay online and book a tour before 10 a.m. to save an extra $9.50. The company’s complimentary coupon booklet has extra deals as well. I’m really glad I took the Duck Tour on the first day of my visit. I got a good sense of where things were in the city, as well as some coupons for the rest of my trip — including a lucrative free voucher for a very special tour …

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4. MIT And Harvard

At $12 per tour, the Trademark Tours of MIT and Harvard are a good deal. They’re even better when they’re free! The cost is waived for anyone with Duck Tour tickets — you’ll just need to show your tickets or your e-ticket receipt. You don’t have to use them the same day you go on your Duck Tour, so there’s no need to cram it all into one day. Both tours are well suited for the general public and emphasize campus history, legends, and architecture. The tour guides, actual university students, are personable and happy to share the latest gossip, like what celebrities have lived in different houses and who’s donated money in return for honorary doctorates.

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5. Abigail’s Tea Room And Terrace

Enough time has passed that tea is no longer a touchy subject in Boston, and, at Abigail’s Tea Room & Terrace , you can sample the five blends that were dumped into the harbor in protest all those years ago. It’s also a fine place for sandwiches, scones, and cookies. Early settlers may not have had the triple chocolate chip, but it’s a lovely accompaniment to the old-fashioned tea blends!

Abigail’s is part of the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum . The guided, immersive tours include a visit to a restored 18th-century sailing vessel, where you can pretend to dump the tea!

Mariusz Lopusiewicz / Shutterstock

6. Paul Revere House

Paul Revere was a talented silversmith, and his home , a National Historic Landmark, is one of the oldest surviving dwellings in the United States. But that’s not why you know his name: He is best known for his midnight ride in April of 1775 to alert the colonial militia of the approach of the British forces before the Battles of Lexington and Concord. For just $5, you can enjoy a self-guided tour of his home and learn about his life and work. Note that the house is still a cash-only facility.

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7. Freedom Trail

Here’s a secret I don’t always share: When I walk along Boston’s fabled Freedom Trail , I usually save the north section for another day. Personally, I like visiting the North End and beyond separately. For instance, Paul Revere’s house is on the Freedom Trail, and it doesn’t take that long to visit, but I don’t like squishing it in with all the other sites. And there are so many fantastic spots to explore between Faneuil Hall and the Boston Common that I want to give them my full attention. Frommer’s Boston Day by Day is my go-to for self-guided tours of the Freedom Trail — though I’m easily seduced by their inclusion of nearby cafés and pastry shops! If you’d prefer an in-depth tour on a particular theme, you can take one of the many guided tours led by costumed guides.

8. Boston Public Library

With five to 10 events a day, a popular café, an open on-air radio station, free tours, and an entire gallery of John Singer Sargent’s paintings, the Boston Public Library is about so much more than just books. The building’s inner courtyard is designed to resemble a Renaissance cloister and is home to a beautiful fountain. Built in 1895, the library is a beloved public institution — and it also serves as the finish line of the Boston Marathon. Joining a tour to learn more about the building’s art and architecture is a good way to soak everything up; so is a relaxing visit to the on-site Newsfeed Café. Nearby Trinity Church , famous for its stained glass and distinct Richardsonian Romanesque style, also offers free tours, making this part of Boston ideal for frugal travelers.

Planning a trip to Boston? Be sure to check out some of the best restaurants in the city .

Photo Credit: Songquan Deng / Shutterstock

Photo Credit: Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

Vanessa Chiasson is an award-winning freelance writer, editor, and blogger from Canada bringing warmth and depth to travel and human interest narratives. In the industry since 2012, Vanessa coaches writers from all backgrounds, areas of focus, and experience levels on developing business strategies that support their artistic endeavors. She chronicles her cozy travel adventures at TurnipseedTravel .

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