A Colonial Boston Audio Tour with Context

Duration1h 30m - 2h

Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before

Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away

TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesEnglish

Private tourOnly your group will participate

Overview

This unique walking tour of Boston, led by Jessica Dello Russo, a PhD in archaeology and Context Travel expert, explores the city’s crucial role in the American Revolution. Starting at Long Wharf, Boston’s oldest port, Jessica reveals how the city’s thriving trade and skilled population helped spark independence. The tour highlights acts of civil disobedience and key figures like John Hancock, Samuel Adams, Paul Revere, and Benjamin Franklin.

As you walk, you’ll encounter pre-revolutionary architecture from the 16th and 17th centuries, including the historic Chart House and the controversial Faneuil Hall, built in 1742.

On this 90-minute tour, you’ll explore key sites from Boston’s revolutionary history. Visit Granary Burying Ground, where American Revolution figures are laid to rest, and learn about the city’s role in the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade.

By the end, you’ll have a deeper understanding of the figures and events that shaped America’s fight for independence.

What's included

Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
App for Android and iOS
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Smartphone and headphones
Food and drink
Personal expenses for attractions not included during the tour
Transportation

What to expect

Pass by

Enjoy stunning views of Boston Harbor from Long Wharf, a historic waterfront area lined with ships and scenic vistas. As you stroll along the pier, you’ll take in the bustling maritime atmosphere that has been a part of Boston’s history for centuries.
Pass by

Chart House, Boston’s oldest waterfront building, offers a glimpse into the city’s thriving port during the 18th century. While you explore this landmark, you’ll hear about the historical significance of the site in the context of Boston’s early trade economy.
Quincy Market
Pass by

Quincy Market, a key commercial space since 1822, played a vital role in Boston's growth after it became a city. On your visit, you’ll discover how this vibrant marketplace evolved into the bustling hub it is today.
Faneuil Hall Marketplace
Pass by

Faneuil Hall, built in 1742, was once a controversial site but became a cornerstone of Boston’s revolutionary spirit. As you explore this historic landmark, you’ll learn how it played a key role in the protests and debates that led to American independence.
Statue of Samuel Adams
Pass by

The statue of Samuel Adams stands as a tribute to one of Boston’s most vocal Revolutionary figures. Learn about his radical views and his integral role in sparking resistance against British rule as you encounter this monument to his legacy.
Old State House
Pass by

The Old State House is one of Boston’s most iconic historical buildings, where key events like the Boston Massacre occurred. As you visit, you’ll uncover how this site was at the heart of the city’s colonial government and revolutionary spirit.
Boston Massacre Site
Pass by

The Boston Massacre Site is the location where British soldiers killed five colonists, fueling tensions that led to the American Revolution. Here, you’ll stand where the tragic event occurred, gaining insight into the fiery atmosphere that sparked widespread rebellion.
Old South Meeting House
Pass by

Old South Meeting House is where the plans for the Boston Tea Party were formed, marking it as a key site in the American Revolution. As you explore, you’ll learn about the passionate debates and acts of civil disobedience that unfolded within its walls.
King's Chapel
Pass by

King's Chapel is Boston’s earliest surviving granite building, once serving as the Anglican community’s spiritual home. During your visit, you’ll admire the chapel’s architecture and learn about its role in the colony’s religious and political life.
Granary Burying Ground
Pass by

Granary Burying Ground is the final resting place of several American Revolution heroes, including Paul Revere and John Hancock. As you wander through this historic cemetery, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Boston’s revolutionary past and the key figures who helped shape America.
The Paul Revere House
Pass by

Located in Granary Burying Ground, Paul Revere’s Grave marks the resting place of the patriot famous for his midnight ride. You’ll stop here to reflect on Revere’s role in the American Revolution and the enduring legacy of his actions.
John Hancock Tower
Pass by

John Hancock, the first signer of the Declaration of Independence, rests in Granary Burying Ground. As you visit his grave, you’ll learn about his leadership and pivotal role in the early days of the American Revolution.
Pass by

James Otis’ Grave in Granary Burying Ground honors the patriot whose fiery speeches against British oppression fueled the revolutionary movement. At the site, you’ll reflect on his contributions to the fight for American independence.
Boston Athenaeum
Pass by

The Boston Athenaeum is home to a vast collection of rare books, art, and artifacts, including a portion of George Washington’s personal library. As you explore this distinguished institution, you’ll discover its deep connections to Boston’s intellectual and revolutionary history.
Massachusetts State House
Pass by

The Massachusetts State House, with its iconic golden dome, serves as the heart of the state’s government. On your visit, you’ll learn about the building’s significance in shaping the state’s political history and its role in post-revolutionary Massachusetts.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

The tour begins at the end of Long Wharf in Boston. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

End point

The tour ends outside the Massachusetts State House and Boston Common.

Additional information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The total tour time includes walking the route and passing by the attractions

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.