Tour operator
Boston Duck Tours
Amphibious sightseeing tours that cover central Boston by road before splashing into the Charles River, departing from the Prudential Center, Museum of Science and Aquarium.
Boston By Foot
A non-profit educational organisation offering guided walking tours of Boston's neighbourhoods, history and architecture, mainly from April to November.
At a glance
- Type
- Walking tours
- Area
- Beacon Hill, Boston, United States
- Official site
- bostonbyfoot.org
Good to know
- Non-profit
- Themed walking tours
- Children's tours
- Private tours
- Some tours in other languages
Why we recommend it
Boston By Foot is a non-profit educational organisation that runs guided walking tours of the city, and it is a good choice for anyone who wants more depth than a standard sightseeing tour. It is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, and its programme of virtual events has included one celebrating the organisation's fiftieth anniversary.
The range of tours is unusually wide. Neighbourhood walks cover Beacon Hill, the North End, Back Bay, Chinatown, Fort Point and the Seaport, the Leather District and the South End. Revolutionary history tours include Heart of the Freedom Trail and Road to Revolution, and social history walks explore subjects such as Boston's LGBTQ past, the city's literary history, slavery and abolition, and burial grounds. There are architecture tours on themes such as Art Deco in the Financial District, and family tours such as Boston By Little Feet are designed for children. Boston By Foot also runs cruises and sails with partner companies.
Many tours run daily and weekly from April to November, with special topics through the season. Registration for public walking tours closes one hour before the start time, so book in advance rather than turning up. Tours are kept to two hours or less and are not driving or step-on tours. Some tours are offered in Spanish, French, German, Italian and Mandarin, and American Sign Language interpretation is available with notice.
Private tours can be arranged with at least one to two weeks' notice, and there are no same-day private bookings. Groups of 12 or fewer pay a flat rate, while larger groups pay per person with more than one guide. This makes the organisation a good option for school trips, families and companies as well as individual travellers.
Because tours are capped at two hours, it is easy to fit one in alongside a museum visit on the same day.
Boston By Foot suits curious travellers, history and architecture enthusiasts, and families looking for a children's tour. As a general tip, choose a neighbourhood tour early in your trip to get your bearings, then add a themed walk later. Wear comfortable shoes, check the weather, and allow time before and after for the cafés and sights you pass along the way.
Boston By Foot FAQs
What kind of organisation is Boston By Foot?
A non-profit educational organisation that runs guided walking tours.
When do tours run?
Many tours run daily and weekly from April to November.
How long are the tours?
Boston By Foot does not offer tours longer than two hours.
When does booking close?
Registration for public walking tours closes one hour before the start time.
Are there tours for children?
Yes. Family tours such as Boston By Little Feet are designed for children.
Are tours available in other languages?
Some tours are offered in Spanish, French, German, Italian and Mandarin, and ASL interpretation is available with notice.
Can you book a private tour?
Yes, with at least one to two weeks' notice; there are no same-day private bookings.
How do you contact Boston By Foot?
Email [email protected].