Beacon Hill + Back Bay History + Photo Walking Tour(SMALL Group)

Boston , United States

Beacon Hill + Back Bay History + Photo Walking Tour(SMALL Group)

Active

(60 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Visit Boston’s top 3 scenic areas on one tour in 2 hours! Explore must-see attractions in Beacon Hill, the Boston Public Garden and the Back Bay neighborhood. Listen to interesting commentary that reveals the history behind each picturesque area.

Walk along the brick sidewalks in Beacon Hill that lead to charming streets, scenic locations, and Acorn St., the most photographed street of Boston. Capture the natural beauty and scenic views in the Boston Public Garden and the beautiful architecture in Back Bay's 19th-century residential area.

Bring your smartphone or camera and learn how fun photo tips can teach you how to take better pictures. The photos you capture will become memorable souvenirs of your tour experience in Boston. (This activity is a TOUR, not a photography workshop with technical instruction.)

**Please note most tours are less than 10 people. There may be slightly larger groups during peak season/holidays.**

Available options

Highlights of Boston Tour

What's included

Fun photo tips to capture great pictures with your smartphone or camera

Fascinating Commentary of Boston's Most Iconic Landmarks

Small Group Tour - Most groups 10 people or less. Maximum is 15.

Professional Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Explore Boston on a Beacon Hill walking tour and discover the timeless charm of one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in the city. As you stroll along the brick sidewalks, listen to captivating commentary and learn about Beacon Hill’s rich history and architecture.

Capture pictures in scenic locations of the beautiful, narrow streets lined with antique gas lamps and townhouses displaying colorful flowers spilling out of window boxes. See unique doors and door knockers, photograph Acorn Street (renowned as the most photographed street in Boston), and discover hidden gems in unexpected places that are often overlooked.

Find out what makes this Beacon Hill photo walking tour an eye-opening experience you can’t get anywhere else in Boston!

Stop 2

Acorn Street is the most photographed street in Boston's Beacon Hill neighborhood. Known for its charming and well-preserved 19th-century row houses, the street is famous for its narrow, cobblestone pavement and gas-lit lanterns.

The homes on Acorn Street feature Federal-style architecture, with brick facades and flower boxes that add to the quaint and picturesque ambiance.

The street's historic charm and aesthetic appeal make it a popular destination for tourists and photographers and alike.

Stop 3

Louisburg Square is an exclusive and historic residential square in the Beacon Hill neighborhood of Boston. The townhouses are characterized by their brick facades, decorative ironwork, and grand entrances. Known for its elegant 19th-century townhouses, the square is a prime example of Greek Revival and Federal-style architecture.

Stop 4

Explore the natural beauty and scenery in the Boston Public Garden, the first botanical garden in America and the home of the famous Swan Boats.

The church congregation was founded by the Puritans in 1630. The current stone church in Back Bay was built in 1867. See the beautiful European-inspired architectural designs that make this building a great grand finale of our walking tour.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

17 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

43 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children must be accompanied by an adult

There are NO RESTROOM STOPS.

Please RECONFIRM your reservation at least 48 hours prior to the tour date. Send an email to: saba@photowalks.com or text message to 617-851-2273. Thank You.

Please arrive at the meeting point 10 minutes prior to the scheduled tour time. Your punctuality is appreciated.

Meeting point

SABA, your tour guide, will meet you @ 34 Beacon St. in BEACON HILL—home with flags above the front entrance. Please stand by the GREEN door.

Kindly arrive 5-10 mins. early. **No restroom stops.**

Please RECONFIRM your tour 24 hrs. in advance by text: 617-851-2273 or email: saba@photowalks.com.

Important notes

PLEASE RECONFIRM your reservation at least 48 hours prior to the tour departure date. Send an email to saba@photowalks.com, call or text 617-851-2273. Unconfirmed reservations are subject to cancellation without refund.
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MEETING POINT: Corner of Beacon + Joy St. near the black and yellow fire hydrant. It's close to 34 Beacon St. in Beacon Hill.

**Please arrive 5-10 mins. prior to the start time. The tour begins promptly and your punctuality is appreciated.**

Subway: Park St. (red or green line)

NOTE: If you are running late, please send a text to 617-851-2273 so you can meet up with the group. Phone calls will not be answered after a tour begins.

About Boston

Boston, one of the oldest cities in the United States, is rich in history, culture, and education. Known for its significant role in the American Revolution and its prestigious universities, Boston offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy.

Top Attractions

Freedom Trail

A 2.5-mile (4 km) walking route that passes 16 locations significant to the history of the United States, including churches, meeting houses, burying grounds, museums, and historic markers.

Historical 3-4 hours Free to walk the trail; individual attractions may have admission fees

Fenway Park

Home to the Boston Red Sox, Fenway Park is the oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball and a must-visit for sports fans and history buffs alike.

Sports/Historical 1-3 hours (tour or game) Tour: $20-$25; Game tickets: $30-$200+

Boston Common

America's oldest public park, Boston Common is a central gathering place for both locals and visitors, offering green spaces, walking paths, and seasonal activities.

Parks/Historical 1-2 hours Free (Swan Boats: $4-$5 per ride)

Museum of Fine Arts (MFA)

One of the most comprehensive art museums in the world, the MFA houses nearly 450,000 works of art, ranging from ancient Egyptian to contemporary.

Museum 2-4 hours $27 (adults), free for children under 17

Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area

A group of islands in Boston Harbor offering outdoor recreation, historic sites, and stunning views of the city skyline.

Nature/Historical Half-day to full-day trip $5-$15 per person, depending on the island and activities

Must-Try Local Dishes

Clam Chowder

A creamy, hearty soup made with clams, potatoes, onions, and sometimes bacon or salt pork. Boston-style clam chowder is typically made with milk or cream and is served with oyster crackers.

Soup Contains dairy and sometimes pork; vegetarian and vegan versions are available at some restaurants.

Lobster Roll

A buttered, toasted split-top roll filled with lobster meat, usually dressed with mayo or butter. Some versions include celery or other vegetables for added crunch.

Sandwich Contains shellfish and may contain dairy or eggs; gluten-free buns may be available at some restaurants.

Boston Cream Pie

A layered dessert consisting of sponge cake filled with custard or cream and topped with chocolate glaze. It's the official dessert of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Dessert Contains dairy, eggs, and gluten; vegan and gluten-free versions may be available at some restaurants.

Oysters

Boston is known for its fresh oysters, which can be found at many seafood restaurants and raw bars. They are typically served on the half-shell with various toppings or sauces.

Appetizer Contains shellfish; vegan and vegetarian options may be available at some restaurants.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Blue Hills Reservation Kayaking or paddleboarding in the Charles River Biking along the Charles River Esplanade Rock climbing at Brooklyn Boulders Picnicking in the Boston Common or Public Garden Strolling along the Charles River Esplanade Enjoying a spa day at one of Boston's many luxury spas Reading a book at the Boston Public Library

Best Time to Visit

Late spring to early fall (May to October)

This is the best time to visit Boston for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with festivals and outdoor events.

10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese, Portuguese, French, Italian
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Standard Time (EST) (UTC-5) or Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (UTC-4) during daylight saving time

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Boston is generally a safe city for travelers, with a low crime rate and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit. Some areas of the city, such as certain neighborhoods in Dorchester, Roxbury, and Mattapan, have higher crime rates and should be avoided, especially at night.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation
• Use licensed taxis or rideshare services, and always check the fare before starting your journey
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or surveys, and avoid sharing personal information

Getting there

By air

Logan International Airport • 3 miles (5 km) from city center

By train

South Station, North Station

By bus

South Station, Logan Airport

Getting around

Public transport

The MBTA subway system is efficient and affordable, with four main lines (Red, Blue, Green, and Orange) connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown/Financial District Back Bay North End South End Fenway-Kenmore Beacon Hill

Day trips

Salem

16 miles (26 km) from Boston • Half-day to full-day trip

A historic coastal city known for its connection to the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Salem offers a mix of historic sites, museums, and waterfront activities.

Lexington and Concord

10-15 miles (16-24 km) from Boston • Full-day trip

Two historic towns that played significant roles in the American Revolution. Lexington and Concord offer a mix of historic sites, museums, and scenic walking trails.

Cape Cod

60-80 miles (97-129 km) from Boston, depending on the destination • Full-day trip or overnight stay

A popular summer destination known for its beautiful beaches, charming coastal towns, and outdoor recreation. Cape Cod offers a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Festivals

Boston Harbor Hotel Chowder Festival • October (annual) Boston Pride • June (annual) Boston Film Festival • September (annual)

Pro tips

Visit the Freedom Trail early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience
Take advantage of free or discounted admission days at museums and other attractions, such as the Museum of Fine Arts' free Wednesday evenings or the Boston Public Library's free exhibits and events
Explore Boston's diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character, history, and attractions
Try local specialties, such as clam chowder, lobster rolls, and Boston cream pie, at historic and iconic eateries like Union Oyster House, Neptune Oyster, and Mike's Pastry
Attend a Red Sox game at Fenway Park, one of the most iconic and historic baseball stadiums in the world