Boston: Votes for Women History Tour of Back Bay
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Boston’s leading role in the American fight for women’s suffrage is found on the tree-lined streets of its elegant Back Bay neighborhood. This masterpiece of Victorian-era architecture is best experienced on foot, in a small group, with a local guide! Your 2.5-hour tour travels from Boston Common into historic Back Bay, visiting must-see landmarks such as the Public Garden, Newbury Street, and iconic Copley Square.
Our walking tour delves deeply into the years 1870 to 1920, tumultuous decades culminating in women earning the right to vote in the United States. Walk in the footsteps of prolific activists and financiers, visiting the political battleground for pro- and anti-suffrage groups.
With a captivating storytelling approach, Hub Town Tours provides the perfect introduction to Boston's role in the advancement of women’s rights. As we travel past key landmarks and historic homes, your guide shares captivating stories of the Bostonians who assembled the Women’s Suffrage Movement.
Available options
Back Bay – Small Group
What's included
Small Groups (15 guests max)
Women's Rights Landmarks
Back Bay Neighborhood
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Established in 1837 as first public botanical garden in the United States.
2
Sculpture by Nancy Schön based on Robert McCloskey's classic picture book.
3
Equestrian statue of George Washington by Thomas Ball commissioned in 1859.
4
Marking important sites related to Boston's Women's History
5
Home of Pauline A. Shaw, financier of Boston's women's suffrage movement and founder of the Boston Equal Suffrage Association for Good Government.
6
Established in 1630, the church later became a center of the Transcendentalist movement.
7
Home of Elizabeth Putnam, anti-suffragist and first woman to preside over a state electoral college.
8
Home of Kate Gannett Wells, founding member of MAOFESW, Boston's leading anti-suffrage organization.
9
Home of Mary Shreve Ames, president of the Massachusetts Anti-Suffrage Association.
10
First women's college club in the United States
11
Historic, long avenue featuring a path through trees, grassy areas, park benches & statues.
12
Popular street home to shopping, dining, and many luxury brands.
13
Home to the Museum of Natural History from 1864-1951.
14
Stop 14
Iconic public square built to be the cultural center of Boston.
15
Stop 15
Pass by
Built in 1877 and considered by members of the American Association of Architects as one of this country’s top 10 buildings.
16
Then known as Chauncy Hall, was home to the offices of many pro-suffrage organizations including the Massachusetts Woman Suffrage Association and The Women's Journal.
17
Stop 17
Founded in 1848, it is now the third-largest public library in the United States.
18
Finish line of the iconic Boston Marathon.
19
Location of the Kensington Building (demolished 1967), which housed the offices of the Massachusetts Association Opposed to Further Extension of Suffrage to Women.
20
Memorial depicting Abigail Adams, Phillis Wheatley, and Lucy Stone
21
Home of Abigail Williams May, one of the first women appointed to the Massachusetts State Board of Education and cousin of Louisa May Alcott.
22
Beacon Street, "enemy-country" according to Boston Suffragists, was the starting location for the 1915 Suffrage Victory Parade.
23
Home of Blanche Ames, a pro-suffrage cartoonist and early advocate for birth control.
24
Home of Julia Ward Howe.
25
Stop 25
Pass by
Historic House Museum with preserved interior from 1859.
What's not included
Gratuity for Guide (optional)
Admission inside Museums
Guides in Period Costume
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Tripadvisor
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Not recommended for travelers that have trouble standing for extended periods of time.
Meeting point
The tour gathers inside the Boston Public Garden—opposite 67 Beacon Street (02108)—beside the Make Way for Ducklings statues, which are located in the northeast corner of the park.
Important notes
Please call/text your guide at 844-HUB-TOWN if you are having issues finding the tour
group!
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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