Boston: Underground Railroad & Beacon Hill History Tour
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Discover Boston's deep-rooted history in the fight to end slavery on the Boston: Underground Railroad History Tour of Beacon Hill. This 2.5-hour walking experience takes you through historic Beacon Hill, exploring sites linked to the Underground Railroad, abolitionist landmarks, and the elite homes of Boston's 19th-century "Brahmins."
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you'll walk in the footsteps of those who challenged injustice during the tumultuous years leading up to the Civil War. The tour offers a captivating storytelling approach, revealing how Bostonians of the era found their voices and pushed for change amid a nation grappling with slavery.
Perfect for history buffs and curious travelers alike, this small-group tour provides an intimate look at Boston’s role in America’s second revolution. You'll visit key sites like the African Meeting House, safe houses of the Underground Railroad, and historic homes of prominent abolitionists, gaining a deeper understanding of the city’s pivotal role in ending racial injustice.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Boston: Underground Railroad History Tour of Beacon Hill?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours.
What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is offered in English.
What is the group size for this tour?
Groups are limited to up to 15 guests.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 0-5 are free, and the tour is suitable for ages 6 and up. Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness.
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes small-group access (max 16 guests), visits to all 10 landmarks on the Black Heritage Trail, and exploration of the Beacon Hill neighborhood.
Are museum admissions or guides in period costume included?
No, these are not included. Optional gratuities for guides are also not included.
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled tour for a full refund.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 2.5 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Live tour guide
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Small groups (max 16 guests)
- Access to all 10 Black Heritage Trail landmarks
- Tour of Beacon Hill neighborhood
Not included
- Gratuity for guide (optional)
- Museum entrance fees
- Guides in period costume
Itinerary
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Stop 1
Meet your guide at the Soldiers and Sailors Monument in Boston Common, steps from the Visitors Center at 139 Tremont Street. Look for the white granite column topped with a female figure holding a flag, surrounded by four bronze statues.
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Stop 2
Visit Boston's oldest public land, established in 1634, once used for communal grazing.
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Stop 3
Walk through narrow cobblestone alleyways winding through historic Beacon Hill.
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Stop 4
Explore an elegant neighborhood square once home to Boston's elite "Brahmins."
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Stop 5
See the site of a school built as a whites-only institution in 1824, which became one of Boston’s first integrated schools by 1855.
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Stop 6
Visit the home of a leading abolitionist, state legislator, and former barber.
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Stop 7
Stroll along Beacon Hill’s main thoroughfare lined with shops and restaurants.
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Stop 8
See the historic meeting house (1807) where debates over racial integration took place.
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Stop 9
Visit the home of an African-American community activist and abolitionist.
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Stop 10
Explore the safe house owned by the Hayden family, staunch abolitionists and formerly enslaved individuals.
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Stop 11
See the 1796 residence of Harrison Gray Otis, Boston mayor and nephew of James Otis, Jr.
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Stop 12
Visit the historic church built in 1806, designed by architect Asher Benjamin.
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Stop 13
View the home of an outspoken abolitionist and U.S. Senator beaten in the Capitol over slavery issues in 1856.
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Stop 14
See the homes of notable African-American abolitionists, including William Cooper Nell.
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Stop 15
Visit the segregated school founded in 1835 for Boston’s Black children.
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Stop 16
Explore the cultural hub of Boston’s African-American community and the oldest extant Black church building in the U.S. (1806).
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Stop 17
See the oldest house in Beacon Hill, built in 1787, once home to an African-American Revolutionary War veteran.
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Stop 18
View the Massachusetts state capitol (1798) and the so-called "Hub of the Solar System."
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Stop 19
Conclude your tour beside the Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Regiment Memorial, opposite 24 Beacon Street.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the Soldiers and Sailors Monument in Boston Common
Meet your guide at the central Boston Common Soldiers and Sailors Monument, located at 139 Tremont Street. Look for the white granite column topped with a female figure holding a flag, surrounded by four bronze statues.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled tour for a full refund.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day in advance
- No refund if canceled within 24 hours of the tour
- Tour may be canceled due to bad weather or low enrollment
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $35.00 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
