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Boston Movie Mile Tour

Explore the famous Boston Movie Mile on this fun and interactive walking tour!

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Boston TV & Movie Sites Tour

Experience Boston’s movie magic by visiting filming locations from your favorite TV shows and movies.

Join On Location Tours for the ultimate Beantown behind-the-scenes TV and movie locations experience! Relive the chase scene from The Town, check out ten different locations from The Departed, and take a peek at the building used in Ally McBeal and Boston Legal on our Boston bus tour. If you’d rather explore on foot, we’re happy to show you around over 30 on-screen locations while giving you insider secrets on a behind-the-scenes tour of Boston’s famous Movie Mile. Stop for a drink at the original Cheers™ or take a seat on one of the famous park benches from Ted. Choose one of our Boston movie and TV tours!

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The 9 best Boston city tours

Get to know the Hub on these culinary and history walks, sightseeing jaunts, market treks and other city tours

Bostonians would sooner root for the Yankees than endure the indignities of a slow-moving city tour with a bunch of non-natives, but that doesn’t mean we still don’t love exploring the best Boston attractions with savvy visitors in tow. From the best free things to do in Boston to the best museums in Boston , the Hub offers plenty of cultural options and activities. While it’s easy to hit the pavement and enjoy “America’s walking city” at your own pace, if you really want to dig deeper and learn all about the area’s rich, unique history and culture, make your plans now to check out these cool Boston city tours.

RECOMMENDED: 🇺🇸 See our Full guide to the  best   things to do   in Boston

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best Boston city tours

1.  fenway park tour.

• Things to do
• Sport events
• Fenway/Kenmore

This is the one you haul all the out-of-towners to—mostly because you can’t wait to go yourself. The hour-long tour includes player and ballpark history and visits to the press box and Pesky’s Pole; depending on the guide, you also might visit the bullpens and peek behind the anachronistic scoreboard. Game-day tours are available as well—hours, options and prices vary, check the website for special event info and restrictions.

2.  Historic Sightseeing Cruise

This narrated, hour-long sightseeing tour takes you around some of the Harbor Islands while recounting the city’s history as a shipping port, as well as the role that the harbor played in the Revolutionary War. Just prepare yourself for the conditions (tours are offered daily, year-round), as well as the inevitable real estate envy when you sail past all the stunning waterfront condos. 

3.  Freedom Trail Tour

The Freedom Trail  often gets a bad rap among locals, some of whom are tired of the gussied-up guides posing as historical figures as they shuffle tourists through the historical sites. If you don ’ t want to take a guided tour, it ’ s easy to enjoy the lovely self-guided stroll, two and a half miles that remind you of the city’s unparalleled Colonial and Revolutionary history. And if the trail has only whetted your appetite for historical discovery, consider taking a self-guided tour along the Black Heritage Trail or the Women’s Heritage Trail .

4.  Old State House Tour

• Attractions
• Historic buildings and sites
• price 1 of 4

Designed by Bulfinch and completed in 1798, this magnificent structure replaced the old legislative building across Boston Common, which had been the headquarters of the British government. Included with admission, tours help visitors understand how the Old State House was the political center of Revolutionary Boston. Enthusiastic guides explain how the voices of John Hancock, Samuel Adams, and others rang out from the halls and changed American history forever.

5.  North End Market Tour

Even if you’ve eaten in the North End before,  Boston Food Tours ’  exploration of the neighborhood will take your knowledge to another level by teaching (and feeding) you along the way. On the tour you ’ ll learn how Italians ’ food traditions were adapted to America, while acquiring insider cooking tips and discovering where to buy the very best ingredients. At multiple stops, you ’ ll learn about the very best of the neighborhood, ensuring you ’ ll get more out of your future visits.

6.  Ghosts & Gravestones Tour

Our city’s history is not all puppy dogs and rainbows—death, disease and crime make sizeable appearances as well. By taking a Ghosts & Gravestones tour (days/times vary by season), you will learn about murders and executions like the ones that took place on the Boston Common. Try not to be spooked by stories of paranormal activity at the Omni Parker House or the legend of the Boston Strangler.

7.  Walks with the Local AMC Chapter

The Appalachian Mountain Club wants to show you parts of Greater Boston you’ve never explored before. Year-round hikes and nature walks, both accessible and challenging, take you all around the state (and sometimes New Hampshire, too), lasting anywhere from 3 to 20 miles. Dates and times vary, and walks cost just $1 if you’re not an AMC member.

8.  Castle Island Park and Fort Independence

• Parks and gardens
• South Boston

Locals sometimes forget about the 1850 granite bastion known as Fort Independence, poised at the ocean end of South Boston on Castle Island. It’s a good spot for an all-day picnic, or to pretend you’re going on a medieval raid. Free tours of the fort are offered on summer weekends; check in advance for details.

9.  Boston Lobster Tours

Trap-to-table is the only way to eat your favorite crustacean. Take a tour aboard a legit Downeast-style lobster boat with up to three other friends (bench seating is offered), and cruise around the Boston Harbor for 75 minutes, learning about the local industry and hauling up two traps of your own; whatever is of legal size is yours to keep and (presumably) eat.

10.  City Wine Tours

Two hours of wine drinking under the auspices of learning? Yes, we imagine a few Bostonians would partake. Choose between four neighborhoods—South End, Back Bay, North End or Assembly Row in Somerville—then join an intimate group led by a wine connoisseur. The guide leads you to top-notch hot spots where you’ll learn how to taste, pair and buy fine wines.

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Boston Legal Tickets

Boston legal show tickets.

Get ready to see one of your favorites live with Boston Legal tickets. We all watch some highest-rated TV programs and listen to premier podcasts. Have you ever wanted to see these shows performed live? Now is your chance to be a part of the magic that happens in person. From the best in music and entertainment to culinary and performance reality programs, there’s nothing like being there for all the excitement while filming a taped show. Catch the concert experience with American Idol! Live TV Tapings or be thrilled by the mesmerizing choreography of Dancing With The Stars .

You can also witness live discussions with podcast events like Almost 30 and Darrell Hammond Saves The World - A Live Podcast. When it comes to fun and entertainment, don’t forget about the game shows. Be there for the hilarity of Family Feud Live - Celebrity Edition or get in on the experience of Hell’s Kitchen or MasterChef Junior Live! Come see a variety of taped programs . Say you were there and buy Boston Legal tickets today!

How much are Boston Legal tickets?

You can get in on the live experience for a variety of prices. Boston Legal ticket prices can be affected by seating section and venue. Tickets to a show like American Idol Live at Warner Theatre in Washington, D.C. can run the gamut from $10 - $154 and the price of enjoying an in-person performance of Dancing With The Stars live on tour from Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa, California can start at around the $49 range. Choose the taping and price range that works for you and purchase your admission from TicketSmarter today.

Boston Legal Show Schedule

Live programs and other events can be broadcast from a variety of stages. When the shows go on tour, they are likely to visit venues across the U.S. Boston Legal tour dates will likely reflect fixed taping times set by the program and the hosting venue. Several shows are presented live from large theaters and performing arts centers. Places like Coral Springs Center for the Arts in Pompano Beach, Florida have welcomed game shows like Family Feud Live - Celebrity Edition. The Warner Theatre in Washington, D.C. and Segerstrom Center for the Arts - Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall in Costa Mesa, California have hosted music and dance events. You can also catch live podcasts being presented from venues like Dynasty Typewriter at the Hayworth in Los Angeles, California. The Boston Legal event schedule will boast its own unique lineup. Save your spot and join the fun!

When do Boston Legal tickets go on sale?

Admission to live tapings can go fast. Boston Legal event tickets will go on sale quickly once a taping date or tour has been announced. Fans will want to be a part of these events. Get your tickets early and don’t lose out on a seat. Very often, we make it possible to get tickets in advance of a public sale and there is no presale code required.

Boston Legal Seating Chart

Your seating choices will depend on the event and hosting venue. The Coral Springs Center for the Arts holds a capacity of 1,471 audience members and boasts balcony, mezzanine and orchestra sections. A venue like the Warner Theatre in Washington, D.C. can welcome 1,847 guests, offering multiple balconies and grand suite sections. Choose the event and available arrangements that you prefer and use our interactive seating chart to help you find a perfect spot to take in the live entertainment.

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The Boston Cannabis Tourism Guide

If you’re traveling to Boston with plans to enjoy the newly legal cannabis industry, you’re in luck. Legal recreational dispensaries are open to any adult aged 21 or older, but finding legal places to consume that purchase may be tougher than you’d think. 

Technically, public consumption of cannabis is illegal in Massachusetts. Smoke-free workplace initiatives and Boston’s city-wide smoking ban leave only a handful of options for tourists to legally consume. Cannabis can only be consumed in private residences and businesses that are exempt from smoke-free laws, such as membership-only clubs and traditionally tobacco-based businesses. 

In spite of the tricky nature of public consumption, you can still find ways to enjoy Boston’s most highly sought-after attractions. From cannabis-specific events to destinations best enjoyed with cannabis, the article will give you a few tips on where you can legally consume, where you can participate in legal cannabis gatherings, and a few places that get even better after consuming legal cannabis in Boston, one of America’s oldest cities . 

420-Friendly Establishments for Legal Cannabis Entertainment

Due to the Boston’s tricky legal situation with cannabis, it can be challenging to find places to legally consume Boston’s finest herbs. There are only two legal consumption lounges in Massachusetts that allow you to consume cannabis legally. 

The Summit Lounge, the only club of its kind in the state, is a members-only smoking club that allows its patrons to consume any legal smokable herb, including cannabis. Unfortunately, for those with less time on their hands, Summit Lounge’s nearly two-hour drive from Boston may prohibit a visit outside of the city. Alternatively, cannabis tourism companies like Loopr operate in the market space that considers privately-chartered vehicles in the same category as privately-rented homes, allowing them to allow you to consume cannabis on the go throughout the city.

Dining and crafts with cannabis

The other option for consumption is attending a private event such as Infused dinners, Puff Pass Paint nights or High Tea events. These cannabis consumption events combine traditional activities like fine dining, painting, and tea socials with cannabis. Events like these are held privately at a variety of venues ranging from smoke shops and lounges to AirBnB’s and private residences. You can usually find out more by messaging the organizers privately to see if you can secure an invite. Or, if you’re looking for a cannabis-friendly event that’s focused more on education and information, check out local cannabis conferences as well as the annual Boston Freedom Rally, organized by MassCann. Don’t feel like your cannabis experience requires consumption; 76% of cannabis events in Massachusetts are non-consumption events.

Cannabis tours: information & consumption

If you really want to dive into Boston’s cannabis scene, consider one of the many cannabis tours that are available throughout the city . These tours offer visitors the chance to legally consume cannabis while learning about what goes into the creation of cannabis vapes, edibles, and tinctures. Many tours offer the ability to combine cannabis with activities that you already know and love, including brewery tours, shopping, and sightseeing. Plus, you can ask all the questions you want from tour guides that know the  local laws, trends, and must-see attractions.

Cannabis industry events

For an updated list of cannabis festivals and celebrations, check out our 420 events calendar .

Enhanced Boston Experiences: The City’s Best Places to Enjoy

While most of Boston’s historic and tourist destinations aren’t cannabis-friendly, they offer a great source of entertainment once you’ve already consumed cannabis. Places like public parks, trails, and attractions like the zoo or the aquarium’s whale watch are breathtaking choices for recreational cannabis experiences. Below is a list of a few must-see Boston destinations to experience with cannabis:

1. Public Parks & Trails

Boston has no shortage of trails, gardens, and parks. Among them, the Boston Public Garden , the first botanical garden in the United States, boasts more than 600 varieties of trees and flowers.  The Rose Kennedy Greenway and the Arnold Arboretum are must-see attractions for those interested in plants, shirts, and trees ranging from various perennials to three different types of bamboo. 

2. Freedom Trail

The Freedom Trail is a unique collection of historic sites includes museums, churches, meeting houses, burying grounds, and more that tell the stories of the American Revolution and beyond. This historic trail is a spectacular chance to take a step back in time.

3. Skywalk Observatory

If heights aren’t your thing, you’ll want to skip this one. Boston’s best view affords visitors the ability to see up to 100 miles away. See Hancock Tower, Fenway Park, The Boston Common, Harvard, and countless other landmarks from Boston’s highest viewpoint, especially if you’ve prepared accordingly. 

4. New England Aquarium Whale Watching

What may seem mundane to some will become mesmerizing with the help of cannabis. If you’re visiting between April and October, consider a whale watching excursion during the peak of the season in the Bay State.  

Whatever your plans, there’s plenty that Boston’s tourism and cannabis industries have to offer during your stay. One of our favorite recommendations is to try out a small serving of edibles while visiting one of the city’s many historical sites. However high your adventures in Boston may take you, be sure to consume responsibly and legally. Using ride-share apps like Lyft are strongly advised, since driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal.

Need More Information?

If you have further questions or would like assistance selecting the right cannabis options for your plans, stop by one of our  convenient Massachusetts cannabis dispensary locations for a free consultation with one of our knowledgeable staff members. If you are flying into Boston via the Boston Logan International Airport, our East Boston dispensary is located one mile away.

Update: COVID-19 has impacted nearly every American business. The content in this article discusses subject matter related to traveling, retail environments, events, and tourism, all of which have been impacted by COVID-19. As retail stores reopen, we recommend following the CDC’s recommendations for social distancing, sterilizing surfaces and equipment, and wearing cloth masks.

More resources you may also like:

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• 270 Northern Ave, Boston, MA 02210

Boston Harborside

Experience the ultimate in waterfront dining at our flagship Harborside restaurant. Spanning three floors and 20,000 sq ft, it offers classic seafood favorites, patio dining with harbor views, and private event spaces.

On the main floor, dine on our menu of Clam Chowder, Lobster Rolls and all our seafood favorites. On a sunny day, enjoy our Harborside patio with direct view of the harbor, the perfect location for a long lunch on a sunny day.

The second floor hosts our private events space, where we create memorable events for private parties, corporate functions, or social celebrations.

The third-floor rooftop deck, “The Overlook,” provides 180-degree views of Boston Harbor, making it the perfect spot to enjoy the best of Boston’s seafood, cocktails, and water views from sunrise to sunset.

Located in the Seaport District, it’s within walking distance to major attractions like the Institute of Contemporary Art and the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center.

Opening Hours

Mon: 11:00AM – 10:00PM Tue: 11:00AM – 10:00PM Wed: 11:00AM – 10:00PM Thu: 11:00AM – 10:00PM Fri: 11:00AM – 11:00PM Sat: 11:00AM – 11:00PM Sun: 11:00AM – 10:00PM

270 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA 02210

Parking Info

Valet parking (cash only) is available daily and during full hours of operation for $26 with our validation stamp. Please note valet is cash only. Planning a quick trip? Our validation will net you a $2 off per hour discount for up to 2 hours in the Park Lane Garage , across the street. (Pay the attendant at the parking booth to receive the discount.) And transient docking for boats is available in season at the Liberty Wharf Marina

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Our Famous Chowder

Our classic award-winning recipe. Enjoy a warm bowl of our thick and creamy Clam Chowder filled with tender clams, hearty potatoes, salted pork and onions. Served at almost every presidential inauguration since 1981.

Gulf of Maine Lobster

Sourced from the cold waters of the Gulf of Maine, these sweet and succulent lobsters embody the rich maritime tradition of New England. Dive in!

Surf and Turf

Choice of our Boneless Ribeye and Filet Mignon, served with grilled jumbo shrimp, seared sea scallops, grilled lobster tail, or Legal’s signature crab cake.

Half Pound Maine Lobster Roll

Our famous lobster rolls are loaded with a half-pound of Maine lobster meat, served with lemon mayo and chives or warm butter poached on top of a perfectly grilled bun.

All the classics as well as some modern twists! Enjoy our Nigiri, Rainbow Rolls, Red Dragon Spicy Tuna, and Lobster Tempura Rolls, all handcrafted and beautifully presented.

Our raw bar reflects our commitment to freshness. From oysters, to full shellfish towers. All fresh from the ocean and delicious.

Legal Signature Crab Cakes

Legal Sea Foods Signature Crab Cakes feature premium lump crab meat seasoned with a mustard sauce, apples, dried cranberry, and apple Dijon vinaigrette. A must-try!

Baked Lobster Mac & Cheese

Our divine Lobster Mac and Cheese contains one whole Gulf of Maine lobster, made with Vermont cheddar, and topped with buttered crumbs.

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The 15 Best Boston Tours

Get to know one of America's most historic cities with these tours.

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Hoping to experience Boston through the eyes of a local? A guided tour may be just the thing. Factoring in traveler sentiment and expert opinion, U.S. News selected some of Boston's best tours. Whether you're eating your way through the North End or zipping around Boston Common on a Segway, you'll see this New England city in a new light and learn some of its history along the way during these top Boston tours.

The Revolutionary Story Tour

Price: Adults from $76; kids from $38 Duration: 4 hours

Many reviewers call this tour enjoyable and one of the best walking tours they'd ever been on thanks to the engaging guide. Led by a local resident with degrees in history, political science and public policy, the tour takes visitors through the streets of Boston to chronologically retell the story of the American Revolution. Along the 3.5-mile jaunt, you'll pass by a dozen of the sites featured on the Freedom Trail, and you'll also hear about the key players in 18th-century Boston, including John Adams, Benjamin Franklin and Paul Revere.

Tours are offered daily at 9:30 a.m. There is also a 1:30 p.m. tour Thursday through Sunday during the winter months and daily during the summer months through the beginning of November. There is a maximum of 16 people per tour. The company partners with another local guide to provide private tours.

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City Experiences by Hornblower – New England Aquarium Whale Watch Cruise

Price: Adults from $65; kids from $45 Duration: 3.5 hours

Hop on one of City Experience's high-speed catamarans for a whale watching excursion to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. This area is a magnet for whales, dolphins, sea birds and other marine creatures who head there to feed. New England Aquarium naturalists on board offer their insights on whales, answer questions and explain whale behaviors, a big plus for travelers. During your trip, you may see several different species of whales, including humpbacks, finbacks, minkes, sei whales and endangered right whales.

Tours leave from mid-May through early-November from Long Wharf, which is located near the aquarium. Tour frequency depends on the month, but there is at least one per day. Cruisers say the tour is fun and report seeing plenty of wildlife. Combo tickets that include admission to the aquarium are also available. The company also offers sightseeing and sunset cruises.

CityView Trolley Tours

Price: Adults from $42; kids from $20 Duration: 1 hour

The family-friendly hop-on, hop-off CityView Trolley Tours offer a convenient and comfortable way to explore the city and visit its top attractions , something visitors (especially those in Boston for the first time) appreciate. Stops at the New England Aquarium, Quincy Market and Old North Church, among others, make it easy to access sites along the Freedom Trail and other neighborhoods. What's more, guides share fun and informational tidbits along the way.

Trolleys run daily from mid-April to November from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Note: While you can hop on and hop off the trolley as you please, tickets are only valid for one full tour loop. Two-day passes are also available.

Old Town Trolley Tours – Boston Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

Price: Adults from $50; kids from $29 Duration: 1.5 hours

Explore the top sights in Boston on this hop-on, hop-off trolley tour that makes 18 stops. Along the route, you can hop off and explore attractions like Faneuil Hall, the "Cheers" bar, the USS Constitution and the Old State House, and then hop back on at your leisure. Without getting off, you'll tour for about 90 minutes. Trolleys frequently stop approximately every 15 minutes. Participants praise the convenience this tour offers and rave about the entertaining, informative guides. Reviewers also say the tour is a great way to see the city without having to do a lot of walking.

Trolleys run daily from 9 a.m. to 4 or 5 p.m., depending on the time of year. For one-day tours, tickets allow for unlimited re-boarding. Tickets also get you discounted rates for a Boston Harbor cruise as well as discounted entry to the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum. Two-day tickets, as well as the Ghosts & Gravestones evening tour are also available.

Boston Pizza Tours – North End Pizza Tour

Price: From $49 Duration: 2.5 hours

Sink your teeth into some of Boston's best pizza on this walking tour. You'll start your stroll in North End, which is considered Boston's Little Italy. Along the way, you'll pass by five sites on the Freedom Trail, including the Paul Revere House and the Old North Church. The tour cost includes three full-size pizza slices, water and a cannoli. Tourgoers applaud guides for their positive attitudes and entertaining, educational delivery of Boston history. Reviewers are also complimentary of the food.

Tours are generally offered two times daily at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., but a 5 p.m. tour is offered during certain months of the year. Tours are capped at 12 participants. The tour can accommodate vegetarian diets; those with other dietary restrictions (such as vegan diets or food allergies) will need to take a private tour.

Fenway Park Tours

Price: Adults from $25; kids from $17 Duration: 1 hour

Baseball fans and history buffs relish the chance to take a behind-the-scenes peek at America's oldest ballpark. Even non-baseball fans find the tour worthwhile, according to reviewers. The tour takes visitors to important sites within the ballpark, including the world-famous 37-foot-high Green Monster. The excellent guides, full of Red Sox and Fenway Park trivia, offer an entertaining tour and are a hit with participants.

Tours run year-round from 9.m. to 5 p.m. (at 10 a.m. November through March) and start on the hour. On game days, the last tour is scheduled three hours before game time. Fenway Park also offers a variety of other stadium tours, including Day Game Premium Tours and Fenway in Fifteen, a condensed 15-minute tour.

Courtesy of Rose Kennedy Fitzgerald Greenway

Boston Segway Tours

Price: From $69 Duration: 1 or 2 hours

Boston Segway Tours takes visitors on an adventure through the city. Since it's faster to glide than walk, you can cover much more ground on Segway than by foot. As you travel from Boston Common to the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway, your guide takes you by some of Boston's most famous landmarks while always keeping an eye out for riders' safety, according to tour-takers. Pick a two-hour tour to visit Cambridge.

Participants must be 14 or older and weigh at least 100 pounds to ride; additional restrictions may apply.

Urban AdvenTours – City View Bike Tour

Price: From $60 Duration: 3 hours

Exploring Boston by bike is a great way to cover a lot of ground in an exciting, active way. Urban AdvenTours' flagship City View Bike Tour takes participants on a 10- to 12-mile trek through six different neighborhoods. You'll bike through major Boston sites, such as North End, the Boston University campus and Kenmore Square, Fenway Park, the South End, Boston Common and Long Wharf. Along with the comprehensive overview of the city, riders commend the care guides take in making them feel safe.

This tour rides daily at 10 a.m., with additional 2 p.m. departures on Saturday and Sunday during the summer months. The tour is best for those comfortable riding on city streets. Children must be age 10 or older. Adults can upgrade to an electric bike for an additional fee. Urban AdvenTours also offers cycling trips through Cambridge and the Emerald Necklace park system, as well as a family-friendly tour for kids 10 and younger.

Off the Eaten Path Tours

Price: Adults from $95; kids from $40 Duration: 3 hours

On this food tour of the North End – Boston's famous Italian neighborhood – owner Paula Noukos promises more than just samples of tasty food. Besides stopping at popular spots, such as Bricco Panetteria and Galleria Umberto, you'll hear tips on how to shop for the best extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. You'll also learn about the history and architecture of this unique neighborhood, a highlight for reviewers. Travelers are also fond of the guide and appreciate her vast knowledge of the neighborhood.

Tours are generally offered Tuesday through Saturday at 11 a.m. and are limited to 12 people.

Courtesy of Boston Duck Tours

Boston Duck Tours

Price: Adults from $53; kids from $38 Duration: 80 minutes

Quack and splash your way around Beantown with the entertaining Boston Duck Tours, which takes passengers around Boston and into the Charles River on World War II-style amphibious landing vehicles. On the tour, entertaining "conDUCKtors" keep up a lively patter, describing neighborhoods, Boston history, architecture and trivia along the way. A highlight for many visitors is when the vehicle heads into the river offering a different perspective of the city.

Ticket discounts are available for seniors and children 2 and younger. Tours depart from the Museum of Science, the Prudential Center and the New England Aquarium several times a day from mid-March through early-December.

Boston Crawling – Independence Pub Crawl

Price: From $75 Duration: 2 hours

Sip your way through the city at four historic watering holes on Boston Crawling's Independence Pub Crawl. On this tour, you'll visit pubs that have historic significance, drink local brews and hear Boston's "secret" history as you barhop along the Freedom Trail. Reviewers say the tour is informative and fun and applaud the beer recommendations provided by the guides.

Participants can take tours daily at 3 and 7 p.m. There is also an additional noon tour on the weekends. Tourgoers must be at least 21 years old, regardless of whether they're drinking. Tickets include four draft beers of your choice. If you prefer to purchase drinks as you go, you can purchase tickets for a lesser price.

PhotoWalks Tours of Boston – Freedom Trail

Price: Adults from $45; kids from $20 Duration: 1.5 hours

Explore the historic sites of the city and refine your photography skills at the same time on this tour. In addition to visiting Freedom Trail landmarks, such as Boston Common, Park Street Church, the Granary Burying Ground and the Boston Massacre Site, you'll also learn expert tips on how to use your camera or smartphone to take the best pictures – a highlight for many participants. Reviewers are also complimentary of the insightful guides.

Tours run Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday year-round at 1 p.m. The tour is capped at 10 participants, but maybe more during peak times of the year. If you're interested in exploring other neighborhoods or topics, you can sign up for one of PhotoWalks' other tours, including Beacon Hill and the North End, among others.

Courtesy of the Freedom Trail Tour

Freedom Trail Tours – Walk Into History

Price: Adults from $17; kids from $8 Duration: 1.5 hours

The nonprofit Freedom Trail Foundation leads the way on this tour of the Freedom Trail – a milelong path that weaves past some of the city's most historic sites. A costumed guide, in character, leads you to 11 sites, including Boston Common, King's Chapel, the Old South Meeting House, the Boston Massacre site and Faneuil Hall. Reviewers rave about the guides and the characters they inhabit, and highly recommend this excursion over a self-guided tour of the Freedom Trail.

Tours are given daily at 11 a.m., noon and 1 p.m. Other themed tours, including tours that focus on the women of the Revolutionary War and African American patriots, are also available.

Boston Foodie Tours – Boston Public Market & North End Tour

Price: From $90 Duration: 3 hours

Boston Foodie Tours explores two of Boston's famous mainstays: The North End and the Boston Public Market. After enjoying pizza, cannoli and bread in the North End, you'll wind your way to the market to sample doughnuts and ice cream, among other treats. Your tour concludes with a tasting of clam chowder and cornbread. Past tourgoers say this is a must-do experience while visiting Boston.

Tours run Tuesday through Saturday at 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. on Sundays. Tours are not given on major holidays. The company also offers a comprehensive tour of the North End, plus a private foodie outing to Beacon Hill, among other options.

City Brew Tours – Boston Signature Brew Tour

Price: From $89 Duration: 3.5 hours

For an in-depth Boston beer education, City Brew Tours' Signature Brew Tour is a great place to start. During the tour, you'll be chauffeured around the city in a comfortable van, visit three craft breweries, get behind-the-scenes tours and enjoy up to 12 different local craft beers and a snack along the way. Tourgoers laud the knowledgeable guides and love that driving isn't an issue.

City Brew offers this tour Wednesday through Sunday. Outings depart at 4:45 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday. Friday through Sunday, tours begin at noon. All participants must be 21 or older to tour. Tours are capped at 14 participants. A Boston Brew Mystery Crawl is also offered, as are private tours.

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Fights for Independence

Birth of America

Freedom Trail® Boston

Every step tells a story.

The Freedom Trail is a unique collection of museums, churches, meeting houses, burying grounds, parks, a ship, and historic markers that tell the story of the American Revolution and beyond.

Explore Tours

Walk into history®.

The Freedom Trail Foundation's most popular tour highlights the revolutionary history that took place at 11 of the 16 official Freedom Trail historic sites.

Tour Schedule

Daily, 10 am, 11 am,  12 noon, 1 pm & 2 pm (plus 3 pm Sat. & Sun.) ( Starting July 1, plus 3pm & 4pm, Daily and 4:30 pm, Fridays - Sundays) Purchase Tickets  

North End Tours highlight official Freedom Trail historic sites such as Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere House, Old North Church, and Copp’s Hill Burying Ground, and other historic places in Boston’s oldest neighborhood.  

Saturdays  1:30 pm, 2:30 pm Sundays 1:30 pm (Starting July 1, 1:30 pm & 2:30 pm, Daily)

Private & Custom

All Freedom Trail tours led by 18 th -century costumed guides are excellent for families, school field trips, corporate team building, incentives, and convention activities. These tours can be customized to fit your group's schedule and are available year round. 

Photos from the Trail

What People Are Saying

Yelp review.

The Freedom Trail is one of the iconic touristy things to do in Boston, and there's a reason for that. I did the full trail many, many years ago but decided to go with this shorter, more compact trail with our family. The 1.5 hour length is the right duration for kids, and our guide, Jeremiah Poope (his actual last name!), kept it interesting the entire time. He has been a tour guide in Boston for many years, and he had a ton of interesting stories and facts beyond the typical revolutionary war factoids.

Email Review

We had a wonderful time and your guides were wonderful. They were energetic, informed, and brought history to life. Thank you once again!

TripAdvisor Review

We only had 1 day to explore downtown Boston, and this tour was a great way to see several different sites, learn about history, and get a bit of walking in. We were a few minutes late for the start of the 1pm tour but easily able to catch up and join in.. Our tour guide was fantastic! One member of my group uses a wheelchair, and the guide was great about leading the WHOLE tour through accessible entrances to sites and to sidewalks with curb cuts so that all of us could participate without feeling singled out.

Great tour with Isaiah Thomas! Great local guide who was very engaging and a walking encyclopedia of Boston history. It was a nice 1.5 hr walking tour hitting most of the south end Freedom Trail points of interest. For the money, it’s hard to beat!

The Freedom Trail Walking tour presents full of historic knowledge and our guide, Parker, provides us the best experience for this amazing learning adventure. That is to say, in this tour you can also learn about the myth and the truth of the history we learned from our textbooks. I would recommend anyone who visit Boston and is interested in learning history or simply just want to listen to funny stories

Freedom Trail Preservation

Boston's iconic 2.5 mile-Freedom Trail connects 16 nationally significant historic sites, each one an authentic treasure. Thanks to preservation efforts, these cultural assets are still intact, which makes Boston truly unique as one of the few places in America to experience the actual sites and learn the history they tell while walking through modern city streets.

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• 'The Practice' vs. 'Boston Legal': How the…

'The Practice' vs. 'Boston Legal': How the original stacks up to the spinoff, part 2

By Adam Banner

November 30, 2021, 9:09 am CST

Monica Potter (from left), Mark Valley, Candice Bergen, James Spader, William Shatner, Rhona Mitra and Rene Auberjonois in Boston Legal . Photo by Robert Trachtenberg/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images.

In October, I reviewed The Practice . It’s now time to take a look at Boston Legal, compare the two related series and crown the better “legal TV” option. As was the case with The Practice , I am going into this viewing session blind; I'd never before watched an episode of Boston Legal . Let’s dig in.

‘Boston Legal’

Like several other iterations of law-related television (including The Practice ), Boston Legal was created by David E. Kelley. The comedy-drama premiered on October 3, 2004, and ran until Dec. 8, 2008. As mentioned in part one, Boston Legal is a direct spinoff of The Practice . To keep some continuity, multiple characters from that show—James Spader as Alan Shore, William Shatner as Denny Crane and Rhona Mitra as Tara Wilson—play prominent roles in Boston Legal ’s first season. Shore and Crane also appear throughout the series’ entire run.

‘Death Be Not Proud’

Per usual, my first stop was Episode Ninja, the site where I found Boston Legal ’s list of user rankings for the series’ best and worst installments. According to the database, the 17th (and final) episode of season one was voted best. I was excited to be able to start from a relatively early point in the series as opposed to somewhere in the latter seasons. Luckily for me, all five of them are currently streaming with Amazon Prime in the event I enjoy “Death Be Not Proud” and want to see more.

The episode begins with a short intro. From there, we are greeted by Shore. I feel my skin crawl a bit every time I see Spader, no matter the setting. Perhaps it’s just trauma from my younger years of watching him portray the bad guy in hip ’80s films ( Less Than Zero , anyone?).

Firm associate Chelina Hall (played by Kerry Washington) approaches Shore (since he is the “best lawyer” she can find) and asks him to come to Texas with her to argue the appeal of a former innocence clinic client set for execution in approximately 72 hours. Hall needs someone to argue for her since she lost her temper with one of the justices during her last appearance, and she fears prejudice. Shore seems more than happy to tag along, noting that he’s always wanted to visit.

And in case anyone is interested, unlike The Practice ’s, I actually do like Boston Legal ’s theme song. It has a little pep to it.

The episode cuts quickly to Crane, Poole and Schmidt named partner Shirley Schmidt (played by Candice Bergen) consulting with Miriam Watson (Shelley Long). Watson faces a jury trial the following week on allegations that she engaged in sexual conduct for a fee—by paying a man to have sexual relations with her “hundreds of times.” I wasn’t too interested in this storyline (for reasons I’ll explain later), so I’ll just cut to the chase: The firm takes the case, and defendant is informed that her only defense is to argue she suffers a medical condition—namely, nymphomania—that restricted her ability to form the requisite intent to commit the crimes. Crane knows the judge (a virgin), and there is an inference Crane (and/or Watson) bribed him with a date to get a directed verdict.

Back to the capital punishment story: Shore and Hall fly to Texas, where they meet with the defendant, Zeke Borns (portrayed by the immensely talented Sterling K. Brown). Borns has an IQ of 80, DNA evidence shows that another person was at the murder scene and his confession was the result of an all-night interrogation. Borns admits having no recollection of the killing; he confessed because law enforcement consistently and relentlessly told him he committed the killing while he was “doped up,” noting witnesses that put him at the scene. Borns knows he was there pumping gas, so in his mind, his guilt is plausible.

Shore and Hall spend the next day doing everything they can to convince the prosecution and the governor to assist with no success. Shore’s arguments before the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals are impassioned and extremely well-reasoned, but they fail as well. Bonus feature: The episode contains an informative explanation of Texas’s appellate court system.

Capital punishment on display

Before the execution, Shore and Hall meet with Borns. What transpires is one of the most heart-wrenching scenes I’ve experienced in a made-for-TV legal drama. After the attorneys get the call that the court of appeals denied their argument, Borns says to them, “I’m going to be strong like a hero, you watch.” Borns then delivers a plea veiled as a question: “Will you watch?”

He explains that “I want people to see me strong,” and requests their attendance because he has no other family. They agree, but Shore reserves one last conversation with Borns. Shore asks him to be strong by showing everyone that he is not a monster; he is a human, and a human would feel fear. He asks Borne to show people what it’s like to be executed so they know the process is not peaceful or humane. He suggests that if Borns wants to be a hero, he should “fight to the end and show [his] fear.”

Guards escort Borns to the death chamber, and he asks if he’s allowed to say his last words. When given the chance, he announces, “I don’t know if I did it. But if I did, I’m sorry, you know?” He’s then told that it’s time to “get on now,” but he doesn’t comply; he fights. He resists the officers putting him in the stirrups and straps. He fights as hard as he can, and it is painful to watch. As it should be.

The episode ends with a close-up of Shore’s face as he looks on in shock while the needle approaches.

Over the last few years, my home state of Oklahoma has made national news due to its dealings with the death penalty. Boston Legal focuses on Texas, but I can promise you Oklahoma is right up there regarding how much it loves to put inmates to death. Yes, the governor recently granted an 11th-hour clemency to death row inmate Julius Jones after credible claims of innocence and international outcry, but Oklahoma is more notable for its execution horror stories. There was a dispute back in 2014-2015 about whether our execution cocktail violated the Eighth Amendment’s prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment after inmates were seen suffering as they died. Those concerns have resurfaced when Oklahoma’s latest execution in October (and the first since 2015) ended with a man vomiting and convulsing as he was killed by the state.

Does the humor hit its mark?

Boston Legal is an acceptable law-related television offering. Its primary strength is the vast wealth of acting talent the series offers. Plenty of heavy hitters deliver on their star power, and even the lesser-known players carry their weight if nothing else.

However, my most significant complaint would be that the dual storylines are too jarring. I understand adding the nymphomania plot to lighten such a heavy topic as capital punishment, but I don’t feel the dichotomy fit. Some situations simply shouldn’t be made light of, and the state-sanctioned killing of a human being is one of them.

In conclusion, the show definitely has its high points, mainly attributable to the combined efforts of the all-star cast. Nevertheless, while I’m sure the humor hits hard at times with actors such as Shatner and Spader, I couldn’t personally buy into the ridiculousness of this arc.

Stay tuned for my next column. After reviewing both The Practice and Boston Legal separately, I’ll compare them head-to-head.

Adam R. Banner is the founder and lead attorney of the Oklahoma Legal Group , a criminal defense law firm in Oklahoma City. His practice focuses solely on state and federal criminal defense. He represents the accused against allegations of sex crimes, violent crimes, drug crimes and white-collar crimes.

The study of law isn’t for everyone, yet its practice and procedure seems to permeate pop culture at an increasing rate. This column is about the intersection of law and pop culture in an attempt to separate the real from the ridiculous.

This column reflects the opinions of the author and not necessarily the views of the ABA Journal—or the American Bar Association.

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Boston Legal

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Watch Boston Legal with a subscription on Hulu, or buy it on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Apple TV.

Cast & Crew

James Spader

John Larroquette

Christian Clemenson

Jerry Espenson

Tara Summers

Katie Lloyd

Candice Bergen

Shirley Schmidt

William Shatner

Denny Crane

More Like This

Series info.

A walking tour of Boston’s North End: What to see, do and eat in Little Italy

I headed to the North End (pronounced "Nah-th End") in search of the apartment building where my paternal grandmother — whom I never met — was born in 1902. Even though I was on the hunt for my own family history, it's impossible to avoid learning about the Italian American immigrant experience when in this Boston neighborhood.

My grandmother died long before I was born, and I'm now the age she was when she passed away. I never knew her, but we always had a connection.

Growing up, I lived with my parents and siblings in a three-family home with my grandfather and uncles. We shared an incredible basement with a root cellar and an extra kitchen (where we made gallons of red sauce from homegrown tomatoes). One afternoon when I was about 7, I noticed an old pedal-powered sewing machine in a dark corner of the basement. Struck with inspiration, I spent the next few evenings after school in that basement sewing myself a pretty sundress with fabric I found in the sewing machine cabinet.

When my dress was finished, I skipped upstairs to my grandfather's kitchen to show him my handiwork. Instead of the effusive praise I expected, he was strangely quiet. He asked how I knew how to use the sewing machine and who showed me the pattern. I told him I saw the pattern in my head and somehow just knew how to wind the bobbin and thread the machine.

That's when he smiled and told me that his wife, the nana I never met, was a talented seamstress. I'd used her sewing machine. Somehow across time and space, she passed the talent to me.

Since then, I've felt a connection to her even without knowing very much about her life. After doing some genealogical research, I found her baptismal record that listed the address where she was born, along with a 1920 U.S. census that listed her address right before she married my papa. So, I decided to go to the North End in search of the place where her parents settled in 1896 after emigrating from Italy's Sant'Elia Fiumerapido.

I took a leisurely walking tour that you can recreate the next time you're in Beantown. Here's everything you need to know for a successful tour that includes Paul Revere's house, Sicilian pizza and cannolis.

Want more travel news and advice from TPG? Make sure to sign up for our daily newsletter .

Things to know before you go

Before you head to the North End, it's a good idea to know the lay of the land.

The North End is the oval-shaped piece of land jutting out from Boston proper bound by Route 93 and the Rose Kennedy Greenway. Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park — near the Boston Marriott Long Wharf — anchors this part of town to the south while Boston's Inner Harbor is the natural boundary in the north and west.

East Boston and Logan International Airport (BOS) are across the water from the North End, and that is where you'll find all the wharves. (The other side of my family settled in East Boston when they arrived here from Calabria.) You can easily travel between East Boston and the North End via the Sumner and Callahan tunnels.

Start your tour at Haymarket or North Station

The North End is very walkable, but it's a nightmare to park a car there. Your best bet is to park elsewhere and take the MBTA Green Line subway to the Haymarket stop. One-way rides are $2.40 and ticket machines are at each station.

If you're driving, park at Haymarket Garage (also known as Parcel 7) at 136 Blackstone Street (use the Waze app to locate the garage because it's not so easy to find). Some North End establishments, such as Mike's Pastry, Regina Pizzeria and some of the stall vendors at Boston Public Market, validate parking tickets for this garage, and you'll only pay $3 for three hours. Just don't go over your time or you'll end up paying full price.

Start your tour of the North End at Haymarket and walk counterclockwise around the neighborhood.

Note: If you prefer to arrive via the train or subway at North Station (or if you park at the North End Garage at 600 Commerical Street), you can do this tour in reverse. Start at North Station, walk east on Causeway Street until it turns into Commercial Street and begin sightseeing at Copps Hill Burying Ground and visit the points of interest in a clockwise fashion.

But, I started my tour from the Haymarket subway stop.

Hanover Street

Hanover Street is the North End's "main drag." It's where you'll find a lot of the neighborhood's oldest or most popular sites, shops and restaurants. As you leave the Haymarket Garage, exit on Sudbury Street, take a right on John F. Fitzgerald Surface Road and then a left onto Hanover Street. You'll pass through the Rose Kennedy Greenway, and as you exit that park, you're officially entering the North End: Boston's Little Italy.

My visit to the North End was part of a heritage tour to discover more about my ancestors. You may be tracing your Italian heritage when you're in the area, too. But there's so much more to the North End. Several important Freedom Trail sites are located within the bounds of the North End, so I'll point those out too.

If possible, set aside enough time to discover the entire 2.5-mile Freedom Trail, which is dotted with 16 historical sites that are significant to the history of the United States.

Now, let's talk money. The trend toward contactless payments has not reached many of the old-timey shops in the North End. Some bakeries and pizza places, in particular, only take cash. Be sure to visit an ATM before heading to the neighborhood. There's a cash machine at 218 Hanover Street and another across the street from Modern Pastry (at the start of your tour) in the Bank of America Financial Center at 260 Hanover Street.

Stop 1: New England Holocaust Memorial and the Tony DeMarco statue

As you exit the Haymarket subway stop, take an immediate right on Sudbury Street and then a right on Congress. You'll walk against traffic for one block. At the corner of Congress and Hanover Street, you'll find the New England Holocaust Memorial. It's not right at the gateway of the North End, but it would be a shame not to stop here before your tour and reflect.

Turn left onto Hanover Street and walk a block over the John F. Fitzgerald Expressway and the bronze Tony DeMarco statue is straight ahead at 191 Hanover Street (where it meets Cross Street). Born as Leonardo Liotta in 1932 to Sicilian immigrants, Tony grew up in the North End and became a celebrated boxer and World Welterweight Champion.

Fun fact: My grandfather on my mother's side came from Calabria. He was an amateur boxer whose fights were often featured in the Boston newspapers of the day, so seeing the Tony DeMarco statue held personal significance.

Stop 2: Grab a bite on Hanover Street

If you're beginning your tour at breakfast or lunchtime, grab a quick bite before launching into your tour.

Bricco Panetteria and Salumeria & Pasta Shop

It's easy to miss these two gems. Both are down a narrow alley next to the affiliated Bricco restaurant at 241 Hanover Street. For the panetteria, a walk down a steep flight of stairs is rewarded with the aroma of freshly baked Italian bread and pastries.

At street level, you'll find Bricco Salumeria & Pasta Shop at 11 Board Alley. You can order sandwiches that are out of this world (I like the porchetta/roast pork sandwich or the eggplant Parmigiano) or pick up provisions (cheese, olives, cured meats, pasta) for later.

These two spots are where North Enders pick up their bread, pastries and sandwiches. Don't miss it!

Modern Pastry

If it's breakfast time when you pass Modern Pastry (263 Hanover Street), drop into this family-owned and -operated shop. It's been here since 1931, which is an impressive run, but there are bakeries that have been in the neighborhood even longer. We'll mention those later.

The "must-buys" at Modern Pastry include sfogliatelle (a flaky pastry filled with ricotta ), ricotta pie, cannoli and pizzelles (cookies that look like very thin waffles). This shop is also known for its French-style macarons, but I'm especially fond of their Italian-style pistachio macaroons and pignoli (pine nut) cookies. The line can go out the door, but it moves quickly.

Galleria Umberto Rosticceria

If you're passing by closer to lunch or have a craving for something more savory, try the Sicilian pizza, panzarotti (similar to a calzone but fried) and arancini (rice balls) at Galleria Umberto Rosticceria at 289 Hanover Street. This casual eatery was established in 1974, and it only takes cash. I walked by at 10:40 a.m., and there was already a healthy line forming.

Mike's Pastry

Mike's Pastry is about a block beyond Modern Pastry and on the other side of the street at 300 Hanover Street. You may be familiar with Mike's because the outlet sells delectables via the mail-order site Goldbelly. But, you can stock up on Italian treats for your hotel room when you stop by in person. My favorite thing to order here is the cucidati (fig) cookies.

Neptune Oyster

Since you're in Boston, there's a good chance you're hoping to enjoy a lobster roll while you're in town — and you can do that right in the North End. In fact, one of the best lobster rolls in the city can be found right here at Neptune Oyster (63 Salem Street). While they serve a cold version with mayonnaise, you should order it hot with butter. Both are served on toasted brioche buns. You can't make a reservation here, so it's best to arrive before or after mealtimes to avoid the rush.

Pro tip: If you're looking for a lobster roll outside the North End, I'm partial to the hot one served by Saltie Girl (281 Dartmouth Street, around the corner from Newbury Street). The cold version is also good. Both are served with Saltie Girl Sea Salt & Vinegar Potato Chips.

Stop 3: North Square

As you brush those pastry or pizza crumbs from your shirt, take a slight detour off Hanover Street by hanging a right on Prince Street and then another right onto North Street, where you'll enter the North Square plaza. Bostonians will tell you that North Square is America's oldest public square, and it's been a meeting place since 1649.

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

This is one of the places I had been most anxious to visit in the North End. Sacred Heart at 12 North Square was the first Catholic Church in Boston, and it's where my grandmother was baptized in 1902 and where she married my papa in 1924. The building is closed right now due to COVID-19, but I reached out to the Archdiocese of Boston before my trip, and the archival team helped me find my grandmother's baptismal record.

What I find so interesting about this church is that its history goes beyond its Catholic roots. It was built in 1833 as a place where sailors could worship. (Remember, the Inner Harbor is just a few blocks away.) Lore has it that the sailor-preacher of the church, Father Taylor, was Herman Melville's inspiration for Father Mapple in "Moby Dick."

In 1884, the building was purchased by a community of Italian immigrants, and by 1888, the church was named Sacred Heart. When my great-grandfather Antonio arrived in Boston in 1896, he made this parish his family's religious home.

While the building is closed right now, the upper nave has a beautiful frescoed ceiling supported by marble columns. The downstairs chapel includes shrines to St. Anthony, St. Lucy, St. Therese, St. Jude and others. The church is now part of Saint Leonard of Port Maurice parish.

See where Paul Revere lived

Walk through the square and head to the corner, 19 North Square, to visit the Paul Revere House. It's one of the most famous sites on Boston's Freedom Trail.

Right now, this historic home is only open Wednesday-Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For some, walking past the home may be enough. However, if you want to go inside, it costs $6 for adults, $5.50 for seniors and college students and $1 for kids 5-17.

The Pierce/Hichborn House at 29 North Square is managed by the same organization, but it is currently closed until further notice.

Dine at Mamma Maria right on the square

There are many incredible authentic Italian restaurants in the North End, plus plenty of spots that are aimed toward tourists. Mamma Maria (3 North Square) is an institution. You can sit in one of the various rooms in the townhouse or right out on the square, and the atmosphere here is magical. Think fairy lights accenting the night sky.

Reservations are a must — especially if you want to dine outside. Be sure to note your preference when making your reservation on OpenTable. We dined here on our first night in Boston. Our table had a perfect view of Sacred Heart, and it was so special spending time in a place that was special to my grandparents.

Stop 4: St. Stephen's Catholic Church

Once you've investigated North Square, retrace your steps along Prince Street and take a right back onto Hanover Street, where you'll find St. Stephen's Catholic Church (401 Hanover Street). Even if you don't go inside, check out the exterior gardens and statues. It's a very peaceful spot.

Stop 5: Paul Revere Mall and statue

You'll find the Paul Revere Mall and statue off Hanover Street between Tilestone and Charter streets. This is a good spot for photo-taking and resting a bit in the shade. There are plaques on the walls that hem in the mall. Each discusses important former North End residents and their achievements. The mall eventually leads to the Old North Church.

Stop 6: Old North Church

Every American schoolchild learns that Paul Revere launched his famous ride in 1775 from Old North Church (193 Salem Street). You can view the Christ Church, which was established in 1723, for free from the outside. If you want a tour inside, it will cost $5 per person (kids under 6 are free).

As you walk from Old North Church to your next stop, you'll need to put a bit of oomph in your step to make it up the hill. It's not too intense of a climb, but it's something to keep in mind if you're touring with someone that has a mobility issue. Just take it slow and steady — especially if it's a hot summer day or a snowy winter day when the sidewalk might be slick.

Stop 7: Skinny House

Your next stop is Copps Hill Burying Ground, and you'll find the entrance across from what's known as the Skinny House (44 Hull Street). The aptly named four-story home is supposedly the narrowest building in Boston — 10.4 feet at its widest point.

It was originally built by a Civil War veteran as a "spite house" after his brother spent all of their inheritance and left this sliver of land on which he could build.

Stop 8: Copps Hill Burying Ground

Since the pandemic started, I've spent a fair amount of time working on my family's genealogy. And while it may seem strange to walk around a cemetery, there is something so meaningful about taking time to read the tombstones and think about what each person's life must have been like.

Copps Hill Burying Ground is Boston's second cemetery and goes back to 1659, long before my family immigrated from Italy. As you read the markers, you'll see that this is the final resting place for craftspeople and merchants who lived their lives in the North End.

From the cemetery, you can see the USS Constitution, another stop on the Freedom Trail, at the Navy Yard at Charlestown. In the distance, you'll also see the North Washington Street Bridge at Lovejoy Wharf.

Stop 9: More pizza, bread and pastries

Your tour of the North End is winding down now. Continue along Hull Street and then take a left onto Snow Hill Street. Follow that to Thacher Street to finish off your tour with amazing food.

Regina Pizzeria

This is the famous Regina Pizzeria (11 1/2 Thacher Street) that's been serving up thin-crust, brick oven pizza since 1926. If you prefer thick squares of Sicilian-style pizza, skip Regina and wait until you hit Parziale's Bakery.

Parziale's Bakery

Head back the way you came on Thacher Street and take a right back onto Prince. Then walk 1.5 blocks and look for Parziale's Bakery on the right side of the street (80 Prince Street).

This may have been the bakery that my nana would have visited. She was born in 1902, and the Parziale family opened a bakery at 7 Charter Street in 1907 after arriving from the Naples area of Italy.

Today, the bakery — now on Prince Street — serves dozens of types of bread, Sicilian pizza squares by the slice or tray (half or full) and, of course, cookies and cannoli shells. This is my favorite place to buy cannolis since the bakery only fills the shells to order. That keeps the pastry crisp (because nothing is worse than a soggy cannoli).

Bova's Bakery

Right around the corner is Bova's Bakery (134 Salem Street), and you have to stop here, too. The bakery serves up many different types of bread. In the springtime, the Easter bread is absolutely delicious. I'm also partial to the lobster tails, and my husband swears by the tiramisu.

Bottom line

I love the North End. It's compact enough that nearly anyone can effectively tour all the sites in a manageable amount of time. And, if you like to browse shops, stop at bakeries or enjoy a leisurely meal, you will love this Boston neighborhood, too.

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Boston 25 Now

‘Blindsided me’: Tour guide punched repeatedly in broad daylight on Boston Common

A tour guide is sharing how the unnerving crime on Boston Common is impacting walking tours after being punched repeatedly without warning.

It happened weeks ago near the start of the Freedom Trail in America’s oldest public park.

The unprovoked attack is the latest in a series of recent physical and verbal assaults reported by tour guides.

Boston 25 News has learned that several tour companies have changed their routes through the Common or are avoiding it all together.

“You’d think it would be a shining light for the city, but it turns out to be sort of a cesspit,” said Jared, who does not want his last name published.

Jared, a tour guide with the Histrionic Academy, said he was giving a walking tour at 10:30 a.m. when he was punched in front of the crowd.

“He blindsided me,” he recalled. “He was behind me and punching me while I was speaking to the crowd.”

Jared filed a police report and hasn’t received word of an arrest since then.

He and other tour guides said drug use, panhandling and aggressive behavior is tainting what should be a safe place to visit.

“Someone was even stabbed in front of our tour group. Everyone was terrified, and everybody scattered,” said Jared.

A stabbing that happened during a walking tour prompted the Histrionic Academy to cancel its night tour on Boston Common.

The company now offers a night tour in the North End.

However, Jared said he learned firsthand that there’s no avoiding the unsavory and dangerous activity on Boston Common no matter what time it is.

“We try to stick to the grass, show you the few relevant buildings and get out as quickly as possible really,” he added. “We try to spend as little time in the Common as we can.”

For nearby businesses along Tremont Street and in Downtown Crossing, there’s no avoiding it.

“It’s had a tremendous impact on business. Constantly, we have homeless people in here harassing customers for money while they’re trying to buy a product out of the store,” said Katarian Andrews, General Manager at Sal’s Pizza.

Andrews told Boston 25 News that it seems to be getting worse by the month.

“There’s already a lot of homeless around here. With the increase of drugs in the area, it’s increased the violence as well,” he said.

Statistics from Boston Police show 136 violent crimes have been reported in the area through September 17th of this year.

That’s compared to 113 violent crimes reported through the same time-period in 2019, an increase of 23 incidents.

532 property crimes have been reported through September 17th of this year.

That’s compared to 487 property crimes reported through the same time-period in 2019, an increase of 45 incidents.

The Boston Police Department said it’s increased proactive patrols in the district by 26 percent over 2023 levels.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

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Backpacking in the USA , Winter Travel

Boston in winter: the ultimate guide .

I visited Boston many years ago, just for a day trip, so following the success of the guest post about Free Things to do in Boston, I asked Tegan and Alex from Why Not Walk to share their top tips for visiting Boston in Winter and they certainly came through!  Check out their ultimate guide to visiting Boston in winter:  

Boston is the capital of Massachusetts and is one of the oldest municipalities in the United States.  Famous for its history, whale watching tours and delicious food, Boston is a wonderful city to visit at any time of year, but here is why you should visit Boston in winter to make the most of the special winter activities and events.

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Know Before You Go to Boston

Before travelling to Boston, make sure you book accommodation and popular attractions ASAP as hotels and tickets can sell out.

🛌 MY FAVOURITE ACCOMMODATION IN BOSTON:

$$ The Revolution Hotel : creatively designed rooms great for groups

$$ The Verb Hotel : a music-themed boutique hotel near Fenway Park

$ HI Boston Hostel : a modern hostel with private and dorm rooms

⭐ TOP 3 BOSTON ACTIVITIES TO BOOK IN ADVANCE:

1. Guided Walking Tour of the Freedom Trail

2. Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum Interactive Tour

3. Boston Fenway Park: Guided Ballpark Tour

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Winter Weather in Boston

Many dismiss Boston as too cold in the winter for a visit, picturing howling winds and icy roads. However, given that Boston is a coastal city, its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean truly gives it the best of both worlds: it’s much more temperate than the rest of the state and region in the wintertime, but still gets to enjoy several gorgeous, fluffy snowfalls each year.

That said, average winter temperatures in Boston hover around or just below freezing, with January typically being the coldest month.  January also usually gets the most snow, although you can expect some snow from November through to April.

Why Visit Boston in Winter?

Boston is bursting with fun things to do all year, but we would argue the wintertime is an extra special time to visit.  Stroll along romantic cobblestone streets, stop for a hot chocolate or perhaps some outdoor ice skating, and enjoy Boston’s wealth of museums, local breweries, charming neighborhoods, sports teams, and more.

Read on for all our best tips for the ultimate winter visit to Boston, and for more Boston tips for any time of year, check out Why Not Walk’s Boston-area landing page here .

What to Wear in Winter in Boston

Layers, layers, layers! We cannot stress this enough. While Boston’s temperatures aren’t quite as cold as people like to think they are, what we do have in spades here is wind. The downtown and Seaport areas, in particular, are known for wind tunnels that can get fairly brutal due to their tall buildings, so we definitely recommend a scarf and gloves, as well as a jacket with a hood or a beanie or hat.

As Boston is a walking-heavy city, you should definitely bring warm and comfortable shoes, preferably waterproof ones. We especially recommend boots (like Uggs or Timberlands) and of course some nice, thick socks. 

As for a coat, down or alternative down is the way to go. You’ll see many Bostonians rocking the knee- or ankle-length coats. This isn’t totally necessary if you usually live in warmer climes, but definitely make sure to bundle up, and plan a mix of indoor and outdoor excursions for each day. 

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Free Things to do in Boston Massachusetts

Things to Do in Boston in the Winter

You could live in Boston for years (like we have) and still not experience everything Boston has to offer. Boston has something for everyone, from the history aficionado to the sports fanatic to the autumnal leaf-peeper.

Here are some of the top things to do in Boston at any time of year: 

• Boston’s “Little Italy” North End Pizza & History Walking Tour
• Boston History & Highlights Walking Tour
• Day Trip Tour to Quincy and Plymouth
• Boston Duck Boat Tour with Cruise Along Charles River
• Guided Walking Tour of Harvard University Campus

You can browse more tours and attractions in Boston here, or enjoy some of the best free things to do in Boston . While you’re visiting Boston, plan an epic East Coast road trip , as well!

FIND A TOUR IN BOSTON

While visitors flock to Boston and the region in the fall to see autumn foliage , we’d argue that a beautiful snowfall gives the leaves a run for their money. If a winter “city break” is what you’re after, Boston will not disappoint. Keep reading for all the best tips on the best things to do in Boston in winter, the city’s top winter attractions, and a sample Boston 2 day itinerary. 

Recreate the Boston Tea Party

Yes, it’s probably the most touristy thing to do in Boston, but if it’s your first time in the city then learning about the famous Tea Party at the interactive museum is a fun way to forget the weather!  This ships and museum tour runs several times a week even in the winter and allows you to travel back in time to 1773 to be part of the famous Boston Tea Party and the events leading up to the American Revolution.

You can explore fully restored replicas of the Tea Party ships, take part in an interactive museum tour and re-live the events of the day with live actors and 3D holograms.  You’ll even have the chance to throw your own tea overboard! 

Money Saving Tip

Visit the museums in boston.

Wondering what to do in Boston when it snows?  When the weather is poor, getting inside and visiting some of Boston’s incredible museums is a great way to keep warm and dry and learn something at the same time!

The Museum of Fine Arts (Back Bay/Fenway) houses over 450,000 works of art at the world’s 17th-largest museum. 

The Isabella Stewart Gardner (near the MFA): Once the home of notable Bostonian Isabella Stuart Gardner, the house and artwork were turned into a museum under the terms of her will. The ISG gained notoriety for a 1990 art heist that remains unsolved to this day. Don’t miss the gorgeous courtyard in the center.

The Boston Science Museum (Lechmere): though a bit dated, science fans will enjoy the Science Museum’s many exhibits and indoor zoo.

The Museum of African American History (Downtown): Don’t miss a visit to New England’s largest museum dedicated to preserving and honoring African-American history, located in the African Meeting House– the oldest Black church building in the U.S.

The Institute of Contemporary Art (Seaport): If modern and contemporary art is more your scene, the ICA does not disappoint. It also has lovely views of the Harbor area, and its neat architecture is an exhibit unto itself.

Check Out Vintage Movies, Glamorous Shows and Improv Comedy

These are some of our favorite places for a more unique Boston experience, especially during the winter!

Watch vintage movies (often in 35mm!) at Brattle Theatre (Harvard Square) or the Coolidge Corner Theatre (Brookline.) Coolidge Corner is the oldest Art Deco theatre in the area, built in 1933.

Get dressed up for a show at the Boch Center or the Emerson Colonial Theatre . You will be awe-struck at the beautiful decor, sweeping ceilings, and enormous chandeliers. All 3 of these theatres opened in the early 1900s and are some of the oldest continuously operating theatres in the region. You can also enjoy Boston’s premier symphonic ensembles at the Boston Symphony Orchestra (Fenway.)

Alternatively, laugh ‘til your sides hurt at a comedy show at ImprovAsylum (North End.)   

Warm Up with Hot Chocolate

Any excuse for a tasty hot chocolate is fine by me, and these tasty treats will warm you right up on a cold Boston winter day!

The Mexican hot chocolate at Ogawa Coffee House is absolutely decadent, and its location in downtown Boston is perfect if you’ve just gone ice skating at the Frog Pond (more info on that below!)

Located in the swanky Back Bay, LA Burdick offers all sorts of artisanal chocolate offerings, including hot chocolate.

If you don’t want to choose just one, check out seasonal Hot Chocolate Flights at The Met Back Bay . You can even ask for yours to be spiked!

If you like to combine your cocoa with Christmas carols, this cruise on Boston Harbor takes in the beautiful sights of the Boston Skyline while listening to Christmas music and carols as you sip on your cocoa. 

Bonus: If hot chocolate isn’t for you, and you’re more in the mood for normal chocolate, check out the Chocolate Factory Tour at Taza in Somerville.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Things to do in Orlando in Winter

Ice Skating and Winter Sports in Boston

The ultimate Boston winter experience is outdoor ice skating at the Boston Common Frog Pond . The Common is the “Central Park of Boston,” and is located in the heart of downtown. Tip: if you go after sundown, there are twinkly lights all over the park that really set the scene! There is also seasonal ice skating at City Hall Plaza ’s Boston Winter installation, as well.

If indoor ice skating is more your scene, check out the Steriti Ice Rink in the North End. Admission is free, and you can rent skates for a few dollars. Pair this with a visit to the North End (Boston’s Italian neighborhood) and Boston Harbor afterwards. 

If you don’t want to splurge on (very pricey) hockey tickets, you can watch the Boston Bruins practice at Warrior Ice Arena. 

Enjoy the Red Sox stadium tour without the crowds– it’s available year-round!

If you are interested in attending sporting event while you are in town, check out the TD Garden calendar for Bruins and Celtics tickets, as well as concerts! 

Brewery + Distillery Tours

What better way to warm up on a wintery day in Boston than with a tasting of your favorite tipple?  You could join a tour that takes in three of the top breweries in town , or check out our recommendations below:

Sam Adams (Jamaica Plain): Sam Adams is definitely touristy, but worth a visit if you’re visiting Boston for the first time, or if you’re interested in how one of the nation’s largest breweries operates. The tour is free (make sure to reserve ahead of time), and you get samples and a free small glass with your tour. Sam Adams recently opened a new taproom in the Faneuil Hall area as well. 

Harpoon Beer Hall (Seaport): Harpoon wins “best brewery tour” in our book, hands down. Harpoon is a super fun atmosphere– they’re employee-owned, make amazing pretzels with their leftover beer byproduct, and their beer hall in the Seaport can’t be beat. Definitely sign up for their brewery tour– it costs $5, but includes some time at the end for unlimited samples! 

Boston Harbor Distillery (Dorchester): Their table-side tasting tour offers several samples and a history of their operation for $20/pp. They also have a VIP tour ($50/pp), offering a “back-room of whiskey-making” experience. Also in Dorchester is Bully Boy Distillers , which is worth a look too.

You should also check out these beer and brewery tours that are guaranteed to keep you warm and tipsy!

Explore Beautiful Wintry Neighborhoods in Boston

There are some lovely neighborhoods in Boston where you can talk a stroll, no matter what the weather.  Just wrap up warm and enjoy!

Beacon Hill

Located right behind the Boston Common with Charles Street as its main drag, don’t miss a visit to Beacon Hill while in Boston. Characterized by its cobblestones and mix of Victorian- and Federal-style brick row houses and antique black streetlamps, Beacon Hill is so charming and picturesque – and quintessentially Boston.

Don’t miss the State House with its gold dome, especially beautiful when covered in snow, and Acorn Street, one of the U.S.’s most-photographed streets.  

Likely Boston’s most “fancy” neighborhood, Back Bay is also home to beautiful architecture, as well as a large shopping district including Newbury Street and the sparkly Prudential Center. The Commonwealth Avenue Mall, leading up to the Public Garden, is beautiful in any season.

Boston’s Italian district is also Boston’s first neighborhood, continuously inhabited since 1640. The North End is adorned with narrow, winding streets and some of Boston’s oldest surviving architecture. Don’t miss American Revolution hero Paul Revere’s house and the infamous Old North Church (of “one if by land, two if by sea notoriety), both on the Freedom Trail.

Places to Check out Snow in Boston

If snow is what you’re after, you have a good chance of seeing it between December and March, with January and February usually clocking in as the coldest and greyest months with the most chance for that sort of precipitation. There is sometimes snowfall as late as April, to the delight of visitors and chagrin of locals.

Top Tip: If you want to increase your chances of seeing snow, plan a quick day trip to Western Massachusetts and the Berkshires while you’re in Boston, as they have fairly constant snow cover and are only about 2 hours away.

Closer by, the towns surrounding Boston are excellent places to enjoy a fresh snowfall – Brookline and Chestnut Hill, in particular, have beautiful Victorian architecture and stately homes that make a gorgeous backdrop for photos, and their wonderful reservoirs and parks are at their most impressive when covered in snow. 

Holidays in Boston

Boston really gets into the swing of the holiday spirit during the winter, check out the variety of holiday-themed pop-ups at bars around the city, including the Tiki bar Christmas pop-up at Shore Leave (South End), Pop-up igloos at the Envoy Hotel (Seaport) and a Hanukkah-themed pop-up at Backbar (Somerville).  You can even get your fix of Holiday movie-themed cocktails at Precinct Kitchen & Bar (Back Bay)!

Christmas in Boston

Holiday and Christmas lights appear all around the city during the winter.  The Boston Common is festooned with twinkling lights, as well as a lighting ceremony for a huge Christmas tree. Visit Faneuil Hall downtown, to see Quincy Market decorated with lights and decorations, and book tickets to see the Nutcracker ballet at the Boston Opera House.  

New Year’s Eve in Boston

First Night Boston is the city’s biggest New Year’s Eve celebration.  It is family-friendly and alcohol-free so if you are visiting Boston with kids then they will love it!  There are fireworks over Boston Common at 7pm, and another spectacular display over Boston Harbor at midnight. 

You can watch a parade, admire ice sculptures, watch a pyrotechnic show and catch some live music performances.  It is one of the best things to do in Boston in December, and a wonderful way to welcome in the New Year.  This website has more details about the events.

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How to Spend Winter in Boston 2 Day Itinerary

If you need some more tips for things to do in Boston during the winter, this Boston itinerary has more suggestions for you! 

Boston in Winter Itinerary Day 1

Start your day in Copley Square, visiting its churches and the Boston Public Library , and exploring the Back Bay neighborhood.

Tip: the BPL is one of Boston’s best-kept secrets. Built in 1888, its interior is absolutely gorgeous. Don’t miss the 2nd floor Bates Room for old-school study vibes, or the outdoor courtyard in the middle (follow the signs on the ground floor.)

Meander along Newbury Street, perhaps stopping in one of its chic eateries for brunch as you walk along. Newbury Street also has Boston’s most upscale shopping, if that’s in your budget. Pop over a block to the Commonwealth Avenue Mall promenade for a snowy stroll.

Continue down to the Prudential Center, a shiny shopping center where you can thaw for a little bit on a chilly day. For a lovely Italian market experience, check out Eataly. 

If you’re in the mood for some seafood for lunch, check out Saltie Girl . If that’s a bit out of your budget, enjoy locally-sourced DIY bowls at Dig Inn .

In the afternoon, take the green line or a ride-share a few stops to the Fenway area to visit the Fenway Baseball Stadium, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Isabella Stuart Gardner Museum. If you’re not feeling too cold, the Fens area of the interconnected parks known as the Emerald Necklace is lovely in the winter.

In the evening, check out the South End for trendy eateries and bars. Stop into the Beehive for a drink and live jazz music, or Barcelona Wine Bar . If you decide to stay in the Copley area, Lolita is another favorite, for frozen margaritas and other cocktails in what we like to call a “dungeon-glamour” locale.

Lastly, a favorite bar in Seaport is Drink , for really neat DIY cocktails. Here’s how it works: you sit down at the bar, tell the bartender what combination of flavors and liquors you like (e.g. vodka and citrus, or “drinks that don’t taste like alcohol,” or rum and bitter), and they make you a surprise. It could be a bartender invention or an obscure combination – you never know!

Boston in Winter Itinerary Day 2

In the morning, take the MBTA’s green line or a ride-share to the Boston Common to start the Freedom Trail : a 2.5 mile walking tour of Boston’s esteemed role in the history of the United States. Pair the Freedom Trail with its sister tour in Beacon Hill, the Black Heritage Trail .

For a full, step-by-step guide to both trails (plus bonus local content!), check out Why Not Walk’s definitive guide to the Freedom Trail . We recommend allotting at least a half day for the Freedom Trail. While it can theoretically be done in about 1.5 hours, you will definitely want to spend longer at various sites!

The Freedom Trail ends in Charlestown, at the Bunker Hill Monument and the USS Constitution. You can spend some time exploring the area, or make your way back downtown for lunch.

For quick bites downtown, check out Sam LaGrassa’s for sandwiches, Dig Inn for locally-sourced bowls (if you didn’t go to the Back Bay location yesterday!), or Clover Food Lab for vegetarian-friendly fare. In nearby Chinatown, there are delicious dim sum and dumpling restaurants galore. One particular favorite is Gourmet Dumpling House .

Alternatively, there is something for everyone at Faneuil Hall Marketplace, which is a stop along the Freedom Trail if you’d like to take a break then. Here, you can sample Boston’s famous lobster rolls (we recommend hot rolls more than cold!) drizzled with fresh butter or clam chowder in a bread bowl. Note: For a less-touristy place to try lobster rolls, there’s always Yankee Lobster in Seaport.

In the afternoon, tour the North End, Boston’s quintessential Italian neighborhood. We hope you saved some room from lunch, because you can’t miss sampling hand-made Italian cookies, cannoli, gelato, and other treats here. Don’t miss the epic Mike’s Pastry versus Modern Pastry cannoli battle, at the very least.

You can stay in the North End for dinner too, choosing one of many restaurants (you can’t go wrong!) such as Regina’s for pizza, or Trattoria Monica , Giacomo’s , or Antico Forno for pasta and other Italian fare. Note that Giacomo’s does not take reservations, so you will likely have to start lining up at around 3PM or earlier to get in for dinner. This may not be worth it if you’re on a tight schedule.

In the evening, enjoy the downtown Boston bar scene at classy Yvonne’s or the Marliave , or the really fun dive bar Biddy Early’s . Watch live Irish music with the Guinness on tap flowing at Black Rose . If breweries are more your scene, check out Harpoon or Trillium in the Seaport, Dorchester Brewing Company in Dorchester, or Lamplighter in Cambridge.

Where to Stay in Boston This Winter

After a long day of exploring Boston, Massachusetts, you’re going to need somewhere to rest your head and get energized for the next day.

Here are a few great options for hostels and hotels in Boston for your visit:

HI Boston Hostel : This modern, environmentally friendly hostel is near Boston Common, Chinatown, the subway and most of the city’s sights. Dorms feature individual lockers and personal shelves, reading lights, and power outlets. You’ll get lots of privacy balanced with common spaces for socializing when you stay here. >>>CHECK PRICES

The Verb Hotel : A small, music-themed boutique hotel near historic Fenway Park. Fans of rock ‘n roll will love the funky decor and party atmosphere. Plus, it’s literal steps from some of Boston’s best restaurants, shopping, and activities. >>>CHECK PRICES

The Godfrey Hotel Boston : Stylish, sophisticated, and centrally located, this hotel provides excellent access to just about everything a guest would want to do in Boston.  >>>CHECK PRICES

If you’d like more options, you can browse all hostels in Boston on Hostelworld , or find great value hotels on Booking . There are also various options for Airbnbs in Boston too, take a look at some of the rental homes available here .

BROWSE HOTELS IN BOSTON

Travel Tips for Boston

We hope this post has inspired you to book your winter vacation in Boston this year!  Be sure to check out these extra travel tips to help you plan the best trip to Boston you can:

Getting There

• Use Skyscanner to find cheap flights to your destination.
• Public buses are the cheapest ways to get to your accommodation from the airport, but a shared shuttle transfer is quicker and cheaper than a taxi - you can pre-book those on GetYourGuide or Viator
• Try Omio for booking trains and Busbud for buses including Greyhound and Flixbus.

Where to Stay

• For hotels, I use Booking.com to check reviews and find the best deals on hotels and apartments wherever I'm travelling to.  Hotels.com is another good site.
• If you're on a tight budget, use Hostelworld to find the best hostels all over the world

• Get a quote for car hire with Discover Cars who compare car rental deals from many companies so that you can choose which is best for your trip.

Book Tours and Activities

• I use GetYourGuide or Viator to book everything from skip-the-line entry tickets to food tours as I can compare options from several companies and choose the best one for me
• If you're staying in a hostel, check out their tours and activities which are usually free or very cheap - and a great way to meet people!  

Get Travel Insurance

• Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel.  I never leave home without travel insurance, so consider getting insurance for your trip to cover things like adventure sports and activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, stolen items, trip cancellation and more.  
• Get a quote for your trip from True Traveller if you're based in the UK, or World Nomads or SafetyWing which both offer travel insurance for backpackers and long-term travellers.  Alternatively, use a comparison site like Travel Insurance Master to find the best cover for you.

Check Your Travel Documents

• Don't forget to check the validity of your passport and any other documents for your trip.  Use iVisa to check if you need a visa to visit your destination, and get up to date official travel advice from your government, for example on the Department of State website in the US or the UK government website .

Get Cheap Currency

• When travelling abroad, using a travel bank account like Wise means you get great deals on foreign currency - including a fee-free transfer of up to £500 when you use this link to sign up . 

Top Money Saving Tip for Backpackers

• Work exchanges are a great way to travel for longer and extend your trip as you can save a ton of money on accommodation.  Get an extra $10 discount on Worldpackers here or learn more about work exchanges .

About the Authors

Tegan George & Alex McKenzie

Tegan and Alex are travel, hiking, and biking enthusiasts currently based in Boston, USA. There is nothing they love more than exploring new places by walking, and they have visited over 30 countries together since they met in 2015. Their love for “walking the world” led them to found Why Not Walk , a travel guides site. Follow them on Instagram , Facebook , or Pinterest to start planning your next adventure.

If you’re looking for travel insurance for your trip to Boston, get a quote now from World Nomads .

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Just to let you know, this post may contain paid or affiliate links, which help to maintain Tales of a Backpacker and give me the chance to keep travelling, and to keep creating awesome content for you!  I only recommend goods and services I believe are useful and reliable.

Hi! I'm Claire Sturzaker, a 30-something foodie traveller who loves to enjoy the best of a destination without breaking the bank. I'm here to help you and all women backpackers to plan their best budget travel adventure. I am an avid supporter of female solo travel, and took my first solo trip 20 years ago! I love to write about travel, hostels, backpacking and van life.

1 thoughts on “ Boston in Winter: The Ultimate Guide  ”

Nice post Tegan and Alex. Super comprehensive guide here. Well done. I am heading to Middleton in under 2 weeks for a month long trip, about. We will miss Boston during winter but may take a trip into town as we will be about 30 minutes outside of Beantown.

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Longtime local law firm Burns & Levinson shuts its doors

An exodus of lawyers to other firms has led burns & levinson to close after 64 years.

An ongoing exodus of attorneys this year at Burns & Levinson was apparently too damaging to the longtime Boston law firm, which confirmed on Friday that it’s shutting down this fall after 64 years in business.

The closure was widely expected in Boston’s tight-knit legal circles after dozens of lawyers left for other opportunities , and managing partner Paul Mastrocola confirmed the news in a lengthy statement Friday afternoon.

The firm had a banner year in 2023, with record revenue, major courtroom victories, and big corporate and real estate deals, Mastrocola noted. But his statement also hinted that internal compensation discussions played a role in some of the recent departures, and he referred to the changing dynamics of the Boston legal scene, which has seen several large national firms enter the market.

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“The year also brought important — if uncomfortable for some — discussions about governance, compensation and support,” Mastrocola said. “These inflection moments are not new to legal partnerships; sometimes they are weathered and sometimes they are not. It was in this context and amidst the fast-moving law firm environment in the Boston market that things changed for the firm in 2024.”

Over the years, Burns & Levinson has rebuffed inquiries from national firms about potential mergers, Mastrocola said. However, a number of the firm’s partners this year chose to take their practices elsewhere.

“This inevitably created an environment in which other firms approached our attorneys,” Mastrocola said. “Many felt worried about the future and determined to leave as well.”

When asked about the defections in June, Mastrocola said the firm was starting discussions with bigger firms about a possible merger . On Friday, he said that the economics, timing, and complexity of those merger offers would not work for the remaining partners. Ultimately, he said, they decided as a group to instead break up and move to different firms, in part to ensure their clients could continue to be well-served.

The firm leases about 100,000 square feet at its headquarters on High Street in Boston’s Financial District. A small office in Providence is closing, as several lawyers there leave to join DarrowEverett.

As of Friday, around 125 people worked at Burns & Levinson. That’s down slightly from mid-June, when the firm employed 158 people, including 64 attorneys, after several departures. The biggest defection took place on May 1, when a prominent corporate practice team led by Frank Segall and Josef Volman joined national law firm Blank Roman. Also this year, others departed to ArentFox Schiff , another national firm, and Bowditch & Dewey, a Massachusetts firm.

“We are sad to bid farewell to this amazing Boston institution,” Mastrocola added in his statement. “But we know that the lawyers and staff who chose to honor their commitment to one another and remain together throughout this time are the best in the business and will thrive in their new homes.”

Jon Chesto can be reached at [email protected] . Follow him @jonchesto .