Adventure Collective Journal

Adventure Collective Journal

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Boston Ghost Tour: Underground Gravestones & Gunpowder Walking Tour

Boston Ghost Tour: Underground Gravestones & Gunpowder Walking Tour

Walk Boston at dusk with a lantern and a historian who pairs archival research with local lore. This 60-minute, mile-long ghost tour moves through Boston Common, Granary Burial Ground, and the Omni Parker House—where Revolutionary history and reported hauntings collide.

Boston, Massachusetts
1 hour
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Arrive 15 minutes early

Meet across from the Dunkin' at the Boston Common Visitors Center; guides carry a lantern and wear a black US Ghost Adventures shirt.

Wear sturdy shoes

Cobblestones and curbs make the route uneven—sturdy closed-toe shoes will keep you steady after dark.

Layer for wind

Even summer evenings can be breezy near the Common; a light jacket wards off cold drafts between stops.

Bring a charged phone

Low-light scenes are best shot with a night mode; you may want to take notes on historical references shared by your guide.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Cobbled alleys near the Omni Parker House that reveal 19th-century storefront details
  • The King's Chapel Burying Ground interior stones—less visited at dusk for a quiet, reflective moment

Wildlife

  • Pigeons
  • Eastern gray squirrels

Conservation Note

Boston’s historic burial grounds are protected and fragile—stay on paths, avoid leaning on gravestones, and follow guidance to minimize wear in high-traffic areas.

The route follows sites tied to the Revolutionary era and the 18th–19th century evolution of civic life, including public executions on the Commons and burial grounds that predate the nation.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Blue hour, Early evening, After sunset for dramatic lighting
Key viewpoints:
  • Entrance to Granary Burial Ground
  • Front facade of the Omni Parker House
  • Along the western edge of Boston Common near the Soldiers and Sailors Monument
Subjects to capture:Historic gravestones and inscriptions, Brick facades and alleyways, Lantern-lit street scenes

What to Bring

Sturdy walking shoesEssential

Protects ankles and provides traction on cobblestones and curbs.

Warm jacket or windbreakerEssential

Evenings can be chilly—layer to stay comfortable during night tours.

Small flashlight or phone light

Helps you read plaques and navigate darker alleyways safely.

Portable umbrella

Spring showers are common; a compact umbrella keeps you dry without blocking views.

Common Questions

How long is the tour and how far will we walk?

The guided route is roughly one mile and lasts about 60 minutes, moving at a steady walking pace with several stops for stories.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Infants and small children can ride in a stroller, but some stories and sights may be unsettling for younger kids—use discretion.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

The operator lists wheelchair accessibility, but cobblestones and curbs may limit access in places; contact the provider to discuss specific needs.

What should I wear?

Dress in layers and wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for uneven surfaces; bring rain gear in spring and an extra layer in fall and winter.

Are photos allowed during the tour?

Yes—photos are allowed, though low light means a night mode or tripod will help; be mindful of other guests during quiet segments.

What identification or tickets do I need?

You can use a mobile or paper ticket; arrive 15 minutes early and have your booking details ready for check-in.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

1 hour

Location

Boston, Massachusetts

Difficulty

moderate

Fitness Level

Moderate—able to walk 1 mile over uneven ground and stand for short periods

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Boston?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

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