Her Story: Women's History Walking Tour of Boston
Walk Boston's streets with a guide who surfaces the women often left out of history books. In 90 minutes you'll move from Revolutionary-era resistance to modern civic breakthroughs, with practical tips for navigating cobbles, crowds and complex stories.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear grippy shoes
Cobblestones and slate sidewalks are slick when wet—sturdy soles and ankle support keep you comfortable for the loop.
Bring a small water bottle
The tour is 90 minutes with active discussion; hydration is easy to carry and refill nearby.
Arrive early to check in
Meet your guide at the statue next to Sam Adams Downtown Boston Tap Room at least 10 minutes before start to avoid delays.
Prepare for sensitive topics
The guide discusses slavery and violence; parental discretion is advised for young children.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •African Meeting House and the Black Heritage Trail on Beacon Hill
- •Small inscriptions and women’s markers in Granary Burying Ground that most passersby miss
Wildlife
- •Herring gulls that hover over the harbor
- •Urban peregrine falcons nesting on downtown ledges
Conservation Note
Heavy tourist traffic stresses old masonry and grave markers—stay on paths, avoid touching fragile stones and support local history museums and preservation efforts.
Boston’s public squares and courts hosted legal fights and public protests that shaped state and national policy; figures like Elizabeth Freeman used local law to challenge slavery and change Massachusetts’ legal landscape.
Photographer's Notes
- • Faneuil Hall plaza facing the Old State House
- • Along Beacon Hill’s Charles Street and side lanes
- • Granary Burying Ground near the tombstones
What to Bring
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Protect your feet on cobbles, steps and slick pavement.
Light windbreaker or rain jacketEssential
Tours run in light rain—bring a packable layer for wind and drizzle.
Refillable water bottleEssential
Stay hydrated during the 90-minute walk; refill stations nearby.
Small daypack
Carry layers, a map and any notes or snacks without getting in the way of the group.
Common Questions
Where exactly does the tour start?
Meet at the statue next to the Sam Adams Downtown Boston Tap Room in the Faneuil Hall/Quincy Market area; the guide will wear a Women’s History shirt.
How long and how far is the tour?
About 90 minutes and roughly 1–1.5 miles of walking with several short stops for stories and discussion.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes for teens and older children; content includes discussions of slavery and violence, so parental discretion is advised for younger kids.
Is the route accessible for strollers or mobility devices?
Parts are stroller-accessible but the tour is not recommended for travelers with significant mobility issues due to cobblestones and steps.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours run in light rain but will be canceled for unsafe or unpleasant weather; cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund per the operator policy.
Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely—guides often pause for photos at key stops, but please be respectful of other visitors and any active ceremonies or services.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1.5 hours (90 minutes)
Location
Boston, Massachusetts
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate—able to walk over uneven cobbles and climb a few steps without difficulty
Ready to Explore Boston?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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