See Boston Your Way: Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour with 13 Stops
A flexible, narrated trolley loops through Boston’s historic waterfront, Beacon Hill and Back Bay—13 stops that turn a quick orientation into a day of discoveries. Ride a two-hour Green Loop for history or the 30-minute Back Bay loop for architecture and shopping.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start at Long Wharf
Begin at the ticket kiosk outside the Long Wharf Marriott (200 Atlantic Ave) to catch the most frequent departures and grab a map of stops.
Time your hops
Allow at least 60–90 minutes if you plan to hop off at one or two major sites—museums and the Tea Party Museum need extra time.
Pack layers and rain protection
Trolleys are enclosed but walking between stops exposes you to coastal wind and sudden weather shifts—bring a light rain jacket.
Reserve wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible trolleys are available but require advance notice—call ahead to confirm pickup details.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Fort Point Channel galleries and public art just off the Harborwalk
- •Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway farmers markets and seasonal installations
Wildlife
- •Occasional harbor seals off Boston Harbor Islands
- •Peregrine falcons nesting on tall historic buildings
Conservation Note
The Harborwalk and Greenway are part of local efforts to balance public access with shoreline restoration; stay on designated paths and avoid disturbing shoreline habitats.
The route threads sites central to American independence—the Freedom Trail, tea-party history, and a foreground of 19th-century urban expansion where Back Bay was filled to create the current city grid.
Photographer's Notes
- • Long Wharf/Harborfront for skyline and water reflections
- • Acorn Street in Beacon Hill for classic brick alley shots
- • Prudential Center or Back Bay for elevated skyline views
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
You’ll be getting on and off the trolley and walking cobblestones, museum floors and city sidewalks.
Light rain jacketEssential
Spring showers are frequent; an enclosed trolley helps, but you’ll want protection for shore breezes and short walks.
Refillable water bottleEssential
Hot July days and lots of walking make hydration easy to manage between stops.
Daypack or crossbody bag
Keeps essentials close while you hop off at markets, museums and waterfront viewpoints.
Common Questions
Where do I board the trolley?
The primary boarding point is the ticket kiosk on Atlantic Avenue outside the Long Wharf Marriott (200 Atlantic Ave), but you can join any trolley stop along the route during operating hours.
How often do trolleys run?
Trolleys depart approximately every 15–30 minutes depending on season and route; check seasonal schedules for last-departure times.
Are trolleys wheelchair accessible?
Yes—some trolleys are wheelchair accessible; please advise at booking or call Historic Tours of America to arrange an accessible vehicle and pickup time.
Can I use my ticket for both loops?
Yes—tickets allow unlimited rides on the Green City Loop and transfer to the Orange Back Bay Loop during operating hours.
Are tickets mobile or paper?
Mobile or paper tickets are accepted; your confirmation includes mobile ticket details that you can show at the kiosk or to the conductor.
What’s the cancellation policy?
Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure for a full refund; bad-weather cancellations may apply.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
30–120 minutes
Location
Boston, Massachusetts
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels—primarily seated touring with short to moderate walks between stops
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