Highlights and History of Boston: GPS Guided Audio Tour

Discover Boston’s Historic Districts with a Self-Guided Audio Tour

This GPS-guided audio tour of Boston offers an affordable and flexible way to explore the city’s most significant historic spots. Priced at just $9.99 per person, it provides about 2.5 hours of audio content—making it one of the most comprehensive self-guided tours available. The tour covers key sites like the North End, Faneuil Hall, and the Boston Common, along with stories about Boston’s colonial past, immigrant influences, and modern public works projects.

The tour operates between 7:00am and 8:00pm, so there’s flexibility to start whenever it suits your schedule. It’s ideal for those who enjoy independent exploration, with the ability to pause or extend their experience. The tour is delivered through the VoiceMap app, which is GPS-enabled, ensuring audio narration plays only when you are at each landmark, without the need to constantly look at your phone.

While the tour is designed to be accessible and easy to follow, it’s worth noting that some stops require separate admission fees, such as the Old North Church and Paul Revere House. The tour’s price and flexibility make it an attractive choice for budget-conscious visitors and independent travelers.

Key Points

• Affordable at $9.99 per person, with extensive audio content.
• Self-guided experience using a GPS-enabled app, no escort needed.
• Flexible timing, available between 7:00am and 8:00pm.
• Covers major Boston landmarks including the North End, Faneuil Hall, and Boston Common.
• Includes cultural insights into Irish and Italian immigrant communities and Boston’s public works.
• Walks through historic sites with optional paid entries at Old North Church, Paul Revere House, and Old State House.

Starting Point: Copps Hill Burying Ground

The tour begins at Copps Hill Burying Ground, located at 45 Hull St, where the initial narration introduces Boston’s colonial roots and the significance of the nearby sites. This point sets the tone for a journey through history that feels intimate yet educational. As you move along, the GPS ensures you’re guided smoothly from one landmark to the next, with clear turn-by-turn directions.

Walking Through Boston’s North End and Historic Sites

The North End features several pivotal sites, including Copps Hill Burying Ground, Old North Church, and Paul Revere House. At Old North Church, the tour highlights the famous lantern signal that started Paul Revere’s ride, a key moment in American history. While visiting inside requires a ticket at $8, the audio guide provides a vivid recounting of the event and the church’s role in revolutionary Boston.

The Paul Revere House was home to the Sons of Liberty figure before the revolution. Though the interior visit costs $5, the tour offers a detailed exterior discussion of the house’s history and the changes it has seen over generations.

The Greenway and Public Art

Next, the tour guides visitors through the Rose Kennedy Greenway, a large park created as part of Boston’s Big Dig project, which replaced the interstate highway with this vibrant public space. The narration covers the transformation of the area from a highway to a green, accessible space. Notable points include Armenian Heritage Park, honoring the Armenian Genocide and immigration, and a discussion about modern urban renewal.

Faneuil Hall: Boston’s Marketplace and Meeting Place

Faneuil Hall serves as a lively stop where visitors can enjoy the marketplace’s varied food options, shop souvenirs, or relax at the Samuel Adams taproom. The tour discusses the evolution of Faneuil Hall from a simple marketplace to a venue for abolitionist speeches and civic events. While Faneuil Hall itself remains temporarily closed due to COVID-19, the surrounding marketplace remains open, offering plenty of food and shopping opportunities.

The Old State House and Revolutionary Events

The Old State House stands out as Boston’s former seat of government and the site of the Boston Massacre. The audio narration details the events that led to the deadly confrontation, emphasizing its importance in igniting revolutionary sentiments. Visiting inside costs $10, where artifacts and exhibits tell the story of colonial governance and Crispus Attucks, the first casualty of the massacre.

Boston’s Irish Heritage and the Granary Burying Ground

Further along the route, the tour discusses the Irish Famine, which prompted large waves of immigration to Boston, shaping the city’s cultural makeup. At the Granary Burying Ground, the final resting place of Samuel Adams, John Hancock, and Paul Revere, the narration walks through their contributions while passing by the Omni Parker House, famous for Boston Cream Pie.

Parks and Public Spaces: Boston Common and Public Garden

The tour ends with visits to Boston Common and the Public Garden. Boston Common, the nation’s first public park, features a monument to the Massachusetts 54th Volunteer Regiment, celebrated in the film “Glory”. The Public Garden offers scenic botanical arrangements and the famous “Make Way For Ducklings” statues. Optional activities include riding the Swan Boats around the lagoon for a small fee, or relaxing at nearby pubs like Cheers Beacon Hill after the tour.

Practical Details and Accessibility

Participants meet at Copps Hill Burying Ground and finish near the George Washington Statue in Boston Public Garden. The tour is entirely private, accommodating only your group, and is suitable for most travelers. Service animals are permitted. The voice-guided app is included, with no need for physical tickets beyond optional paid entries at some sites.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This tour is perfect for those seeking a flexible, budget-friendly way to explore Boston’s historic sites at their own pace. It suits visitors comfortable with walking and using a smartphone. The detailed narration about the city’s colonial past, immigrant influences, and modern urban development makes it ideal for history buffs and urban explorers alike. It is especially appealing for independent travelers who prefer to set their schedule and avoid large group tours.

Final Thoughts on the Boston GPS Guided Audio Tour

Investing just $9.99 for this tour offers considerable value, with extensive audio content that enriches understanding of Boston’s past. The GPS-enabled narration ensures a smooth experience, guiding you through the city’s most important sites without the need for a physical guide. The stops are well-chosen, covering key historical moments, influential figures, and significant landmarks.

The main limitation involves some sites requiring additional admission fees, but the main stops are accessible for free, and the detailed audio provides context that enhances the visit. The flexibility and in-depth coverage make this tour especially suited for independent travelers looking for an affordable, educational, and customizable Boston experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour take to complete?
The tour provides about 2.5 hours of audio, but most participants take around 3 to 4 hours to explore all stops comfortably.

Can I start the tour at any time?
Yes, the tour operates between 7:00am and 8:00pm, allowing you to choose a start time that fits your schedule.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it is designed for most travelers, and service animals are allowed. However, some areas may involve walking or standing for extended periods.

Do I need to download any app?
Yes, the tour uses the VoiceMap app, which is provided via a link and voucher code once you book.

Are there any entrance fees for the sites included?
Some sites like Old North Church, Paul Revere House, and Old State House require separate admission fees, which are not included in the tour price.

Is the tour accessible for people with limited mobility?
The data does not specify accessibility features, but most of the stops are outdoor and involve walking. Check individual sites for detailed accessibility options.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its comprehensive audio content, GPS-guided navigation, and affordable price make it a standout choice for self-guided exploration of Boston’s historic districts.

Can I pause and resume the tour?
Yes, since it’s a self-guided experience on your device, you can pause and resume whenever you like.

What is the cancellation policy?
The tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

Who is the provider of this tour?
The experience is provided by Knockabout Travel.