Rebels and Red Coats; Tales of the Revolution

Discover Boston’s Revolutionary History with a Kid-Friendly Tour for Just $20

The Rebels and Red Coats; Tales of the Revolution tour offers an engaging and educational experience perfect for families. Priced at $20 per person, this one-hour walking tour takes visitors through some of Boston’s most iconic Revolutionary War sites. It features a lively, kid-friendly approach that combines history with humor, making it enjoyable for both children and adults.

Starting at Faneuil Hall Marketplace, the tour visits key landmarks such as the site of the Boston Massacre and historic meeting spots linked to the Boston Tea Party. Despite its short duration, it packs in plenty of stories and sights, with the added benefit of keeping the walking distance under half a mile—ideal for young children and families seeking a manageable pace.

The tour is hosted by knowledgeable guides, celebrated in reviews for their entertaining storytelling and ability to keep kids engaged. This experience is perfect for families looking to combine fun with learning, although it is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness due to the walking involved. The tour departs at 10:00 am from Faneuil Hall and ends a few blocks away at the Granary Burying Ground.

Key Points

• Family-friendly and humorous approach to Boston’s Revolutionary War sites
• Price of $20 per person, lasting approximately 1 hour
• Highlights the Freedom Trail with a focus on key landmarks
• Keeps walking distance under half a mile, suitable for children
• Hosted by engaging guides praised for their storytelling skills
• Operates in light rain, with cancellations possible for unsafe weather

The Starting Point: Faneuil Hall Marketplace

The tour begins at Faneuil Hall, known as the “Birthplace of the American Revolution”. This historic site serves as an ideal starting location, where visitors get a quick introduction to Boston’s revolutionary past. The tour makes a point to include the site of the Boston Massacre and the location of critical meetings that led to independence, such as discussions related to the Boston Tea Party.

While the tour does not include access to the buildings or museums, access to cemeteries nearby—notably the King’s Chapel Burying Ground and Granary Burying Ground—adds a sense of historic atmosphere. The latter is home to Revolutionary heroes and literary figures, offering a tangible connection to Boston’s colonial past.

Exploring the Historic Cemeteries of Boston

The King’s Chapel Burying Ground and Granary Burying Ground are integral stops on this tour. The King’s Chapel Burying Ground is an old Puritan cemetery where some of Boston’s first residents are buried, providing a glimpse into early colonial life. The Granary Burying Ground, Boston’s third oldest cemetery, features gravestones of notable Revolutionary figures and writers, making it a poignant stop for history enthusiasts.

Both cemeteries are accessible during the tour and offer a quiet, reflective space to appreciate Boston’s colonial roots. Since the access is included as part of the tour, it enhances the overall experience without extra cost.

Highlights of the Route Along the Freedom Trail

The tour covers significant sections of the Freedom Trail, a famous path through Boston that highlights historic sites. While the entire trail stretches further, this tour emphasizes key highlights within a compact area, keeping the walk under half a mile to accommodate younger participants comfortably.

Stops include the oldest commercial building in downtown Boston, which boasts its own history, and the site of the discussions leading to the Revolution. The guides use lively reenactments and humor to bring these stories to life, making history accessible and entertaining.

Suitable for Families with Children

This tour is specifically designed to be kid-friendly and humorous. Guides incorporate acting and funny anecdotes, which help capture children’s attention. The tour works well for children aged 6 and above and is most appreciated by families seeking an educational experience that doesn’t bore young minds.

Children must be accompanied by adults, and the tour requires at least three guests to operate. It is recommended for families with moderate physical fitness, as walking on uneven terrain and hills is involved. The tour runs rain or shine, with cancellations possible only for unsafe weather.

Practical Details and Booking

The meeting point is at Faneuil Hall Market Place at 10:00 am, and the tour concludes a few blocks away at the Granary Burying Ground. The duration of about 1 hour makes it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule. The tour is hosted by Wicked Good Boston Tours, who offer a mobile ticket for convenience.

Guests are encouraged to tip guides, though gratuities are not included in the price. Since this is a walking tour, participants should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a moderate pace. The tour is perfect for families wanting a light, interactive introduction to Boston’s revolutionary history.

Review Highlights and Praise for the Guides

The tour has a perfect rating of 5.0 based on five reviews, with praise often directed towards the enthusiastic and engaging guides. Reviewers frequently mention how the guides use acting and humor to keep children interested while delivering accurate historical information. The inclusion of a scavenger hunt and hands-on activities adds an element of fun that keeps kids engaged throughout.

Reviewers also highlight that the storytelling makes history enjoyable and accessible, even for those who might not typically enjoy history tours. Both children and adults leave with a better understanding of Boston’s role in the American Revolution, thanks to the guides’ dynamic presentation style.

Cancellation Policy and Flexibility

Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts, making it flexible for changing plans. If weather conditions are unsafe, the tour will be canceled and fully refunded or rescheduled. The tour requires a minimum of three guests, and if the minimum isn’t met, a refund is issued.

The Sum Up: A Fun and Educational Boston Experience for Families

Rebels and Red Coats; Tales of the Revolution offers a unique, family-friendly way to explore Boston’s revolutionary history. For $20, visitors enjoy a short, lively walking tour packed with stories, landmarks, and humorous reenactments that keep children entertained and learning.

While it doesn’t include museum access, the focus on key historic sites and cemeteries provides a compelling glimpse into colonial Boston. Its engaging storytelling and manageable walk make it an excellent choice for families looking for an interactive historical experience.

This tour suits families with children aged 6 and older, especially those interested in history presented in a light-hearted way. The short duration and accessible route make it a great addition to a day of sightseeing in Boston, especially for those seeking an enjoyable mix of education and fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for young children?
Yes, the tour is designed to be kid-friendly, with guides using humor and acting to keep children engaged. It is best suited for children aged 6 and above.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, making it easy to include in a day of sightseeing.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Faneuil Hall Market Place at 10:00 am, and ends a few blocks away at the Granary Burying Ground.

What is included in the price?
The price includes a walking tour of the Freedom Trail highlights and access to cemeteries as available. Museum or building access is not included.

Are there any weather considerations?
Yes, the tour runs in light rain, but it will be canceled in unsafe or unpleasant weather conditions.

How many people can join the tour?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring a friendly and manageable experience.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility concerns?
The tour covers uneven terrain and hills, so it is not recommended for travelers with mobility issues.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.