Boston Lexington and Concord Revolutionary War full day tour

Uncover Boston’s Revolutionary Roots with a Full-Day Private Tour

This Revolutionary War full-day tour in Boston and Concord offers an engaging experience for history enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. Priced at $950 per group of up to 6, the tour lasts approximately 6 hours, making it a comprehensive yet manageable exploration of key American independence sites. The tour begins at 10:00 am from Flour Bakery + Cafe in Boston and includes private transportation, providing a personalized and comfortable journey through historic neighborhoods and battlegrounds.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its flexible itinerary, allowing adjustments to spend more time at sites that interest you most. It covers notable locations such as Lexington Green, the Old North Bridge, and Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, with visits to significant landmarks like Bunker Hill Monument and the Battle Road Trail. The tour also offers optional visits to Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House, perfect for fans of Little Women, although admission fees are not included in the tour price.

While the tour is rich in historical detail, it also balances sightseeing with leisurely moments, including lunch stops (not included in the price) and photo opportunities. This makes it an ideal choice for those wanting a comprehensive, educational experience in just one day, with the added advantage of personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

• Private, customizable 6-hour tour for groups of up to 6
• Includes transportation and visits to major Revolutionary War sites
• Flexible schedule allows more time at preferred locations
• Highlights include Lexington Green, Bunker Hill, Old North Bridge, and Battle Road Trail
• Optional visit to Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House (admission not included)
• Rated 5.0 from 9 reviews for knowledgeable guides and engaging storytelling

Starting Point and Tour Logistics in Boston

The tour departs from Flour Bakery + Cafe in Boston at 10:00 am, with the end point returning to the same location. The private transportation ensures a smooth ride between the sites, with most travelers able to participate easily due to the tour’s accessible nature. The tour is booked on average 64 days in advance, reflecting strong interest and satisfaction amongst previous participants.

Pickup is offered, adding extra convenience, and the mobile ticket format helps streamline entry. The activity is suitable for most travelers and allows service animals, making it accessible to a broader audience. The full refund policy applies if canceled at least 24 hours beforehand, providing reassurance for flexible planning.

Exploring the Key Revolutionary War Sites

Visiting Boston Neighborhoods: South Boston, Charlestown, and Harvard Square

The tour kicks off with a drive through South Boston, offering a glimpse of the neighborhood known as “Southie,” with no admission fee. This area’s gritty, authentic character sets the stage for Boston’s revolutionary history. Next, the guide leads you through Dorchester Heights, an important strategic site that helped bring about the end of the Boston siege, emphasizing its significance in the war.

A drive through Charlestown follows, passing USS Constitution, one of America’s oldest ships, adding maritime history to the journey. The tour then pauses at Harvard Square, where visitors can walk through the Harvard Yard and see the historic buildings that housed minutemen, militia, and George Washington. This 30-minute stop combines architecture with history, offering a well-rounded perspective.

Discovering Lexington and Concord: The First Shots of the Revolution

The trip continues with a 45-minute walk across Lexington Green, the site of the initial shots fired that marked the start of armed conflict. Visitors can explore the green, hear stories of the battle, and understand its symbolic importance. Nearby, Buckman Tavern offers exterior views of where militia waited as British forces arrived, providing context on military preparations.

The Hancock-Clarke House is another key stop, where Sam Adams and John Hancock took refuge, avoiding British capture. Here, the guide narrates the dangerous moments leading up to the battles, giving insight into the local resistance.

Following the Route of the British Forces

The Battle Road Trail traces the route taken by British soldiers on April 19, 1775, with a 20-minute stop at the Paul Revere capture site. The Munroe Tavern, once a British headquarters and hospital, offers a vivid picture of the military occupation during the conflict. These stops reveal the intensity and chaos of the early fighting, with optional admission fees.

Historic Landmarks and Optional Cultural Visits

A visit to Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House is available for fans of Little Women, with a 45-minute stop to explore the home where the author’s stories were shaped. Though admission is not included, this optional visit adds a literary twist to the day. If visitors prefer, the guide can pass by without stopping, ensuring flexibility.

Final Stops: Cemeteries, the Old North Bridge, and Beyond

The tour concludes with a visit to Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, where many notable authors are buried, providing a peaceful and reflective moment. The highlight is the Old North Bridge, where the “shot heard round the world” was fired; a 15-minute walk onto the historic site allows for photos and storytelling about the battle.

On the way back to Boston, a 15-minute stop at Walden Pond State Reservation offers a tranquil end, with views of the pond where Henry David Thoreau wrote and reflected on nature and society.

The Expertise of the Guides and Personalization

Participants frequently praise the knowledge and storytelling skills of the guides, particularly Martin and Christian. Reviews highlight their ability to explain complex historical events clearly and share engaging anecdotes. The congenial demeanor and passion for history make the experience enjoyable and informative.

The flexible itinerary means the guide can adjust timings based on your interests. For instance, if you’re more interested in the literary history of Concord, the Orchard House may take priority, while others might focus on the military sites. This personalized approach is a key strength of the tour.

The Overall Value and Suitability

For $950 per group, this tour offers a comprehensive, private experience that covers many of the most significant Revolution sites around Boston and Concord. The private transportation and tailored stops make it a valuable option for those seeking a deep dive into American independence history without the crowds of larger group tours.

However, note that lunch and Orchard House admission are not included, so budgeting for extra expenses is advisable. The 6-hour duration is suitable for most travelers, but those seeking a more relaxed pace or specific sites may want to customize their day.

Final Thoughts on the Boston Revolutionary War Tour

This full-day private tour stands out for its engaging guides, customizable schedule, and in-depth exploration of key historical locations. The balance of battlefield visits, neighborhood walks, and optional cultural stops makes it ideal for history buffs, literature lovers, or anyone with a genuine interest in the roots of American independence.

While the cost might seem high for some, the personalized experience and expert narration provide a level of depth and comfort difficult to find in larger group options. The high ratings and glowing reviews reflect consistent satisfaction with the knowledgeable guides and well-chosen sites.

This tour offers an authentic, educational experience wrapped in a flexible, private format that can be tailored to your preferences—perfect for visitors who want a meaningful, well-paced exploration of Boston’s revolutionary past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is accessible for those with service animals. Children interested in American history will find it engaging.

Are lunch and Orchard House admission included?
No, both are not included. You can plan for a lunch break and decide whether to visit Orchard House.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the itinerary is flexible, allowing more time at preferred locations or skipping certain stops, based on your interests.

What is the cancelation policy?
Free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours prior are non-refundable.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, private transportation is included, ensuring a comfortable and private experience.

How long are the stops?
Most stops range from 10 to 45 minutes, with some optional visits being longer if you choose.

What are the main highlights?
Key sites include Lexington Green, Bunker Hill, Old North Bridge, and Battle Road Trail, offering a comprehensive view of the revolution.

What is the tour guide expertise?
Guides like Martin and Christian are praised for their knowledge, storytelling, and passion for history.

Is this tour good value for money?
Considering the private format, flexible schedule, and extensive site visits, it offers good value for those seeking an in-depth, personalized experience.

Can the tour accommodate public transportation or is it strictly private?
The tour is private, with transportation provided, but it is near public transit for ease of access to the starting point.

How far in advance should I book?
It is recommended to book about 2 months in advance due to high demand and limited group size.