Boston Freedom Trail Private Car Tour

Explore Boston’s Historic Sites in Comfort and Style

The Boston Freedom Trail Private Car Tour offers an engaging way to experience Boston’s most iconic landmarks in just about four hours. Priced at $600 per group of up to 7 people, this tour combines the convenience of private transportation with the flexibility to explore on foot at key locations. Pickup service is included, and the tour features a mobile ticket for ease of access.

This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive look at Boston’s revolutionary past without the hassle of navigating alone. It’s especially suited for visitors who prefer a mix of driving and walking to get a detailed feel for the city’s historic neighborhoods and sites. Keep in mind that booking typically occurs 35 days in advance, and weather can affect the outdoor portions, which can be adjusted based on your preferences.

Key Points

• Private group experience for up to 7 people at $600
• Durations: approximately 4 hours, with flexible walking segments
• Includes visits to the Freedom Trail sites, USS Constitution, and Bunker Hill
• Walking inside sites like King’s Chapel, Faneuil Hall, and Old South Meeting House depends on hours of operation
• Comfortable transportation insured for all stops, with a focus on ease and accessibility
• Optional entry fees for some sites, e.g., King’s Chapel ($5) and Old South ($15)

Starting Point: A Comfortable Ride through Boston’s Historic Districts

The tour begins with private transportation, providing a relaxed way to see Boston’s oldest neighborhoods. The vehicle easily covers locations like Beacon Hill, School Street, and Charlestown, allowing you to focus on the scenery and commentary. The guide leads you through the city’s historic streets, sharing insights into Boston’s early settlement and revolutionary history.

This mix of driving and walking helps balance sightseeing with comfort. The vehicle’s insured status ensures a smooth ride, and the tour can be tailored if weather conditions aren’t favorable, giving you the flexibility to skip or adjust outdoor stops as needed.

Visiting the Massachusetts State House and Beacon Hill

The first stop takes you to the Massachusetts State House, where you can admire the gold-domed building from the outside. The tour then continues with a drive along Beacon Hill, a neighborhood renowned for its picturesque Mt. Vernon Street, Louisville Square, and the famous Acorn Street.

A highlight here is passing the Col. Robert Gould Shaw and the Massachusetts 54th Regiment Monument, honoring the African American soldiers of the Civil War. The drive along Beacon Street offers views of historic homes like the Harding House and landmarks such as the Boston Athenaeum. This segment lasts about 20 minutes and provides an overview of Boston’s most elegant historic neighborhoods.

Walking Through Boston’s Historic Cemeteries

Next, the tour involves a walk to King’s Chapel Burying Ground, Boston’s oldest cemetery, where many notable figures from Boston’s past are laid to rest. Inside the chapel, if open, visitors can appreciate the architecture and historical significance. Admission is not included in the tour price, so planning accordingly is recommended.

The nearby Granary Burying Ground continues the walk, where you find the graves of three signers of the Declaration of Independence. This site also marks the original location of Boston Latin School and the site of Anne Hutchinson’s and John Winthrop’s homes. This stop lasts approximately 25 minutes and offers tangible connections to Boston’s revolutionary and colonial era.

Exploring the Old South Meeting House and Faneuil Hall

A walk takes you past the Old South Meeting House, where you can view the exterior and, if interested, go inside for an additional fee. It played a central role in the Boston Tea Party and revolutionary protests. Nearby is the Old Colony House and the site of the Boston Massacre, both symbolizing the city’s colonial unrest.

The tour then proceeds to Faneuil Hall Marketplace—a lively area famed for its role in American history. Inside, you’ll find the Great Hall, where colonial leaders once gathered, and the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company Museum on the fourth floor, which is included with the tour if open. The visit here lasts about 30 minutes, offering both historical context and the chance to explore the bustling marketplace.

Inside Paul Revere’s House and Boston’s Oldest Streets

The group then moves to Boston’s North Square to visit the Paul Revere House, the oldest remaining structure in downtown Boston. Nearby, Father Taylor’s Seaman’s Bethel, now known as Sacred Heart Church, stands as a reminder of Boston’s maritime roots.

From here, the tour car takes you to Christ Church (Old North) on Copp’s Hill, famous for the two signal lanterns placed in its belfry on April 18, 1775, signaling Paul Revere’s ride. On the way, you pass Copp’s Hill Burial Ground, another historic cemetery with notable figures buried there.

Visiting the USS Constitution and Bunker Hill

The next highlight is a brief stop at the USS Constitution in Charlestown. You can walk aboard “Old Ironsides,” one of the six original frigates built during George Washington’s presidency. The ship’s history as a flagship of the U.S. Navy makes this an essential part of Boston’s revolutionary story. Admission to board the ship is free, and the stop lasts about 45 minutes.

Following this, the tour visits the Bunker Hill Monument in Breeds Hill, where the famous Battle of Bunker Hill took place. You can walk around the monument, take photos, and reflect on one of the most significant early conflicts of the American Revolution. This stop lasts around 25 minutes.

Practical Information and Tour Flexibility

The tour includes private transportation, making it easy to move between the stops efficiently. The total four-hour schedule accounts for driving time, walking, and site visits, with the possibility of adjusting the walking portions if weather or timing demands. The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, given the walking involved at multiple sites.

Additional fees apply if you choose to enter sites like King’s Chapel or Old South Meeting House. The tour also offers the convenience of pickup from your location within Boston.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded History Tour with Personal Touches

The Boston Freedom Trail Private Car Tour delivers an insightful journey through Boston’s revolutionary past, combining comfort, flexibility, and thoroughness. The inclusion of key sites like the USS Constitution, Bunker Hill, and iconic neighborhoods provides a comprehensive look at the city’s history.

While some sites require additional admission fees, the overall experience offers great value for those interested in American history and Boston’s founding stories. The ability to customize the walk portions ensures a tailored experience, making it especially appealing for visitors seeking a personalized and relaxed way to explore Boston’s historic core.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for young children or those with limited mobility?
Yes, but travelers should have moderate physical fitness as some walking is involved. The private transportation makes moving between sites easy, but walking at certain locations is necessary.

Can the tour be customized?
Yes, the schedule and stops can be tailored based on your interests and weather conditions. Special requests for substitutions are welcome.

Are all sites accessible during the tour?
Most sites like Faneuil Hall and the USS Constitution are accessible, but some locations like King’s Chapel and Old South Meeting House depend on their hours of operation.

What is included in the tour price?
The fee covers private transportation and most site visits. Entry fees for specific sites like King’s Chapel ($5) and Old South ($15) are not included but are optional.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book about 35 days ahead, as the tour is popular and fills quickly.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The walking portions can be modified or skipped according to your preferences, ensuring comfort regardless of weather.

Is the tour available on Mondays?
Yes, but note that USS Constitution is closed on Mondays, so the onboard visit would not be possible that day.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours prior are non-refundable.

Who is the tour provider?
The tour is operated by Mass Bay Tours, based in Boston, with a contact number of +16177715811 and email [email protected].