Discover Boston's Art Deco Gems in the Financial District
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Basic fitness is sufficient; expect light walking on city streets for up to three hours.
Overview
Unlock the secrets of Boston's Financial District on a private Art Deco walking tour. Explore iconic buildings and hear stories of architectural innovation in this captivating downtown experience.
Art Deco in Boston's Financial District
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About This Adventure
Explore Boston's hidden Art Deco gems on a captivating tour through the Financial District. Discover the unique architectural style that defines this era, learn about the influential designers, and gain insights into the historical context of these stunning buildings. Experience the downtown landscape like never before, uncovering beauty often overlooked.
Duration, Distance, Terrain
1.5 hours 1 mile at a moderate pace, stopping at various sites along the tour
About
Art Deco is said to be one of the few architectural styles that most Americans can recognize and name, and its enduring popularity bears this out. Though Boston is less well-known for its Art Deco architecture than New York and Miami, it can claim examples of Art Deco design that would rival New York's finest. The tour provides not only narrative on individual buildings and their architects, but also offers context and background on the design elements and influences of American Art Deco. Boston's greatest concentration of Art Deco is in the city's Financial District, an area substantially leveled by fire in 1872 and ripe for a second cycle of redevelopment fifty years later.
Discover the downtown you often see, but rarely notice.
Meeting location:
Meet your guide at the Angell Memorial Fountain in Post Office Square
Finding Your Guide: All guides carry an 8×11 sign that says “Boston By Foot Walking Tours.”
What to bring
Comfortable shoes, dress for the weather, water bottle
Adventure Tips
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking several blocks through the Financial District, so comfortable footwear is a must.
Bring a Camera
Art Deco architecture offers intricate details perfect for photography lovers.
Check Weather Forecast
Tours are mostly outdoors, so dress appropriately for rain or shine.
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before the tour starts to ensure a prompt departure.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Pigeons
- Urban squirrels
History
Boston's Financial District saw major growth during the 1920s and 30s, with Art Deco architecture reflecting the optimism and prosperity of that era.
Conservation
Boston prioritizes preserving its historic architecture, combining modern sustainability efforts with the protection of these culturally significant structures.
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Adventure Hotspots in Boston
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Supportive shoes are vital for navigating city blocks comfortably.
Light Jacket or Sweater
Spring temperatures can be cool, so layer up to stay comfortable.
spring specific
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is important, especially during warm summer days.
summer specific
Camera or Smartphone
Capture the intricate Art Deco details and historic streetscapes along the way.