Explore Boston's Historic Back Bay with Boston By Foot
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves several hours of moderate walking on city sidewalks.
Overview
Discover the incredible history behind Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood. Join Boston By Foot for a private, in-depth tour exploring its architectural charm and urban evolution.
Becoming Back Bay
Travel through Boston's Back Bay, a marvel of 19th Century civil engineering
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About This Adventure
Embark on an exclusive journey through Boston's historic Back Bay neighborhood. This unique tour reveals the fascinating evolution of the area, showcasing its Victorian homes and the groundbreaking civil engineering feat of filling the bay. Discover the remarkable story behind this urban planning landmark and its lasting impact on the city.
Duration, Distance, Terrain
1.5 hours 0.9 miles at a moderate walking pace, stopping at various sites along the tour Mostly flat surfaces and little to no inclines
About
New Tour for 2023 Join us on a members only Member Preview Tour, or later in the season when this new tour is open to general registrations.
Take a trip through the Back Bay neighborhood and learn where Back Bay started, how it evolved, and where it is today. Discover why and how the Bay was filled, and peek into the homes of the Victorian residents and their servants. Learn what made Back Bay such an engineering marvel in its time.
On this tour, explore why the filling of the bay was considered the most ambitious civil engineering achievement in nineteenth-century America, and uncover how it was a landmark event of urban planning in every sense of the term.
Meeting location:
Meet your guide at the Public Garden in front of the George Washington Statue facing Arlington Street Finding Your Guide: All guides carry an 8×11 sign that says “Boston By Foot Walking Tours.”
Nearest Accessible MBTA Station: Arlington (Green Line)
What to bring
Comfortable shoes, dress for the weather, water bottle
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable walking shoes
The tour covers several city blocks with plenty of stops, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is recommended.
Bring a water bottle
Stay hydrated during warmer months by carrying a reusable water bottle with you on the tour.
Use sun protection in summer
Apply sunscreen and bring a hat or sunglasses to protect yourself from sun exposure during summer walks.
Plan for some stairs and curbs
Certain areas include staircases and uneven sidewalks, so be mindful if mobility is a concern.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eastern gray squirrels commonly seen in the neighborhood parks
- Urban peregrine falcons nesting on nearby high rises
History
Back Bay was originally a tidal bay that was filled in during the mid-1800s, turning marshland into one of Boston's most prestigious neighborhoods.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to preserve the historic buildings and green spaces, balancing urban development with respect for the area’s heritage.
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Adventure Hotspots in Boston
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Essential for navigating city streets comfortably throughout the tour.
Water bottle
Keeps you hydrated during warmer months when walking outdoors.
summer specific
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from UV rays during sunny summer days.
summer specific
Warm jacket or layers
Necessary for cooler fall temperatures and windy conditions.
fall specific