easy
1.5 hours
Suitable for most fitness levels given the gentle walking pace and short duration
Discover Boston’s oldest burying grounds on a 1.5-hour walking tour revealing Puritan customs, gravestone art, and burial traditions. Unearth stories from the city’s past on this one-of-a-kind experience.
Explore Boston’s rich history on the private 1.5-hour "Grave Undertakings: Boston's Burying Grounds" tour with Boston By Foot. This unique walking experience takes you through three significant burying grounds in downtown Boston, offering a fascinating look into the customs surrounding death in Puritan New England. You'll uncover the stories behind old gravestones and the evolving art of memorializing the deceased during a time when burial customs were deeply entwined with cultural beliefs and religion. Along the way, your expert guide shares insights on the symbolism etched into the stones and how these cemeteries act as open-air museums reflecting Boston’s early society. Perfect for history buffs and curious travelers alike, this intimate tour paints a vivid picture of life, death, and tradition from centuries ago. The experience not only provides a glimpse into Boston's past but also invites reflection on how these historic spaces are preserved today. Whether you’re a local or visiting, this tour connects you to Boston's cultural roots in an unforgettable way.
The tour covers uneven cemetery grounds and city sidewalks, so sturdy, comfortable shoes are recommended.
Stay hydrated during your 1.5-hour tour, especially during warmer months.
Maintain a respectful tone in the burying grounds to honor the historic sites and visitors.
Arriving a few minutes early ensures you get a good spot for the tour in case of limited group size.
Boston’s burying grounds date back to the 1600s and serve as resting places for many prominent colonial figures.
Local organizations work to preserve these historic sites through careful maintenance and community education.
Provides support and ease during the walking tour over varied terrain.
Helps keep you hydrated during warmer weather tours.
summer specific
Useful for unexpected spring showers to stay dry and comfortable.
spring specific
Necessary for staying warm during colder months when touring the outdoor sites.
winter specific