Explore Johnny Tremain's Boston: Colonial History Walk
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels as it involves steady walking on city sidewalks at a moderate pace.
Overview
Join a 1.5-hour walking tour through Colonial Boston with Boston By Foot, following Johnny Tremain’s path along the Freedom Trail. Discover the real and fictional stories that brought America’s fight for freedom to life.
Johnny Tremain's Boston
Relive the adventures of Johnny Tremain in Colonial Boston!
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 1.5-hour walking tour through Colonial Boston, retracing the footsteps of Johnny Tremain. Explore iconic Freedom Trail sites while discovering the intertwining stories of fictional characters and real patriots. Experience the vibrant history that shaped America’s fight for freedom in the very streets where it all began.
Duration, Distance, Terrain
1.5 hours 1 mile at a moderate pace, stopping at various sites along the tour Mostly flat surfaces and little to no inclines
About
Relive the adventures of Johnny Tremain in Colonial Boston based on Esther Forbes' prize-winning coming-of-age novel featuring a young boy who gets caught up in the whirlwind of events that led up to the American Revolution.
Johnny's story unfolds in downtown and North End locales, many of which are today's Freedom Trail sites including the Old State House, Copp's Hill Burying Ground, Paul Revere's House, and the Old North Church.
On this tour, hear of Johnny's fictional friends, like Rab and Cilla, but also of the actual patriots he met along the way, such as Dr. Joseph Warren, John Hancock, William Dawes, and Paul Revere. Get acquainted with the bustling and political town of Johnny's Boston that has become the great American city of today.
To trace Johnny's footsteps is also to experience the larger tale of America's fight for freedom.
Meeting location:
Meet your guide at the corner of State and Congress Streets, outside the entrance to 60 State Street
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 walking shoes
The tour covers historic cobblestone streets, so sturdy, comfortable shoes are essential.
Bring a water bottle
Stay hydrated as the tour lasts one and a half hours through outdoor city streets.
Arrive early for check-in
Plan to arrive 10-15 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth start.
Prepare for weather changes
Boston weather can shift quickly; layering your clothing helps you stay comfortable.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Pigeons common in Boston Common
- Squirrels in the city parks
History
Boston’s Freedom Trail connects sixteen significant historical sites tied to America’s Revolutionary history, including landmarks featured in Johnny Tremain’s story.
Conservation
Boston By Foot promotes walking tours to minimize carbon footprints and encourages visitors to respect historic sites to preserve them for future generations.
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Adventure Hotspots in Boston
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive shoes are important for navigating Boston’s uneven cobblestone streets.
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated during warm weather is essential for comfort and safety.
summer specific
Light rain jacket
A waterproof layer helps keep you dry during spring showers.
spring specific
Layered clothing
Layering allows you to adjust to fluctuating fall temperatures throughout the day.
fall specific