Private Literary Tour in Boston’s Historic Hub
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels requiring basic walking stamina over relatively flat urban terrain.
Overview
Explore Boston’s literary landmarks on a private 1.5-hour guided walk. Discover iconic sites and stories from Emerson, Alcott, and more in this intimate experience.
Private Tour: The Hub of Literary America
Walk in the footsteps of literary greats! • 1.5 Hours
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About This Adventure
Explore the literary heart of Victorian Boston on a captivating 1.5-hour guided tour. Walk in the footsteps of iconic writers like Emerson and Alcott, visiting historic sites such as the Old Corner Bookstore and the Athenaeum. Discover the stories behind their influence and the city's literary legacy. Perfect for groups!
From April to mid-November, Private tours are bookable online for groups of up to 20 people with at least 1 weeks notice. To request a private tour for groups of more than 20 people, or in the fall/winter, use the Private Tour Request form. Please provide at least 2 weeks notice in advance of your preferred tour date for larger groups.
Private tour request form link
Duration, Distance, Terrain
1.5 hours 1 mile at a moderate pace, stopping at various sites along the tour
About
Journey to Victorian Boston and see where writers and poets including Ralph Waldo Emerson, Louisa May Alcott and Henry David Thoreau gathered to share new ideas and influence society!
Learn how local publishers lured Charles Dickens and other famous writers to Boston.
Discover why Edgar Allan Poe rejected Boston as his home.
On this fascinating guided tour, walk in the footsteps of literary greats as you stop outside the Old Corner Bookstore, Louisa May Alcott’s home, the famous Athenaeum private library, and more.
Meeting location:
Meet your guide in the plaza at School and Washington Streets, between Walgreens and the Irish Famine Memorial.
Finding Your Guide: All guides carry an 8×11 sign that says “Boston By Foot Walking Tours.”
Nearest MBTA Station: State (Blue & Orange Lines)
What to bring
Comfortable shoes, dress for the weather, water bottle
Adventure Tips
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
The tour involves walking on city sidewalks and cobblestone streets, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Arrive Early to Meet Your Guide
Arriving 10 minutes before the tour start time ensures a smooth check-in and introduction.
Bring a Lightweight Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is important on the walk, especially during warmer months.
Check Weather Forecast
Since the tour is outdoors, be prepared for rain or strong sun with appropriate clothing or protection.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Peregrine falcons nesting on high-rise buildings
- Urban squirrels commonly seen in nearby parks
History
Boston served as a pivotal literary hub in the 19th century, with authors like Emerson shaping transcendentalist thought right here.
Conservation
Boston By Foot supports sustainable tourism by encouraging walking tours that minimize environmental impact while preserving historical sites.
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Adventure Hotspots in Boston
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Essential for navigating city streets and cobblestones comfortably.
Light jacket or layers
Spring weather can be cool, so layering helps you adapt as temperatures change.
spring specific
Sunscreen
Protect your skin during sunny, warm summer afternoons on the tour.
summer specific
Umbrella or raincoat
Helpful for sudden rain showers common in fall season.
fall specific