Tours & experiences

The Boston Massacre: An Audio Guide to the City’s Bloodiest Event

About this experience

On this self-guided walking tour, you’ll explore the months of tension between the British and American colonists that culminated in the bloody shooting, now known as the Boston Massacre.

“The riot on King Street” is what newspapers originally called the moment when British soldiers opened fire on an angry crowd in Boston on March 5, 1770.

Embark on a historical journey, exploring events leading to March 5th and the impact of British impositions like the Vagrancy, Quartering, and Tax acts. Stand on State Street, the site of the Boston Massacre, and hear history's whispered tale. Learn of Ebenezer Richardson's role in igniting tensions, and pay homage at the Granary Burying Ground, where Saml Adams rests. Marvel at Long Wharf, witness to Boston's occupation, and savor culinary delights at Quincy Market. Each step unveils a narrative of resilience, bringing Boston's history vividly to life.

At a glance

  • Duration: 1 hr 30 min–2 hr
  • Private experience

What is included

  • Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it
  • The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere
  • Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
  • Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
  • Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Not included

  • Entrance fees to any attractions

Itinerary and highlights

Begin your journey at Long Wharf, the oldest and longest wharf in America, where the British initiated their occupation of Boston, setting the stage for the tensions that led to the Boston Massacre.

Pass by the historic Chart House, built in 1760 by John Hancock, a prominent merchant and advocate for colonial rights, as you delve into the events leading up to the March 5th massacre.

Explore Central Wharf Plaza, a historic site connected to Boston's maritime history, where you'll learn about the Quartering Act and its impact on the relationship between British soldiers and American colonists.

Discover the Hungarian Memorial and its significance in commemorating the Boston Massacre, shedding light on the tumultuous period of colonial unrest.

Visit the true site of the Boston Massacre on State Street, where you'll hear the events as they unfolded and gain insight into the tragic confrontation between British soldiers and American colonists.

Pass by the Old State House, the second oldest building in Boston and a symbol of British occupation, where key figures like John Hancock and Samuel Adams gathered in protest following the massacre.

Explore Boston's Old City Hall, a historic landmark where you'll learn about the trial of Captain Preston and the seven British soldiers, and the legal challenges faced by patriot John Adams in their defense.

Pause at the Josiah Quincy III Statue, honoring a prominent figure in Boston's revolutionary history, and reflect on the legacy of resistance and defiance against British rule.

Pay homage at the grave of John Hancock, a pivotal figure in the American Revolution, and learn about his role in advocating for colonial rights and liberties.

Visit the grave of Samuel Adams, another influential patriot, at the Granary Burying Ground, and discover the lasting impact of his contributions to American independence.

Meeting and pickup information

  • The tour starts on Long Wharf in Boston on the opposite side of the Chart House restaurant at 60 Long Wharf, Boston, MA 02110, USA.

Languages and tickets

  • English — Audio
  • English — Written
  • Mobile Only

Tour operator

  • VoiceMap Audio Tours

Meeting points and locations

Accessibility and practical details

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Please bring your own smartphone and headphones

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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