Boston, Massachusetts (Multi-Day Tour)
Tour package includes educational Step-On-Guides

Boston is the capital and most populous city of Massachusetts and the largest city in New England.  Founded in 1630, Boston is one of the oldest and most culturally significant cities in the United States and is recognized as a global or world city.  The city lies at the center of Greater Boston which also includes the cities of Cambridge, Quincy and Newton, the town of Brookline and many suburban communities farther from Boston.  The Greater Boston area also encompasses portions of the state of New Hampshire.  The Boston metropolitan area is the nation's 11th largest.  In addition, Boston's reputation as the ‘Athens of America’ derives in large part from the teaching and research activities of more than 100 colleges and universities located in its metropolitan area.  These include some of the most famous universities in the world.  Explore one of North America’s greatest cities and enjoy the role of Boston’s colonial landmarks in the events that led to the birth of the United States.

BOSTON COMMON

Boston Common is Boston’s most famous public park and the oldest city park in the United States; dating as far back as 1634 (it is over 50-acres in size).  It is located in the heart of Boston, bordering the downtown area, historic Beacon Hill and the connecting Public Garden (the gardens are part of the ‘emerald necklace’ which is a series of connected public parks in the area).  The Common is bounded by Tremont Street, Park Street, Beacon Street, Charles Street and Boylston Street.  The purpose of the Common has changed over the years.  Originally it was owned by William Blaxton until it was bought from him by the city.  It was used as a camp by the British before the Revolutionary War and was where they departed from for the Battle of Lexington and Concord.  Up until 1830, it was used for cattle grazing.  It was also used for public hangings until 1817, most of which were from a large oak which was replaced with gallows in 1769.  Today it serves as a public park for all to use for formal or informal gatherings or just to enjoy the park and its surroundings.  Boston Common is also the start of the famous Freedom Trail.  Students will enjoy a guided walking tour of the Common and learn the rich history of this park nestled right in the heart of Boston.

BUNKER HILL

‘Don't fire until you see the whites of their eyes!’ This legendary order has come to symbolize the conviction and determination of the ill-equipped American colonists facing powerful British forces during the famous battle fought on this site on June 17, 1775.  The battle is popularly known as ‘The Battle of Bunker Hill’ although most of the fighting actually took place on Breed's Hill.  Although the British Army ultimately prevailed in the battle, the colonists greatly surprised the British by repelling two major assaults and inflicting great casualties.  Today a 221 foot granite obelisk and visitor center marks the site of the first major battle of the American Revolution.

FANEUIL HALL & QUINCY MARKET

Faneuil Hall, first built in 1742, sits at the site of the old town dock.  Town meetings, held here between 1764 and 1774, heard Samuel Adams and others lead cries of protest against the imposition of taxes on the colonies.  The building was enlarged in 1806.  Market stalls on the first floor service shoppers much as they did in Paul Revere's day.  Located adjacent to Faneuil Hall, the Quincy Market has played an integral role in the life of Boston’s residents for over 250 years.  Today what is also known as Faneuil Hall Marketplace is still Boston's central meeting place, offering visitors and residents alike an unparalleled urban marketplace.  The unique and burgeoning array of shops, restaurants and outdoor entertainment has made it a premiere urban destination that attracts more than 20 million visitors annually.

FREEDOM TRAIL

Bostonians blazed a trail of freedom from colony to independence.  They met in town meetings to argue contemporary issues, spoke against excessive taxes and were among the leaders in organizing a defense against British dominion.  Today, the sites of Boston National Historical Park symbolize the accomplishments of that revolutionary generation via the Freedom Trail.  The Freedom Trail gives students a coherent view of the city's role in the nation's history – the Freedom Trail today is a unique collection of museums, churches, meeting houses, burying grounds, parks and historic markers.  Each site brings to life the American ideals of freedom of speech, religion, government and self-determination.  Students will enjoy this three mile guided walking tour of the 16 sites and structures that tell the story of the American Revolution and beyond.

GRANARY BURIAL GROUND

Adjacent to Park Street Church is the Granary Burying Ground where many notable Americans are interred, including Patriots John Hancock, Paul Revere, James Otis, Robert Treat Paine and Samuel Adams.  Also buried here are the victims of the Boston Massacre as well as whole families of settlers ravaged by fire and plague.

HARVARD

Known as one of the finest academic universities in the world, this magnificent campus will have student marveling at its beauty.  Your guided tour will include a walk through the famous Harvard Yard – a grassy area of about 25-acres adjacent to Harvard Square which constitutes the oldest part and the center of the campus.  It contains 13 of Harvard College's 17 freshman dormitories, as well as four libraries, five buildings of classrooms and academic departments.

HOUSE OF THE SEVEN GABLES

The House of the Seven Gables inspired author Nathaniel Hawthorne to write his legendary novel of the same name.  When you arrive at the House of the Seven Gables in Salem – which constitutes its own national historic district on the National Register of Historic places – guides will warmly greet you for an unforgettable historical experience.  Built in 1668, this is the oldest surviving 17th century wooden mansion in New England.  The home also has an 18th century granite sea wall and two seaside Colonial Revival Gardens.  The museum houses more than 2,000 artifacts and objects, more than 40 framed works, 500 photographs and glass plate negatives, and more than 650 volumes in the research and rare book library.  Engage students through an experience with by which Economics, Geography, History, Literature, Mathematics and Science come to life.

JOHN F. KENNEDY PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY & MUSEUM

Tour the Museum at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and relive the powerful story of the Kennedy years.  In their three theaters, period settings and 25 dramatic multimedia exhibits, students will enter the recreated world of the Kennedy Presidency for a first-hand experience of John F. Kennedy’s life, legacy and leadership.  See events of the 1960s through President Kennedy’s eyes and narrated in his voice.  Experience his optimism and wit and be inspired by the hope and idealism that captivated America.  Visit the Museum in this striking I.M. Pei building on Boston’s waterfront.

KING’S CHAPEL

King's Chapel was organized as an Anglican congregation at a meeting in Boston's Town House, the city hall of the day, on June 15, 1686.  Its first house of worship was a small wooden meeting house at the corner of Tremont and School Streets where the church stands today.  The congregation grew and its building was in a bad state of repair as the middle of the 18th century approached.  After difficult negotiations with Boston officials, the congregation acquired more land on the east side of its lot.  Peter Harrison of Newport designed the new, larger building and construction began in 1749.  The stone building, made of Quincy granite, was opened in 1754.  A bell that was forged in England was hung in 1772.  It cracked in 1814 and was recast by Paul Revere and rehung in 1816.  Revere is quoted as saying it was ‘the sweetest bell I ever made.’  It still rings every Sunday morning to summon parishioners to service.  King's Chapel closed in 1776 for a few short months following the exile of Royalists but reopened following the loss of its minister for the funeral of Patriot General Joseph Warren, killed at the Battle of Bunker Hill.  During the Revolution members of Old South Meeting House, a Congregational parish, and a few King's Chapel members continued to worship there.  During the Revolution it was known for a time as ‘the Stone Chapel.’ King’s Chapel is one of the many stops on the Freedom Trail.

LEXINGTON & CONCORD

Lexington burst onto the American historic scene on April 19, 1775 when the first confrontation between the British regulars and the local Minute Men took place to begin the American Revolution.  Names like Adams, Hancock, Revere, Parker and Munroe – and others not so well known – are all part of that historic event.  You begin your tour at Lexington Battle Green.  It was here, on the morning of April 19, 1775, that ‘the first blood was spilt in the dispute with Great Britain,’ as George Washington wrote in his diary.  In this first skirmish 77 Minutemen (local colonists who had volunteered to be first responders to military and other threats) faced British Regulars.  Eight Minutemen lost their lives and 10 were wounded.  After the battle Samuel Adams exclaimed to John Hancock, ‘What a glorious morning for America.’  Your stop at Lexington Battle Green also includes a stop at the Old North Bridge where students will stand on the spot where an embattled farmer (whose name we will never know) stood his ground and fired ‘the shot heard round the world.’  Next, you will view the Minutemen Statue.  Erected in 1900, this statue by Henry H. Kitson memorializes the Lexington Minutemen.  You will end your guided tour at Minute Man National Historical Park.  Located within the towns of Lexington, Lincoln and Concord, the Park preserves and protects the significant historic sites, structures, properties and landscape associated with the opening battles of the American Revolution, and interprets the colonial struggle for natural rights and freedoms.  Today, Minute Man National Park consists of over 900-acres of lands that wind along original segments of the Battle Road used on April 19, 1775.  At the Park’s visitor’s center students experience a multi-media theatre program, exhibits and a book store.

MUSEUM OF SCIENCE

The Boston Museum of Science boasts an extensive collection of exciting science-based exhibits, both permanent and temporary.  In the main building students can experience natural animal habitats, view a replica of the first space capsule and an archaeological dig.  The Museum has remained on the cutting edge of science education by developing innovative and interactive exhibits and programs that both entertain and educate.  Two of the Museum's more recent additions – the Roger L. Nichols Gallery for temporary exhibits and the Mugar Omni Theater –exemplify the Museum of Science's commitment to making science fun and accessible to all.  More than one million students visit the Museum and its more than 400 interactive exhibits each year.  Students can enjoy self-exploration or a guided tour of the Museum.

NEW ENGLAND AQUARIUM & IMAX THEATRE

Want to see sea lions smile and penguins play? Then you better head to the New England Aquarium – one of the city's perpetually popular student attractions.  Once inside, you will be immersed in a watery world where you can wave at cavorting sea lions, laugh at the antics of otters and press your nose right up against the glass of the poisonous fish tank.  At the center core of the Aquarium is the four-story 200,000 gallon Giant Ocean Tank – a Coral Reef environment filled with curious sea critters ranging from sea turtles and tropical fishes to sharks, stingrays and moray eels.  When you’re done, kick back and enjoy a movie on the IMAX Theatre giant screen.  A visit to the New England Aquarium & IMAX Theatre is an educational experience that brings a better understanding of marine life to students of all ages.

OLD NORTH CHURCH

The enduring fame of the Old North Church began on the evening of April 18, 1775 when the church sexton, Robert Newman, climbed the steeple and held high two lanterns as a signal from Paul Revere that the British were marching to Lexington and Concord by sea and not by land.  This fateful event ignited the American Revolution.  The Old North Church is officially known as Christ Church in the City of Boston.  It was built in 1723 and is the oldest standing church building in Boston.  In 1775, on the eve of Revolution, the majority of the congregation was loyal to the British King and many held official positions in the royal government including the Royal Governor of Massachusetts, making Robert Newman's loyalty to the Patriot cause even more extraordinary.  Today the Old North Foundation, devoted to the preservation of Old North Church and to creating educational and interpretive programs for students, is one of many stops on the Freedom Trail.

OLD STATE HOUSE MUSEUM

Also known as Boston's 'Towne House,’ the Old State House dates back to 1713.  It was the center of all political life and debate in colonial Boston and has been called one of the most important public buildings in Colonial America.  The Boston Massacre took place beneath the balcony.  The massacre site is marked by a cobblestone mosaic in the sidewalk.  On July 18, 1776 citizens gathered in the street to hear the Declaration of Independence read from the building's balcony – the first public reading in Massachusetts (an event reenacted each July 4th).  The Old State House was a natural meeting place for the exchange of economic and local news.  Today the Old State House is located amid the skyscrapers of downtown Boston and is a museum of the city's history.  The Old State House, operated by the Bostonian Society and owned by the City of Boston, is a site within the Boston National Historical Park.  The Old State House Museum is one of the many stops on the Freedom Trail.

OLD STURBRIDGE VILLAGE

In the years 1790 to 1840 a new nation took shape.  In rural towns across New England ordinary people worked to better their lives, build strong communities, apply new technologies and define the meaning of democracy.  Learn their story at Old Sturbridge Village (the largest history museum in the northeast) as you journey into the past.  The Museum recreates the daily work activities and community celebrations of a rural 19th century town in authentic – living history – fashion.  It's fun to dwell in the past.  Explore early New England in the company of farmers, craftsmen and fascinating characters.  Celebrate yesterday's proud traditions on your remarkable journey into America's past as Old Sturbridge Village brings history to life and gives students an appreciation of the past.

ORCHARD HOUSE

Visit the historic home of the extraordinary Alcott family.  The Orchard House, located in Concord, was the Alcott family's most permanent home from 1858 to 1877.  Louisa May Alcott wrote her classic work, ‘Little Women,’ here in 1868.  She also set ‘Little Women’ in this home, causing guests to comment that ‘a visit to Orchard House is like walking through the book.’  There have been no major structural changes to the site since the Alcott’s’ time of residence.  Approximately 75 percent of the furnishings were owned by the Alcotts and the rooms look very much as they did when the family lived there.  A tour of Orchard House introduces students both to objects which were important to the family and to the family members themselves.  Your visit includes a guided tour of the home and self-exploration of the grounds.

PAUL REVERE HOUSE

On the night of April 18, 1775 silversmith Paul Revere left his small wooden home in Boston's North End and set out on a journey that would make him into a legend.  Today, that home is still standing at 19 North Square and has become a National Historic Landmark.  It is downtown Boston's oldest building and one of the few remaining from an early era in the history of Colonial America.  The dwelling, with its third-story front extension removed, resembles its late 17th century appearance.  Ninety percent of the structure, two doors, three window frames, and portions of the flooring, foundation, inner wall material and raftering are original.  Paul Revere House tours are self-guided, complemented by illustrated text panels and museum interpreters.

RALPH WALDO EMERSON HOME

Essayist, philosopher and poet Ralph Waldo Emerson was born in Boston on May 25, 1803.  Son and grandson of Protestant divines, Emerson attended Harvard College and Harvard Divinity School.  From the 1830s on, the Emerson home in Concord was a gathering place of like-minded thinkers.  The transcendentalist community not only shared radical religious views but also embraced forward-looking social reforms including abolition, temperance and women’s suffrage.  When living at the home, Emerson wrote such essays at ‘Self-Reliance’, ‘The American Scholar’ and the poem ‘Concord Hymn’ which commemorates the Revolutionary War battle.  By the time of his death in 1882 Emerson was heralded as the ‘Sage of Concord.’  Students will enjoy a private tour through this historic home. Your visit includes a guided tour of the home and self-exploration of the grounds.

SALEM WITCH MUSEUM

Words such as ‘Witch’ struck terror into the hearts of Salem townspeople in the early spring of 1692 as hysterical young girls called out names.  By summer hundreds had been accused and imprisoned – defenseless against accusations of witchcraft in a society driven by superstition and fear.  The court, formed to try the victims, acted quickly.  Bridget Bishop was tried on June 2nd and hanged on June 10th, thereby setting the precedent for a summer of executions.  The Salem Witch Museum brings you back to Salem in 1692.  Students are given a dramatic history lesson using stage sets with life-size figures, lighting and a narration – an overview of the Witch Trials of 1692.

SPIRIT OF BOSTON

Head for Boston’s historic Seaport District and spend a few unforgettable hours aboard the Spirit of Boston – the most entertaining Boston dinner cruise ship.  Quite simply, a Spirit dinner cruise is the perfect evening for students.  A magical setting enhanced by dazzling city sights and harbor lights.  An evening filled to the brim with wonderful food, live music and dancing under a canopy of stars.  This is the ultimate Boston experience.

USS CONSTITUTION (OLD IRONSIDES) & MUSEUM

The USS Constitution & Museum brings the story of our nation’s oldest commissioned ship to life.  Your tour begins with an exploration aboard the Constitution.  Moored peacefully in Boston harbor, this historic ship is a symbol of American pride and exploration.  Next, take a short walk to the Museum.  Only yards away from ‘Old Ironsides,’ the Museum is a must see, where interactive galleries take students on a 200 year voyage.  Learn how a wooden hull helped earn the nickname ‘Old Ironsides.’  Discover how ‘Old Ironsides’ has remained undefeated since being launched in 1797.  See how sailors ate a diet of hardtrack and grog and climbed masts 200 feet in the air.  The USS Constitution & Museum reaches out to all Americans with the story of one of our country's most cherished icons.  Students can enjoy self-exploration or a guided tour of the Museum.

WALDEN POND STATE RESERVATION

Henry David Thoreau lived at Walden Pond from July, 1845 to September, 1847.  His experience at Walden provided the material for the book ‘Walden,’ which is credited with helping to inspire awareness and respect for the natural environment.  Because of Thoreau's legacy, Walden Pond has been designated a National Historic Landmark and is considered the birthplace of the conservation movement.  Park Interpreters provide tours and ongoing educational programs.  The Reservation encompasses 400-acres which includes the 102 foot deep glacial kettle-hole pond.  Mostly undeveloped woods totaling 2,680-acres, called Walden Woods, surround the reservation.  A replica of Thoreau’s house is available for viewing by students.  Year-round interpretive programs and guided walks are offered as well as the Shop at Walden and the Tsongas gallery.  Guided or self-guided tours of the Reservation are available.

Discovery Tours, Inc.
24719 Dundee Drive
Cleveland, OH 44143

TOLL FREE NATIONWIDE
P:  (800) 590.2669
P:  (216) 531.8884
F:  (216) 531.8885
info@discoverycleveland.com

Home | Student Tours | Baseball Tours | Motor Coach Tours | Cruise Adventures
Natural Heritage Tours | Vacation Getaways | Group Travel | Railroad Adventures
Disney World Vacations | General Tour Information | Frequent Traveler Program
Travel Shows | Newsletters | Downloads | Site Map | Contact Us

Copyright © 2008 Discovery Tours, Inc.  All rights reserved.  Legal Notices.
Discovery Tours and find more to discover are service marks of Discovery Tours, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.