Boston

City in Massachusetts

The history of Boston plays a central role in American history. In 1630, Puritan colonists from England founded Boston and helped it become the way it is today. Boston quickly became the political, commercial, financial, religious and educational center of the New England region. The American Revolution erupted in Boston, as the British retaliated harshly for the Boston Tea Party and the patriots fought back. They besieged the British in the city, with a famous battle at Bunker Hill in Charlestown on June 17, 1775 (which was lost by the colonists, but inflicted great damage against the British) and won the Siege of Boston, forcing the British to evacuate the city on March 17, 1776. However, the combination of American and British blockades of the town and port during the conflict seriously damaged the economy, and the population fell by two thirds in the 1770s. The city recovered after 1800, re-establishing its role as the transportation hub for the New England region with its network of railroads, and even more important, the intellectual, educational and medical center of the nation. Along with New York, Boston was the financial center of the United States in the 19th century, and was especially important in funding railroads nationwide. In the Civil War era, it was the base for many anti-slavery activities. In the 19th century the city was dominated by an elite known as the Boston Brahmins. They faced the political challenge coming from Catholic immigrants. The Irish Catholics, typified by the Kennedy Family, took political control of the city by 1900.

The industrial foundation of the region, financed by Boston, reached its peak around 1950; thereafter thousands of textile mills and other factories were closed down and the city went into decline. By the 21st century the city's economy had recovered and was centered on education, medicine, and high technology—notably biotechnology, while the many surrounding towns became residential suburbs.

Boston Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tour

• Boston Harbor: Stroll along the waterfront, where Rowe's Wharf offers a sailboat-dotted view of Massachusetts Bay and the best people-watching and shopping in South Boston. Best of Beantown: Stops include Faneuil Hall, the Old State House, the Bunker Hill Monument, the historic North End (Little Italy), USS Constitution, Beacon Hill, the Bull and Finch Pub, MIT, and more.
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Guided Bike Tour of Boston

If you really want to get a feel for Boston, pedal power is the way to go. You'll cover more than you could on foot, it's more active and engaging than riding on a tour bus, and with your guide's commentary helping tie it all together, you'll learn how the sights you're seeing connect to form the fabric of a vibrant city.

Boston in One Day Sightseeing Tour

Experience the best of greater Boston’s top attractions in one day on this guided sightseeing tour around the city. Visit the historic towns of Cambridge, Lexington and Concord. Then see Boston’s best spots, like Beacon Hill, the North End, the Seaport District and some of the historic locations along the Freedom Trail, including the USS ‘Constitution.’ Travel in an air-conditioned luxury coach with an expert guide who will detail the day’s events. Downtown Boston hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

Cambridge, Lexington and Concord

Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Cambridge, Lexington, and Concord, Massachusetts.

Relive history with a journey back in time to Battle Trail. Visit Harvard Yard and view Cambridge Common where George Washington took control of the Continental Army. Drive along "Tory Row" past the home of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Follow the route of Paul Revere as he warned the countryside with his infamous cry of "the British are coming!"