Explore Boston's Civil War and Abolition History with a Self-Guided Audio Tour
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Discover Boston on your own terms with the Boston Civil War and Abolition Movement: A Self-Guided Audio Tour. This flexible walking experience lets you explore at your own pace, uncovering the city’s pivotal role in shaping American history.
From the fight to save the Union to the abolition of slavery, each stop offers fascinating stories narrated by local history expert Mitch Lapin. You can complete the tour in about 90 minutes or take your time to linger at each site—it's entirely up to you.
Enjoy unlimited access before and after your booking date, with options to do the tour virtually from home. Once booked, you'll receive a code to unlock the tour via the VoiceMap app, which guides you with GPS directions and works offline, so you can focus on the sights without worry.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the self-guided tour last?
The tour takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, but you can go at your own pace and spend more time at any stop.
What do I need to participate?
You’ll need a smartphone and headphones. The tour is accessible in English and suitable for all physical fitness levels.
Can I do this tour at home?
Yes! There’s a virtual tour option that allows you to explore Boston’s history from your own home.
Is this a group tour?
No, it’s a private, self-guided experience designed for individual exploration or small groups up to 15 people.
Are there age restrictions?
The tour is recommended for adults aged 6 to 99. It’s suitable for most physical fitness levels.
What’s included with my booking?
You get lifetime access to the tour in English, the VoiceMap app for Android and iOS, and offline access to audio, maps, and geodata.
Non-refundable
All sales are final. No refunds are available for cancellations.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 1.5 hours – 2 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Guided experience
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Lifetime access to this tour in English
- VoiceMap app for Android and iOS
- Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Not included
- Smartphone and headphones
- Food and drink
- Transportation
Itinerary
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Stop 1
Starting in front of Faneuil Hall, learn about Daniel Webster’s 30-year effort to save the Union.
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Stop 2
Pass by Georgian architecture like the Old State House, Old Court House, New State House, and Old City Hall, with stories revealing Civil War history.
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Stop 3
Outside the Old Corner Bookstore, discover why Harriet Beecher Stowe traveled from Ohio to Boston to publish Uncle Tom's Cabin.
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Stop 4
Walk past the Old South Meeting House and learn about its significance in Boston’s history.
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Stop 5
View monuments like the Boston Irish Famine Memorial and hear about Irish history in Boston.
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Stop 6
Outside Tremont Temple Baptist Church, hear Frederick Douglass’s story and his message on freedom and slavery.
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Stop 7
Explore Granary Burial Ground, seeing graves of John Hancock and Paul Revere.
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Stop 8
Learn about Paul Revere’s role in the American Revolution as you walk through historic sites.
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Stop 9
Relive the story of the 54th Colored Regiment and their fight for respect during the Civil War.
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Stop 10
Walk through Louisburg Square and hear about Louisa May Alcott’s life in Boston’s most expensive neighborhood.
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Stop 11
Finish at the Soldiers and Sailors Monument, honoring Massachusetts regiments in the Civil War.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
Before arrival, install the VoiceMap app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. The self-guided audio tour can be started, paused, or restarted anytime, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Detailed instructions are available after download.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Non-refundable
All sales are final. No refunds are available for cancellations.
- 0% refund if canceled at least 0 day(s) before
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $11.99 per person
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
