Tips for Getting Ready & Important Updates
Please read the updates, bullet points and the Frequently Asked Questions before you head out for the tour.
WHAT TO BRING ON YOUR TOUR
- A water bottle, especially if the weather is hot.
- Photo ID: driver’s license or a passport for access to the Charlestown Naval Yard and USS Constitution.
- Hat, camera and sunscreen.
- Good walking shoes.
- A snack to hold you over through the lunch hour. We do not take a lunch break, but you’ll have opportunities to snack during the narrations.
- You DO NOT need a ticket or tour confirmation, I’ll have your name.
WHAT NOT TO BRING!
Do not bring any sort of weapon: firearms, knives (no matter how small the blade), mace or pepper spray. You will be denied entrance to the USS Constitution if you are carrying any of these items.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Where do we meet?
Right across from the Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon Street. See the map below. There is a large monument directly across the street from the main steps to the State House with seating and shade. Your guide, Mark, will be there about 10 minutes before the start of the tour.
Where should I park my car?
If you’re driving, the most convenient garage to our starting point is the Boston Common Parking Garage. The entrance is on Charles Street between the Public Garden and Boston Common (that’s between Beacon and Boylston Streets). Weekday rates are $28 for 10 hours. If you are touring on Saturday or Sunday, the Post Office Square Parking Garage is about a 15 minute walk from the start of the tour and weekend rates are just $9 for a full day. Refer to the link for the garage for location. Parking meters are free on Sundays… you might get lucky and find free parking! Note that parking garages do occasionally fill and you should be prepared to find a second choice for parking.
Please add extra time if you are driving in to Boston. Morning traffic is invariably slower than estimates from apps such as Waze!
How long is the tour?
Usually, it takes about four hours. This can vary depending on walking pace of the group and the number of restroom stops. The distance is about two and three-quarters miles.
Where does it begin and end?
We begin at the Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon Street and finish at the Charlestown Navy Yard.
How do we get back to downtown Boston?
There are two main ways: you can walk back along the Freedom Trail or take a ferry from the Navy Yard to Long Wharf, near the New England Aquarium. I’ll make sure you know how to get to your desired destination!
What if I’m running late?
Call your guide, Mark. (Refer to your confirmation for the phone number.) Also, you should have already received a welcome text the morning of your tour. You may reply to that text. Depending on when you expect to arrive, you’ll be given guidance on where to join the group.
