Boston's Architecture, History + Photo Walking Tour (SMALL Group)
5
LIKELY TO SELL OUT*
Boston's Architecture, History + Photo Walking Tour (SMALL Group)
By PhotoWalks Tours
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About
Explore Boston's top 3 scenic areas on one tour in 2 hours! This walking tour of Back Bay, the Public Garden and Beacon Hill provides insightful commentary and photo tips of iconic architectural landmarks and must-see attractions.
See the impressive Boston Public Library and mix of architectural styles in Copley Square. Walk along the charming streets in Back Bay's 19th century residential area. Enjoy the Boston Public Garden's natural beauty. See the most photographed street in Boston's Beacon Hill neighborhood.
Bring your smartphone or camera and learn how inspiring photo tips can teach you how to take better pictures. All skill levels are welcome. The photos you capture become memorable souvenirs. (This activity is not a photography workshop.)
Find out what makes this walking tour an eye-opening experience you can't get anywhere else in Boston!
**Please note most tours are less than 10 people. There may be slightly larger groups during peak season/holidays.**
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 10-80, max of 15 per group
Duration: 2h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
More
- Professional and Enthusiastic Tour Guide
- Small Group Tour - Most groups are less than 10 people.
- Fascinating Commentary of Boston's Most Iconic Landmarks
- Fun photo tips to capture great pictures with your smartphone or camera
- Entry/Admission - Back Bay
- Start:
- Dartmouth Street, Dartmouth St, Boston, MA, USAOutside the front entrance of the Boston Public Library, a huge building with flags located on DARTMOUTH STREET, NOT the Boylston St. entrance. Please stand by the seated bronze statue holding a ball facing Copley Square.
End:- Acorn Street, Acorn St, Boston, MA 02108, USA
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Near public transportation
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 3643P10- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Most travelers can participate
- There are NO RESTROOM STOPS.
- Please RECONFIRM your reservation at least 48 hours prior to the tour date by sending an email to: saba@photowalks.com OR a text message to 617-851-2273. Thank You.
- Please arrive at the meeting point 10 minutes prior to the scheduled tour time. Your punctuality is appreciated.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 3643P10
From
$55.00
per adult
Select date and travelers
Similar experiences
Itinerary
- Dartmouth St, Boston, MA, USAOutside the front entrance of the Boston Public Library, a huge building with flags located on DARTMOUTH STREET, NOT the Boylston St. entrance. Please stand by the seated bronze statue holding a ball facing Copley Square.
- 1￭ Boston Public Library ￭ Copley Square ￭ Trinity Church ￭ Hancock Tower ￭ Iconic Architectural Landmarks ￭ Scenic 19th-century neighborhoods: Back Bay + Beacon Hill
- Acorn St, Boston, MA 02108, USA
About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- M7335XUmeganm0 contributionsA must do tourWe had so much fun on this tour. We learned a lot of history about the residents and buildings of Beacon Hill while learning how to take good pictures on our phones. Our tour guide Saba was knowledgeable, fun and friendly. She knows many of the residents of Beacon Hill and has great stories! Do this tour!Written November 11, 2024
- 829reneeq0 contributionsEnjoyableEnjoyed the tour! The pace was just right, allowing me to truly absorb the surroundings without feeling rushed. Saba’s relaxed and pleasant demeanor made the experience feel personal, as if we were exploring the area with a local friend. The tour offered beautiful opportunities for photography, showcasing stunning architecture, vibrant fall foliage, and delightful Halloween decorations. With just one other couple in the group, the intimate setting enhanced the experience, allowing for engaging conversation and a more relaxed atmosphere. Overall, it was a calming and enjoyable way to appreciate the beauty of the season while capturing memorable photos. Highly recommend!Written October 29, 2024
- isaiahd1320 contributionsSaba is the best Tour Guide!My wife and I did the Beacon Hill walking tour and it was amazing. We learned so much from our tour guide Saba. She was very informative and kind. She gave us great tips on how to take photo centric pictures. We will definitely be back to Boston to book more tours with her!Written October 24, 2024
- V4704KLcarlah0 contributionsInteresting StoriesGuide was so much fun and shared many interesting stories. We had great locations to take photos. Really enjoyed ourselves and would highly recommend!!!Written October 20, 2024
- Discover3229030 contributionsMoney & time well spent!We loved this Beacon Hill photo walking tour with Saba!!! We were able to explore some of the most iconic Boston neighborhoods & parks, focusing on history & architecture! Along the way, Saba shared lots of hints & tips for getting the best photos! Thank you, Saba!Written October 14, 2024
- W2496NVtonyp0 contributionsBeacon Hill Exploration and DiscoveryThis Photowalk of Beacon Hill was terrific. It is a great tour to do if you like exploring a unique neighborhood in more detail, gain a deeper perspective on the history, the architecture and the people who have lived in Beacon Hill in the past and what it's like to live there today. If you're a photo enthusiast, there are a number of very interesting views and compositions to consider and capture. Saba was a terrific guide who has deep knowledge of the neighborhood and was a wonderful tour guide. As a native Bostonian I have been through Beacon Hill a number of times but this time I saw a range of features, architectural details and perspectives I never have before. Highly recommend for anyone interested in a deeper tour of Beacon Hill. And for any Star Wars fans out there - there is a really neat and fun window box worth checking out!Written October 9, 2024
- emilylM8426KE0 contributionsUnique and Beautiful TourSaba was so kind and helpful in sharing her know of the area. She was patient in helping us capture amazing photos. I am a newbie at photography and was able to learn a lot from her in a short amount of time. Highly recommend this unique tour!!Written September 19, 2024
- 95dennyw0 contributionsBeacon Hill with Saba!Excellent tour. Saba was very knowledgeable and told a lot of interesting stories. She also took several fun pictures of our group. We would highly recommend this tour with Saba!Written September 15, 2024
- christinewC288MG0 contributionsDelightful time in Beacon HillMy 13 year old daughter and I both loved the Beacon Hill tour. Saba was very knowledgeable about the area with a nice blend of history and current events. We’re not serious photographers and only had our smartphones but she gave helpful tips for different shots that I wouldn’t have thought of on my own. A really fun 1.5 hours that I'd highly recommend.Written September 4, 2024
- Sjunkins20210 contributionsBoston PhotosWe got to see so much of Boston and learn the history. We took some beautiful photos along the way. Definitely recommend.Written August 18, 2024
- Heavenwillwait0 contributionsExcellent tourOur tour guide, Saba, is a long term resident and really knew intimate details of the neighborhood, homes and people that own properties and live in the area. Great information, nice walk and really good recommendations on photography. Very enjoyable ninety minutes!Written August 3, 2024
- Zammist0 contributionsAn amazing experienceThis was the perfect blend of photography and history. Saba was an amazing ambassador, so knowledgeable in both areas. She has such a nice way of imparting her knowledge, and is an incredible storyteller. I’d recommend this photo tour to anyone. Thank you Saba!Written July 23, 2024
- 9792RK0 contributionsLove new informationInteresting history and current context of the land and properties of the most esteemed residential neighborhood in Boston.Written July 17, 2024
- MKB_100 contributionsUnique photo opportunity in iconic Beacon HillSaba took me for what turned out to be an individual tour of Beacon Hill. She was very personable, accommodating, and offered excellent insights into photographing the iconic structures in the area. Saba has been leading tours in Boston for 20+ years. Over that time she has become personally acquainted with many of the current Beacon Hill residents and even shared photographs of the interiors of a few of their homes. It was a delightful couple of hours with a lovely lady. Be mindful that the streets and sidewalks are brick and very uneven, with inclines to navigate, all of which could make it challenging for anyone with mobility issues to manage.Written July 13, 2024
- 5Karin70 contributionsInformative, pleasant tour guideSaba, our guide, was very informative on both knowledge of Beacon Hill and ways to capture the best camera angle. The time flew by quickly!Written July 6, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
41 reviews
Excellent
39
Very good
2
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
SKP
4 contributions
Dec 2023 • Family
There is a reason PhotoWalks Tour (Saba) has 5 stars across the board. It's rare when you meet someone for the first time and they feel like an old friend. We were greeted with a warm smile which made us feel comfortable immediately. Her knowledge as a guide is incredible and her photography skills are beyond reproach.
She helped us create wonderful memories and photos that will last us a lifetime.
Without a doubt we will be contacting Saba again when we return to Boston.
She helped us create wonderful memories and photos that will last us a lifetime.
Without a doubt we will be contacting Saba again when we return to Boston.
Written December 9, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I'd like to extend my gratitude for the amazing 5-star review, K. Thank you so much for your kind, heartfelt compliments about your PhotoWalks tour experience. I really enjoyed our time together as we explored Back Bay's architectural landmarks and Beacon Hill's scenic locations. I had just as much fun as you all did! I'm so happy that you learned a lot about the city's history and captured memorable photo souvenirs.
Looking forward to welcoming you all back to Boston!
With sincere appreciation,
Saba
Written December 13, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
saborders
Victoria, Canada3 contributions
Saba was a knowledgeable friendly and helpful guide who really knew about Boston. She also responded to what we wanted to know and was able to tell us about the history of the city alongside current affairs and anecdotes. In addition she gave us some useful tips to make the most of our phone cameras. She made our walk interesting and relaxed despite the rain!! Thank you Saba.
Written October 1, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for choosing a PhotoWalks tour during your visit to Boston. I sincerely appreciate your kind words and wonderful review. Happy to hear you enjoyed the commentaries and learned how to take pictures in new and creative ways--even in the rain!
All the best,
Saba
Written October 14, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hendriks
1 contribution
Sep 2022
Saba was a superb guide, historically, socially, photographically all of it! We saw so many great sights in Boston and learned about our beautiful city in ways we never knew. Having her help with photography and advise us on photo taking was something that will live with me in the rest of my photo taking days as well. Thank you!
Written September 15, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wow! Thank you so much for your kind compliments and 5-star review! What a great time we had on the PhotoWalks Architectural Landmarks tour! It's so rewarding for me to hear how impactful a tour experience can be for locals. So glad the tour helped you tap into your creative vision and capture pictures you are pleased with. These skills will last a lifetime.
I was happy to share interesting information about Boston's history and architecture with all of you.
Hope to see you all again on another PhotoWalks tour!
All the best,
Saba
Written October 10, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jenn68123
Memphis, TN3 contributions
Jul 2022
Saba is a fantastic tour guide! We were delighted to find out this was a private tour. Saba had great photography tips and her knowledge of the area's history really brought the city to life. She graciously offered to take photos of us using her cell phone and sent the download link the next day. Our walking tour photos were by far the best pictures from our trip to Boston.
Written July 19, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for the 5-star review and sharing your PhotoWalks tour experience, Jenn. I enjoyed your interest in Boston’s history and attractions as we explored Back Bay, the Public Garden and Beacon Hill.
I'm so glad the memorable pictures you captured made great souvenirs from your trip. Hope to see you both in Boston again. All the best...Saba
Written July 24, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Nicole L
Charlotte, NC3 contributions
Aug 2023
Saba's tour was amazing! I hadn't realized when I booked the tour that it was just a private tour with my sister and I. We had a fabulous time. Took some amazing photos and got to see areas that we wouldn't have otherwise gone to. Saba was also so nice to email us restaurant recommendations for the North End and took so many photos of us. TAKE THIS TOUR!!!
Written August 7, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
My heartfelt thanks and appreciation go out to you for taking the time to write such a wonderful review, Nicole. It's very rewarding for me to hear that a PhotoWalks tour provided a great experience for you and your sister. So glad that you have memorable pictures to mark the special occasion you were both celebrating in Boston.
All the best,
Saba
Written August 8, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
NE north east
Ireshopeburn, UK2 contributions
Jan 2024 • Family
We have just completed a trip with Saba and couldn’t recommend highly enough. We are a father and son (15) with an interest in architecture and photography therefore the few hours spent exploring the area were perfect. I hadn’t realised it would just be the two of us, consequently the time was extremely personal and tailor made to our taste.
Saba has an absolute wealth of knowledge of the local area therefore this was almost a history, architecture and photography lesson in equal measure. We have visited Boston on many occasions however felt the need to extend our knowledge of the area and to maybe see areas we were yet to discover which was positively achieved on this tour.
Saba spent lengthy periods explaining photography techniques to my son which he embraced throughout the trip. As a result the best photos taken during our trip to Boston were definitely taken in the company of Saba or certainly with her influence.
If you are in Boston and have an interest in architecture (or the history of architecture) then I would highly recommend.
A big thank you from Neil & Sonny!
Saba has an absolute wealth of knowledge of the local area therefore this was almost a history, architecture and photography lesson in equal measure. We have visited Boston on many occasions however felt the need to extend our knowledge of the area and to maybe see areas we were yet to discover which was positively achieved on this tour.
Saba spent lengthy periods explaining photography techniques to my son which he embraced throughout the trip. As a result the best photos taken during our trip to Boston were definitely taken in the company of Saba or certainly with her influence.
If you are in Boston and have an interest in architecture (or the history of architecture) then I would highly recommend.
A big thank you from Neil & Sonny!
Written January 10, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Many thanks for taking the time to write a wonderful 5-star review, Neil. I sincerely appreciate your kind words, compliments and sharing the highlights of your PhotoWalks tour experience.
Exploring Back Bay's architectural landmarks and Beacon Hill's picturesque streets with you and your amazing son was as enjoyable for me as it was for the two of you. It's so rewarding to know that you both gained valuable insights into Boston's history and architecture.
Our tour was a fabulous start to my 22nd year of guiding tours in Boston! Thank you so much again.
Hope to welcome you and Sonny back to Boston in the future.
All the best,
Saba
Written January 11, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sam
5 contributions
This was the best tour we have done so far in Boson. Our guide, Saba, was absolutely wonderful. Not only was she incredibly kind, but also knowledgeable and provided a wonderful experience. She took several great photos of us that I will plan to print and frame. I have nothing but great things to say, and will remember this experience forever. 10/10 recommendation!
Written October 23, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
My heartfelt thanks and appreciation go out to you, Sam, for your kind words, lovely compliments and amazing 5-star review.
I'm honored that a PhotoWalks tour created cherished memories for the two of you on your first visit to Boston.
Hope to welcome you back on another PhotoWalks tour in the future!
With gratitude,
Saba
Written October 24, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Joanna L
3 contributions
Jan 2024 • Family
We had a great time. Even with cold and windy weather it was fun! The guide was very knowledgeable on Boston's history and contemporary events. She showed us spots with awesome views, had many stories about buildings, Bostonians, as well as about traveling all over the world. She recommended great restaurant for our lunch. She was a fountain of knowledge. We highly recommend this tour.
Written January 15, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your kind words, compliments and 5-star review. I appreciated you braving the cold, windy weather as we explored Boston's architectural landmarks and scenic locations. Glad you enjoyed your lunch in Beacon Hill.
Hope to welcome you back on another PhotoWalks tour!
All the best,
Saba
Written January 17, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
JohnandMarylou
Milton, MA516 contributions
Sep 2024 • Couples
This was a really nice tour. Saba did a good job of pointing out the history and interesting archtectural highlights of the buildings around Copley Square and Beacon Hill. It was a small group of 5, so it was very personal and even though we are from Boston we learned a few things.
Written October 2, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your kind words, John and Mary Lou! I'm really glad you enjoyed the tour and that even as locals, you were able to learn something new about the history and architecture of Copley Square and Beacon Hill. It was a pleasure showing you around, and the small group size definitely makes for a more personal experience, which I always enjoy as well. I hope you continue to discover new things about Boston—there’s always something interesting to uncover! Thanks again for joining the tour!
Best,
Saba Alhadi, Owner
PhotoWalks
Written October 3, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
KD_Piper
2 contributions
Oct 2024 • Friends
One of the highlights of our 4 day trip to Boston! I learned so much about the history and architecture of the Beacon Hill and Back Bay areas that I couldn't have put together from websites or any self guided tour. Saba is a fountain of knowledge and full of insights and tips on how to compose the best photographs using your smart phone. Years ago, I enjoyed her Freedom Trail tour so much I booked this one too, and she did not disappoint. A gracious host, she followed up with museum and restaurant suggestions. Highly recommend any Photowalks tours!
Written October 16, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your wonderful 5-star review! I'm honored that the Photowalks tour your group took was one of the highlights of your Boston trip. I enjoy sharing fascinating insights and fun facts that you can’t get online or from a self-guided tours.
I’m glad to hear you all enjoyed learning about Beacon Hill and Back Bay's history and architecture. It’s great that you found the photography tips helpful as well! I truly appreciate you coming back after the Freedom Trail tour, and I’m so happy I met your expectations again.
Your praise and recommendation mean the world to me. Looking forward to seeing you on another PhotoWalks tour soon on your next trip to Boston!
With appreciation,
Saba Alhadi, Owner
PhotoWalks
Written October 17, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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