True Crime Tour of Boston

If you’re into stories of serial killers, notorious crimes, and the city’s shadowy past, the True Crime Tour of Boston offers a compelling way to spend a couple of hours. While we haven’t done it ourselves, this tour has gathered solid praise for its engaging storytelling, interesting stops, and knowledgeable guides.

Two things really appeal to us: first, the focus on lesser-known stories that add layers to Boston’s history; second, the chance to walk through iconic locations while learning about their dark secrets. That said, it’s worth noting that this tour is adults-only, which might be a consideration if you’re traveling with kids or looking for a family-friendly activity.

A possible drawback? The tour covers a lot of ground in just two hours, meaning some stops might feel brief. It’s perfect if you’re okay with quick visits and want a taste of Boston’s darker past rather than an in-depth exploration.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, true crime fans, or anyone curious about the city’s more mysterious side. If you love storytelling that mixes history with a dash of the macabre, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Engaging guides bring dark Boston stories vividly to life.
• Short, manageable walks make it accessible even for those with moderate physical activity.
• A variety of iconic sites packed with stories from Boston’s criminal past.
• Affordable price point offers good value for a 2-hour experience.
• Adults-only tour ensures mature storytelling, not suitable for children.
• Well-structured stops, each about 12 minutes, balance sightseeing with storytelling.

What Is the True Crime Tour of Boston?

This 2-hour walking tour takes you through some of Boston’s most intriguing and sometimes sinister sites, with stories rooted in real-life crimes, notable murders, and historic tragedies. Led by a professional local guide, you’ll explore the city’s past through carefully researched narratives that highlight the darker side of Boston’s history.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on true crime stories linked to various historic sites across Boston. From serial killers to family disputes, each stop uncovers a different facet of the city’s criminal past, making it a fascinating experience for those interested in history, crime, or local legends.

The tour is priced at $24 per person, which is quite reasonable for what you get—a guided walk through significant sites, steeped in stories that you won’t find in typical tourist guides. Plus, the tour is mobile ticket-based, making check-in smooth and contactless, ideal for modern travelers.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You’ll See and Learn

The itinerary is designed to combine sightseeing with storytelling, each spot offering a glimpse into Boston’s more mysterious or tragic history. Each stop lasts about 12 minutes, giving enough time to absorb the stories without feeling rushed.

Boston Public Garden: The Ether Monument and the First Female Serial Killer

Your journey begins in the Boston Public Garden, a peaceful space that hides a chilling story behind the Ether monument. This monument recounts the tale of Boston’s first female serial killer, offering an intriguing start to the tour. The peaceful surroundings contrast sharply with the dark story, making for a compelling opening.

Boston Marathon Survivor Memorial: Resilience Amid Horror

Next, you’ll visit the Boston Marathon Survivor Memorial, a poignant reminder of the terror surrounding the 2013 bombing. Here, you’ll learn about the days and weeks following the attack and how Bostonians showed remarkable bravery. It’s a site that combines tragedy and resilience, setting a serious tone for the tour.

Copley Square and the Craigslist Killer

At Copley Square, the tour dives into the story of the notorious Craigslist Killer. This location was one of his haunts, making it a fitting spot to hear about his crimes. The story is disturbing but fascinating, offering insight into how such crimes can unfold in seemingly ordinary places.

Central Burying Ground and Grave Robbing

History buffs will find the Central Burying Ground particularly interesting. Beyond the gravestones, the tour explores the macabre history of grave robbing in Boston during the 18th and 19th centuries—an era when cemeteries were often raided for less sinister reasons, but the stories are no less creepy.

Emerson College and the Hitchhiker Killer

From there, the tour moves to Emerson College, where you’ll hear about the Hitchhiker Killer—a serial murderer who terrorized Boston in the 1970s. This story, spanning just eight months, reveals how quickly such threats can develop and impact a community.

Parkman Bandstand and Family Tragedy

The Parkman Bandstand gets its name from the tragic tale of the Parkman family, whose history is filled with debt and death. It’s a sobering reminder that behind historic landmarks are stories of human struggle and loss.

Boston Common Frog Pond and Family Intrigue

Next, the Frog Pond at Boston Common witnesses a story of a suicide linked to intrigue, forgeries, and family disputes. It’s a reminder that Boston’s history isn’t all grandeur—it’s also filled with personal and often dark stories.

27 School Street and Charles Ponzi

A stop at 27 School Street reveals where Charles Ponzi launched his infamous fraud scheme, leading to his name becoming synonymous with financial scams. The building’s historical significance ties directly into Boston’s shady financial past.

John Adams Courthouse and the Youngest Serial Killer

At the John Adams Courthouse, you’ll learn about the trial of the youngest serial killer in American history. This story highlights how even juvenile offenders can be part of Boston’s dark criminal history.

Massachusetts State House and Anti-Quaker Laws

Finally, the tour concludes near the Mary Dyer statue at the State House, where you’ll hear about women put to death for violating anti-Quaker laws—an eye-opening look at the injustices faced in the past. The ending location offers a reflective close to a journey through Boston’s darker chapters.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour comes with a professional and knowledgeable guide, whose stories are well-researched and engaging. You’ll get a thorough understanding of Boston’s dark history, making this an educational experience, not just a walk.

However, food and drinks are not included, so plan to eat before or after if you want a meal. The tour is designed for adults, so it’s not suitable for children, especially given the mature nature of some stories.

The Group Size and Timing

With a maximum of 20 travelers, this tour feels intimate enough to foster engaging conversations but still lively. It starts at 3:00 pm, making it a good late-afternoon activity—especially if you want to explore more of Boston afterward.

The walk is moderate in physical demand, suitable for most people with average fitness levels. Near public transportation, it’s easy to find your way to the meeting point, which is conveniently located in Boston.

Authentic Reviews: What Others Are Saying

Reviews consistently praise the guides for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and humor. Maria Borza called Kyle a “fantastic tour guide,” highlighting the humor that makes even dark stories enjoyable. Chelsie_J enjoyed the lively storytelling style of Kai, emphasizing how much fun the tour was while learning about Boston’s hidden past.

Barbara_O appreciated the enthusiasm of guides like Andrew, especially noting stories about Jolly Jane and Resurrection Men. Sarah_M loved the beautiful walk through Boston Common and the Public Garden and appreciated the guide’s storytelling skills. Grace_G found the activity engaging and easygoing, perfect for a relaxed weekend afternoon, while Gary_M raved about the overall quality, calling it “entertaining, educational, and outside-the-box.”

Is It Worth the Price?

At $24 per person, this tour offers a lot of value. For just two hours, you get a guided walk through Boston’s fascinating, sometimes chilling history—stories you’re unlikely to find in standard sightseeing tours. The small group size and well-researched narratives ensure an intimate and authentic experience.

While it’s not a comprehensive history tour, it’s a fantastic way to see parts of Boston you might not visit on a typical sightseeing route, with the bonus of some spine-tingling tales.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adults who enjoy a good story, especially if they have an interest in true crime, history, or Boston’s lesser-known stories. It’s an excellent choice for travelers looking for a fun, educational activity that’s different from standard walking tours.

If you’re someone who appreciates storytelling with a mix of history and a dark twist, or you’re traveling with a group of friends who like spooky tales, this tour will fit the bill. However, if you prefer a family-friendly outing or have young children, this probably isn’t the right fit.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is adults-only, mainly because of the mature content and themes discussed during the stories.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with each stop around 12 minutes long.

Is the tour physically demanding?
No, it’s a moderate walk, suitable for most people with moderate fitness levels.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at a location marked as 9W3H+GJ in Boston and ends near the Mary Dyer statue at the Massachusetts State House.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

What’s included in the tour?
A knowledgeable local guide and thoroughly researched stories are included.

Are food and drinks part of the experience?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently praise guides like Kyle, Kai, and Andrew for their enthusiasm, humor, and depth of knowledge.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 20 travelers, creating a friendly and engaging atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

If you’re drawn to stories of Boston’s criminal past and enjoy walking through historic cityscapes with a storyteller at your side, this True Crime Tour of Boston offers a compelling mix of dark tales, scenic stops, and expert narration. It’s a great way to see some of Boston’s iconic sites from a different perspective—one that’s a little darker and a lot more intriguing.

While it’s not for everyone—particularly those who prefer lighter or family-friendly activities—it shines brightly for adults who love a good story, appreciate history with a twist, and want to add a bit of excitement to their Boston visit.

All in all, a well-reviewed experience that delivers more than just sightseeing—it’s storytelling that sticks with you.