Boston: Bigly Tour of Boston and Quincy

If you’re considering a way to see Boston’s most iconic sights and beyond in a single day, the Bigly Tour of Boston and Quincy might just be worth your attention. It’s an all-day, fully guided adventure designed to give you a comprehensive look at this historic city along with some interesting stops outside downtown, like the Adams homesteads and a brewery tour.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the value is notable—seven hours of sightseeing, with a knowledgeable guide, small group intimacy, and included extras like the brewery tour, all for just under $100. Second, it’s notable for covering more points of interest than many similar tours, which means you’ll get a richer, more layered experience of Boston and its neighboring historic spots.

However, do keep in mind that the tour is quite packed—there’s a lot to see and do, which could feel rushed if you’re not a quick mover or prefer a more relaxed pace. It’s also not suited for children under 13 or travelers with certain mobility restrictions, so consider your group’s needs before booking.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, first-time visitors wanting an overview, or anyone eager to combine a city tour with some local flavors and a splash of history outside the usual downtown. If you’re looking for a way to get a broad sense of Boston’s rich past and vibrant present in one go, this might be your ticket.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines Boston highlights, Quincy’s Adams homesteads, and a brewery tour
• Value for Money: Seven hours of guided touring for $99
• Expert Guides: Local, knowledgeable guides stay with you throughout
• Comfort & Convenience: Modern AC bus, cushioned seats, and large windows
• Historical & Cultural Insights: From Boston Common to the Adams family homesteads
• Includes Brewery Tour & Light Lunch: A taste of local craft beer and casual dining

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting from Boston’s heart, your day begins with a pickup at one of four convenient downtown spots early in the morning. Once aboard the comfortable bus, your guide greets you with engaging narration, setting the tone for a day full of stories, sights, and surprises.

Boston’s Historic Core & Public Spaces

The tour kicks off with Boston Common, the nation’s first public park, and the charming Public Garden with its famous Swan Boats. You’ll get to see the Bull and Finch Pub—famous from Cheers—and stroll through the Back Bay, admiring Gilded Age mansions and Richardson’s Trinity Church. These spots are great for photos and understanding Boston’s blend of old money elegance and vibrant city life.

Downtown & Civic Landmarks

Next, the guide points out the Boston Public Library and the Copley Place and Prudential Malls, offering a peek at Boston’s upscale shopping and architecture. The Christian Science Center’s reflecting pool provides a serene moment amidst the city’s hustle.

Fenway Park & Legendary Baseball

No trip here would be complete without a glance at Fenway Park, one of America’s most storied ballparks. You might even get a chance to pose with the Teammates sculpture of Ted Williams, a big hit with sports fans.

More Great Tours Nearby

Beacon Hill & State House

A short drive takes you up Beacon Hill, where cobblestone streets and gas lanterns evoke 19th-century Boston. The Massachusetts State House with its iconic gold dome is a highlight, alongside the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial—famous from the Civil War film Glory.

The Adams Presidential Homesteads

Traveling into Quincy, you’ll learn about the Adams family, including the birthplace of Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams, and the historic Peacefield estate. While entry isn’t included due to National Park Service restrictions, you’ll hear stories that bring these historic homes vividly to life.

Brewery & Lunch Stop

A highlight for many is the visit to Harpoon Brewery, where you’ll learn about beer production’s history and significance—both for rebels and Redcoats. The included free brewery tour is a real value add, and afterward, you can enjoy a light lunch either at the beer hall or the nearby lobster shack, a favorite local spot for classic New England seafood like lobster rolls or fish ’n chips.

Little Italy & Bunker Hill

Passing through Boston’s vibrant Little Italy, you’ll see more than 50 Italian restaurants—great for future visits or just to appreciate the neighborhood’s flavor. The tour also makes a quick stop at Bunker Hill, home to the historic battlefield and the iconic monument.

USS Constitution

The final major stop is the USS Constitution—the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world since 1797. Walking her decks gives you a tangible sense of early American naval history, and your guide ensures you get the most out of the visit.

What We Like About This Tour

The guides really shine here—they’re local, knowledgeable, and stay with you throughout the day, making the experience feel personal rather than just a bus ride. Reviewers frequently mention how much they appreciated their guides’ stories and insights, which added depth to the sightseeing.

The value is another standout. For $99, you’re getting a full day packed with sights, cultural insights, and extras like the brewery tour, which is often not included in other tours. Plus, the modern bus with large windows and AC/heat makes long hours comfortable, even on warmer days.

The inclusion of less-visited historic sites like the Adams homesteads and the Civil War memorials means you’re not just seeing the most obvious tourist spots but also getting a fuller picture of Boston’s layered history.

The Not-So-Perfect Aspects

That said, with such a packed schedule, some may find the pace a bit rushed, especially at the sites like the Adams homesteads and Bunker Hill. There’s limited time at each stop, so if you’re someone who likes to linger or take photos at your own pace, it might feel a little hurried.

Also, because the tour is quite comprehensive, it’s not really suitable for small children or travelers with mobility issues. The description explicitly mentions that it’s not geared toward children under 13, and accommodations for mobility are limited.

Lastly, lunch is not included, but the tour does stop at a casual lobster shack and a brewery that serve decent options. You’ll want to budget for meals, but the stops are thoughtfully chosen for local flavor.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a full-day overview of Boston’s most important landmarks combined with some local flavor and a bit of history outside the city, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially good for first-timers or those wanting to maximize their time without the hassle of planning multiple visits.

History enthusiasts, baseball fans, and beer lovers will find plenty to enjoy, while those preferring a slower, more relaxed pace might find it a little too packed.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with kids?
This tour is not recommended for children under 13, mainly because of the busy schedule and certain restrictions. It’s better suited for older kids or adults interested in history and culture.

What’s included in the price?
You get a fully narrated guided tour, local professional guides, small group size, modern equipment, bottled water, and free entry to the brewery tour. Lunch is not included but is available at stops.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience runs about 7 hours, with pickup starting early in the morning around 8 AM.

Where does the tour pick up from?
There are four designated pickup spots in downtown Boston, all within easy reach of major hotels and landmarks.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
It’s not explicitly designed for individuals with mobility concerns, and some sites may have limited wheelchair access.

Are there any restrictions on what I can bring?
Yes, the tour list prohibits high heels, pets, large bags, smoking, vaping, alcohol, and several other items for safety and comfort reasons.

Do I need to pay in advance?
You can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility to confirm your plans before committing.

What will I see during the tour?
Expect to see Boston Common, Public Garden, Fenway Park, Beacon Hill, State House, Adams homesteads, Bunker Hill, USS Constitution, and more.

Final Thoughts

The Bigly Tour of Boston and Quincy offers a thorough, engaging way to see a lot of Boston’s most important and interesting sights in just a day. It’s a great option for travelers who want a guided, informative experience with a bit of local flavor and history, all at a reasonable price point.

While it’s not a leisurely stroll—expect a busy, info-packed day—it’s perfect for those eager to cover ground efficiently, learn stories that bring the city to life, and sample some local brews and seafood along the way.

If your goal is to get a solid, well-rounded overview of Boston, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a guided experience, this tour is definitely worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: