Boston: Votes for Women History Tour of Back Bay
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Discover Boston’s pivotal role in the women’s suffrage movement on this engaging 2.5-hour walking tour through the elegant Back Bay neighborhood. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you'll stroll along tree-lined streets and explore historic landmarks that tell the story of women fighting for their voting rights during the tumultuous decades from 1870 to 1920.
From the lush Boston Public Garden to iconic sites like Copley Square and Newbury Street, each stop reveals fascinating stories of activists, financiers, and political battles. Walk in the footsteps of figures such as Julia Ward Howe and Blanche Ames, and learn how Boston became a key battleground in the fight for women’s equality.
This tour combines captivating storytelling with a deep dive into history, making it the perfect way to understand Boston’s vital contribution to women’s rights. Whether you're a history buff or just curious, you'll leave with a richer appreciation for the city’s role in shaping American democracy.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Boston: Votes for Women History Tour of Back Bay?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours.
What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English.
What is the group size limit?
Groups are limited to up to 15 guests.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for adults aged 6 to 99, and wheelchair accessible. Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller.
What’s included in the tour?
Small group experience, visits to women’s rights landmarks, and exploration of the Back Bay neighborhood.
Are there any additional costs I should know about?
Gratuity for guides is optional, and museum admissions or guides in period costumes are not included.
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 2.5 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Live tour guide
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Small groups (max 15 guests)
- Landmarks related to women's rights
- Exploration of the Back Bay neighborhood
Not included
- Gratuity for guide (optional)
- Admission inside museums
- Guides in period costume
Itinerary
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Stop 1
Meet your guide inside the Boston Public Garden, opposite 67 Beacon Street, near the Make Way for Ducklings statues. This spot marks the start of your journey into Boston’s suffrage history.
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Stop 2
View the iconic equestrian statue of George Washington from 1859.
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Stop 3
Visit the first public botanical garden in the U.S., established in 1837.
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Stop 4
See the site of a school founded in 1887 by Pauline A. Shaw, a key financier of Boston’s women’s suffrage movement.
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Stop 5
Explore the historic church founded in 1630, later a hub for Transcendentalist ideas.
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Stop 6
View the home of Elizabeth Putnam, an anti-suffragist and the first woman to preside over a state electoral college.
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Stop 7
Visit Julia Ward Howe’s residence, author of 'Battle Hymn of the Republic' and co-founder of the American Woman Suffrage Association.
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Stop 8
See the home of Blanche Ames, a pro-suffrage cartoonist and early birth control advocate.
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Stop 9
View the Ames-Webster Mansion, linked to the Ames family’s political and suffrage activities.
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Stop 10
Pass through a wide boulevard with greenspaces and statuary, central to Back Bay’s development.
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Stop 11
See the home of Mary Shreve Ames, leader of the Massachusetts Anti-Suffrage Association.
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Stop 12
Visit the site of the first women’s college club in the U.S., established in 1890.
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Stop 13
View the former site of the Museum of Natural History (1864–1951).
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Stop 14
See the former MIT chemistry lab where Katherine McCormick protested against fashion as part of the suffrage movement.
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Stop 15
Explore Boston’s planned cultural hub, the Central Public Square, established in 1883.
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Stop 16
View the historic church recognized as one of the top 10 U.S. buildings by the American Institute of Architects, built in 1877.
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Stop 17
Visit the third-largest public library in the U.S., established in 1848.
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Stop 18
See the former office site of pro-suffrage organizations, including the Massachusetts Woman Suffrage Association.
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Stop 19
End at the Boston Marathon finish line, a symbol of endurance and community spirit.
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Stop 20
View the historic Hotel Kensington, once home to offices of the Massachusetts Association Opposed to Further Extension of Suffrage to Women.
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Stop 21
Conclude your tour in a lively shopping and dining district lined with luxury brands and outdoor attractions.
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Stop 22
Visit the former Spiritualist Temple, where women led public meetings in 1885.
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Stop 23
Finish at a memorial honoring Abigail Adams, Phillis Wheatley, and Lucy Stone, celebrating Boston’s historic women figures.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the Boston Public Garden
Gather inside the Boston Public Garden, opposite 67 Beacon Street, near the Make Way for Ducklings statues, at the northeast corner of the park.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day in advance
- No refund if canceled within 24 hours of the tour
- Tour may be canceled due to bad weather or low bookings
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $35.00 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
