Black Heritage Trail

As a historian, I always appreciate going to older cities and learning about diverse histories. Given that the Freedom trail is popular history, i decide to learn about the less known history of Boston by going on the Black heritage trail. As a person from NC witnessing many African American structures demolished due to development. I appreciated seeing preserve African American historic homes. I’ve truly appreciate coming to the meeting house and seeing the oldest surviving black church structure in the nation. This is the only site that visitors can enter on walking tour. Other stops are private residence. We didn’t physically go inside the meeting house because it did require an entry fee and we were pressed on time. I do plan on returning and paying the fee for my daughter and myself. Finally, I would suggest starting at Faneuil Hall. There is a ranger at that site to acclimate you to the city. But also other historical panels about history of africans and American Indians in Boston

The guided tour for the Black Heritage Trail was excellent. NPS park ranger Shawn was engaging, had a ton of information (including a binder full of images) and thoughtfully answered the numerous questions fielded to him. We went a little over time because there was a lot of discussion. Learned loads about the Black heroes and activists of Boston… highly recommend this tour for all.

If you have time, walking the Black Heritage Trail is a great way to see Beacon Hill while seeing significant sites. This is a short walk compared to the Freedom Trail, since most of the sites are private residencies and you can't go inside.

The Black heritage trail takes you on a historical walk through the rich history of African Americans in Boston. Best part of my trip.

Great American history tour. Excellent tour guide. Wear comfortable shoes. So much to see and learn.

This should be a required extension of the Freedom trail. Absolutely essential to understanding the true and complete history of both Boston and our entire country. Most of the stops are private residences but I actually much prefer it that way as opposed to houses wasted as tourist destinations. Homes are to be lived in. It's such an insult imo to use a home that way while thousands don't have their own. Anyway, at the end of the trail is the museum and the adjacent building known as the African Meeting House. They've done a wonderful job restoring both spaces and providing compelling historical displays. The tour guide in the museum is knowledgeable and passionate. The audio guide for the other parts of the tour is just as fascinating.

This Black Heritage Tour with NPS was the best tour we have been on during our stay in Boston. Very interesting, most informative and very detailed information. Would highly recommend the tour and follow up withe the museum at the meeting hall. Great experience.

A wonderful adventure a touch off the beaten path. Unfortunately not as many tourists venture to this trail, but it is through a beautiful historic neighborhood in Beacon Hill. Every house you pass is gorgeous and dripping in history. The main stretch of shops through beacon hill is fantastic. I just wish the descriptions on the website were more in depth.