Boston: Haunted Walking Tour of Historic Streets & Cemeteries

Summary

Stories of ghosts and old heroes on Boston’s nighttime streets

You’ll walk Boston’s oldest streets after dark with a local guide, hearing ghost stories where they happened — from executions at Boston Common to legends at the Athenaeum and quiet moments among crooked stones in Granary Burying Ground. Expect laughter, shivers, and a new way of seeing these historic places long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

We met our guide right at Boston Common, and she just jumped straight in — no awkward small talk, just this story about the “hanging tree” that used to stand there. I’d walked through the park before but never really noticed how the shadows stretch across the grass at dusk. There was this weird hush, like even the pigeons knew something was up. Our group kept close together as we passed people heading home, not realizing they were crossing what used to be execution ground. Kind of wild to think about.

At the Massachusetts State House, our guide pointed out Mary Dyer’s statue and told us how she’d been martyred for her beliefs. The gold dome looked almost fake in the streetlights — I caught myself zoning out a little, thinking about how many feet have walked these bricks since then. Someone in our group tried to pronounce “Athenaeum” and totally botched it; everyone laughed, even the guide. She said Nathaniel Hawthorne claimed he saw a ghost there once — honestly, I can see why he’d think that. The building has this heavy silence inside.

The Granary Burying Ground was probably my favorite stop on this haunted Boston walking tour. You can smell old leaves and something damp — maybe moss? Three signers of the Declaration are buried there but it’s not grand or anything; the stones lean at odd angles, names half-worn away. Our guide let us linger for a minute and didn’t rush anyone who wanted to read inscriptions or just stand quietly (I did both). I still think about that place sometimes when I walk past cemeteries back home — you know how some places just stick with you?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Boston’s haunted historic sites

• Visit Boston Common hanging tree site
• See Mary Dyer’s statue at State House
• Pass by Boston Athenaeum ghost site
• Visit Granary Burying Ground graves
• Explore Boston’s oldest cemetery

Top questions

How long is the Haunted Boston walking tour?

The exact duration isn’t listed, but it covers several key sites within central Boston on foot.

What landmarks are included on this haunted tour?

The tour visits Boston Common, Massachusetts State House, Boston Athenaeum, and Granary Burying Ground.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels according to the info provided.

Are service animals allowed on the haunted walking tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed during the tour.

Does this tour include a local English-speaking guide?

Yes, your experience includes a professional local English-speaking guide.

Is public transportation available near the meeting point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

Are pregnant travelers recommended to join?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

What’s included

Your haunted evening includes a guided walk with an entertaining local English-speaking guide through historic sites like Boston Common, Massachusetts State House, Boston Athenaeum, and Granary Burying Ground — all easily reached by public transport if you need it.