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Boston's Gilded Age

Learn about Boston's upper-class during the late 19th century - their favorite haunts and their social activism

Gilded Age photo

Tour Description

During the Gilded Age of the late nineteenth century, Boston's Back Bay was alive with social clubs and thriving cultural institutions. On this tour we will explore the favorite haunts of Boston's upper-class, often known as "Boston Brahmins."

Though "Brahmins" had a reputation for being exclusive and elitist, many of these men and women were active in making our city — and the whole nation — a better place to live. They fought to abolish slavery and to recognize women’s rights, and they built libraries, colleges, museums and orchestras.

Though this elite generation of wealthy activists was often philanthropic, on this tour we’ll also discuss their limitations and shortcomings.

Tour Information

tour duration
DURATION

90 minutes

tour distance
DISTANCE

1.1 miles

tour terrain level 1
TERRAIN

mostly flat surfaces and little to no inclines

Public Tour Calendar

Private Tours

Boston By Foot private tours are perfect for family groups, school groups, corporate groups, university and alumni groups, people who wish to tour with their pets, and anyone looking for a more personalized tour experience.


Wisdom Walks

This tour is also available in a slower-paced format designed for small groups of seniors. These tours are two hours long and include time for discussion and reflection. Thanks to support from Boston’s Age Strong Commission, BBF offers a limited number of these adapted tours free of charge to senior groups living in the City of Boston. Learn more about our Wisdom Walks tours or request this as a Wisdom Walks tour using the link below.

Book A Wisdom Walk

Starting Location

Meet your guide at the corner of Arlington and Boylston Streets, in front of Arlington Street Church.

Nearest Accessible MBTA Station: Arlington (Green Line)

Ending Location

This tour ends in the general area of the Phillips Brooks statue, outside Trinity Church.

Nearest Accessible MBTA Station: Copley (Green Line)

Trip Advisor Travellor's Choice Awards Winner 2024