Walk the Black Heritage Trail®
Boston National Historical Park
Join a Park Ranger from the National Parks of Boston on a Black Heritage Trail® Tour to learn about the Black community of Beacon Hill that thrived before, during, and after the American Civil War.
Join a Park Ranger from the National Parks of Boston to explore the rich history of the Black community in 1800s Beacon Hill. The Black Heritage Trail® showcases residences and community buildings associated with a Black community that thrived on, and near, the north slope of Beacon Hill before, during, and after the American Civil War. Throughout that time, this community organized for equal rights and access to equal education. Community members championed the movement to abolish slavery and even housed freedom seekers on their journey along the Underground Railroad. This tour lasts approximately 90 minutes. Register for the tour in advance on eventbrite. It begins at the Massachusetts 54th Regiment across the street from the Massachusetts State House and ends at the Museum of African American History, covering about 1.4 miles. For the 2025 season from May 24 - September 28, Black Heritage Trail Tours will occur Wednesday through Sunday at 10am and 1pm. Sign up in advance on Eventbrite. If you have a group larger than five people, please e-mail us or call us at 617-429-6760. Reserve your spot here *In case of weather, Rangers will offer an indoor option in the basement of Faneuil Hall, also known as the "Find Your Park Space." For a self-guided audio tour, see either The Virtual Black Heritage Trail or download the NPS App.
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60-90 Minutes
The Black Heritage Trail® Tours typically lasts 1.5 hours.
No
Summer, Fall
Day
This trail navigates a hill and consists of sharp inclines and small and uneven concrete sidewalks. Occasionally there are obstructions on the sidewalk that may be difficult to navigate around.
Yes — Pets are allowed while walking through Beacon Hill. The Museum of African American History only allows service animals into its buildings. Please visit our page on Accessibility to learn more about General Guidelines for Visitors with Service Animals.
Yes — Guided tours are offered in the summer and into the fall. For the 2025 season from May 24 - October 13, Black Heritage Trail Tours will occur Wednesday through Sunday at 10am and 1pm. Register for the tour in advance on eventbrite. *In case of weather, Rangers will offer an indoor option in the basement of Faneuil Hall, also known as the "Find Your Park Space." For a self-guided audio tour, see either The Virtual Black Heritage Trail or download the NPS App.
This tour is best suited for individuals aged 8 and above.