Boston Food History Walking Tour

2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English

Boston’s story didn’t end with the American Revolution—it only got more delicious. Shaped by waves of immigration, global trade, and constant innovation, Boston and its food have evolved. Every bite tells a piece of the city’s history, even some we're not proud of.

Food reflects who we are—our culture, our environment, and our economy—and in Boston, that spans centuries of change.

On this walking tour, you’ll explore Boston’s rich history through the lens of what its people have harvested, eaten, and produced—from pre-Colonial Native Americans to the 20th century. Discover how molasses fueled candy and commerce, cod fed empires, science expanded diets, and tea sparked revolution.

We’ll taste classic New England dishes and modern Boston favorites, plus some sweet surprises you might not realize have local roots!

If you’re hungry to go beyond the Freedom Trail and experience Boston’s history through its flavors, this tour is for you. Bring your appetite and your walking shoes.

What's Included

We'll make multiple stops for food that will be the equivalent of lunch, including dessert.
We'll talk about alcoholic drinks but won't provide any, although some will be available for purchase for those interested.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

We'll meet at the Salada Tea Doors, which is near the Back Bay, Copley and Arlington T stops.

End point

We'll end near the North End and North Station, which serves the Green and Orange lines.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1
    Boston Common

    A center of life in Boston for 400 years.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2

    We'll learn about the long history of China and tea, and how the Chinese arrived in Boston, then stop into a local shop for a bite.

    25 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

    We'll talk about why tea mattered enough to fight a war over.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4

    We'll talk about the impact of Irish immigration on Boston.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5

    We'll see where Bostonians have been buying produce for 300 years, and snack on some local fare.

    25 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6

    We'll talk about the city's history of immigration, and how the North End today compares to 100 years ago, stopping for some cannoli.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7

    We'll talk about how 2.3 million gallons of molasses came crashing down and what it was doing there in the first place.

    10 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Supplied by Candy, Cod, and Tea: A Boston Food History Walking Tour

Tags

Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Food & Drink
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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