Discover Boston’s Rock and Roll History on a Guided Tour
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Discover Boston's rich rock and roll history on a lively walking tour through the Fenway neighborhood. Led by a local musician, you'll visit iconic sites like the Rat, Storyville, and the Boston Tea Party—places that helped shape the city’s legendary music scene. Learn how pioneering DJs, producers, and educators changed the way music is shared, recorded, and taught in America.
Trace Boston’s influence on some of the biggest names in music, from B.B. King and Joan Baez to Nirvana and Radiohead. This tour offers a unique glimpse into the city’s role in the folk revival, punk movement, and beyond. Whether you're a music fan or just curious about Boston’s cultural impact, this experience brings the city’s past, present, and future to life.
Spanning 1.5 hours, the tour covers key venues and neighborhoods, including Fenway Park’s surroundings and Lansdowne Street. It’s perfect for groups up to 15 people, with options for all ages—kids in strollers are welcome, and a moderate level of fitness is recommended. Join us for an engaging journey into Boston’s rock and roll legacy.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.
What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in English.
What is the group size?
Groups are limited to up to 15 participants.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, infants and small children can ride in strollers. Participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness.
What’s included in the tour?
You’ll hear stories about legendary venues like the Rat, walk through historic Victory Gardens, explore Boston’s role in the Folk Revival, and stroll down Lansdowne Street near Fenway Park.
Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. Gratuities are also not included.
Free cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 1.5 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Live tour guide
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Hear tales from the Rat, the cavernous club where many Punk and New Wave bands got their start
- Walk through America's oldest Victory Gardens still in use
- Examine Boston's impact on the Folk Revival in the 60s
- In the shadow of Fenway Park, stroll down lively Lansdowne street home to numerous venues
Not included
- Food & Drinks not included
- Gratuities
Itinerary
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Stop 1
Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the Fens is a treasured greenspace in Boston and features America's oldest WW II Victory Gardens. Jonathan Richman sings, “I walk through the 'Fenway with my heart in my hand.” We will stroll through the gardens before heading into Kenmore Square.
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Stop 2
Kenmore Square was the heart of Boston’s music scene for decades, home to record stores and venues like Storyville and The Rathskeller. Here, you'll learn about garage, punk, and new wave bands that emerged from “the Rat” in the 70s and 80s. The Police played here four times during their first US tour in 1979, and the Pixies shared a bill with Throwing Muses. We'll also visit Nuggets, one of the last remaining record stores in the neighborhood, before heading around Fenway Park.
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Stop 3
Walk down Lansdowne Street, under Fenway Park, and hear stories of venues past and present, including the Boston Tea Party, Venus De Milo, Avalon/Axis, and Spit. Today, bands load into spots like the House of Blues and MGM Music Hall for live shows.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the start point
We'll gather in the lobby of the Verb Hotel, which houses an exclusive collection of Rock and Roll artifacts from the David Bieber Archives, including vintage concert posters, album covers, and tickets from historic shows.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure.
- 100% refund if cancelled at least 1 day before
- 0% refund if cancelled within 24 hours
- May be canceled due to bad weather
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $40.00 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
