Big Bus Boston Tours

Big Bus Boston tours

Begin an unforgettable journey with Boston’s Big Bus hop-on hop-off tours. Experience the city’s captivating history and New England charm as you visit iconic landmarks from the Freedom Trail to Fenway Park and New England Aquarium. Make the most of the flexibility to hop on and off at your own pace, discovering Boston's vibrant neighborhoods, waterfront views, and historic sites along the way.

Why choose the Big Bus Boston tours?

Big Bus Boston

Hop-on hop-off flexibility 

Whether you’re diving into history at the Freedom Trail or savoring fresh seafood at Quincy Market, this tour gives you the ultimate convenience to create your own adventure.

Big Bus Boston

Unmatched views from open-top buses

Admire the waterfront by the New England Aquarium or capture the historic charm of the Old State House—all while enjoying a perfect vantage point for your photos.

Big Bus Boston

Expert guided insights

Bring Boston to life with an engaging commentary from English-speaking tour guides and learn more about the city’s rich history & amusing anecdotes that make every stop memorable.

Big Bus Boston

Perfect for Every Schedule

Pick from the 90-minute non-stop panoramic tour or an elaborate 1- or 2-day unlimited hop-on hop-off ticket to explore the city in depth. There’s an option for everyone.

Big Bus Boston

Key Stops and Landmarks

Discover Boston’s must-see attractions, including the Boston Tea Party Ship & Museum, the USS Constitution & Museum, and the vibrant Quincy Market. Each stop offers a unique glimpse into the city’s history and culture.

Big bus Boston routes, stops and maps

Big Bus Boston

Red route

The Big Bus Boston tour provides access to Red Route and lets you travel around the must see landmarks of Boston like New England Aquarium, Steriti Memorial Ice Rink, USS Constitution & Museum, TD Garden Arena, Old State House/Downtown Crossing, MA Transportation Bldg/Big Bus Ticket Office and State House

Overview: 

  • First stop: New England Aquarium
  • Timings: 9am - 5:10pm
  • Frequency: Every 60 minutes
  • No. of stops: 7
  • Full loop duration:  90 minutes

Suggested London Big Bus Itineraries

Boston in 1 day
Boston in 2 days
Big Bus Boston
  • If you have just one day in Boston, begin your adventure with the 90-minute non-stop panoramic tour and then decide what you want to explore next.
  • The 90-minute non-stop tour is an ideal way to take in Boston’s skyline and landmarks from the comfort of an open-top bus. With an English-speaking guide on board, you’ll enjoy detailed commentary filled with fascinating stories and amusing anecdotes about the city’s history and culture.
  • Once you’ve gotten a broad overview, dive deeper by revisiting your favorite stops or heading straight to the must-see locations. 
  • Explore the New England Aquarium, where the wonders of marine life come alive, from playful sea lions to the mesmerizing Giant Ocean Tank. 
  • Next, step back in time at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, an interactive experience where you can relive a pivotal moment in American history. 
  • Finally, end your day at Quincy Market, a vibrant hub of food and shopping where you can savor classic New England fare or pick up a unique souvenir to remember your trip.

If you have two days at hand, you can take advantage of the time to explore all seven stops along the Red Route, each offering a unique slice of Boston’s charm.

Big Bus Boston

Day 1:

Start your day by embarking on a heritage adventure as you walk the iconic Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile path featuring 16 Revolutionary landmarks like Park Street Church and King’s Chapel. You can spend your day leisurely admiring marine life at the New England Aquarium, stroll through the Italian-inspired North End near Steriti Memorial Ice Rink, and dive into history at the USS Constitution & Museum. 

Big Bus Boston

Day 2:

On your second day, cover the remaining stops along the Red Route and take advantage of the luxury of time to explore each location at your own pace. Visit all the stops, but be mindful to plan your time based on your interests. If you’re a sports fan, check for exciting events at TD Garden Arena, while history enthusiasts will enjoy tuning into the revolutionary tales of the Old State House—so be sure to space your time accordingly if these appeal to you. Don’t miss the golden dome of the State House or the lively cultural hubs near the MA Transportation Building. With thoughtful planning, this day is perfect for fully immersing yourself in Boston’s vibrant history and culture.

Big Bus Boston tips

  • Use the Big Bus Tours app to help you plan your day. It shows bus timings, stop locations, and route details, ensuring a smooth exploration of Boston’s attractions.
  • The 90-minute non-stop panoramic tour is ideal if you want a comprehensive overview of Boston’s top landmarks without hopping on and off.
  • The open-top buses provide spectacular views but can get breezy. To stay comfortable during your ride, bring a light jacket or scarf, especially during colder months.
  • The Big Bus fleet is wheelchair-friendly, ensuring that everyone can enjoy Boston’s sights. Guide dogs are also welcome on board.
  • While food and beverages in closed containers are allowed, make sure they are light-weighted for you to carry while hopping on and off frequently to explore different attractions
  • Activating your ticket early in the day maximizes the benefits, especially for the 1-day pass. Aim to begin your journey with the first bus to get the best seat where you can click panoramic shots for the gram.

Big Bus Boston: FAQ's

What are the operating hours of the Big Bus Boston tours?

The first bus departs at 9 am, and the last bus leaves at 4 pm from Stop #1 (New England Aquarium). Buses operate approximately every 60 minutes.

Can I start the tour from any stop?

Yes, you can join the Big Bus tour from any of the seven designated stops along the Red Route.

Can I use my Big Bus ticket over two days?

If you have a 1-day pass, it’s valid only for the calendar day you activate it. The 2-day pass, however, offers unlimited use across two consecutive days.

Do I need to pre-book tickets for attractions along the route?

While you can purchase tickets on-site, pre-booking skip-the-line tickets for popular attractions like the New England Aquarium or Boston Tea Party Ship & Museum is recommended to save time.

What are the benefits of the 2-day pass?

The 2-day pass gives you the flexibility to explore Boston at a leisurely pace, covering all 7 stops thoroughly and revisiting your favorite locations. It’s ideal for travelers looking to soak in the city’s history and culture.

Is the Big Bus Boston wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all Big Bus Boston buses are wheelchair accessible. Additionally, guide dogs are welcome on board.

Can I bring food and drinks on the bus?

You can bring food and drinks as long as they are in closed containers. However, large meals or open beverages are not allowed.

Are pets allowed on the bus?

Pets are not allowed on the buses, but service animals, like guide dogs, are welcome.