Ever since my first visit to Boston a few years ago, I've wanted to take a Duck Tour. Even after I moved to Boston, my desire continued. Hubby would never oblige me by going with me (too touristy, he said), so my friend Ally & I decided to take a Duck Tour together, partly as a reward for finishing finals & our first year of law school. We went last Friday & had an absolute blast!
First, let me explain what a Duck Tour is for those of you who may be unfamiliar with the concept: it's a historical tour of Boston that takes place using World War II replica amphibious vehicles, known as Ducks. You heard right. Amphibious. That means part of the tour takes place on land, and part of the tour takes place in the water.
The tour begins on land, where you see & learn about many of the most interesting buildings & places around the city, including various churches and the new & old State Houses, all which you can see below.
As you see each site, you also hear stories about its history & fun facts from an informative & entertaining guide. For unfamiliar tourists, this tour provides an excellent survey of the city's major landmarks. For the familiar Bostonian, this tour gives a deeper understanding & appreciation of the city. Ally & I were both shocked by all of the new information we learned - especially because we consider ourselves to be pretty savvy Bostonians!
After the land leg of the tour, the Duck hits the water of the Charles River. The informative tour continues here, but the real highlight is the spectacular view of the Boston & Cambridge skylines. Unless you're lucky enough to own your own boat, there's no other way to experience the city this way. It's truly breathtaking!
So, yes, Duck Tours may be a bit touristy. But they're also interesting, informative, and so much fun - for tourists & natives alike!
Disclosure: Boston Duck Tours provided me with a complimentary ticket for the tour. All opinions expressed in this post are my own.
I LOVE that you posted about this! I just found out yesterday that I'm coming to Boston for the 4th! I need to get some ideas from you on what we should do, where to watch fireworks, etc. The duck tour looks like a definite possibility!
ReplyDelete-Kristen
The Mrs. and The Momma
How fun! Even if it is touristy, it gives you a new outlook on the city :) I always wanted to do one when I was in SF but never got around to it and then we moved - maybe someday!
ReplyDeleteI've always wanted to do one of those Duck Boat tours - it looks like a lot of fun and you got some amazing shots!
ReplyDeleteCourtney ~ http://sartorialsidelines.com
That looks like such a fun tour! The photos from of the Charles are really gorgeous.
ReplyDelete-Sharon
The Tiny Heart
Enter to win a custom clutch!
I just did a duck boat tour in boston with my mom and sister for Mother's day. My sister has lived in Boston for about 6 years so I am always there to visit but had never done a duck boat tour until this year. I loved it! I learned so much I didn't already know and the Charles River was my favorite part.
ReplyDeleteHannah Tattoos and Pearls
I've been living here almost my whole life and I've never been on a Duck Tour, can you believe it. I've always wanted to go!
ReplyDeletexo, Yi-chia
Always Maylee
Oh you are to funny! you are such a tourist! :). AND you look tan again. Jealous.
ReplyDeleteSara
http://seventwentysomethings.blogspot.com/
ohh I went to Boston and saw the duck tours.. I wanted to go on it but there wasn't enough time. it seems so much fun!
ReplyDeleteThat is so KICK ASS! Whenever I get to come up and visit, I will totally have to do that. :)
ReplyDeleteFun! A few years ago, I went on the Just Ducky tour in Pittsburgh. Hey, have you done the swan boat yet in Boston? Seems right up your alley!
ReplyDeleteI keep wanting to do this in Pittsburgh but haven't made it there yet. I shall do it in honor of you!
ReplyDeleteI love Duck Tours - they are surprisingly fun and a great way to show visitors around town!
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