Walking tours are a wonderful way to experience a city in a unique way. Local storytelling tours offer benefits such as knowledgeable tour guides, cost-effectiveness, and a healthy activity to partake in while on vacation.
Have you ever zipped through a city on a tram or a bus? Sure, you can see all of the sights in a short amount of time, but it may feel like dipping your toes into the culture of the area, rather than experiencing it firsthand. While a bird's eye view certainly has its advantages, walking is by far the best way to experience a new place.
The Benefits of Walking Tours
Walking tours have many key advantages over other forms of travel when exploring a city. Here are just a few of the perks of walking, rather than riding or driving.
Experience the City on Foot
Nothing is quite like experiencing a new city at the most granular level. When you can walk through the streets, you can fully immerse yourself in the identity of the town, from the sidewalk pavement to the stunning architecture and local businesses.
Additionally, many locals in walkable cities commute on foot and by taking public transportation. Walking the streets is absorbing the breathtaking views of the city as they're meant to be seen.
Get Your Steps in While on Vacation
When traveling, you may want to indulge in sweets and treats, with fewer caloric restrictions or mandated gym sessions. Rather than packing on the pounds, consider some walking tours to get a cardio workout and increase your step count while you are on vacation.
A mile is approximately 2,000 to 2,500 steps, so a walking tour of even a couple of miles can easily boost your daily step totals.
Receive In-Depth Knowledge
Many tour guides have extensive knowledge of the city or the subject of the tour. Rather than a surface-level summary, you can learn about specific features and ask questions along the way.
A Low-Cost or Free Activity
In comparison to many other activities, local walking tours are relatively affordable. Some are even free. Look for deals through city pass programs and coupon websites for even more discounts.
The Most Popular Walking Tour Locations
While a walking tour around any city is no doubt an entertaining activity, some areas of the country are particularly suited for these types of tours. Often, the best walking tours center around neighborhoods that are rich in history and have many attractions within a condensed area.
Atlanta, GA
Many of Atlanta's neighborhoods are walkable, and companies like Guru Walk offer special tours of the city. Some of the most iconic Atlanta walking tours include:
- Civil Rights History Tour
- Centennial Olympic Park
Boston, MA
One of the country's oldest cities, Boston has no shortage of historical value. Tours focus on colonial America and the role that the city played in the American Revolution. Additionally, many nighttime tours explain the city's most famous crimes.
San Francisco, CA
The jewel of the Bay Area, San Francisco, offers a wealth of stunning architecture and how the city is a central element in the history of California. Areas like Fisherman's Wharf and the Mission District are opportunities to sight-see and take in the culture of the city, as well as the unique climate.
Is a Walking Tour Worth It?
Yes. Walking tours are worth it because they are a unique way to experience a city. Even if you have been to an area before, walking it with an educated tour guide can bring new dimensions that you were unaware of.
The cost of a walking tour is well worth the benefit. A small fee will cover an in-depth tour that usually focuses on a specific subject, such as the city's:
- History
- Architecture
- Notable crimes
- Famous residents
How to Dress for a Walking Tour?
If you aren't used to walking longer distances, make sure to prepare your body for the walking tour. Dress in comfortable clothing with durable sneakers. Consider bringing a water bottle so you can stay hydrated over the course of the tour.
Consider the season and the time of day when picking out your walking tour ensemble. Evening walking tours tend to have cooler temperatures, so bring layers. Walking tours in the middle of the day may require a hat and sunscreen to stay protected.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Will Walking Tours Impact the Future of Slow Tourism?
Slow tourism has gained popularity over the last few years. In the wake of the COVID-10 pandemic, travelers have begun to take a more conscious and sustainable approach to tourism.
Walking tours are one key facet of slow tourism. The method of travel, walking, is sustainable and environmentally friendly. Additionally, walking allows tourists to slow down and take in their surroundings, rather than trying to visit as many locations as possible in a short time frame.
What Are Other Sustainable Travel Options?
If you are eco-conscious or simply want to save money, there are many tactics you can use while traveling to ensure you do not impact the environment. Walk when possible, or if you need to rent a car, opt for an electric or fuel-efficient model.
Public transit is also a popular way to get around, and it is also less costly than renting a vehicle or using cabs or rideshare services. Many walkable cities have robust public transit options, such as:
- Subway systems
- Buses
- Commuter trains
- Ferries
- Street trolleys
Do Walking Tours Provide Immersive Travel Experiences?
Absolutely. Walking tours allow you to experience every detail of the city at ground level. You can get an up-close view of historic architecture or stop by plaques and historic sites.
Additionally, walking tour guides often have extensive knowledge of the area and are available to answer any questions that you may have.
Discover Local Storytelling Tours Today
If you are looking for a unique and enjoyable way to discover iconic American cities, consider walking tours. Use this guide to plan your next trip and see all of the landmarks and history at ground level, all while taking it in at your own pace.
Would you like to learn more about how to plan and budget your travel? Take a look around our website for more tips, tricks, and guides.
This article was prepared by an independent contributor and helps us continue to deliver quality news and information.
