Guided Tours

Lowell National Historical Park offers a wide variety of tours and programs throughout the year. Spaces for tours, especially for boat tours, are limited and reservations are suggested. To make a reservation, call [phone].

Trolley and walking tours are offered free of charge. Boat tours are $12 for adults, $10 for seniors (62+), $8 for students and youths (age 6-16), and free for children 5 and under. Cash, check , or charge (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover) may be used for payment.

For boat tours, visitors should arrive at the Visitor Center at 246 Market Street, Lowell, at least 30 minutes before tour start time to purchase their tickets. For trolley and walking tours, visitors should arrive at the Visitor Center about 30 minutes before tour start time.

Boat tours are on an open-topped boat, and the tours run rain or shine. For the best tour experience, plan for the weather and be sure to have sunscreen, a hat or other head covering, and plenty of water with you. The specific route for boat tours may change due to the weather or to changing levels of water in the river or the canals. Occasionally, tours may be cancelled due to the weather or water levels. If you have any questions about your tour, please call the park at [phone].

 

Suffolk Mill Walking Tour

Discover the diversity and variety of Lowell's stories. Explore how numerous factors have shaped both the city’s past and its present. Tour combines a walk along the Merrimack River, a guided visit to the River Transformed exhibit at the Wannalancit Mill, and a short trolley ride (when available). Visitors should plan for 1.5 miles of outdoor walking.

• This free tour starts at the Boott Cotton Mills Museum (115 John Street).
• Starting Sunday, September 5th
  • Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday offered at 2 p.m.
  • Friday/Saturday/Sunday/Monday offered at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
• Please plan to arrive 10 minutes before the start of the tour at the Boott Cotton Mills Museum
• Reservations recommended. Call [phone] to make a reservation.
• Please dress for the weather and bring a water bottle.
  

 

Working the Water Tour

Who dug the canals? Who laid the stone walls? Who operated the locks and gates? Discover the human stories of the workers who built and operated Lowell's remarkable waterpower system. Find out who is still "working the water" today.

Currently not offered.

 

Engineering Innovation Tour

Lowell was the Silicon Valley of the early 19th century-a center of innovation, invention, and technology. Learn about the experiments, feats of engineering, and creative problem solving that made Lowell successful. Discover the spirit of innovation that continues to shape the city today.

Currently not offered.