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Tour Guide Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Factory Store Associate

Somerville, MA ยท On-site

$16.75 - $19/hr

As a Tour Guide, they give interesting, exciting, engaging 45-minute tours of our manufacturing facility, teaching guests about how cacao is grown, our unique Direct Trade program, and our ...

Plaza Activities Associate

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$29.48 - $38.32/hr

Church Tour Guide * Outdoor Plaza Host Because this is a public facing role representing The Mother Church, the PA Associate is expected to understand and thoughtfully support relevant ...

Previous National Parks Tour Guide experience preferred. * Significant experience in hospitality, tourism, and/or event management. * Strong sense of production and presentation. * Proficiency in ...

Showing results 21-40

Tour Guide information

See Boston, MA salary details

$9

$20

$36

How much do tour guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for tour guide in Boston, MA is $20.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $22.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tour guide?

Tour guides are professionals who lead individuals or groups on tours, providing information about the places being visited. They share historical, cultural, and practical knowledge, answer questions, and ensure the safety and enjoyment of their guests. Tour guides may work in various settings, such as museums, cities, nature parks, or heritage sites. Their role is to enhance the visitor experience by making the tour informative, engaging, and memorable.

What is a tour guide?

Tour guides are the helpful and knowledgeable resources for travelers. They may be on staff at museums or other tourist attraction sites to run scheduled tours our provide information to visitors. They may also lead guided tours through natural attractions, like caves or hikes to a waterfall. Tour guides assist visitors, monitor crowds, and provide information. Some tour guides have extensive knowledge in a particular subject or area, for example, a period in history or ecology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tour guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tour Guide, you need in-depth knowledge of local history and attractions, strong verbal communication skills, and often a relevant certification or license depending on the region. Familiarity with booking software, audio tour systems, and GPS navigation devices is typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, enthusiasm, and adaptability help create engaging and memorable experiences for diverse groups. These abilities ensure that tours run smoothly, clients remain safe and informed, and guests leave with a positive impression.

What are some common challenges tour guides face during group tours, and how can they effectively handle them?

Tour Guides often encounter challenges such as managing diverse group dynamics, addressing unexpected questions, and adapting to last-minute itinerary changes. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are key to keeping the group engaged and on schedule. Building rapport with participants, staying flexible, and having a deep knowledge of the tour content help guides handle unforeseen issues smoothly. Many guides also develop quick problem-solving strategies to ensure a positive experience for all guests.

What is the difference between Tour Guide vs Travel Agent?

AspectTour GuideTravel Agent
CredentialsNone required, but certifications like Certified Tour Guide can helpTravel certifications or licenses may be preferred
Work EnvironmentOn-site at tourist locations, guiding groups in personOffice-based or remote, planning and booking travel arrangements
Employer & Industry UsageTourism, hospitality, travel companies, attractionsTravel agencies, tour operators, online booking platforms
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, job duties, and qualificationsPlanning trips, booking travel, and arranging tours

While both Tour Guides and Travel Agents work within the tourism industry, Tour Guides lead groups at specific locations, providing on-site information and entertainment. Travel Agents, on the other hand, focus on planning and booking travel arrangements behind the scenes. Each role requires different skills and work environments, but both contribute to the overall travel experience.

Do tour guides get paid a lot?

Tour guides' salaries vary depending on location, experience, and the type of tours they lead. On average, they earn around $10 to $20 per hour, with some earning higher tips or commissions, but generally, the pay is moderate and often supplemented by tips. Skilled guides with certifications and specialized knowledge can increase their earning potential.

What qualifications do I need to be a tour guide?

To become a tour guide, you typically need good communication skills, a thorough knowledge of the area or subject, and often a relevant license or certification depending on the location. Some employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent, and experience in customer service or public speaking is beneficial.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tour Guide jobs in Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Tour Guide jobs in Boston, MA are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Tour Guide jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Tour Guide job openings:

Infographic showing various Tour Guide job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 35% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,632 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

PT Battle Green Guides (PDF

Town of Lexington Massachusetts

Lexington, MA โ€ข On-site

$18.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Town of Lexington
Employment Opportunity
We are currently accepting applications for the part-time position of:
Battle Green Guide
Hourly Rate: $18.50/hour
Part Time: Seasonal/Year-Round (Non-Benefitted)
Weekend and Holiday Availability Preferred
Posting will remain open until filled
GENERAL SUMMARY:
Under the general supervision of the Visitor Center Manager, this position is responsible for providing
historically accurate tours of Lexington's Battle Green and Old Burying Ground.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
* Create a welcoming atmosphere by being courteous and warm to all visitors;
* Dress in colonial clothing;
* Present historically accurate information as written in provided script;
* Prepare and cover tour content within a specific timeframe;
* Respond to historical questions regarding Colonial era Lexington and the American Revolution;
* Assist visitors with audio devices;
* Perform special projects and other related duties as directed or as the situation dictates;
* Regular attendance is required;
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY:
None
MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
N/A
QUALIFICATIONS:
* A genuine interest in history and storytelling.
* Ability to stand and walk throughout work hours in colonial clothing;
* 14 years of age or older;
* Ability to work outdoors and in inclement weather for long periods of time;
* Strong communication skills with the ability to engage effectively with customers;
* A positive attitude, strong work ethic, and commitment to providing excellent customer service;
* Flexibility to work various shifts, including weekends and holidays, as needed;
* Previous tour guide experience and general knowledge of Boston's history is preferred but not
required;
WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The Battle Green Guide shares information about the Battles of Lexington and the historical context that led to
those battles, offering visitors a historically accurate and engaging tour. Each guide is dressed in a colonial
outfit, which is provided by the Visitors Center, and leads groups through Lexington's Battle Green and the Old
Burying Ground. Guides are frequently exposed to adverse weather conditions including extreme heat, cold,
wetness and humidity and are required to walk on uneven surfaces for extended periods of time.
Tours run multiple times a day and on multiple days throughout the week, including weekends, from April
through November. Each tour is 60 minutes long. This position may have additional opportunities to provide
private Battle Green Walking tours when available.
The Town of Lexington has a strong commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and we are
actively seeking candidates who bring new voices and lived experiences to our organization.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being
performed by people assigned to do this job. The above is not intended to be an exhaustive list of
all responsibilities and duties required. The omission of specific statements of duties does not
exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the
position.
*External and internal applicants, as well as position incumbents who become disabled as defined
under the Americans With Disabilities Act, must be able to perform the essential job functions (as
listed) either unaided or with the assistance of a reasonable accommodation to be determined by
management on a case by case basis.
This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and
employee, and is subject to change by the employer, as the needs of the employer and
requirements of the job change.
APPLICATION PROCESS
All applicants are required to complete a Town application form [Lexington, MA] Employment Application,
Resumes may be attached to the application form as additional information, but cannot serve as a substitute for
completing the required application form.
The Town reserves the right to modify the application deadline, and/or accept applications after the deadline, to
best serve the interest of the community.
All applications will be reviewed and the most highly qualified candidates will be invited to one or more
interviews. All applicants will be notified of their standing in the process as soon as a decision has been made
regarding their individual application.
Prior to appointment, the final candidate may be required to "pass" a CORI check.
Individuals who need accommodations in order to participate in this process should contact the Human
Resources Department.
Questions regarding this hiring process should be addressed to the:
Human Resources Department, Town of Lexington
Email: jobs@lexingtonma.gov, Phone# (781) 698-4590
1625 Massachusetts Avenue, Lexington, MA 02420(781) 698-4590