Hello, I'm
Jessica D.
I was born and raised in the historic center of Boston. From my window, I can see the grasshopper weathervane atop Faneuil Hall, which has been there since 1742. My interest in studying the past began when my childhood friends and I would dig around in the construction sites of our Boston neighborhood. We often unearthed pieces of clay pipes, scraps of leather shoes, and occasionally coins, which we would use to create our own little museums.
- Boston, USA
- Guide since 2024
About Me
Q. What inspired you to become a guide?
I am a Massachusetts-certified history teacher with experience teaching students from pre-K through graduate school. At every educational level, I have observed that students are particularly engaged in experiential on-site learning, which is exactly what you provide on a tour. I see tour guiding as a form of teaching on days when students are especially excited and eager to learn, making the experience both fun and enjoyable!
Q. What do you love most about Boston?
I particularly enjoy the waterfront areas of historic New England cities like Boston and Salem. Increasingly, the scenic harbor shoreline, known as the "harborwalk," is becoming accessible to the public around the clock. This accessibility benefits not just people; I have also spotted seals and whales in and around the harbors, along with magnificent ospreys, friendly sea ducks, and many other animals.
Q. Tell us about a memorable moment from one of your tours.
During the Salem walking tour in the Salem In a Day Tour, we had the unique experience of meeting a descendent of someone who was accused of witchcraft in the town back in 1692. She casually mentioned her connection during the tour, which sparked excitement among everyone. It was fascinating to see her open the Salem Descendant's package available at the Salem Witch Museum. It contained names and details about the accusers and judges involved in her ancestor's trial—some of whom we´d discussed on the tour.
Fun Facts
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I hold a doctorate (Ph.D.) from the Vatican and have written a book based on my research into the Jewish catacombs of Rome.
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My family has lived in the same neighborhood for 125 years, which might seem unusual in the USA.
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Although I’m originally from Boston, I don’t have the local accent.
My Insider Tips for Boston
Q: Best time of year to enjoy Boston?
As a native New Englander, I enjoy taking long walks in the winter. There’s something invigorating about trying to stay warm under several layers of clothing. In the summer, while it can get quite humid, coastal New England tends to be cooler than the inland areas. There are many public beaches and parks near the cities, including the Boston Harbor Islands, which can be accessed by ferry.
Q: What do you tell your visiting friends to see in Boston?
Both Boston and Salem have what is known as an "Athenaeum," which serves as a private library and cultural center. These institutions are among the oldest in each city and are well-loved by locals while also welcoming visitors. The Salem Athenaeum features a lovely garden in the backyard that can be accessed through a gate. Sitting under the trees and enjoying the mix of shade and sunshine provides a welcome respite from the bustle of nearby Essex Street.
Q: What about the culture in Boston should people not miss?
Outdoor spaces, such as the "Common" found in many historic New England towns like Boston, Cambridge, and Salem, remain essential to community identity. To explore local history further, consider visiting historic graveyards, including the picturesque Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge and the Broad and Howard Street Cemeteries in Salem.
Q: What are some unmissable foods and drinks?
I grew up enjoying both regional and international foods in the Boston area. For local favorites, I highly recommend lobster, which has become an expensive delicacy but was originally a survival food for the English colonial settlers of Massachusetts. Another must-try is fried seafood, which is more readily available during the warmer months when clam shacks are open, but you can also find it year-round at the original Kelly's Roast Beef on Revere Beach, accessible via the MBTA Blue Line. If you're in the mood for raw seafood, head to Neptune Oyster.
While I'm not a big drinker of alcohol, I do enjoy my daily coffee. My drink of choice is a hot cup from George Howell, who invented the "Frappuccino" (it's called the "Original" on his menu). He has a store located right in the Boston Public Market, which is a great spot for many New England food specialties.
When I'm in Salem, I like to visit local cafes such as A&J King Artisan Bakers. A bit farther from the center is the Coffee Time Bake Shop, which is also a hangout for residents.
You might see me on these tours
