Architecture in Boston
Boston is well-known for its impressive architecture, and is dotted with a number of historic landmarks. The Boston Common, Boston Public Garden, and Beacon Hill are all popular spots for walking and admiring the historic and modern architecture.
Boston Lighthouse
The Boston Lighthouse is found on Little Brewster Island in the outer Boston Harbor. The original structure was built in 1716, making it the first lighthouse in the United States. The current structure was built in 1783 and is the second oldest working lighthouse in the country.
Boston, Massachusetts, 02045
Faneuil Hall
Established as a permanent central marketplace in Boston, and gifted by the wealthy merchant Peter Faneuil, this marketplace building was constructed in 1742 and then later expanded over the following decades and centuries. The meeting hall on the upper floor of the building became famous as a place of protest against the British during the era of the Revolutionary War. It has since become a place of protest and democracy throughout American history. Today, visitors can tour the historic building as well as visit the shops and restaurants of the marketplace buildings. Grab a souvenir and a bite to eat in the food court, or join one of the many walking tours of Boston that begin in this part of town.
4 South Market Street, North End, Boston, Massachusetts
Harvard Yard
The historic and central area of Harvard University, the oldest in the nation, this large green space is intermixed with University buildings, trees, and the occasional statue. The area is generally open to the public and for tours, although at times the gates may close, so plan ahead.
Harvard Yard, Cambridge, Massachusetts
Fenway Park
This historic baseball stadium is home to the Boston Red Sox. Catch a game in the summer, or come check out the Fenway Park Living Museum. The stadium is famous for the "Green Monster", the huge wall of greenery in the outfield. First opened in 1912, this is the oldest Major League ballpark in the country, and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
4 Jersey Street, Fenway-Kenmore, Boston, Massachusetts
Old State House
Dating back to 1713, the Old State House was the site of the Boston Massacre where British soldiers fired into protesting colonists. This building was the seat of British government at the time, and became a spot where local colonists debated the details about their government leading to the revolution. Now, the building is a museum (combined with the Old South Meeting House) showcasing exhibits from the history of the revolutionary era.
206 Washington St, Downtown, Boston, Massachusetts
Boston Public Library
The Boston Public Library is housed in a 1895 Renaissance Revival-style building that has museum quality sculptures and paintings. There's a gallery on the second floor that features murals by the French artist Pierre Puvis de Chavannes and on the third floor there are murals by John Singer Sargent. The library has a number of family friendly programs available.
700 Boylston Street, Back Bay, Boston, MA, 02116
Freedom Trail
Boston's famous Freedom Trail is a three mile long route that goes by 16 of the city's most notable historic sites. The trail is marked by red bricks in the sidewalk and there are footprints through the street crossings. There are a number of brochures available in different places, including the city's visitor center (found in Boston Common), that will tell you about the history along the trail. Notable sites along the route include the Old Granary Burying Ground, King's Chapel Burying Ground, Old South Meeting House, and the Old State House. The route begins in Boston Common and ends across the bridge in Charlestown at the USS Constitution and Bunker Hill Monument.
Boston, MA
Old North Church
This historic church is one of the main landmarks in the historic area of Boston's North End. Surrounded by houses and buildings that are hundreds of years old, the church itself dates back to 1723. Not only is it well preserved, but it has a special place in American history as the beginning of Paul Revere's famous ride to let everyone know that the British were indeed coming. Self-guided tours of the church are available, and additionally visitors can go down into the crypt underneath the church as well. Furthermore, the church is open for services on Sundays if you make a reservation.
193 Salem Street, North End, Boston, Massachusetts, 02113
Mission Hill
Mission Hill is one of the more diverse areas in Boston. It houses a mix of students and young families, many employed at the nearby Longwood Medical Area. The Mission Church is a notable architectural landmark in the neighborhood, as are the brick row houses and triple-decker homes.
Boston, MA
First Harrison Gray Otis House
This 1796 Federal-style house has been fully restored with bright colors, and elegant but timely furnishings. It offers a glimpse at upper class life in Boston during the late 1700s and early 1800s. There's also an interesting architecture museum in the basement.
141 Cambridge Stree, West End, Boston, MA, 02114
Long Island Head Light
Long Island Head Light is a historic lighthouse on Long Island that was built in 1819.
Boston, Massachusetts
Federal Street Theatre
The Federal Street Theatre, also called the Boston Theatre, was the first theater built in the city.
160 Franklin Street, Church Green, Boston, Massachusetts, 02110
Leonard P. Zakim Bunker Hill Memorial Bridge
The Leonard P. Zakim Bunker Hill Memorial Bridge was part of The Big Dig Project in Boston. It is also one of the widest cable-stayed bridges in the world.
John F. Fitzgerald Expressway, East Cambridge, Cambridge, Massachusetts, 02128
How much does it cost to experience the architecture of Boston?
Prices for activities, things to do, and tours range from $30 to $30. The average cost for a tour or tickets is $30. A few of the best options are below.
Where to Stay in Boston
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