Boston Public Library
The Boston Public Library is more than just a library; it's a cultural symbol and a beloved institution for locals and tourists alike. Located in the heart of the city, this historic building has been serving as a hub for knowledge, innovation, and community since its opening in 1852.
Location
Boston Public Library is located at 700 Boylston Street, right in the heart of Copley Square. The library is easily accessible by public transportation, with the nearest subway station being Copley on the Green Line. The location is also within walking distance from popular destinations such as Newbury Street, Trinity Church, and the Prudential Center.
History
The Boston Public Library was founded in 1848 and opened in 1854 for the public. It was the first large free municipal library in the United States and was created with the vision of providing free access to knowledge for all citizens. The original building, designed by Charles Follen McKim of the architectural firm McKim, Mead & White, opened in 1895 and is now known as the McKim Building.
Over the years, the library has expanded to include several additional buildings, including the Johnson Building, which was designed by Philip Johnson and opened in 1972. Today, the BPL system consists of 25 branches throughout the city of Boston
Activities Nearby
The Boston Public Library has a wide range of activities and resources for visitors to enjoy. The library offers free Wi-Fi, public computers, printing services, and access to a vast collection of books, newspapers, magazines, and digital resources. The library also hosts events such as author talks, book clubs, concerts, and workshops for all ages.
One of the most popular activities at Boston Public Library is exploring the stunning architecture and artwork throughout the building. From grand staircases to murals by John Singer Sargent and sculptures by Daniel Chester French, there is something to admire around every corner.
Nearby Attractions
Copley Square, where the main branch of Boston Public Library is located, is a bustling hub with plenty of nearby attractions to explore. Trinity Church, an iconic example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture, is just steps away from the library. The Prudential Center offers shopping and dining options, as well as a skywalk observatory for stunning views of the city.
For those interested in history, the Boston Public Library is a short walk from the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile route that highlights important historical sites in the city. Another must-see attraction nearby is the Boston Common, America's oldest public park.
Planning Your Tour
One of the best ways to see all that Boston has to offer is by taking a tour on one of the famous Boston Sightseeing double-decker buses. With stops near the Boston Public Library, you can hop on and off at your leisure and explore the library as well as other top attractions in the city. Our tour offers a fun and informative way to see all of Boston's must-see sights, including historical sites, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems.
Our Tour Packages
Single Ride Pass
$37.00
Explore Boston in 80 Minutes
- City Tour Single Ride
- Double-Decker Bus Tour
- Hop-on Hop-off
- Cambridge Tour
- 80 Minutes Tour
- 1 Day Validity
- Shuttle Bus Service
- Multi Days Tour
- Night Tour
Hop-On Hop-Off All Day
$43.00
Boston City Sightseeing Tour
- Hop-On Hop-Off Boston Tour
- Double Decker Bus Tour
- Unlimited Hop-on Hop-off
- Hop-on Hop-off Cambridge Tour
- 80 Minutes Tour
- 1 Day Validity
- Shuttle Bus Service
- Multi Days Tour
- Night Tour
Hop-On Hop-Off 24 Stops
$58.00
Hop-0n Hop-Off - Boston & Cambridge Tour
- Hop-on Hop-off Boston Tour
- Double-Decker Bus Tour
- Unlimited Hop-on Hop-off
- Hop-on Hop-off Cambridge Tour
- 200 Minutes Tour
- 1 Day Validity
- Shuttle Bus Service
- Multi Days Tour
- Night Tour
Hop-On Hop-Off 2 Days
$89.00
City Tour Highlights With 2 Days Pass
- Hop-on Hop-off Boston Tour
- Double-Decker Bus Tour
- Unlimited Hop-on Hop-off
- Hop-on Hop-off Cambridge Tour
- 200 Minutes Tour
- 2 Day Validity
- Shuttle Bus Service
- Multi Days Tour
- Night Tour
Night Tour
$43.00
Boston's Vibrant Evening Tour
- City tour Single Ride
- Double-Decker Bus Tour
- Hop-on Hop-off
- Cambridge Tour
- 75 Minutes Tour
- 1 Day Validity
- Shuttle Bus Service
- Multi Days Tour
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