Boston Public Library – Central Library
A magnificent McKim building from 1895, this architectural masterpiece houses millions of books and features stunning murals by John Singer Sargent. The library’s Bates Hall reading room with its barrel-vaulted ceiling is considered one of the most beautiful spaces in Boston. Visitors can enjoy free tours, exhibitions, and the peaceful courtyard.
Phone: (617) 426-5000
Hynes Convention Center
This modern convention center hosts major trade shows, conferences, and exhibitions throughout the year, making it a hub of business activity in Back Bay. The facility features state-of-the-art meeting spaces and exhibition halls that attract visitors from around the world. Even when not attending an event, the building’s contemporary architecture and connection to the Prudential Center make it worth seeing.
Phone: (617) 954-2000
The Shops at Prudential Center
This climate-controlled shopping destination features over 75 stores ranging from national chains to unique boutiques. The multi-level mall offers everything from fashion and electronics to books and specialty foods. Connected to hotels and the subway via covered walkways, it’s perfect for shopping regardless of weather conditions.
Phone: (617) 236-3100
First Church of Christ, Scientist
This impressive complex includes the original Mother Church and the distinctive Extension building with its massive dome. The Christian Science Plaza surrounding the buildings features a beautiful reflecting pool and fountains. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the church’s history and architecture, and the mapparium offers a unique walk-through globe experience.
Phone: (617) 450-2000
Commonwealth Avenue Mall
This tree-lined pedestrian promenade runs down the center of Commonwealth Avenue, featuring beautiful gardens, statues, and benches for relaxation. The mall showcases some of Boston’s most elegant Victorian architecture on both sides while providing a peaceful green space in the urban environment. It’s perfect for leisurely strolls while admiring the historic brownstones and seasonal plantings.
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Mapparium at Mary Baker Eddy Library
Step inside a three-story stained-glass globe for a unique geographical and historical experience. This walk-through world map from 1935 offers incredible acoustics and a fascinating perspective on how the world appeared nearly a century ago. The interactive exhibits explore themes of perspective, history, and understanding our interconnected world.
Phone: (617) 450-7000
Arlington Street Church
This beautiful Unitarian Universalist church, built in 1861, features stunning Tiffany stained glass windows and hosts regular concerts and cultural events. The church played an important role in the civil rights movement and continues to be active in social justice causes. The building’s Baroque architecture and peaceful sanctuary provide a contemplative space in bustling Back Bay.
Phone: (617) 536-7050
Emerson Colonial Theatre
This historic theater has been entertaining Boston audiences since 1900 with Broadway shows, concerts, and special performances. The beautifully restored venue maintains its original charm while offering modern amenities and excellent sightlines from every seat. The Colonial regularly hosts touring Broadway productions and world premieres, making it a cornerstone of Boston’s theater district.
Phone: (617) 426-9366
Boston Athletic Association
The historic headquarters of the organization that organizes the Boston Marathon offers a small museum and retail shop for running enthusiasts. Visitors can learn about the marathon’s history, see memorabilia from past races, and purchase official Boston Marathon merchandise. The building itself is a piece of Boston sports history, representing over 130 years of athletic tradition.
Phone: (617) 236-1652
Huntington Theatre Company
Boston University’s professional theater company presents acclaimed productions in their intimate venue, featuring both classic and contemporary works. The theater is known for high-quality performances and often serves as a launching pad for shows heading to Broadway. With excellent acoustics and close seating, every performance feels personal and engaging.
Phone: (617) 266-0800
Back Bay Architectural Walking Tour Route
This self-guided tour showcases the neighborhood’s stunning Victorian architecture, including ornate brownstones, churches, and public buildings. The route typically covers Commonwealth Avenue, Marlborough Street, and Beacon Street, highlighting the uniform yet varied architectural styles that make Back Bay unique. Information plaques and guidebooks help visitors understand the historical significance of the buildings and the neighborhood’s development.
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Copley Square Farmers Market
This vibrant outdoor market operates seasonally, bringing fresh local produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts to the heart of Back Bay. Visitors can sample seasonal specialties, meet local farmers and artisans, and enjoy live music in a festive atmosphere. The market transforms Copley Square into a community gathering place with the beautiful backdrop of Trinity Church and the Boston Public Library.
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Boston Public Library – Johnson Building
The modern addition to the Boston Public Library houses contemporary collections, research facilities, and the popular Newsfeed Café. This building complements the historic McKim building while offering state-of-the-art resources and comfortable study spaces. The building’s brutalist architecture provides an interesting contrast to the classical design of the original library.
Phone: (617) 536-5400
Berklee College of Music Campus
The world-renowned music college’s Back Bay campus buzzes with creative energy as students practice and perform throughout the buildings. Visitors can often hear impromptu performances and see students with various instruments walking between classes. The campus includes practice rooms, recording studios, and performance spaces that contribute to Boston’s vibrant music scene.
Phone: (617) 266-1400
Boston Marathon Finish Line
The iconic finish line of the world’s oldest annual marathon is marked on Boylston Street near Copley Square. This historic spot draws runners and visitors year-round who want to experience crossing the famous finish line. The area features commemorative markers and serves as a symbol of endurance, determination, and Boston’s resilient spirit.
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Marlborough Street Residential District
This tree-lined street showcases some of Boston’s most beautiful and well-preserved Victorian brownstone architecture. Unlike the grander Commonwealth Avenue, Marlborough Street offers a more intimate residential experience with elegant rowhouses and charming details. Walking along this street provides insight into how Boston’s wealthy families lived during the Victorian era, with many buildings now serving as condominiums and small businesses.
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The Lenox Hotel Historic Building
This elegant historic hotel, opened in 1900, represents the golden age of Boston hospitality with its beautifully preserved architecture and classic elegance. The building features ornate details and period furnishings that transport visitors to the early 20th century. Even non-guests can appreciate the lobby’s historic charm and perhaps enjoy a meal at one of the hotel’s restaurants while experiencing this piece of Boston history.
Phone: (617) 536-5300
Back Bay Fens
This linear park system designed by Frederick Law Olmsted offers peaceful walking paths, gardens, and recreational areas along the Muddy River. The Fens features beautiful seasonal displays, including the famous rose garden and community victory gardens where locals grow vegetables and flowers. It’s part of Boston’s “Emerald Necklace” park system and provides a natural escape from urban life.
Phone: (617) 635-4505
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Phone: (617) 536-5400
Newbury Street Shopping
Boston’s premier shopping destination stretches eight blocks through the heart of Back Bay, featuring everything from high-end boutiques to vintage shops. The tree-lined Victorian street offers an eclectic mix of fashion, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants. Window shopping along Newbury Street is a quintessential Boston experience, perfect for people-watching and discovering unique finds.
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Trinity Church
This stunning Romanesque Revival masterpiece designed by H.H. Richardson is considered one of America’s finest churches. The interior features breathtaking murals and stained glass windows, including works by John La Farge and William Morris. Trinity Church sits beautifully in Copley Square and offers regular tours showcasing its architectural and artistic treasures.
Phone: (617) 536-0944
Boston Public Garden
America’s first public botanical garden features the famous Swan Boats, beautiful flower beds, and the beloved Make Way for Ducklings statues. The 24-acre garden offers peaceful walking paths, a stunning lagoon, and seasonal displays of flowers and trees. The Swan Boats have been operating since 1877, providing charming rides around the lagoon from spring through fall.
Phone: (617) 635-4505
Skywalk Observatory at Prudential Tower
Located on the 50th floor of the Prudential Tower, this 360-degree observatory offers breathtaking views of Boston and beyond. On clear days, visitors can see up to 100 miles in every direction, including views of the harbor, mountains, and surrounding cities. Interactive exhibits help identify landmarks and provide historical context about Boston’s development.
Phone: (617) 859-0648
Copley Square
This historic public square serves as Back Bay’s cultural heart, surrounded by architectural gems including Trinity Church, Boston Public Library, and Old South Church. The square regularly hosts farmers markets, concerts, and festivals throughout the year. It’s a perfect spot for people-watching, outdoor dining, and enjoying the beautiful Victorian architecture that defines Back Bay.
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Gibson House Museum
This perfectly preserved 1860s Victorian townhouse offers visitors a glimpse into 19th-century upper-class Boston life. The museum maintains original furnishings, decorations, and household items, creating an authentic time capsule experience. Guided tours reveal fascinating stories about the Gibson family and Victorian domestic life, making it feel like stepping back in time.
Phone: (617) 267-6338
Berklee Performance Center
This intimate concert venue on the Berklee College of Music campus hosts world-class musical performances ranging from jazz and classical to world music and contemporary artists. The venue’s excellent acoustics and close seating arrangement create an unforgettable live music experience. Students and faculty from one of the world’s premier music schools frequently perform alongside visiting international artists.
Phone: (617) 747-2261
Prudential Center Shops
This enclosed shopping mall in the heart of Back Bay features over 75 stores and restaurants across multiple levels. From major department stores to unique boutiques, the shopping center offers climate-controlled retail therapy year-round. The food court and various restaurants provide dining options, and the center connects to the Hynes Convention Center and hotels via covered walkways.
Phone: (617) 236-3100
John Hancock Tower
Boston’s tallest building stands as an architectural marvel with its distinctive blue glass exterior that reflects the city’s changing sky and seasons. The 60-story tower’s unique rhomboid shape and mirrored facade make it a striking addition to the skyline. While no longer offering public observation areas, the building remains an iconic landmark and photo opportunity from street level and surrounding areas.
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Old South Church
This magnificent Gothic Revival church with its distinctive campanile tower has been a Back Bay landmark since 1875. The church is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows, impressive pipe organ, and rich history of social activism. Visitors can attend services, concerts, or special events in this architecturally stunning space that continues to serve as an active congregation.
Phone: (617) 536-1970
Charles River Esplanade
This scenic parkland along the Charles River offers miles of walking and biking paths with stunning views of Cambridge and the river. The Esplanade is perfect for jogging, picnicking, or simply relaxing while watching sailboats on the water. The park hosts outdoor concerts and events, including the famous Boston Pops Fourth of July concert at the Hatch Memorial Shell.
Phone: (617) 635-4505
Boston Symphony Hall
Home to the world-renowned Boston Symphony Orchestra, this National Historic Landmark is considered one of the world’s most acoustically perfect concert halls. Built in 1900, Symphony Hall hosts classical concerts, chamber music, and special performances throughout the year. The hall’s shoebox design and carefully calculated dimensions create an unparalleled musical experience for audiences.
Phone: (617) 266-1200
Back Bay Station
This major transportation hub connects Amtrak, commuter rail, and the Orange Line subway, making it a gateway to exploring Boston and beyond. The station’s Victorian-era architecture has been beautifully preserved while incorporating modern amenities. It’s not just functional but also features shops and restaurants, making it an interesting stop for architecture enthusiasts and transportation buffs.
Phone: (617) 222-3200
Boylston Street
This vibrant thoroughfare runs through the heart of Back Bay, offering excellent shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The street features beautiful Victorian architecture mixed with modern establishments, creating a perfect blend of historic charm and contemporary energy. Popular spots include trendy restaurants, bars, and the famous Boylston Street’s proximity to major attractions like the Boston Public Library and Copley Square.
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Boston Duck Tours Departure Point
These amphibious vehicle tours offer a unique way to see Boston from both land and water, departing from the Prudential Center area. The entertaining tour guides provide historical commentary and humor as the “duck” travels through city streets before splashing into the Charles River. The water portion offers spectacular views of the Boston skyline and Cambridge that can’t be seen from land.
Phone: (617) 267-3825
Fenway Studios
This historic artist studio building has been home to Boston’s creative community since 1905, with famous residents including Norman Rockwell and many other renowned artists. The building’s unique north-facing windows provide perfect natural light for artistic work. While primarily a working studio space, the building occasionally hosts open studio events and exhibitions that offer glimpses into Boston’s thriving art scene.
Phone: (617) 536-7868
Copley Place
This upscale indoor shopping mall features luxury retailers, department stores, and fine dining options all under one roof. Connected to the Prudential Center via skybridge, Copley Place offers climate-controlled shopping year-round with brands like Neiman Marcus, Tiffany & Co., and many others. The mall also features several restaurants and a food court, making it a complete destination for shopping and dining.
Phone: (617) 369-5000
