The James Blake House: A Glimpse into 17th Century Life
Explore Boston's oldest home, The James Blake House, and immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of 17th-century colonial life.
Step back in time at The James Blake House, Boston's oldest home, where history unfolds through guided tours and exhibits. Experience the charm of 1661 in this historic gem.
A brief summary to The James Blake House 1661
- 735 Columbia Rd, Boston, Dorchester, Massachusetts, 02125, US
- +1617-293-3052
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the website for special events or guided tours that may be available during your visit.
- Take your time to explore the garden surrounding the house for a peaceful break.
- Photography is allowed, so bring your camera to capture the beautiful architecture and garden.
- Visit during weekdays to avoid larger crowds and have a more personal experience.
Getting There
-
Subway
Start by taking the Red Line subway from any station in Boston. If you're near Downtown Crossing, board the train towards Ashmont/Braintree. Stay on the train for about 6 stops, and get off at the Ashmont Station. Once you arrive at Ashmont, exit the station and head towards the bus terminal.
-
Bus
At the Ashmont Bus Terminal, board the 21 bus towards 'Mattapan Station.' Stay on the bus for about 5 stops and get off at the 'Columbia Rd @ Talbot Ave' stop. After exiting the bus, walk straight down Columbia Rd for about 10 minutes until you reach The James Blake House at 735 Columbia Rd.
-
Walking
From the 'Columbia Rd @ Talbot Ave' bus stop, continue walking straight along Columbia Rd. You will pass several residential buildings and a few local shops. Keep an eye out for The James Blake House, which is located at 735 Columbia Rd on your left. The house is recognizable by its historical architecture and well-kept gardens.
Discover more about The James Blake House 1661
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The James Blake House 1661
0.0 km
Explore Boston's oldest home, The James Blake House, and immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of 17th-century colonial life.
Cathedral of the Holy Cross
2.5 km
Explore the breathtaking architecture and rich history of the Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Boston's vibrant South End, a true spiritual landmark.
Boston Neck
2.7 km
Explore Boston Neck, a historical landmark in the South End, where rich history meets vibrant culture and stunning architecture.
Rockledge - William Lloyd Garrison House
2.9 km
Discover the legacy of William Lloyd Garrison at Rockledge House, a historic landmark in Boston symbolizing the fight for freedom and social justice.
Mel King Square
3.1 km
Explore Mel King Square, a historic landmark in Boston that embodies community spirit and cultural vibrancy through art, history, and local events.
Chinatown Gate
3.5 km
Discover the vibrant cultural landscape of Boston's Chinatown at the iconic Chinatown Gate, a stunning symbol of the city's rich heritage and diversity.
John Hancock Tower
3.5 km
Discover Boston's iconic John Hancock Tower, a stunning architectural marvel and symbol of the city's vibrant spirit, nestled in the heart of Back Bay.
View Boston
3.6 km
Discover breathtaking panoramic views of Boston's skyline and rich history at View Boston, a premier observation deck and dining experience.
Copley Square
3.6 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Boston at Copley Square, surrounded by iconic landmarks and rich cultural events in the historic Back Bay.
John Singleton Copley Statue
3.7 km
Explore the John Singleton Copley Statue in Copley Square, a historical landmark celebrating American art and culture in the heart of Boston.
Edgar Allan Poe Statue
3.7 km
Explore the Edgar Allan Poe Statue in Boston, a captivating tribute to the master of macabre literature amidst the vibrant downtown atmosphere.
Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum
3.7 km
Experience the Boston Tea Party's history through interactive exhibits and reenactments at this iconic museum in Boston, Massachusetts.
Boston Marathon Survivor Memorial
3.7 km
Visit the Boston Marathon Survivor Memorial to honor resilience and remember the strength of the human spirit in the heart of Boston's Back Bay.
Japanese Bell
3.7 km
Discover serenity at the Japanese Bell in Boston, a historical landmark symbolizing friendship between the U.S. and Japan amidst beautiful gardens.
William Ellery Channing Statue
3.7 km
Experience the legacy of thought and freedom at the William Ellery Channing Statue in Boston's historic Beacon Hill neighborhood.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dorchester Brewing Company
0.3 km
Discover the unique flavors of craft beer at Dorchester Brewing Company, a vibrant brewery and community hub in Boston, MA.
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
2.2 km
Immerse yourself in the legacy of John F. Kennedy at his presidential library and museum, a captivating journey through American history.
L Street Tavern
2.4 km
Discover the charm of South Boston at L Street Tavern, where locals gather for craft beers, hearty pub fare, and a lively atmosphere.
Blackstone Square
2.5 km
Experience the tranquility and charm of Blackstone Square, a scenic park in Boston's South End, perfect for relaxation and local culture.
South End
2.5 km
Explore Boston's South End: a lively neighborhood with historic brownstones, diverse dining, and vibrant art culture perfect for any tourist's adventure.
St Stephen's Episcopal Church
2.6 km
Discover peace and community at St. Stephen's Episcopal Church, an architectural gem in Boston's vibrant South End, rich in history and spirit.
SoWa Art + Design District
2.6 km
Discover the artistic pulse of Boston at SoWa Art + Design District, where culture, creativity, and shopping come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
Boston Center for the Arts
2.9 km
Experience the vibrant arts scene at the Boston Center for the Arts, showcasing galleries, performances, and cultural events in the heart of the South End.
Medal of Honor Park
2.9 km
Explore the beauty and tranquility of Medal of Honor Park in South Boston, a serene city park honoring heroes with lush landscapes and peaceful pathways.
Franklin Park Zoo
2.9 km
Immerse yourself in wildlife at Franklin Park Zoo, Boston's premier destination for animal encounters and conservation education in a stunning natural setting.
Harriet Tubman Square
3.0 km
Explore Harriet Tubman Square, a serene park in Boston celebrating the legacy of freedom and courage with beautiful gardens and art installations.
Squantum Point Park
3.1 km
Explore the natural beauty and stunning views of Squantum Point Park, a serene escape in Quincy, Massachusetts, perfect for relaxation and outdoor fun.
Chinatown
3.3 km
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and delicious cuisine of Boston's Chinatown, where Asian heritage comes alive in every corner.
South Boston Waterfront
3.3 km
Explore the South Boston Waterfront—where breathtaking views, vibrant culture, and delicious dining converge for an unforgettable experience.
Symphony Hall
3.3 km
Discover Symphony Hall in Boston, a historical concert hall renowned for its exceptional acoustics and rich cultural experiences.
Essential places to dine
Toro
2.3 km
Discover authentic Spanish tapas and cocktails at Toro in Boston's South End—where culinary tradition meets modern flair.
anoush'ella
2.4 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean flavors at Anoush'ella in Boston's South End – where every meal tells a story.
Moonshine 152
2.5 km
Explore the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at Moonshine 152 in South Boston—where every meal is a celebration.
Amrheins Restaurant
2.5 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at Amrheins Restaurant in South Boston—perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner in a cozy atmosphere.
The Elephant Walk South End
2.5 km
Discover the exquisite fusion of Cambodian and French cuisine at The Elephant Walk South End in Boston's vibrant South End.
Lenox Sophia
2.6 km
Experience exquisite fine dining at Lenox Sophia in South Boston, where innovative cuisine meets elegant ambiance for an unforgettable culinary journey.
Fox & The Knife
2.6 km
Experience the best of Italian cuisine at Fox & The Knife in South Boston – where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
KAVA Neo-Taverna
2.7 km
Experience authentic Greek flavors in Boston at KAVA Neo-Taverna - where tradition meets modern culinary excellence.
Bar Mezzana
2.8 km
Discover exquisite Italian cuisine at Bar Mezzana in Boston's South End – where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Yellow Door Taqueria
2.8 km
Indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine and creative cocktails at Yellow Door Taqueria in Boston's vibrant South End.
Aquitaine
2.9 km
Discover Aquitaine: A Culinary Journey Through Authentic French Cuisine in Boston's South End.
Banyan Bar + Refuge
2.9 km
Discover flavorful Asian cuisine in Boston's South End at Banyan Bar + Refuge – where culinary creativity meets inviting ambiance.
Beehive Restaurant
2.9 km
Experience American cuisine at its finest in Boston's South End with live jazz and blues at the iconic Beehive Restaurant.
SRV
3.0 km
Indulge in Venetian-inspired dishes at SRV, Boston's top destination for authentic Italian cuisine and exquisite dining experiences.
Bootleg Special
3.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Southern cuisine at Bootleg Special, Boston's premier seafood restaurant in the heart of the South End.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
In Good Company Shop
2.5 km
Explore In Good Company Shop, a unique gift shop in South Boston offering local crafts, artisan goods, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
VIOLA LOVELY
2.5 km
Discover chic fashion at Viola Lovely in Boston's South End, where style meets sophistication in a beautifully curated boutique.
Stitch and Tickle
2.6 km
Explore the charming Stitch and Tickle gift shop in Boston's South End, offering unique fashion accessories, handbags, and home goods for every taste.
SoWa Vintage Market
2.6 km
Explore the vibrant SoWa Vintage Market in Boston's South End, where unique antiques and vintage treasures await every discerning shopper.
PATCH NYC
2.6 km
Explore PATCH NYC: A treasure trove of unique gifts, home goods, and fashion accessories in Boston's vibrant South End.
Flock
2.7 km
Explore Flock, the stylish women's clothing store in Boston's South End, offering unique fashion pieces and personalized service for a memorable shopping experience.
Trove On Tremont
2.8 km
Explore Trove On Tremont in Boston's South End for unique gifts, handcrafted jewelry, and stunning home decor that captures the city's artistic spirit.
Bos. Shop South End
2.8 km
Explore Bos. Shop South End: A treasure trove of local artisan gifts in Boston's vibrant South End, supporting Black-owned businesses.
Gifted
2.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Gifted, Boston's charming gift shop specializing in baby products, fashion accessories, and more.
House of Culture
2.9 km
Explore unique styles at House of Culture, Boston's vibrant clothing store blending fashion with local artistry.
College Convenience
3.3 km
Discover the essence of Asian cuisine at College Convenience, Boston's go-to grocery store for culinary delights and authentic flavors.
Huntington Plaza
3.3 km
Explore Huntington Plaza, Boston's vibrant shopping mall offering diverse retail options, delightful dining, and exciting entertainment experiences.
Copley Place
3.4 km
Discover luxury shopping and upscale dining at Copley Place, Boston's premier shopping destination with iconic brands and cultural experiences.
Prudential Center
3.5 km
Explore the Prudential Center in Boston: A shopping haven with dining, stunning views, and vibrant events in the heart of the city.
MFA Boston | Bookstore & Gift Shop
3.5 km
Explore the MFA Boston Bookstore & Gift Shop for unique art books and gifts that celebrate creativity and culture.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tom English's Cottage
2.4 km
Discover the lively spirit of South Boston at Tom English's Cottage, a beloved pub offering delicious fare and a welcoming atmosphere.
Shore Leave
2.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and unique atmosphere of Shore Leave, Boston's premier sushi destination in the South End.
Barcelona Wine Bar
2.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Spain at Barcelona Wine Bar in Boston's South End, featuring authentic tapas and an extensive selection of wines.
Five Horses Tavern - South End
3.0 km
Experience the essence of Boston's culinary scene at Five Horses Tavern, a lively bar and restaurant in the charming South End.
Wink and Nod
3.1 km
Explore Wink and Nod, Boston's cocktail bar, offering innovative drinks and delicious small plates in an intimate lounge atmosphere.
Delux Cafe
3.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of America at Delux Cafe, a lively restaurant in Boston known for its innovative cocktails and delicious dishes.
Trophy Room
3.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious American cuisine at Trophy Room, the ultimate bistro and lounge experience in Boston.
Clerys
3.2 km
Discover Clerys, a lively bar & grill in Boston's Back Bay, offering a delightful menu and an extensive drink selection for a memorable night out.
Birch Bar
3.2 km
Discover Birch Bar in Boston's South Boston Waterfront, where lively ambiance meets exquisite drinks and delicious bites for an unforgettable night out.
M.J. O'Connor's Seaport
3.3 km
Discover the authentic taste of Ireland at M.J. O'Connor's Seaport, a vibrant bar and restaurant in the heart of South Boston Waterfront.
Corner Pub
3.5 km
Discover Corner Pub, a lively bar in Boston's Leather District offering delicious food, craft beers, and a vibrant atmosphere for all.
Rock & Rye American Bar
3.5 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exceptional flavors of Rock & Rye American Bar, a gastropub in the heart of Boston offering craft cocktails and delicious cuisine.
OAK Long Bar + Kitchen
3.5 km
Discover the flavors of Boston at OAK Long Bar + Kitchen, a premier restaurant in Back Bay, offering modern American cuisine and an extensive drink selection.
Lucky's Lounge
3.5 km
Discover Lucky's Lounge in Boston, a lively American restaurant and lounge offering delicious cuisine, craft cocktails, and vibrant nightlife.
City Tap House Boston
3.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delightful flavors at City Tap House Boston, a premier bar and restaurant on the South Boston Waterfront.