A Literary Gem in the Heart of Boston: The Boston Public Library
Discover the architectural beauty and literary treasures of the Boston Public Library, a historic landmark in the vibrant Back Bay neighborhood.
The Boston Public Library, a historical landmark and public library, is a must-visit for tourists. Nestled in the Back Bay neighborhood, it combines beautiful architecture with a rich literary heritage, offering a serene escape in the bustling city. Explore its stunning reading rooms and vast collection, making it a perfect stop for book lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Boston Public Library - Central Library
- 700 Boylston St, Boston, Back Bay, Massachusetts, 02116, US
- +1617-536-5400
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-8 pm
- Thursday 9 am-8 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter experience and more space to explore.
- Don't forget to check out the library's free exhibitions and events for a unique experience.
- Take a guided tour to learn more about the library's history and architectural details.
- Bring your camera; the stunning interiors and courtyard provide perfect photo opportunities.
- Explore the outdoor courtyard for a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Lowell, head south on Merrimack Street towards the intersection with Market Street. Turn right onto Market Street and continue straight until you reach the Lowell Connector. Follow the pedestrian path along the Connector towards the South. When you reach the crosswalk for Bridge Street, cross over to the other side. Continue until you reach the Gallagher Terminal. From there, you can take the MBTA train to North Station in Boston. Once you arrive at North Station, exit the station and walk to the Haymarket subway station. Take the Green Line inbound towards Park Street. Get off at the Copley station, then walk east on Boylston Street until you reach 700 Boylston St, the Boston Public Library.
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Public Transit
From the Lowell MBTA station, take the Commuter Rail (Lowell Line) towards North Station in Boston. The journey will take about 30 minutes. Once you arrive at North Station, transfer to the Green Line subway. Take the Green Line towards Braintree and get off at Copley Station. After exiting the subway, walk east on Boylston Street for about 5 minutes until you reach the Boston Public Library at 700 Boylston St.
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Biking
If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a bike in Lowell. Start at the Merrimack Riverwalk and follow the bike path south towards the Charles River. Once you reach the intersection near the Charles River, continue east along the bike paths. This route will lead you towards the Alewife Greenway. Follow the signs to connect to the Minuteman Bikeway, which will take you all the way into the heart of Boston. Once in Boston, navigate towards Boylston Street, where you'll find the library at 700 Boylston St.
Discover more about Boston Public Library - Central Library
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Boston Marathon Survivor Memorial
0.1 km
Explore the Boston Marathon Survivor Memorial, a poignant tribute to resilience and unity in the heart of Boston's Back Bay.
John Singleton Copley Statue
0.2 km
Discover the historic Copley Square and the John Singleton Copley Statue, a cultural gem in the heart of Boston, rich in art and architecture.
Copley Square
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Boston at Copley Square, surrounded by iconic landmarks and rich cultural events in the historic Back Bay.
John Hancock Tower
0.3 km
Discover the architectural brilliance of the John Hancock Tower, a Boston landmark that reflects the city's vibrant culture and stunning skyline.
Boston Vendome Hotel Fire Memorial
0.3 km
Explore the Boston Vendome Hotel Fire Memorial, a poignant tribute to resilience and remembrance in the heart of Back Bay, Boston.
Church of the Covenant
0.5 km
Discover the architectural beauty and serene atmosphere of the Church of the Covenant in Boston's historic Back Bay, a peaceful retreat for tourists and locals alike.
Mel King Square
0.5 km
Discover the rich history and vibrant community spirit at Mel King Square, a significant landmark in Boston dedicated to social justice and activism.
General John Glover statue
0.5 km
Explore the General John Glover statue in Boston's Back Bay - a historic tribute to a Revolutionary War hero, set in a serene park.
William Ellery Channing Statue
0.7 km
Experience the legacy of thought and freedom at the William Ellery Channing Statue in Boston's historic Beacon Hill neighborhood.
Gibson House Museum
0.7 km
Discover the rich history of the Gibson House Museum in Boston's Back Bay, where the past comes alive in a beautifully preserved 19th-century home.
Charles River Esplanade
0.7 km
Experience the natural beauty and vibrant culture of the Charles River Esplanade, a must-visit park in Boston for relaxation and recreation.
George Washington Statue
0.8 km
Explore the George Washington Statue in Boston, a captivating historical landmark immersed in lush gardens and rich American history.
Ether Monument
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Explore the Ether Monument in Boston, a historical landmark celebrating the innovation of anesthesia and the legacy of Dr. John Collins Warren.
Phil and Morgan's Tree
0.8 km
Experience the historical essence of Boston at Phil and Morgan's Tree, a captivating landmark nestled in the heart of Beacon Hill.
Arthur Fiedler Footbridge
0.8 km
Explore the scenic Arthur Fiedler Footbridge in Boston, a perfect blend of nature and urban beauty, ideal for leisurely walks and stunning views.
Unmissable attractions to see
Old South Church in Boston
0.1 km
Discover the Old South Church in Boston: A Historical Gem of Gothic Architecture and Community Spirit.
Back Bay
0.1 km
Explore Back Bay, Boston: A stunning neighborhood filled with historic architecture, upscale shopping, and vibrant dining options, perfect for every traveler.
Copley Square Park
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Discover the beauty and tranquility of Copley Square Park in Boston, a perfect blend of nature and urban life in the city's vibrant Back Bay.
Boston Duck Tours Prudential Center Departure Location
0.2 km
Experience the charm of Boston with the iconic Boston Duck Tours, combining land and water sightseeing in one unforgettable adventure.
Trinity Church
0.2 km
Discover the architectural beauty and spiritual serenity of Trinity Church, a historic gem in Boston's vibrant Back Bay neighborhood.
Copley Place
0.2 km
Discover luxury shopping, exquisite dining, and stunning architecture at Copley Place in Boston's vibrant Back Bay neighborhood.
ISKCON Boston
0.4 km
Explore ISKCON Boston, a serene Hindu temple offering cultural and spiritual experiences in the heart of the city, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
View Boston
0.4 km
Discover breathtaking views and exquisite dining at View Boston, the ultimate observation deck experience in the heart of the city.
Commonwealth Avenue Mall
0.4 km
Discover the charm and tranquility of Commonwealth Avenue Mall, a lush urban park in the heart of Boston's Back Bay, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Boston Women's Memorial
0.4 km
Discover the Boston Women's Memorial, a serene tribute to women's history in a beautiful park setting in Back Bay, Boston.
First Church in Boston
0.6 km
Explore the First Church in Boston, a historic Unitarian Universalist landmark in Back Bay, offering serene beauty and a rich cultural experience.
Arlington Street Church
0.6 km
Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of Arlington Street Church in Boston's vibrant Back Bay neighborhood.
Harriet Tubman Square
0.7 km
Discover Harriet Tubman Square in Boston, a serene city park honoring the legacy of freedom and courage through beautiful landscapes and historical tributes.
Essential places to dine
Sorellina
0.1 km
Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at Sorellina in Boston's Back Bay - where luxury meets flavor in every bite.
Lolita Back Bay
0.2 km
Discover vibrant Mexican cuisine and innovative cocktails at Lolita Back Bay, Boston's favorite dining destination for flavor enthusiasts.
Saltie Girl
0.2 km
Experience Boston's culinary scene at Saltie Girl, where fresh seafood meets innovative flavors in a vibrant setting.
Porto
0.2 km
Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at Porto in Boston's Back Bay—where culinary artistry meets vibrant social energy.
Buttermilk & Bourbon
0.2 km
Experience Southern hospitality and innovative comfort food at Buttermilk & Bourbon in Boston's vibrant Back Bay neighborhood.
The Salty Pig
0.3 km
Discover the best of Italian cuisine at The Salty Pig in Boston - where artisanal charcuterie meets wood-fired pizza perfection.
Eataly
0.4 km
Discover Eataly in Boston: an authentic Italian marketplace with restaurants, cafes, and gourmet groceries for all food enthusiasts.
La Voile
0.4 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at La Voile in Boston's Back Bay - where culinary artistry meets elegant ambiance.
Terra
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Terra in Boston's vibrant Back Bay - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Faccia a Faccia
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Faccia a Faccia in Boston's Back Bay—where every dish tells a story.
Mistral
0.5 km
Indulge in authentic French cuisine at Mistral Bistro in Boston's Back Bay—where elegance meets exceptional flavors.
Krasi
0.5 km
Discover the authentic taste of Greece at Krasi in Boston's Back Bay—where exceptional cuisine meets a charming wine bar atmosphere.
Parish Cafe & Bar
0.6 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Parish Cafe & Bar in Boston’s vibrant Back Bay – where delicious food meets lively ambiance.
Contessa Boston
0.7 km
Experience exquisite Italian dining at Contessa Boston with stunning rooftop views and an unforgettable culinary journey in the heart of Back Bay.
Davio's Northern Italian Steakhouse
0.7 km
Experience the fusion of Northern Italian cuisine and modern steakhouse elegance at Davio's in Boston's Back Bay.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mure and Grand - Back Bay
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Explore Mure and Grand - a boutique treasure in Back Bay, Boston, offering unique clothing and jewelry for every fashion enthusiast.
Brodney Antiques & Jewelry
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Explore a treasure trove of vintage jewelry and antiques at Brodney Antiques & Jewelry in the heart of Boston's Back Bay.
No Rest For Bridget
0.2 km
Explore the chic women's clothing store No Rest For Bridget in Boston's Back Bay, offering trendy apparel, unique accessories, and delightful candles.
Riccardi
0.3 km
Explore Riccardi in Boston's Back Bay for a curated selection of men's and women's fashion and timeless accessories.
LIT Boutique
0.3 km
Discover LIT Boutique in Boston's Back Bay, where unique women's fashion meets personalized service for an unforgettable shopping experience.
Simon Pearce
0.3 km
Explore Simon Pearce, Boston's premier gift shop for handcrafted glassware, pottery, and lighting, showcasing the best of artisanal craftsmanship.
Prudential Center
0.4 km
Explore the Prudential Center in Boston: A shopping haven with dining, stunning views, and vibrant events in the heart of the city.
The Fairy Shop
0.4 km
Discover the magic and whimsy at The Fairy Shop in Boston’s Back Bay, where enchanting treasures and delightful gifts await every visitor.
Harry Potter Shop
0.4 km
Discover the magic of Harry Potter at the enchanting gift shop in Boston, filled with exclusive merchandise and delightful memorabilia.
Bottega Veneta Boston Boylston
0.7 km
Discover the epitome of Italian luxury at Bottega Veneta Boston Boylston, offering exquisite fashion and timeless elegance in the heart of downtown Boston.
Anime Zakka
0.7 km
Explore the vibrant world of anime and collectibles at Anime Zakka, Boston's premier gift shop for fans and collectors.
Gifted
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Gifted, Boston's charming gift shop specializing in baby products, fashion accessories, and more.
Bos. Shop South End
0.8 km
Explore Bos. Shop South End: A treasure trove of local artisan gifts in Boston's vibrant South End, supporting Black-owned businesses.
Urban Outfitters
0.8 km
Explore Urban Outfitters in Boston for trendy clothing, unique beauty supplies, and stylish home goods in a vibrant shopping environment.
Trove On Tremont
0.8 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
City Bar Back Bay
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Solas Irish Pub
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Discover the vibrant atmosphere and authentic flavors at Solas Irish Pub in Boston's Back Bay, a must-visit Irish bar and restaurant.
OAK Long Bar + Kitchen
0.2 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.
Clerys
0.4 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.
Back Bay Social
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delectable American cuisine at Back Bay Social, a must-visit restaurant in Boston's Back Bay.
Hecate
0.5 km
Discover Hecate, Boston's enchanting cocktail bar in Back Bay, where innovative drinks meet a whimsical atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Delux Cafe
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of America at Delux Cafe, a lively restaurant in Boston known for its innovative cocktails and delicious dishes.
Bukowski Tavern
0.6 km
Discover Bukowski Tavern in Boston's Back Bay, where gourmet burgers and craft beers meet a vibrant, laid-back atmosphere.
The Street Bar
0.7 km
Savor the essence of American cuisine at The Street Bar in Boston's vibrant Back Bay, where every meal is a delightful experience.
Trophy Room
0.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious American cuisine at Trophy Room, the ultimate bistro and lounge experience in Boston.
Wink and Nod
0.7 km
Explore Wink and Nod, Boston's cocktail bar, offering innovative drinks and delicious small plates in an intimate lounge atmosphere.
Barcelona Wine Bar
0.8 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
0.9 km
Experience the essence of Boston's culinary scene at Five Horses Tavern, a lively bar and restaurant in the charming South End.
The Bebop
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious fusion of Irish and American cuisine at The Bebop in Boston, where live music meets culinary delight.
Corner Tavern
0.9 km
Discover the charm of Corner Tavern in Back Bay, Boston – a cozy bar with an inviting atmosphere, great food, and a fantastic drink selection.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Guestlist.Boston
0.4 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Boston at Guestlist.Boston, a vibrant night club in Back Bay with unforgettable music and dancing.
Club Café
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and delightful American cuisine at Club Café, Boston's premier gay and piano bar in the heart of Back Bay.
Cantone's
0.8 km
Discover the energetic nightlife of Boston at Cantone's, a lively night club in the South End, perfect for music lovers and party-goers.
Park Square
0.9 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife of Boston at Park Square, where vibrant music and stylish ambiance create unforgettable memories.
Icon Nightclub
1.0 km
Unleash your nightlife experience at Icon Nightclub in Boston with electrifying music, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable dance parties.
Venu Nightclub
1.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Venu Nightclub in Boston, where great music, cocktails, and laughter come together for an unforgettable evening.
Wally's Cafe Jazz Club
1.0 km
Experience the soulful rhythms of jazz at Wally's Cafe Jazz Club, Boston's iconic live music venue since 1947.
Legacy
1.0 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Legacy Night Club, where Boston's vibrant atmosphere and great music come together for unforgettable nights out.
Metro Nightclub
1.0 km
Experience Boston's nightlife at Metro Nightclub, where vibrant music and a stylish atmosphere create unforgettable nights of fun and excitement.
Royale
1.0 km
Explore Royale, Boston's ultimate nightlife destination, offering live music, an upscale lounge atmosphere, and an unforgettable party experience.
Candibar Boston
1.1 km
Discover the electric nightlife at Candibar Boston, a premier night club in Downtown offering an unforgettable experience with great music and vibrant atmosphere.
Hava Nightclub
1.1 km
Discover the electrifying energy of Hava Nightclub in Boston, where music, dancing, and vibrant nightlife come together to create unforgettable memories.
Bijou Nightclub
1.2 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at Bijou Nightclub in Boston, where music, dancing, and style come together for an unforgettable night.
51
1.2 km
Discover Boston's top night club, an energetic hub for dance, music, and unforgettable nights in the heart of Downtown.
Loretta's Last Call
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Loretta's Last Call in Boston, where Southern-inspired cuisine meets live music and crafted cocktails.
