Explore the Architectural Marvel of Boston Public Library
Discover the Boston Public Library, an architectural gem blending history, art, and literature in the heart of Back Bay.
The Boston Public Library, a historic and architectural gem in the heart of Back Bay, offers visitors a unique blend of history, art, and literature. With its stunning Renaissance-style architecture and vast collections, it's a must-visit for any tourist.
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 weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
- Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the library's rich history and stunning architecture.
- Don’t forget to explore the outdoor courtyard for a peaceful break.
- Check the library's calendar for special events or exhibits during your visit.
Getting There
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Public Transit
From Waltham, head to the nearest bus station, which is the Waltham MBTA Bus Terminal located at 1000 Main Street. Take the #70 or #70A bus towards Alewife Station. After approximately 30 minutes, get off at the Alewife Station. From there, transfer to the Alewife subway station and take the Red Line inbound towards Ashmont/Braintree. After about 20 minutes, transfer at Park Street Station to the Green Line C or D train towards Riverside or Government Center. Get off at the Copley Station. From Copley Station, walk approximately 5 minutes east along Boylston Street until you reach 700 Boylston Street, the Boston Public Library.
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Walking
If you are in central Waltham, you can also walk to the Waltham MBTA train station at 175 River St. From there, take a train on the Fitchburg Line towards North Station. After approximately 30 minutes, get off at North Station. Transfer to the Green Line at Haymarket Station, and take the Green Line towards Copley. Once you arrive at Copley Station, exit and walk east along Boylston Street for about 5 minutes until you arrive at 700 Boylston Street, where the Boston Public Library is located.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, from Waltham, take the Alewife Greenway Trail towards Alewife. Once you reach Alewife Station, use the streets to connect to the Minuteman Commuter Bikeway, which will take you towards Alewife Station. Continue on the bikeway until you reach Alewife. From there, head towards the Alewife subway station and take the Red Line inbound to Park Street. Transfer to the Green Line at Park Street and go to Copley Station. Upon exiting the station, bike east along Boylston Street until you reach 700 Boylston Street, the Boston Public Library.
Discover more about Boston Public Library - Central Library
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Boston Marathon Survivor Memorial
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John Singleton Copley Statue
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Copley Square
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John Hancock Tower
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Boston Vendome Hotel Fire Memorial
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Church of the Covenant
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Mel King Square
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General John Glover statue
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William Ellery Channing Statue
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Gibson House Museum
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Charles River Esplanade
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George Washington Statue
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Ether Monument
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Phil and Morgan's Tree
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Arthur Fiedler Footbridge
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Unmissable attractions to see
Old South Church in Boston
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Back Bay
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Copley Square Park
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Boston Duck Tours Prudential Center Departure Location
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Trinity Church
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Copley Place
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ISKCON Boston
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View Boston
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Commonwealth Avenue Mall
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Boston Women's Memorial
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First Church in Boston
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Arlington Street Church
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Harriet Tubman Square
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Essential places to dine
Sorellina
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Lolita Back Bay
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Saltie Girl
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Porto
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Buttermilk & Bourbon
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The Salty Pig
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Eataly
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La Voile
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Terra
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Faccia a Faccia
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Mistral
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Krasi
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Parish Cafe & Bar
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Contessa Boston
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Davio's Northern Italian Steakhouse
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mure and Grand - Back Bay
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Brodney Antiques & Jewelry
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No Rest For Bridget
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Riccardi
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LIT Boutique
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Simon Pearce
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Prudential Center
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The Fairy Shop
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Harry Potter Shop
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Bottega Veneta Boston Boylston
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Anime Zakka
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Gifted
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Bos. Shop South End
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Urban Outfitters
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Trove On Tremont
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
City Bar Back Bay
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Solas Irish Pub
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OAK Long Bar + Kitchen
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Clerys
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Back Bay Social
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Hecate
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Delux Cafe
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Bukowski Tavern
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The Street Bar
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Trophy Room
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Wink and Nod
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Barcelona Wine Bar
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Five Horses Tavern - South End
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The Bebop
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Corner Tavern
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