United States of America

Boston

Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Regiment Memorial

Boston Common

Rachel Revere Square

Clough House at Old North

Copley Square gathers three landmarks around one open space: Trinity Church, the Boston Public Library's grand McKim building, and the mirrored tower that reflects them both. The contrast between heavy stone and glass is the whole point of standing here. The farmers' market runs through the warmer months.

Copley Square

<p>The Central Library in Copley Square actually encompasses two buildings. Both Boston Public Library locations are landmarks in their own right. The first is the historic Boston Public Library McKim building, designed by architect Charles Follen McKim (opened in 1895) which houses the Library’s distinguished research and special collections.&nbsp;</p><p>McKim famously referred to the building as his “palace of the people”, voicing his passion and sense of achievement for completing the project.</p><p>The Boylston Street Building (formerly the Johnson building) was designed by Philip Johnson and opened for the first time in 1972, later reopening in 2016 following an award-winning renovation by William Rawn Associates, Architects, Inc.</p>

About the Boston Public Library

Union Oyster House

<p><strong>Architectural Marvel:</strong> Designed by renowned architect Charles Bulfinch, the Massachusetts State House was completed in 1798. The building’s neoclassical design and the iconic golden dome, added in 1874, make it an architectural treasure.</p><p><strong>Historic Significance:</strong> The State House is home to the Massachusetts General Court (state legislature) and the offices of the Governor of Massachusetts. It has witnessed numerous significant events in the state’s history, including debates and decisions that shaped the nation.</p><p><strong>Public Tours:</strong> Visitors can enjoy guided tours of the State House, which include access to the Doric Hall, the Senate Chamber, and the Hall of Flags. These tours provide a fascinating glimpse into the workings of the state government and the building’s artistic and historical features.</p>

Exploring the Historic Massachusetts State House

Historical Boston: The Record Breaker

Massachusetts State House

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<div><strong>Boston holds more American "firsts" than any other city</strong>: the first public park, the first public school, the first public library, the first subway, the first marathon. Stroll through neighborhoods that shaped the nation and discover why <strong>historical Boston</strong> earned its reputation as the cradle of American civic life.</div><div><br></div><div>This <strong>historical Boston walking tour</strong> takes you from the grand facade of the Boston Public Library through Copley Square, across the Public Garden, into Boston Common, up to the State House, and deep into the old city. At each stop, a piece of history snaps into focus.</div><div><br></div><div>Along the way you will encounter the site where Alexander Graham Bell first transmitted sound, the church where Charles Dickens first read <em>A Christmas Carol</em> aloud, the oldest restaurant in America, and the oldest pub. <strong>Every stop is a record. Every block is a chapter of American history.</strong></div>

Massachusetts State House, Boston, Visitor Guide & Things to Do Nearby

Plan Your Visit

Explore Massachusetts State House with a Questo quest