Copley Square Tours

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Explore some of Boston’s finest buildings, educational and arts institutions, and shopping, or simply find a patch of grass and relax.

Head to the heart of Boston’s upscale Back Bay neighborhood to Copley Square. This small green space surrounded by architectural treasures, some of which date back more than a century, is the perfect place to take a break. In the warmer months, mingle with local families and office workers cooling off by the impressive Copley Square Fountain. Or, time your visit with the bi-weekly farmers’ market, which draws hundreds of foodies.

Originally called Arts Square, the park was renamed in 1883 after the painter John Singleton Copley. The area’s must-see buildings include the Old South Church built in 1873 and Trinity Church built in 1877. Trinity Church is renowned for its Romanesque Revival architecture. Look for the unique exterior staircase on the Boylston Street side of the church and the extensive murals inside.

The Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel stands on the former site of the Museum of Fine Arts. Step inside this Beaux Arts-styled gem and marvel at the gilded entrance hall known as Peacock Alley. Be sure to check out Boston Public Library, the first free-lending library in America. Built in 1895, this Italian Renaissance-style beauty features fabulous murals, vaulted ceilings, and a peaceful courtyard and fountain.

A newer addition to Copley Square is the imposing John Hancock Tower. Strikingly modern, the contemporary architecture of the tower sits in stark contrast to its surroundings. This is the tallest building in Boston at 60 stories, and offers some spectacular views. (For another bird’s-eye view of Boston, head instead to Prudential Tower at 800 Boylston Street.)

In nearby Copley Place, it’s easy to spend a few hours browsing the more than 70 stores in Boston’s most popular upscale mall. Copley Square is also the finishing point for the famous Boston Marathon, held annually on Patriots’ Day, the third Monday in April.

Copley Square is located in Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood, and there’s a major subway stop there. Parking can be hard to find, so it’s best to come by subway or bus.

Plan a trip to see Copley Square

Boston Harbor Hotel
The Colonnade Hotel Back Bay
YOTEL Boston
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Reviews of Copley Square

4.6
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
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" "5 - Excellent 58.86970172684458%
4 - Good
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" "4 - Good 37.990580847723706%
3 - Okay
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" "3 - Okay 2.82574568288854%
2 - Disappointing
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" "1 - Terrible 0.3139717425431711%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Apr 18, 2019

Marathon finish area. Great organization. Thank you Boston!!!!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Apr 14, 2019

Pay attention to holidays! For instance, we start setting up for Marathon Monday a week or so in advance; traffic gets worse accordingly so ditch the car and enjoy walking around the area (which you should do anyway ;^) )

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler
Apr 13, 2019

Mary Baker Eddy Library with the Mappararium is very close and worth a look.

1/5 - Terrible

Verified traveler
Mar 25, 2019

Bums everywhere. Dirty, the city should be embarrassed.

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Best Lodging Options Near Copley Square

Omni Parker House
Omni Parker House
4 out of 5
60 School St, Boston, MA
Omni Parker House
The Westin Copley Place, Boston, a Marriott Hotel
The Westin Copley Place, Boston, a Marriott Hotel
4 out of 5
10 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA
The Westin Copley Place, Boston, a Marriott Hotel
Copley Square Hotel
Copley Square Hotel
4 out of 5
47 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA
Copley Square Hotel
Sheraton Boston, a Marriott Hotel
Sheraton Boston, a Marriott Hotel
4 out of 5
39 Dalton St, Boston, MA
Sheraton Boston, a Marriott Hotel
The Godfrey Hotel Boston
The Godfrey Hotel Boston
4 out of 5
505 Washington Street, Boston, MA
The Godfrey Hotel Boston
The Dagny Boston
The Dagny Boston
4 out of 5
89 Broad Street, Boston, MA
The Dagny Boston
Hilton Boston Park Plaza
Hilton Boston Park Plaza
4 out of 5
50 Park Plaza, Boston, MA
Hilton Boston Park Plaza
Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport
Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport
4.5 out of 5
450 Summer Street, Boston, MA
Omni Boston Hotel at the Seaport
Boston Marriott Copley Place
Boston Marriott Copley Place
4 out of 5
110 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA
Boston Marriott Copley Place
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.