About Boston Copley Square Massachusetts

 

Copley Square is a public square located in the Back Bay neighborhood of Boston, Massachusetts. The square is named after American painter John Singleton Copley and is home to several notable buildings, including the Boston Public Library, Trinity Church, and the Fairmont Copley Plaza hotel. The square is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a variety of restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions. The square also hosts a farmer's market and various events throughout the year, such as concerts and art fairs. It is also a common spot for protests and political rallies.

 

 

 

History

Copley Square has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. The land on which the square now sits was originally part of a farm owned by William Copley, a wealthy merchant. In the 1870s, the land was sold to the City of Boston with the intention of developing it into a public square. The first building to be constructed in the square was Trinity Church in 1877. The church, designed by architect Henry Hobson Richardson, is considered one of the finest examples of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture in the United States.

The Boston Public Library, designed by Charles Follen McKim, was built in 1895 and is the third largest public library in the United States. The library's main branch was originally located in Copley Square, and it is now a National Historic Landmark.

In 1907, the Fairmont Copley Plaza hotel opened its doors, adding a touch of elegance to the square. The hotel, designed by Boston architect Henry Janeway Hardenbergh, is an example of Beaux-Arts architecture and is a popular spot for both tourists and locals.

Throughout the 20th century, Copley Square continued to be a hub of activity in Boston. The square has been the site of political rallies, protests, and major events such as the Boston Marathon finish line. It is also a popular spot for locals and tourists to gather, and the square's many restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions continue to draw visitors from around the world.

 

 

Things to do in Boston's Copley Square MA

Copley Square in Boston is a historic and vibrant area with many things to see and do.

1. Visit the Boston Public Library: Some popular activities include visiting the Boston Public Library, which is a beautiful example of Beaux-Arts architecture and also one of the most extensive public library systems in the world.
2. Visit the Trinity Church: Another popular destination is the Trinity Church, which is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture and a National Historic Landmark.
3. Farmers Market: The Copley Square Farmer's Market is also a great place to visit, where you can find fresh produce, baked goods, and other locally-sourced items.
4. Shop and dine on Newbury Street: The nearby Newbury Street and Boylston Street are great place to do some shopping and grab a bite to eat.
5. Take in the view of the city: The John Hancock Tower is also located nearby, offering great views of the city from the observation deck.
6. Visit a Museum: Other nearby attractions include the Museum of Fine Arts and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.
7. Cultural and Educational Institutions: Copley Square is also home to a number of cultural and educational institutions, such as the Boston Athenaeum, which is one of the oldest independent libraries in the United States and has an extensive collection of rare books and manuscripts. The Boston Symphony Orchestra also performs regularly at Symphony Hall, which is located near the square.

In addition to the sights and landmarks mentioned above, Copley Square also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. The square itself is a lovely park with a large central fountain and plenty of green space, making it a great spot for a picnic or to simply sit and enjoy the scenery. The nearby Boston Common and Public Garden are also popular outdoor spots, offering plenty of walking and biking paths, as well as opportunities for boating and other recreational activities.

Finally, Copley Square is also a great place to experience the city's nightlife, with a wide variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants in the surrounding area. Whether you're looking for a casual pub or a fancy restaurant, there's something for everyone in this vibrant neighborhood.

 

Transportation

Copley Square is well-connected to the rest of Boston by various forms of transportation.

Public Transportation: The main form of transportation is the subway, also known as the "T", which has several stops in the area, including the Copley Station on the Green Line and the Back Bay Station on the Orange Line. These subway lines connect Copley Square to other parts of the city, including downtown Boston, Cambridge, and the Boston Logan International Airport.
Additionally, the area is also served by bus lines. The Silver Line bus rapid transit service which connects Copley Square to the Seaport District and South Station and also the Commuter Rail that connects to the suburbs and some other places in the state.

Car: For those who prefer to drive, there are several parking garages and metered street parking available in the area. However, parking can be limited and expensive, especially during peak hours and events.

Biking: For those who prefer to bike, the area also has bike-sharing service Bluebikes, which allows you to rent a bike for a short period of time, and also has bike lanes in the surrounding area.

Walking: For those who prefer to walk, Copley Square is situated in a very walkable area, with many shops, restaurants, and landmarks within walking distance.

 

Education

Copley Square is home to a number of prestigious educational institutions, making it a hub for higher education in Boston. Some of the most notable institutions in the area include:

1. Boston University: This large, private research university is located just a few blocks from Copley Square and is known for its strong programs in business, law, and engineering, among others.
2. Boston College Law School: This private law school is located just a short walk from Copley Square and is known for its strong programs in law and business.
3. Massachusetts College of Art and Design: This public college is located just a few blocks from Copley Square and is known for its strong programs in fine arts and design.
4. Northeastern University: This large, private research university is located just a short distance from Copley Square and is known for its strong programs in business, engineering, and computer science.
5. Simmons University: This private university is located just a short walk from Copley Square and is known for its strong programs in education, nursing, and business.
6. Emmanuel College: This private Catholic liberal arts college is located just a short distance from Copley Square and is known for its strong programs in the liberal arts, education, and business.

In addition to these institutions, Copley Square is also home to several libraries, museums and other cultural institutions which offer educational programs and resources for people of all ages. The Boston Public Library, for example, offers a wide range of educational programs for children and adults, including classes, workshops, and lectures on a wide variety of topics.

Overall, Copley Square is a great place to pursue higher education, with many top-ranked institutions and resources available.

 

Living in Boston's Copley Square

Copley Square is a popular and desirable place to live in Boston, known for its central location, historical architecture, and proximity to many of the city's top attractions.

One of the main advantages of living in Copley Square is its central location. The neighborhood is situated in the heart of Boston, with easy access to many of the city's top destinations, including the Boston Common, the Newbury Street shopping district, and the Theatre District. This makes it a great choice for those who enjoy exploring the city on foot or by public transportation.

Copley Square is also home to a wide variety of housing options, from historic brownstones and apartments to modern high-rise buildings. This mix of old and new architecture gives the neighborhood a unique and charming character. However, due to its desirability, housing in Copley Square can be quite expensive.

The area is also home to a diverse population, and has a mix of residents, from young professionals to families and retirees. Copley Square also offers great amenities, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options available in the area. Additionally, the area is safe, which is an important aspect for many when choosing a place to live.

Overall, Copley Square is a great place to live for those who want to be in the heart of the city, with easy access to many of Boston's top attractions and amenities. However, it is important to keep in mind the high cost of living in the area.

 

 

 

Official Link: https://www.boston.gov/