Tours

Building Orientation Tours for Members

Wednesdays at 12:00 p.m.

Designed for new members and current members who would like a refresher, these tours will introduce you to  the Athenæum's grand, historic building at 10 ½ Beacon Street and familiarize you with the various library and research services that are available to all members.

Reservations are not necessary, but please call to confirm tour availability:  617-227-0270, ext. 221. Tours begin at noon sharp. Please meet at the Circulation Desk on the first floor.

Art and Architecture Tours for the public

Tuesdays and Thursdays at 3:00 p.m.

These docent-led, 60-minute tours focus on the architectural history of the Athenæum’s building and on the institution’s fine arts collection. The Athenæum’s current home—its fifth—opened in 1849 and has been expanded and renovated twice, once in 1913-1915 and again recently in 1999-2002.

The Athenæum’s collection of fine art is one of the most significant to have been formed in the United States in the first half of the nineteenth century, and many paintings and sculptures from it are on view throughout the building. Many of these will be discussed during the tour. 

Tours are limited in size, so book early. Reservations are required. Please call 617-227-0270, ext. 279.