Arlington Street Church is a landmark Unitarian Universalist congregation at the corner of Arlington and Boylston Streets in Boston’s Back Bay, directly across from the Public Garden. Completed in 1861, it was among the first major public buildings erected on the newly filled Back Bay land. Designed by Arthur Gilman in a Georgian-influenced style, the church is admired for its brownstone tower and its remarkable series of Tiffany stained-glass windows.
The congregation has a long history of social activism, from abolitionism to civil rights and beyond, and the church remains an active center for worship, music, and community programming. Its location could hardly be more central: the fully accessible Arlington station on the MBTA Green Line sits immediately adjacent, and the Public Garden, Boston Common, and Newbury Street shopping are all within a short walk. Confirm service times and any visitor or tour details on the church’s official website.
Good to know
- Active Unitarian Universalist congregation completed in 1861
- Known for its Tiffany stained-glass windows and brownstone tower
- Located across from the Public Garden at Arlington and Boylston Streets
- Arlington Green Line station is fully accessible and right next door
Getting there
- Address: 351 Boylston St (entrance at 20 Arlington St), Boston, MA 02116
- Neighborhood: Back Bay
- Nearest T: Arlington (MBTA Green Line), immediately adjacent to the church