The Harrison Gray Otis House, often called Otis House, is a Federal-style mansion built in 1795-96 on Cambridge Street in Boston’s West End. Designed by architect Charles Bulfinch for the politician and real-estate developer Harrison Gray Otis, it was the first of three houses Bulfinch created for him and is now a National Historic Landmark. The brick townhouse showcases the elegant proportions and refined detailing of early American urban architecture.
Today the house serves as the headquarters of Historic New England, a regional preservation organization, and operates as a museum. Restored interiors interpret the lifestyle of Boston’s post-Revolutionary elite, and guided tours explore the home’s design and the changing West End neighborhood around it. Tour schedules, admission, and seasonal availability vary, so consult the Historic New England website for current visiting hours and ticket information before you arrive.
Good to know
- Designed by Charles Bulfinch and built in 1795-96
- A National Historic Landmark and headquarters of Historic New England
- Interiors are restored to reflect post-Revolutionary Boston life
- Open for guided tours; check the official site for seasonal hours
Getting there
- Address: 141 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA 02114
- Neighborhood: West End
- Nearest T: Charles/MGH (MBTA Red Line) and Bowdoin (Blue Line); North Station (Green and Orange Lines) is also nearby