Massachusetts Historical Society

Visit the MHS

The MHS offers many resources for visitors to learn, connect, and inspire including exhibitions, events, tours, brown-bag lunches, seminars, workshops, and a research library. Our building is handicap accessible. Find out about upcoming events, explore our exhibitions, and learn more about our COVID-19 protocols.

Our regular library hours are Monday, and Wednesday through Friday, from 9:30 AM to 4:45 PM, Tuesday from 9:30 AM to 7:45 PM (the MHS opens at 12:00 PM on the second Tuesday of the month), and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Visit hours and admissions page for closings related to holidays and other events. Please note that the last admission for library visitors is 45 minutes prior to closing. An advance appointment is strongly encouraged for library visitors. Visit Portal1791 to create a researcher account and schedule your library appointments. 

Our regular gallery hours are Monday, and Wednesday through Friday, from 10:00 AM to 4:45 PM, Tuesday from 10:00 AM to 7:45 PM (the MHS opens at 12:00 PM on the second Tuesday of the month), and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Visit hours and admissions page for closings related to holidays and other events. Please note that the last admission for exhibition visitors is 45 minutes prior to closing.

Regular Hours

Visit hours and admissions for closings related to holidays and other events.

Library Monday, and Wednesday through Friday: 9:30 AM to 4:45 PM  
Tuesday: 9:30 AM to 7:45 PM (galleries and library open at 12:00 PM the third Tuesday of the month)  
Saturday: 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM  
The last admission for visitors is 45 minutes prior to closing.

Exhibition Galleries Monday, and Wednesday through Friday: 10:00 AM to 4:45 PM  
Tuesday: 10:00 AM to 7:45 PM (galleries and library open at 12:00 PM the third Tuesday of the month)  
Saturday: 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM  
The last admission for visitors is 45 minutes prior to closing.

Directions & Parking

The MHS is located at:   
1154 Boylston Street   
Boston, Massachusetts 02215   
Tel: 617-536-1608   
Fax: 617-859-0074

For a map link and parking options, see our directions page

Calendar of Events

Please check our calendar for hours and closings due to holidays and other events.

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About the MHS

Founded in 1791, the MHS tells the story of America through millions of rare and unique documents, artifacts, and irreplaceable national treasures.

More about the MHS

Library

Free and open to the public, the MHS library welcomes researchers of all ages and experience levels. The library does not lend materials, but anyone wishing to view the collections can register as a researcher through our online request system and use materials in our building.

Plan your visit to the MHS library.

Exhibitions

Explore a variety of topics and collection items on display in our gallery spaces. The galleries are open Monday, and Wednesday through Friday, from 10:00 AM to 4:45 PM; Tuesday from 10:00 AM to 7:45 PM; and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Please note that the last admission for exhibition visitors will be 45 minutes prior to closing.

Current exhibition

MHS Fund and Memberships

The MHS welcomes history lovers from near and far to join its community. Learn how to support the MHS and become a member.

Support the MHS

Tours

Take a tour of the Society’s historic building and learn more about the history and collections of the MHS.

Calendar of tours

FAQs

Explore a list of commonly asked questions and answers.

View frequently asked questions

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