Old Corner Bookstore Boston: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled at the bustling intersection of Washington and School Streets, the Old Corner Bookstore stands as a living monument to Boston’s colonial origins and its influential role in American literary history. Constructed in 1718 after the Great Fire of 1711, this Georgian-style landmark is not only one of Boston’s oldest surviving brick buildings but also a testament to adaptive preservation. Over centuries, it has transformed from a colonial residence to a commercial publishing powerhouse, and now, to a modern retail space—all while maintaining its architectural and cultural significance (Boston Globe, Historic Boston Incorporated).

This comprehensive guide delves into the Old Corner Bookstore’s layered history, offers practical visitor information—including current visiting hours, accessibility, and nearby attractions—and provides context for its enduring place in Boston’s urban landscape.

Table of Contents

• Early Colonial Roots and Site Origins
• Architectural Evolution: From the 1711 Fire to Georgian Style
• Emergence as a Literary Landmark
• 20th-Century Preservation and Adaptive Reuse
• Modern Use and Official Landmark Status
• Visiting Information: Hours, Admission, Accessibility
• Guided Tours and Special Events
• Nearby Attractions and Itineraries
• Visitor Experience & Practical Tips
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Conclusion & Call to Action
• References

Early Colonial Roots and Site Origins

The Old Corner Bookstore’s site dates back to Boston’s 17th-century beginnings and is closely tied to Isaac Johnson, a Puritan founder who played a significant role in naming the city. The property’s location within the original Shawmut peninsula also places it at the heart of Boston’s colonial expansion and urban development (Boston Globe, Historic Boston Incorporated). The land also holds deep Indigenous significance, with archaeological potential for both colonial and Native American artifacts.

Architectural Evolution: From the 1711 Fire to Georgian Style

The Great Fire and Rebuilding

The Great Fire of 1711 devastated much of central Boston, destroying nearly 100 buildings. In response, city officials encouraged the use of brick for new construction. Built in 1718, the Old Corner Bookstore exemplifies early colonial Georgian architecture, featuring:

• Red brick construction for fire resistance
• Symmetrical facades
• Multi-pane sash windows
• Gabled or gambrel rooflines
• Restrained, classical ornamentation

This shift to brick signaled a new era of urban resilience and stylistic refinement (Boston Globe).

Emergence as a Literary Landmark

Home to Ticknor and Fields

From 1828 to 1903, the Old Corner Bookstore became the epicenter of American literary publishing. Ticknor and Fields, the renowned publisher based here, launched the careers of literary icons such as Nathaniel Hawthorne, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Henry David Thoreau, and Louisa May Alcott (stepboston.com). The adjacent Cunningham House also hosted booksellers and publishers, reinforcing the area’s vibrant literary culture.

Literary Salon and Cultural Hub

The store was more than a commercial enterprise—it served as a gathering place for authors, editors, and readers, fostering the exchange of ideas and innovation in 19th-century American literature. The legacy of its publishing house endures in the evolution of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

20th-Century Preservation and Adaptive Reuse

Threat of Demolition and Preservation Movement

By the 1960s, urban renewal and commercial interests threatened the building with demolition. A coalition of preservationists, historians, and real estate professionals—including organizations like Historic Boston Incorporated (HBI)—mobilized to save the site, pioneering adaptive reuse strategies (Historic Boston Incorporated). Their efforts not only protected the building but also set a model for historic preservation in urban settings.

Revitalization and Modern Stewardship

The Boston Globe’s decision to relocate offices to the site provided financial stability and helped fund restoration. HBI continues to oversee the property, maintaining its historic fabric and ensuring compliance with preservation standards (boston.gov).

Modern Use and Official Landmark Status

In May 2025, the Old Corner Bookstore and Cunningham House were officially designated Boston Landmarks, granting them legal protection and recognizing their cultural and architectural importance (Historic Boston Incorporated). Today, the site houses modern commercial tenants—such as Chipotle and DIG—while retaining its historic integrity through careful restoration and interpretive signage (stepboston.com).

Visiting Information: Hours, Admission, Accessibility

Visiting Hours

• Chipotle: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
• DIG: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily

The building is accessible to the public during tenant business hours. Be sure to check individual restaurant websites or Historic Boston Incorporated for the latest hours and holiday closures.

Tickets and Admission

No admission fee is required to view the building or enter the restaurants. The site functions as active retail space; guided tours that include the Old Corner Bookstore as a stop may require advance booking and a ticket through local tour operators.

Accessibility

The property is generally accessible, with ramps and sidewalk-level entry. Some interior spaces may be narrow due to the historic layout, but ongoing improvements aim to make the building fully ADA compliant.

Guided Tours and Special Events

The Old Corner Bookstore is featured on many guided walking tours of Boston, particularly those following the Freedom Trail, Literary Trail, or Women’s Heritage Trail (thefreedomtrail.org). Special literary or historical events are occasionally held onsite or nearby. For schedules and availability, consult local tour operators or Historic Boston Incorporated.

Nearby Attractions and Recommended Itineraries

The Old Corner Bookstore’s central location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring Boston’s historic core. Nearby sites include:

• Boston Common: America’s oldest public park
• Old South Meeting House: Crucial to Revolutionary history
• King’s Chapel: Boston’s first Anglican church
• Irish Famine Memorial: Commemorating the city’s immigrant heritage

The building is a prominent stop on the Freedom Trail, linking it to other notable destinations such as Faneuil Hall and the Paul Revere House (stepboston.com).

Visitor Experience & Practical Tips

• Photography: The exterior is a favorite for photographers; historic signage and red-brick facades provide excellent backdrops.
• Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings are less crowded.
• Public Transit: Take the Orange or Green MBTA lines to Downtown Crossing station for easy access.
• Parking: Several public garages are nearby.
• Self-Guided Exploration: Interpretive signage and QR codes offer in-depth historical context.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is there an admission fee to visit the Old Corner Bookstore?
A: No, the building can be viewed from the outside or entered during business hours at no charge. Guided tours may require a ticket.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, several local tour operators include the bookstore as a stop. Advance booking is recommended.

Q: Is the building wheelchair accessible?
A: The exterior and restaurant entrances are accessible; some interior areas may be narrow due to the original layout.

Q: Can I purchase books or literary souvenirs at the site?
A: The original bookstore is no longer operational, but nearby shops and museums offer literary-themed gifts.

Q: What are the nearest transit options?
A: Downtown Crossing (MBTA Orange and Green Lines) is the closest subway stop.

Conclusion & Call to Action

The Old Corner Bookstore endures as a vital symbol of Boston’s colonial past, literary legacy, and ongoing commitment to historic preservation. Its adaptive reuse as a thriving commercial space ensures accessibility and relevance for today’s visitors while honoring its remarkable history. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, literary aficionado, or curious traveler, this landmark offers a compelling and enriching experience at the crossroads of Boston’s story.

Plan your visit today:

• Download the Audiala app for self-guided audio tours of the Old Corner Bookstore and Freedom Trail.
• Follow Historic Boston Incorporated and local heritage organizations for updates on events, preservation projects, and visitor information.
• Explore nearby historical sites to further immerse yourself in Boston’s unique heritage.

Alt text: Front facade of the Old Corner Bookstore in Boston showcasing red brick Georgian architecture.

References

• Old Corner Bookstore Boston: History, Visiting Hours, Tickets & Nearby Attractions, 2025, Boston Globe (Boston Globe)
• Old Corner Bookstore Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance in Boston, 2025, Historic Boston Incorporated (Historic Boston Incorporated)
• Visiting the Old Corner Bookstore in Boston: Hours, Tickets, History, and Travel Tips, 2025, Step Boston (stepboston.com)
• Old Corner Bookstore and Cunningham House Study Report, 2025, Boston.gov (boston.gov)
• Old Corner Bookstore, Wikipedia, 2025 (wikipedia)
• Old Corner Bookstore, Freedom Trail, 2025 (thefreedomtrail.org)