Packards Corner Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Boston Historical Sites

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Packards Corner Station, located at the intersection of Commonwealth Avenue and Brighton Avenue in Boston’s Allston neighborhood, is far more than a transit stop. Serving the MBTA Green Line B Branch, it stands as a gateway to Boston’s vibrant urban culture, the historic evolution of American public transit, and a bustling mix of student life, local businesses, and neighborhoods rich in history. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to navigate Packards Corner Station—its historical context, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, nearby attractions, and practical travel tips.

For official updates, schedules, and accessibility information, always consult the MBTA’s resources (MBTA History, Vigorous North, Wikipedia).

Table of Contents

Historical Background: From Equestrian Roots to Auto Mile

Packards Corner’s origins date back to the late 19th century as the site of Packard’s Sales Stable and Riding School (operating from 1885–1920), which established the intersection as a commercial hub even before the automobile era (Brighton Allston Historical Society). By the early 20th century, it transformed into Boston’s “Auto Mile,” centered on the Packard Motor Car Company building—an architectural landmark designed by Albert Kahn. This stretch, running from Kenmore Square to Union Square, was the largest automobile market in New England (Boston.com).

The transition from equestrian to automotive commerce is reflected in the area’s evolving name, with historical records showing both influences (Boston.com). Notably, the world’s oldest purpose-built multi-story car park was constructed here to serve the dealership’s clientele (Vigorous North). This legacy is embedded in the neighborhood’s identity and built environment.


Packards Corner and Boston’s Transit Evolution

Boston pioneered American public transit, launching the nation’s first subway tunnels in 1897 (MBTA History). The Green Line, now the country’s oldest light rail system, includes the B Branch, which traverses Packards Corner and connects Allston and Brighton to downtown Boston.

Packards Corner was also once a junction for the now-defunct A Branch, which ran along Brighton Avenue until 1969. The remaining track stubs are a subtle nod to the city’s streetcar past (SubwayNut). Today, the station serves thousands of riders daily, including Boston University students, local residents, and visitors (Miles in Transit).


Station Layout, Accessibility, and Modern Upgrades

Packards Corner is a surface-level station with two side platforms in the median of Commonwealth Avenue. The platforms are equipped with benches, basic shelter, lighting, and security cameras, but as of mid-2025, they are not fully ADA accessible. There are no elevators or raised platforms, so travelers with mobility impairments should use nearby accessible stations such as Harvard Avenue or Kenmore (MBTA Accessibility).

A significant $67 million federal grant awarded in 2024 will fund accessibility upgrades at 14 Green Line B and C branch stops, including Packards Corner, with completion expected by mid-2027 (Wikipedia). In the meantime, the station offers tactile paving for visually impaired passengers and curb cuts for limited accessibility.


Visiting Hours and Ticketing

Operating Hours:
Packards Corner Station is open daily, generally from 5:00 AM to 12:30 AM, in line with Green Line service hours (MBTA Green Line Schedule). Hours may vary on holidays or during special events.

Ticketing and Fares:

  • CharlieCard: Offers discounted fares; reloadable at major stations and select retail outlets.
  • CharlieTicket & Cash: Single rides can be paid via ticket or exact change on board.
  • Contactless Payment: Apple Pay, Google Pay, and credit/debit cards accepted on board.
  • Fares (2025): $2.40 (CharlieCard), $2.90 (CharlieTicket/cash). Reduced fares are available for seniors, students, and people with disabilities (MBTA Fares).

There are no vending machines at Packards Corner, so buy/reload cards at major stations (e.g., Kenmore, Park Street) or participating retailers.


Nearby Attractions and Unique Experiences

Packards Corner is your launchpad for exploring Allston’s eclectic mix of culture, food, and history:

  • Boston University West Campus: Events, sports, and art galleries are a short walk away (Boston University Facilities).
  • Allston Village: Known for its street art, music venues, thrift stores, and diverse dining.
  • Commonwealth Avenue Mall: Stroll among historic buildings and green spaces.
  • Super 88 Market Food Court: A local favorite for Asian cuisine.
  • Kenmore Square & Fenway Park: Easily accessible by train for sports and nightlife.
  • Charles River Esplanade: Jogging, kayaking, and scenic views nearby (Earth Trekkers).
  • Historic Architecture: Early 20th-century apartment buildings and converted auto showrooms define the neighborhood’s streetscape.

Practical Travel Tips

  • Best Times to Visit: Avoid weekday rush hours (7–9 AM, 4–6 PM) for a less crowded experience.
  • Weather: Platforms are open-air with minimal shelter—dress appropriately.
  • Luggage & Accessibility: No elevators/escalators; consider nearby accessible stations if needed.
  • Parking: No dedicated station parking; limited metered street parking nearby.
  • Bike Access: Bluebikes bike-share station and bike racks are close (Bluebikes Map).
  • Safety: The station is well-lit, monitored by MBTA Transit Police, and equipped with emergency call boxes (MBTA Transit Police).
  • Language Support: Basic signage is in English, with some Spanish and Chinese. MBTA’s website and Transit app offer multilingual support (MBTA Language Access).
  • Photography: Permitted for personal use; commercial shoots require advance MBTA permission (MBTA Photography Policy).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Packards Corner’s visiting hours?
A: Daily from approximately 5:00 AM to 12:30 AM.

Q: How do I buy tickets?
A: Use a CharlieCard, CharlieTicket, cash (exact change), or contactless payment. Cards must be purchased/reloaded at major stations or retailers.

Q: Is the station accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Not fully as of July 2025; use Harvard Avenue or Kenmore for ADA access.

Q: Are there parking options?
A: No dedicated parking; limited street parking is available.

Q: Can I take photos at the station?
A: Yes, for personal use. Commercial photography requires MBTA approval.

Q: What local attractions are nearby?
A: Boston University, Allston Village, Commonwealth Avenue, and Charles River Esplanade.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: No official tours start here, but local organizations offer neighborhood and campus tours.


Conclusion

Packards Corner Station encapsulates Boston’s dynamic history—from equestrian and automotive commerce to pioneering public transit and today’s thriving urban scene. As a major Green Line B Branch stop, it connects visitors to key neighborhoods, cultural attractions, and the city’s broader transit system. While accessibility improvements are on the horizon, planning ahead ensures a smooth visit. Whether you’re a commuter, student, or traveler eager to explore Boston’s heritage, Packards Corner offers a welcoming entry point to one of the city’s most energetic and historic areas.

For real-time updates, service alerts, and additional Boston travel resources, download the Audiala app and explore our related guides. Enjoy your visit to Packards Corner—the intersection of Boston’s past, present, and future.


Sources


Visit The Most Interesting Places In Boston

Adams National Historical Park
Adams National Historical Park
Adams-Nervine Asylum
Adams-Nervine Asylum
African Meeting House
African Meeting House
Airport Station
Airport Station
Allston Street Station
Allston Street Station
Allumination
Allumination
Ancient And Honorable Artillery Company Of Massachusetts
Ancient And Honorable Artillery Company Of Massachusetts
Andrew Station
Andrew Station
Appeal To The Great Spirit
Appeal To The Great Spirit
Arlington Station
Arlington Station
Arlington Street Church
Arlington Street Church
Arnold Arboretum
Arnold Arboretum
Arthur Fiedler Memorial
Arthur Fiedler Memorial
Babcock Street Station
Babcock Street Station
Back Bay Fens
Back Bay Fens
Back Bay Station
Back Bay Station
Back Of The Hill Station
Back Of The Hill Station
Bagheera Fountain
Bagheera Fountain
Basilica And Shrine Of Our Lady Of Perpetual Help
Basilica And Shrine Of Our Lady Of Perpetual Help
Battle Of Bunker Hill
Battle Of Bunker Hill
Beacon Hill Monument
Beacon Hill Monument
Belle Isle Marsh Reservation
Belle Isle Marsh Reservation
Berklee College Of Music
Berklee College Of Music
Big Dig
Big Dig
Blandford Street Station
Blandford Street Station
Boston Athenæum
Boston Athenæum
Boston Center For The Arts
Boston Center For The Arts
|
  Boston Children'S Museum
| Boston Children'S Museum
Boston Citgo Sign
Boston Citgo Sign
Boston City Hall
Boston City Hall
Boston College Station
Boston College Station
Boston Common
Boston Common
Boston Consumptives Hospital
Boston Consumptives Hospital
Boston Garden
Boston Garden
Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area
Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area
Boston Irish Famine Memorial
Boston Irish Famine Memorial
Boston Light
Boston Light
Boston Marathon
Boston Marathon
Boston Marathon Bombings
Boston Marathon Bombings
Boston Massacre Monument
Boston Massacre Monument
Boston Medical Center
Boston Medical Center
Boston Medical Library
Boston Medical Library
Boston Museum
Boston Museum
Boston Music Hall
Boston Music Hall
Boston Navy Yard
Boston Navy Yard
Boston Opera House
Boston Opera House
|
  Boston Playwrights' Theatre
| Boston Playwrights' Theatre
Boston Public Garden
Boston Public Garden
Boston Public Garden Flagpole Base
Boston Public Garden Flagpole Base
Boston Public Library
Boston Public Library
Boston State Hospital
Boston State Hospital
Boston Strong
Boston Strong
Boston University
Boston University
Boston University Central Station
Boston University Central Station
Boston University East Station
Boston University East Station
Boston University Libraries
Boston University Libraries
|
  Boston Women'S Memorial
| Boston Women'S Memorial
Boy And Bird Fountain
Boy And Bird Fountain
Boylston Station
Boylston Station
Brigham Circle Station
Brigham Circle Station
Brighton
Brighton
Brook Farm
Brook Farm
Bunker Hill Monument
Bunker Hill Monument
Bust Of Patrick Collins
Bust Of Patrick Collins
Bust Of Richard Cushing
Bust Of Richard Cushing
Castle Island
Castle Island
Cathedral Of The Holy Cross
Cathedral Of The Holy Cross
Charles Eliot Memorial
Charles Eliot Memorial
Charles Street Jail
Charles Street Jail
Charlesgate Hotel
Charlesgate Hotel
Charlestown Bridge
Charlestown Bridge
Chestnut Hill Avenue Station
Chestnut Hill Avenue Station
China Trade Gate
China Trade Gate
Chinatown Heritage
Chinatown Heritage
Chinatown Station
Chinatown Station
Chiswick Road Station
Chiswick Road Station
Cleveland Circle Station
Cleveland Circle Station
Codman Burying Ground
Codman Burying Ground
Colonial Theatre, Boston
Colonial Theatre, Boston
|
  Commandant'S House
| Commandant'S House
Community College Station
Community College Station
Consulate Of France In Boston
Consulate Of France In Boston
Copley Square
Copley Square
|
  Copp'S Hill Burying Ground
| Copp'S Hill Burying Ground
Custom House Tower
Custom House Tower
Cutler Majestic Theatre
Cutler Majestic Theatre
Declaration Of Independence Tablet
Declaration Of Independence Tablet
Democratic Donkey
Democratic Donkey
Dewey Square
Dewey Square
Digital Public Library Of America
Digital Public Library Of America
Dolphins Of The Sea
Dolphins Of The Sea
Dorchester Art Project
Dorchester Art Project
Dorchester Heights
Dorchester Heights
Dorchester Heights Monument
Dorchester Heights Monument
Downtown Crossing Station
Downtown Crossing Station
Echo Bridge
Echo Bridge
Echo Of The Waves
Echo Of The Waves
Eddie Pellagrini Diamond
Eddie Pellagrini Diamond
Edward M. Kennedy Institute For The United States Senate
Edward M. Kennedy Institute For The United States Senate
Edwin Upton Curtis Memorial
Edwin Upton Curtis Memorial
Emancipation
Emancipation
Emerald Necklace
Emerald Necklace
Englewood Avenue Station
Englewood Avenue Station
Equestrian Statue Of George Washington
Equestrian Statue Of George Washington
Equestrian Statue Of Joseph Hooker
Equestrian Statue Of Joseph Hooker
Equestrian Statue Of Paul Revere
Equestrian Statue Of Paul Revere
Ether Monument
Ether Monument
Fairview Cemetery
Fairview Cemetery
Faneuil Hall
Faneuil Hall
Federal Reserve Bank Building
Federal Reserve Bank Building
Federal Reserve Bank Of Boston
Federal Reserve Bank Of Boston
Fenway Park
Fenway Park
Fenway Station
Fenway Station
Fenwood Road Station
Fenwood Road Station
|
  Firemen'S Memorial
| Firemen'S Memorial
First Church In Boston
First Church In Boston
Floating Hospital For Children
Floating Hospital For Children
Forest Hills Cemetery
Forest Hills Cemetery
Fort Independence
Fort Independence
Fort Revere Park
Fort Revere Park
Fort Strong
Fort Strong
Fort Warren
Fort Warren
Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site
Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site
George Robert White Memorial
George Robert White Memorial
George Thorndike Angell Memorial
George Thorndike Angell Memorial
Granary Burying Ground
Granary Burying Ground
Great Molasses Flood
Great Molasses Flood
Griggs Street Station
Griggs Street Station
Harriet Tubman Memorial
Harriet Tubman Memorial
Harrison Gray Otis House Ii
Harrison Gray Otis House Ii
Harvard Avenue Station
Harvard Avenue Station
Harvard Bridge
Harvard Bridge
Harvard School Of Dental Medicine
Harvard School Of Dental Medicine
Harvard Square
Harvard Square
Harvard Stadium
Harvard Stadium
Hawes Burying Ground
Hawes Burying Ground
Heath Street Station
Heath Street Station
Hooper Mansion
Hooper Mansion
Hotel Vendome Fire Memorial
Hotel Vendome Fire Memorial
Hungarian Revolution Memorial
Hungarian Revolution Memorial
Huntington Avenue Theatre
Huntington Avenue Theatre
Huntington Theatre Company
Huntington Theatre Company
Indian Hunter
Indian Hunter
Institute Of Contemporary Art, Boston
Institute Of Contemporary Art, Boston
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
Japanese Lantern
Japanese Lantern
John Barry Tablet
John Barry Tablet
|
  John Boyle O'Reilly Memorial
| John Boyle O'Reilly Memorial
John F. Kennedy Federal Building
John F. Kennedy Federal Building
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library And Museum
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library And Museum
John Hancock Tower
John Hancock Tower
John Harvard Statue
John Harvard Statue
|
  Joseph J. O'Donnell Field
| Joseph J. O'Donnell Field
Joslin Diabetes Center
Joslin Diabetes Center
|
  King'S Chapel
| King'S Chapel
|
  King'S Chapel Burying Ground
| King'S Chapel Burying Ground
Larz Anderson Park
Larz Anderson Park
Lechmere Viaduct
Lechmere Viaduct
Leonard P. Zakim Bunker Hill Memorial Bridge
Leonard P. Zakim Bunker Hill Memorial Bridge
Lexington Battle Green
Lexington Battle Green
Logan International Airport
Logan International Airport
Long Wharf
Long Wharf
Longfellow Bridge
Longfellow Bridge
Longwood Medical Area Station
Longwood Medical Area Station
Lotta Fountain
Lotta Fountain
Louisburg Square
Louisburg Square
Lower Mills
Lower Mills
Make Way For Ducklings
Make Way For Ducklings
Malcolm X And Ella Little-Collins House
Malcolm X And Ella Little-Collins House
Marine Barracks
Marine Barracks
Marvin E. Goody Memorial
Marvin E. Goody Memorial
Massachusetts Archives
Massachusetts Archives
Massachusetts Avenue
Massachusetts Avenue
Massachusetts Avenue Station
Massachusetts Avenue Station
Massachusetts Fallen Firefighters Memorial
Massachusetts Fallen Firefighters Memorial
Massachusetts General Hospital
Massachusetts General Hospital
Massachusetts Historical Society
Massachusetts Historical Society
Massachusetts Law Enforcement Memorial
Massachusetts Law Enforcement Memorial
Massachusetts State House
Massachusetts State House
Mattapan Station
Mattapan Station
Memorial To Robert Gould Shaw And The Massachusetts Fifty-Fourth Regiment
Memorial To Robert Gould Shaw And The Massachusetts Fifty-Fourth Regiment
Metropolitan Park System Of Greater Boston
Metropolitan Park System Of Greater Boston
Mgh Institute Of Health Professions
Mgh Institute Of Health Professions
Middlesex Fells Reservation
Middlesex Fells Reservation
Mission Park Station
Mission Park Station
Morse Auditorium
Morse Auditorium
Mount Calvary Cemetery
Mount Calvary Cemetery
Mugar Memorial Library
Mugar Memorial Library
Museum Of Fine Arts Boston
Museum Of Fine Arts Boston
Museum Of Fine Arts Station
Museum Of Fine Arts Station
Museum Of Science
Museum Of Science
Neighborhood In Boston
Neighborhood In Boston
New Calvary Cemetery
New Calvary Cemetery
New England Aquarium
New England Aquarium
New England Conservatory
New England Conservatory
New England Historic Genealogical Society
New England Historic Genealogical Society
New England Holocaust Memorial
New England Holocaust Memorial
New England Museum Of Natural History
New England Museum Of Natural History
Nixes Mate
Nixes Mate
|
  Nix'S Mate Daybeacon
| Nix'S Mate Daybeacon
Noble School
Noble School
North Shore Medical Center
North Shore Medical Center
North Square
North Square
North Station
North Station
Northeastern University
Northeastern University
Old City Hall
Old City Hall
Old Corner Bookstore
Old Corner Bookstore
Old North Church
Old North Church
Old South Church
Old South Church
Old South Meeting House
Old South Meeting House
Old State House
Old State House
Olmsted Park
Olmsted Park
Omni Parker House
Omni Parker House
Oneida Football Club
Oneida Football Club
Oneida Football Club Monument
Oneida Football Club Monument
Orient Heights Station
Orient Heights Station
Orpheum Theatre
Orpheum Theatre
Packards Corner Station
Packards Corner Station
Park Square
Park Square
Paul Revere House
Paul Revere House
Pope John Paul Ii Memorial
Pope John Paul Ii Memorial
Port Of Boston
Port Of Boston
Post Office Square
Post Office Square
Prudential Station
Prudential Station
Prudential Tower
Prudential Tower
Puerto Rican Veterans Memorial
Puerto Rican Veterans Memorial
Quincy Market
Quincy Market
Quincy Quarries Reservation
Quincy Quarries Reservation
Rachael Revere Park
Rachael Revere Park
Riverway Station
Riverway Station
Rko-Boston
Rko-Boston
Ruggles Station
Ruggles Station
Saint Francis De Sales Cemetery
Saint Francis De Sales Cemetery
Saint James The Apostle Cemetery
Saint James The Apostle Cemetery
|
  Saint Mary'S Cemetery
| Saint Mary'S Cemetery
Saint Michael Cemetery
Saint Michael Cemetery
Samuel Adams
Samuel Adams
Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site
Saugus Iron Works National Historic Site
Science Park Station
Science Park Station
Shubert Theatre
Shubert Theatre
Small Child Fountain
Small Child Fountain
Smith Court Residences
Smith Court Residences
Soldiers And Sailors Monument
Soldiers And Sailors Monument
South Station
South Station
South Street Station
South Street Station
Spangler Center
Spangler Center
|
  St. Elizabeth'S Medical Center
| St. Elizabeth'S Medical Center
|
  St. Mary'S Cemetery
| St. Mary'S Cemetery
|
  St. Stephen'S Church
| St. Stephen'S Church
State Station
State Station
State Theatre
State Theatre
Statler Fountain
Statler Fountain
Statue Of Alexander Hamilton
Statue Of Alexander Hamilton
Statue Of Anne Hutchinson
Statue Of Anne Hutchinson
Statue Of Benjamin Franklin
Statue Of Benjamin Franklin
Statue Of Bill Russell
Statue Of Bill Russell
Statue Of Bobby Orr
Statue Of Bobby Orr
Statue Of Charles Devens
Statue Of Charles Devens
Statue Of Charles Sumner
Statue Of Charles Sumner
Statue Of Christopher Columbus
Statue Of Christopher Columbus
Statue Of Daniel Webster
Statue Of Daniel Webster
Statue Of David Farragut
Statue Of David Farragut
Statue Of David I. Walsh
Statue Of David I. Walsh
Statue Of Domingo Faustino Sarmiento
Statue Of Domingo Faustino Sarmiento
Statue Of Edward Everett Hale
Statue Of Edward Everett Hale
Statue Of George S. Patton
Statue Of George S. Patton
Statue Of Henry Cabot Lodge
Statue Of Henry Cabot Lodge
Statue Of Horace Mann
Statue Of Horace Mann
Statue Of John Endecott
Statue Of John Endecott
Statue Of John F. Kennedy
Statue Of John F. Kennedy
Statue Of John Glover
Statue Of John Glover
Statue Of John Singleton Copley
Statue Of John Singleton Copley
Statue Of John Winthrop
Statue Of John Winthrop
Statue Of Josiah Quincy Iii
Statue Of Josiah Quincy Iii
Statue Of Kevin White
Statue Of Kevin White
Statue Of Leif Erikson
Statue Of Leif Erikson
Statue Of Mary Dyer
Statue Of Mary Dyer
Statue Of Maurice J. Tobin
Statue Of Maurice J. Tobin
Statue Of Phillips Brooks
Statue Of Phillips Brooks
Statue Of Red Auerbach
Statue Of Red Auerbach
Statue Of Robert Burns
Statue Of Robert Burns
Statue Of Samuel Eliot Morison
Statue Of Samuel Eliot Morison
Statue Of Tadeusz Kościuszko
Statue Of Tadeusz Kościuszko
Statue Of Tony Demarco
Statue Of Tony Demarco
Statue Of Wendell Phillips
Statue Of Wendell Phillips
Statue Of William Lloyd Garrison
Statue Of William Lloyd Garrison
Statue Of William Prescott
Statue Of William Prescott
Statues Of James Michael Curley
Statues Of James Michael Curley
Suffolk Downs Station
Suffolk Downs Station
Sullivan Square Station
Sullivan Square Station
Sutherland Road Station
Sutherland Road Station
Swan Boats
Swan Boats
Symphony Hall
Symphony Hall
Symphony Station
Symphony Station
Taipei Economic And Cultural Office In Boston
Taipei Economic And Cultural Office In Boston
Tappan Street Station
Tappan Street Station
Td Garden
Td Garden
Ted Williams Tunnel
Ted Williams Tunnel
Temple Bell
Temple Bell
The Eliot Suite Hotel
The Eliot Suite Hotel
The Embrace
The Embrace
The Founders Memorial
The Founders Memorial
The Partisans
The Partisans
The Tortoise And The Hare
The Tortoise And The Hare
The Trustees Of Reservations
The Trustees Of Reservations
Theodore Parker Unitarian Universalist Church
Theodore Parker Unitarian Universalist Church
Thermopylae
Thermopylae
Tobin Bridge
Tobin Bridge
Tremont Street Subway
Tremont Street Subway
Tremont Temple
Tremont Temple
Trinity Church
Trinity Church
Triton Babies Fountain
Triton Babies Fountain
Tufts Medical Center Station
Tufts Medical Center Station
Tufts University School Of Dental Medicine
Tufts University School Of Dental Medicine
Union Cemetery
Union Cemetery
University Of Massachusetts Boston
University Of Massachusetts Boston
Uss Cassin Young
Uss Cassin Young
Uss Constitution
Uss Constitution
Uss Constitution Museum
Uss Constitution Museum
Veterans Memorial
Veterans Memorial
Walter Brown Arena
Walter Brown Arena
Walter Street Burying Ground
Walter Street Burying Ground
Wang Theatre
Wang Theatre
Warren Anatomical Museum
Warren Anatomical Museum
Warren Street Station
Warren Street Station
Washington Street Station
Washington Street Station
William Lloyd Garrison House
William Lloyd Garrison House
Wood Island Station
Wood Island Station
World War I Memorial
World War I Memorial
World War Ii Memorial
World War Ii Memorial