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Desire path through trees at UMass Boston

University Of Massachusetts Boston

Boston, United States Of America

University of Massachusetts Boston Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Campus Attractions

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The University of Massachusetts Boston (UMass Boston) is a dynamic urban public research university located on Boston’s beautiful Columbia Point peninsula. Established in the mid-1960s to meet the rising demand for accessible higher education in the Boston area, UMass Boston has grown into a hub for academic excellence, cultural engagement, and community partnerships. With a student body representing over 135 countries, the university is celebrated for its commitment to diversity, innovative research, and civic involvement.

This guide is crafted for prospective students, history enthusiasts, and visitors eager to explore UMass Boston’s historical milestones, visiting logistics, campus highlights, and nearby attractions. Here, you’ll find essential information about visiting hours, campus tours, accessibility, transportation, and ticketing—plus must-see landmarks like the Integrated Sciences Complex, the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate, and the adjacent John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum. Whether your focus is education, culture, or simply enjoying the harborfront, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.

For the most current visitor information, refer to the official UMass Boston website and the Edward M. Kennedy Institute.

Historical Overview

Founding and Early Growth

UMass Boston was founded in 1964, opening its doors in 1965 in response to the lack of public higher education options for Boston residents. Its mission: deliver affordable, quality education to urban populations, including many underserved and minority students. The university quickly became a focal point for social activism in the late 1960s and early 1970s, mirroring Boston’s broader civil rights and anti-war movements.

The Move to Columbia Point

Outgrowing its original downtown location by the early 1970s, UMass Boston relocated to the Columbia Point peninsula in 1974. This move provided the university with modern facilities and the space to expand academic and research offerings. The new campus played a pivotal role in revitalizing the Dorchester neighborhood and fostering community engagement.

Boston State College Merger and Academic Expansion

In 1982, UMass Boston merged with Boston State College, significantly broadening its programs in education, nursing, and graduate studies. This merger reinforced the university’s status as a comprehensive urban institution and helped fuel its continued growth.

Research, Diversity, and Modern Development

Designated as a Doctoral/Research University in the 1990s, UMass Boston expanded doctoral programs in public policy, nursing, education, and environmental biology. The university is now recognized as the Northeast’s most diverse research university, with a strong commitment to equity and inclusion. Recent investments include the Integrated Sciences Complex (2015), University Hall (2016), and the Edward M. Kennedy Institute, all of which enhance academic and cultural experiences on campus.

Recent initiatives, such as partnerships with Boston Public Schools and Bunker Hill Community College, continue to promote educational access and workforce development.


Visiting UMass Boston

Visiting Hours and Access

  • General Campus Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily
  • Administrative/Academic Buildings: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Outdoor Spaces: Open for public enjoyment, featuring scenic views of Boston Harbor

Campus Tours

  • Guided Tours: Available primarily during the academic year by appointment. These tours highlight major facilities and cultural landmarks, including the Integrated Sciences Complex and the Edward M. Kennedy Institute.
  • Self-Guided Tours: Downloadable maps and mobile resources are available for independent exploration.
  • Edward M. Kennedy Institute: Open to the public Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM; ticket purchase required.

Accessibility

UMass Boston is fully committed to accessibility, providing barrier-free entrances, accessible parking, elevators, and restrooms. Visitors needing specific accommodations should contact visitor services before their arrival.

Getting There

  • Public Transportation: Take the MBTA Red Line to JFK/UMass station, then board the free campus shuttle.
  • Driving: Ample parking available in visitor lots and garages at 100 Morrissey Blvd, Boston, MA 02125.

Campus Highlights and Nearby Attractions

Campus Landmarks

  • Campus Center: The social heart of UMass Boston, offering dining, lounges, a bookstore, and stunning harborfront terraces.
  • Integrated Sciences Complex: Advanced laboratories and sustainable design for STEM disciplines.
  • University Hall: Home to arts and social sciences, featuring classrooms, art studios, and exhibitions.
  • Healey Library: Offers extensive collections and panoramic harbor views.
  • Harborwalk: Connects the campus to Boston’s 40-mile scenic waterfront path.
  • Edward M. Kennedy Institute: Interactive exhibits and educational programs about the U.S. Senate.
  • John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum: Iconic site dedicated to President Kennedy, located adjacent to campus.

Nearby Boston Attractions

UMass Boston’s location makes it easy to access Boston’s major historical and cultural sites. The Freedom Trail, Boston Common, Beacon Hill, and the North End are all easily reachable via shuttle and the MBTA Red Line. The Dorchester neighborhood also offers its own local landmarks and diverse dining options.


Events, Tours, and Visitor Tips

  • Special Events: UMass Boston hosts academic conferences, cultural festivals, concerts, and civic forums throughout the year. Check the UMass Boston visit page for schedules.
  • Photographic Spots: Capture city and harbor views from the Campus Center terrace, Harborwalk, and the JFK Library’s architectural features.
  • Best Times to Visit: Spring and early fall feature vibrant campus life; summer offers quieter exploration.
  • Dining and Souvenirs: Enjoy campus dining venues or nearby local eateries; shop for memorabilia at the campus bookstore.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are UMass Boston’s visiting hours?
A: Campus grounds are typically open 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily. Most buildings operate weekdays 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.

Q: Is campus admission free?
A: Yes, general campus access is free. Some events or the JFK Library may require tickets.

Q: Are tours available?
A: Guided tours can be scheduled through the admissions office; self-guided resources are also available.

Q: How do I reach UMass Boston by public transit?
A: Take the MBTA Red Line to JFK/UMass station, then use the free campus shuttle.

Q: Can I visit the Edward M. Kennedy Institute?
A: Yes, it is open Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM, with ticketed admission.


Conclusion

UMass Boston is a cornerstone of Boston’s educational and cultural landscape, blending historic significance with modern innovation. With its beautiful harborfront setting, world-class facilities, and strong community ties, the campus welcomes visitors of all backgrounds to explore, learn, and connect. Plan your visit today and experience one of New England’s most diverse and engaging university campuses.

For more details, visit the official UMass Boston website and the Edward M. Kennedy Institute. Enhance your visit with the Audiala app for audio tours and up-to-date information.


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
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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
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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
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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
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  Joseph J. O'Donnell Field
| Joseph J. O'Donnell Field
Joslin Diabetes Center
Joslin Diabetes Center
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  King'S Chapel
| King'S Chapel
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  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
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  Nix'S Mate Daybeacon
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Noble School
Noble School
North Shore Medical Center
North Shore Medical Center
North Square
North Square
North Station
North Station
Northeastern University
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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
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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
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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
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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
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Wang Theatre
Wang Theatre
Warren Anatomical Museum
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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
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