user
The Mary Baker Eddy Library
200 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, MA 02115, United States
Appearance

Comments
Bl
Review №1

Wow. Had some time. This was quick. We got meter parking directly across the street.Our kids enjoyed the display and the weird acoustics. I found a storyboard and contributed one.

Ry
Review №2

To those leaning on sustaining the infinite, today is full of possibilities.

Te
Review №3

Showed up after reading about this hidden gem on a Wednesday morning, tickets were $6 and there were 10 people (7 adults) in the 10:40am tour group. Our guide was WONDERFUL, very knowledgeable and outgoing, and made the tour experience better.If you’ve never been, 100% urge you to visit! A very interesting way to spend 20 minutes, the building is beautiful and the tour is fun for anyone.

Do
Review №4

We took this quick tour of the Mapparium. If you have time to fit it in your schedule, I highly recommend. It doesnt take long and is $6 per person. Unfortunately you cant take photos inside. Its pretty cool though once inside. Its really just like standing inside the middle of a globe. Pretty cool!

Ge
Review №5

The Mapparium is an incredible place. The lady who gave our tour was well spoken and friendly. I love maps and the experience of seeing a globe in this unique way really puts the whole world into perspective. If you are thinking of going here, just do it. It’s a fun activity!

Cr
Review №6

We enjoyed the Mapparium! At $6 per person, it is good value for money as you get to stand inside the middle of the globe and are given a quick tour by a guide. You cant take photos inside the globe which wasn’t a major problem as it allowed everyone to take it all in. The acoustics inside the globe were fascinating! I’d recommend this place to anyone visiting Boston!

Ma
Review №7

The mapparium was pretty cool for just $6. The glass is beautiful and the acoustics are really cool. Our tour guide, Barb, was super nice and really knowledgeable. The rest of the staff in the library were all really nice as well. Good place to explore on a rainy day.

Vi
Review №8

We went to see the Mapparium after years of living in Boston. Expectations were low. We thought we would be walking into a room with a map on the wall. But the experience is definitely more exciting! The glass globe was a beautiful site and the acoustics in the globe were awesome! Definitely getting a good bang for your buck.

Ja
Review №9

This place is a cheap and fun option to do in Boston. The globe is amazing the acoustics and seeing the world from the early 1900’s perspective was really cool. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and the architecture is beautiful. You can also do a free church tour and see the worlds 8th largest Organ.

Le
Review №10

The Mapparium: An Inside View,” featuring letters, documents, and artifacts never before made public. These showcase the construction, history, and significance of this magnificent architectural and artistic achievement.The Mapparium was conceived by the architect of the Christian Science Publishing Society building, Chester Lindsay Churchill, as a symbol for the global outreach of The Christian Science Monitor. Mary Baker Eddy founded the Monitor in 1908 and gave it the mission “to injure no man, but to bless all mankind.”

Sa
Review №11

This attraction is really cool! It’s $6 or $4 for seniors and students. It’s about a 15-20 min “tour”. The only down part is that you can’t take pictures inside but the experience is worth it! The price is definitely reasonable.

Gu
Review №12

Very nice world map, nice people there and nice tour, the eco inside the map is amazing. Recommended. Muy lindo altamente recomendado, un tour corto.

Be
Review №13

An interesting piece of Boston miscellany. In my opinion, it is not worth the trip in it of itself.

me
Review №14

WOW. What a beautiful building. I loved all the details of the building. I would love to have a wedding here but I live 1500 miles away. The staff was very friendly and the tour guide was as well. The globe part (cant remember what its called) is the neatest thing. The way sound travels in there is unlike anything Ive every experienced.

Ja
Review №15

The structure is of renaissance and byzantine heritage. Magnificent.

Me
Review №16

The Mapparium is a fun place to stop and it only costs $6. Guides are very friendly (possibly trying to convert you to Christian Science?) You can’t take photos inside the glass globe, unfortunately, but there’s a selfie wall (for real) for those wanting to document the experience.

Be
Review №17

Amazing expierience for only $6. Felt like Professor X inside hearing all the whispered voices ans not knowing where they were coming from. The free church tour was cool as well. Highly recommended.

Da
Review №18

The Maparium is cool, albeit a little underwhelming. I feel like the presentation could do with some work. It was disappointing that the glass floor was covered with a carpet and the no photography rule is annoying. For 6 bucks though, I guess its decent value for money for a 15-minute experience. (One other disappointment was the spoiler factor of having the Maparium exit right next to the washrooms, so we accidentally got a sneak peek before we actually took the tour.)

Ra
Review №19

The Mapparium is very cool, but you are not permitted to take photos inside it.

H
Review №20

VERY VERY cool place! Great place for kids and families. Absolutely EVERYONE was so kind and helpful! Our guide was informative and engaging. Honestly, Id have liked a few minutes more to take it all in because its truly breathtaking!

gc
Review №21

Very beautiful and interested place to visit and learn about the Christian science

Da
Review №22

The Mary Baker Eddy Library is one of the best museum. I love this place.

Be
Review №23

Mapparium was very cool. Definitely worth the $4 for students. Even as a non-christian its definitely worth seeing the globe room.

Ga
Review №24

The only cool thing about the mapparium is the acoustics and the fact that is a map depicting the old political borders, dont think Id pay again just to see that single room, plus its quite messed up to have science mixed up with Christianity, I dont really see any science in that. Quite overestimated, oh and yes you are not even allowed to take pictures inside the mapparium.Definitely dont visit alone, youll miss the fun trying the acoustics with your friends.

Ch
Review №25

Very interesting and fun visit. Half hour tour of this unique world globe. Acoustics inside are also very cool and make for a fun family trip.

Sa
Review №26

Its kind of cute but i dont feel you get your moneys worth in the very limited tour given

Ad
Review №27

A beautiful and wonderful tour very informative. I can understand why you don’t want us taking pictures during the presentation/tour but can’t we take any after the presentation/tour? The lady who gave the tour literally hounded and asked a guest to unlock their phone to watch them delet a photo. I felt more embarrassed for the lady who gave the tour than the actual guest who took a photo. I lost respect for her after I witnessed that, very unprofessional.

La
Review №28

A cool place. I only wish we had gotten to spend more time in the map room itself. Nevertheless, a fun and unique experience. Would recommend to all!!

Ke
Review №29

The whole building is really incredible to be inside. The Mapparium is beautiful, historically significant, and a rare treat for the ears. It really isn’t often that you get to experience altered acoustics in an environment like this one.

St
Review №30

I didnt have a chance to explore all the library. We visited the Maparium. I thought it was interesting, especially the short light show.The staff was friendly and the library is kept in pristine condition. Eating and vending area available. Parking garage next door.

Da
Review №31

Visiting the Mapparium is incredible. Its amazing to be in a 3-story globe, and the acoustics are fascinating to play with. There are no secrets in the Mapparium! They have a brief audio presentation which I found moving.This is really something you just have to see at some point in your life. I paid $4-6 per person--easily worth it.Its very interesting to see how the worlds countries have changed so much over the last 100 years.

ma
Review №32

Very cool exhibit. We were not expecting the way they had set the acoustics up so that was a fun surprise. And believe me, I get why they dont allow pictures ( because its trademarked) but, I would love to be able to have some photos with it. There is a selfie background set up outside though

Is
Review №33

The mapparium is really impressive! You can see the old borders of the world and appreciate its design from the inside. The funny fact about it is its architecture right like Grand central in New York, try whispering at its edge the sound is amplified and thats pretty nice. The guides are really nice as well and the price for student is not expensive (4dollars, and 8dollars when youre an adult) for a guided tour of 30 minutes. Fun activity to do in Boston :)

Ka
Review №34

The mapparium is really unique. It’s a short tour that is perfect for a quick stop. I just wish you could take pictures inside the globe. Also, we were encouraged to go to see the church next door and then got ushered into a sermon so be careful if that’s not something you want to do.

Ro
Review №35

A truly one of a kind opportunity to stand inside a map of the globe (circa 1930s). The globe, which is 30 feet high and painted onto over 600 individual stained glass panels, creates an incredible effect and opportunity to see a map of the world from a totally unique perspective. At only $6 for a guided tour,the entry fee is well worth it.

An
Review №36

They should allow pictures, but still worth popping in to see this unique attraction, despite the “Christian science” cult nonsense.

Je
Review №37

Eddy stood out during her time as a radically Christian thinker, prolific writer, ground breaking female leader, and civic philanthropist. For any student of history there are many subjects to explore here: Eddy herself, the Church of Christ Scientist, the Pulitzer-prize winning (7X) newspaper she founded, and the remarkable record of spiritual healing that is well documented. The research room for the archives has limited hours. Call ahead.There are also programs for kids during the day and occasional special presentations for adults.

Ol
Review №38

Its a short show but also not to expensive. But the place and experience is amazing.

SP
Review №39

Map room so cool

Vi
Review №40

The mapparium is cool but honestly not worth it to come back more than once. A little overpriced to stand in a large glass circle. 6 dollars for adults and 4 dollars for students.

Ma
Review №41

Mapparium is a must visit in Boston for a unique view of the world as it was in 1935. While the tour is brief, there is a lot of information on outside the Mapparium that details its rich history and offers insight into its construction. The walk-through globe is visually stunning. Definitely a must visit.

Ka
Review №42

The Mapparium is one of a kind. Not to be missed.

Mc
Review №43

The world globe was very good. If you are in the area it is worth a visit. Note: no photos or recording allowed.

P
Review №44

A visit to the Mapparium is highly recommended. Stand inside a 3 story brightly lit globe that dipicts the world as it was when it was built in 1935. Such a unique work of art and well worth the price of admission. The tour lasts about 20 minutes and you can redo it at no extra charge if its not too busy. The only disappointing part is that photos are not allowed. The rest of the library is beautiful as well.

El
Review №45

Just please go! Its amazing!

Hu
Review №46

I was born and raised in Boston. I visited the Mapparium when I was in 5th grade. Ive talked about the location my entire life while not remembering where it was located. My only memory besides it being one of the coolest locations on Bostons Freedom Trail was that it was located somewhere in the vicinity of Bostons Christian Science Center. Fast forward 40 years and here we are back at the Mapparium with my kids. The tour itself is short but the concept and how the globe was built and all its history is pretty amazing, a perfect addition for the family if youre visiting Boston and sightseeing. Plan ahead and reserve at least 30 minutes of your time for this event.

Da
Review №47

Very ornate and has beautiful architecture. Their indoor globe room is very unique. I dont think its worth full admission however. Look for a promotional deal or something. Thats what I did and it was well worth the time and money with a deal.

Jo
Review №48

Must be seen to appreciate it. Awe-inspiring. Very kind and friendly staff. Thank you!

Ch
Review №49

I visited their Mapparium on Sunday morning. The entire tour was about 20 minutes. The first 5 minutes was about Mary Baker Eddy and the designer of the Mapparium. Then we entered the Mapparium watched the video and explanation on the Mapparium itself from the guide. Once you purchased the ticket, you can go through the tour again for free, but you are not allowed to take any pictures inside.

Ro
Review №50

Crossed this one off the lived in Boston for 5 years and should probably see what its all about. Very cool to see in person and actually the sound effects were a bigger highlight. Very interesting to see how the sound is affected by a sphere.

Sa
Review №51

The Mapparium is so beautiful! Unfortunately no pictures are allowed within the exhibit but the experience was still well worth it.

Jo
Review №52

Ok if you want to spend some money to see something unique but thats about all. Tour which consists of walking into the globe room, a music show and a chance to hear echos and sounds lasts

Za
Review №53

It was a completely random find but turned out to be pretty cool. The acoustic properties of the globe seemed surreal.

ON
Review №54

The MAPPARIUM is awesome to view. Worth the trip.The research department is so thorough with information, not only about Mary Baker Eddy, but of women throughout the world who have contributed to the BETTERMENT OF HUMANITYThe information of Suffrage and Mary Baker Eddys role in it is educational. See the documents of the financial contributions Eddy made, and the letters between Susan B. ANTHONY and Mary Baker Eddy and Susan B. ANTHONY taking Christian Science Class Instruction from a student of Mary Baker EDDY.See info, photos, of Venerable Heroines of America, Mary Livermore, Anne Whitney, Fanny Crosby, Edna.. Dow Cheney, Julia Ward Howe.

Na
Review №55

The library itself was closed on Sunday. We were able to access kids library corner and Mapparium. I expected the Mapparium to be bigger than it was. But generally it was good experience.

Ma
Review №56

We went there for the Mapparium and were a bit let down. There isnt much to see in the museum, and the Mapparium was 15 minutes standing in a room where you arent even allowed photos, so the price of admission seemed unfair. Its a cool exhibit, but Id rather go to the MFA.

Mi
Review №57

My girlfriend forcibly clicked five stars and did not allow for my own personal rating. It was cool.

Pe
Review №58

6$ for 20min of standing inside a fairly large globe. Worth it for some, may not be for others.

St
Review №59

Cant even take pictures!! Overpriced for what you get. Push Christian Science agenda on you. Globe is cool, would like to remember the experience better with pictures. Waste of money

Co
Review №60

One of the most important women in American History and what an impressive collection of her writings. The library is impressive and was obviously built by some craftsmen. Visit it if you get the chance and learn a bit about her. Wizard of Where

Jo
Review №61

The Hall of Ideas has a lovely fountain, with projections of poignant quotes on several walls. Next, take the 20-minute tour of the Mapparium -- a world-famous, three-story, painted-glass globe from 1935 -- the impressive presentation illustrates how ideas have traversed time/geography. Acoustics inside of the Globe give a perception of full surround-sound; whispering across one side of the bridge to a friend on the other would be heard near-perfectly. Finish the visit in the Quest Gallery upstairs.

El
Review №62

Wonderful short tour. Can see the world as it was when mapparium was built. One of my favorite places

Sa
Review №63

We went there for the Mapparium. It is beautiful and worth the visit. I think it is overpriced and I hate the fact that you are not allowed to take pictures inside. It is still an amazing and unique idea.

Os
Review №64

The Mapparium is absolutely magnificient, do visit it - it is so worth it!

Az
Review №65

Mapparium is a fabulous experience, definitely recommend it. Acoustics are incredible, amifies even the smallest whisper depending on where youre standing in the room. Borders and names permanently stuck in 1935. Being inside the gl9be really gives you a different perspective of the sizes and profanities of certain land masses. Well worth the $6.

Pa
Review №66

The Maparium tour is the main draw, but the entire building is fascinating and a real treat to explore.

Bi
Review №67

Mapparium is good. The place takes less than an hour to visit. Worth it if its free and you have time. Find your parking near the Newbury St.

Ah
Review №68

It is a short 15 minute guided tour inside the globe. It costs $6. I recommend only if you are passing by.

Ro
Review №69

Very unique attraction that gives a unique view of the world. The acoustics were fascinating in the middle and at the sides. The tour itself was time controlled and you had to leave fairly quickly after the show. Also, no cameras allowed.

Da
Review №70

The Mapparium is truly fascinating - well worth a visit!

Th
Review №71

Being inside the world globe is an amazing experienceYou get to experience a view of the earth in a most unbelievable wayWe could have spend an entire day looking at it

To
Review №72

The mapparium was pretty cool but the entire experience was over way too soon. Definitely see it if youre in to that kind of stuff.

We
Review №73

Cons: No pics allowed + a long spiel about Christian science + limited time within the globePros: staring at the globe and looking for your hometown/Antarctica/relative distances between countries/longitude lines through places...fascinating and totally beats doing similar explorations via a screen - e.g. Google Maps.Overall, mixed feelings.

La
Review №74

Mapparium is well worth the visit. Allow 20-30 minutes to see the world, as it existed in 1935.

Al
Review №75

A unique experience in many ways, from experiencing with the acoustics (from the center of the spherical room, echoes cone back to you from all directions) to seeing how much the geography of this world changed in the last hundred years.

Tr
Review №76

I visited just for the Mapparium, a three-story globe showing the world from 1935. The acoustics are amazing (you can whisper from one side and its heard as a shout on the other side), the light and sound presentation is interesting and its just stunning to be inside the globe. Do show up on the 20 minute mark of each hour as thats when tours run and they really arent any longer than 15 minutes. The gift shop is really cute and reasonably priced.Note: Photography isnt allowed in the Mapparium and theyre serious about it, unfortunately. What I wouldnt do for a photo in there!

S.
Review №77

Nice mapparium with some narrative. Its like viewing from the inside of the globe

To
Review №78

The globe is incredible. Very interesting to go to, especially just to see how much our political geography has changed since they made it (a lot).

Je
Review №79

Worst experience in Boston. $6.00 just to get preached at and see a quick map of the world you are not allowed to take pictures of? God forbid you complain the girl at the desk with two chins claims there are no comment cards and no management to complain to. Dont waste your time or money so overpriced and not worth it. Very uninformed associates and dont even venture to the second floor unless you want to join a cult and drink the koolaid. Very horrible to be included on tours that represent Boston. :( save your money

J
Review №80

Very fun experience, interesting to see and hear inside the globe

Ke
Review №81

Wow. So cool. Took my 2 and 4 yr old. We loved it. #acoustics

Ig
Review №82

$6 entry and well worth it. Very unique tour and attraction.

Y
Review №83

Amazing dome of earth in the 1900s. Cheap ticket. (&6 adult $4 student with id)

la
Review №84

My rating for this location comes largely from the beauty of the Mapparium, which is pretty and a unique experience, although the lack of photography is a little confusing, since modern cameras dont rely on flash to take pictures in the same way, and also photos dont replace the experience in the slightest.

Ma
Review №85

Very interesting to see. Perhaps not one of the top 10 things to see in Boston, but well worth it if you have children, just to hear the acoustics of the room.

Ja
Review №86

A good destination for a couple hours in the afternoon. The Mapparium is clearly the highlight of the experience, followed by the Hall of Ideas, and lastly by the upstairs exhibits. The one-room tour through the Mapparium only lasts a few minutes, but is still impressive.

an
Review №87

I love geography being inside a giant globe is very cool to see old political map is awesome I love it

Al
Review №88

Beautiful Mapparium and a wonderful experience. I could hear every sound when I stand at the centre of the Mapparium.

Ja
Review №89

The globe is a geopolitical snapshot of the globe pre WW2. Highly recommend visiting. You can be in and out of here in 30-40min.

Ju
Review №90

Awesome experience but not sure if it is really worth to pay $6 (or $5 with coupon).

Ol
Review №91

Simply amazing! And educational. And the staff is lovely.

De
Review №92

I just wish we could get pictures of the mapparium. Its best to visit this with a very small group otherwise the acoustics in the mapparium will have you rushing to get out.

Pa
Review №93

Only after you buy tickets do they tell you there are no photos allowed.

su
Review №94

Great place for family. Awesome accoustics Difficult to find the place though.

N
Review №95

A really worthwhile attraction to see when in Boston. The staff were incredibly welcoming and didnt force their beliefs onto people visiting.

Br
Review №96

Nice stop if you have some extra time

Tx
Review №97

Lets recognize it: the mapparium is pretty cool. 20 mins is not enough for enjoying it completely, though

Cl
Review №98

They have maps and books... And an awesome inverted glass globe built in 1935!

Ro
Review №99

Excellent mapparium show. Only $6.

B
Review №100

Quick, cool tour. Definitely worth the $6.

Information
100 Photos
100 Comments
4.4 Rating
  • Address:200 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, MA 02115, United States
  • Site:http://www.mbelibrary.org/visit
  • Phone:+1 617-450-7000
Categories
  • Museum
  • Library
  • Tourist attraction
Similar organizations