The most beautifully maintained church and building in Boston. The architecture is stunning. The reflection pool is so peaceful. Highly recommend! read more

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I'm a local since 1982. I used to do RC boats (sailboats, speedboats, subs, tugboats, fireboat, fishing trawler, Arleigh Burke Naval Destroyer, a 48" replica of JFK's PT boat) in the reflecting pool. This has been in theovely spot to relax by water, never found it to be too crowded with tourists (for too long). It is a bus tour stop in the summer but still you can find your own space. read more

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Like the Mapparium, it's part of a church so just know that going into it to not let your kids go insane and don't clutch your pearls if someone tries to talk to you about Jesus or whatever read more

I used to spend my time here, a lot of time here, since my apartment and college was a few blocks over. I've laughed here, I've cried here, I've had special moments and breakups here. I've even spent time here just to sit quietly. It was a route I took to go to the Prudential Center. There is a massive reflecting pool and in the summer time, you'll see kids and their parents with boats. You can't go in the reflecting pool, because we tried to once and someone, out of nowhere, yelled at us to get out. The splash pad/fountain that comes out of the ground in the summer time is also fun to run through and stay cool. The buildings and architecture of it is pretty nice and I'm rather proud to see this in Boston. It's still one of my favorite places in Boston to date. read more

Christian Science Plaza - Churches Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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I've toured the Mother Church of the First Church of Christ, Scientist half a dozen times, and love introducing family and friends visiting Boston to this beautiful site. I've long been interested in the history of new American religious movements, so how cool is it to be able to visit the mother church of a worldwide religion founded here in Massachusetts? The free 20-minute tours are offered every half-hour by volunteer guides. While I'm not a member of the First Church of Christ, Scientist, I've always received a warm welcome. The tour itself consists of visiting the original Romanesque style church and the Byzantine-Renaissance style extension, which features an organ with over 13,000 pipes. Most visits I've been fortunate enough to be able to hear a demonstration by an organist. Mary Baker Eddy and the Christian Science movement are a unique part of Massachusetts history, so I definitely recommend a stop at the Mother Church. While here, be sure to also check out the amazing Mapparium next door ($6/adult). read more

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Great space to experience the serenity of the reflecting pool, the sunken bench seating in front, the open air, the remarkable architecture, and the special feeling this place has to offer. read more

Put the kids (of all ages) into the swim suits and head to the water sprinklers! On a hot day in the city there is no better place to cool off and take in the views than at the Christian Science Church. You can relax while gazing at the looking pool while the little ones splash about. read more

Christian Science Plaza - Churches Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

When I visited the Plaza this past weekend, it was under a bit of construction. Unfortunately, there wasn't much to see at all (even the church itself is covered in scaffolding). I would make sure that you wait until summer for the fountain to be turned on and and the end of construction if you're planning on visiting the Plaza. (I still very much enjoyed my visit to the Mary Baker Eddy Library's Mapparium and the church!) read more

Ever stepped inside of the church building itself? Beautiful, awe inspiring and a nice place for self reflection when there isn't service going on. The reflecting pool is great to relax with lunch on stressful days. Oh yeah, and kids dig it. If you're looking for the Mapparium, it's next door in the Mary Baker Eddy Library. read more

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My niece recommended coming here on our visit to Boston, Labor Day weekend. A very nice place to come relax, reflect, take a walk or enjoy a snack around this body of water. We also enjoyed the fountain, which we ran through and took some really cool pictures. read more

I didn't see Tom Cruise or John Travolta during my recent visit, but I think Greta Van Susteren was there interviewing L. Ron Hubbard near the reflection pool...oh wait, that's Scientology - a different cult. Anyhow, cool old building and neat reflection pool. For me, the religion is a bit strange...eschew the use of medicine? I don't get it. The best I can do is 3.5 stars. read more

The perfect setting for a late night hang out and a great place to see the sun rise (although for a better view run over to the Mass Ave bridge when the sky begins to get lighter). Head to the 24 hour Shaws in the Pru for some late night munchies (may I suggest watermelon and Tofutti Cuties? Just don't forget to take utensils from the salad bar) and perhaps grab a shawl/blanket from your apartment to use as a table cloth or for warmth when it gets cooler. Just make sure there's no heavy petting or kissy kissing because these men in blue t-shirts (think CVS) patrol the grounds every hour (or every half hour). Some of us Dancing on the Charles freaks were there from like.. 3:30/4-5:30AM and the guys were totally eying us. We're just a bunch of kids that like watermelon and fresh air, officer. :) read more

The church is a beautiful piece of architecture and the viewing pool next to it is a place of utter tranquility. Mind you, my friend was walking on the other side of the viewing pool and showed me his trick of walking on water. It really did look like he was walking on water. Too cool. At the end of the viewing pool is a massive spewing water fountain, fun for kids and adult to play in, when the weather gets muggy. read more

Christian Science Plaza - view pool and fountain - Churches Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

I love the Christian Science Church grounds in the summer time. The area is very well kept, even with the crowd of students having lunch on the grass in front of the church. The reflecting pool is wonderful to just walk around, holding hands with your significant other. Or even just sit on the stones surrounding the pool. Every time we go to a show at the Symphony.. we park at the garage at the Christian Science Parking and take a stroll around the grounds. The architecture is gorgeous. We haven't done the tour inside but I've heard great things about it. A Must See when you come to Boston. read more

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I have always wanted to go here! I am obsessed with maps and globes, plane tickets and stained glass! so I was designed to enjoy the mapparium. Mary Eddy Baker is an amazing lady/force of nature. This whole place is here b/c of her vision. Regardless of your religious, philosophical, spiritual stance on christian science- this place is here for you to explore, expound +enjoy. My Great Grandmother was a Christian Scientist back in the day. Which I, to her deceased chagrin (I am certain) confused as Scientologist for most of my life. Christian Science is interesting, its crazy to imagine people being in the forefront of naturopathy re "like curing like" positive thinking, placebo's, and hydra therapy in the 1800's. My visiting cousin, who just so happens to be a naturopathic MD was shocked at the holistic time line this center and its teachings have to offer (in respect to her medical field). The architecture and eye enrapturing stature of this center is unprecedented. But back to the Mapparium. At first I felt a little queasy, maybe it was coffee on an empty stomach but I adjusted. The tickets are under $10 and there is a 15 min presentation or so. You are literally: inside a globe standing upon a glass'ish bridge. The map itself is dated, countries that have since dissassembled/ reassembled, vaporized, etc.. but it is amazing nonetheless. It's smaller than I imagined, but I am cursed with great expectations and an overactive imagination, so recalibrate and revel. There is nothing like this. So go on and enjoy it. read more

An absolutely breathtaking outdoor space surrounded by what I believe is a cult of some sort. Currently under renovation, this is an oasis within the city. Come sit by the reflecting pool and let the traffic noise disappear. read more

Ditto to all of the reviews below... This visit is not about religion(at least for me) it is about exploring a really cool historical destination...and the mapparium is seriously OFF THE HOOK! I did a photo shoot there once and it was beyond beautiful.... This is like a mini Vatican for Christian Scientologists and def. worth a visit....and of course we all know how fun it is to run through the water in the sweltering heat in the summah time....wait did I just type that out loud?????....I swear that wasn't me last summer...I SWEAR! But seriously ---this is quite a gem in Boston that few take advantage of! So despite your religious affiliation or lack thereof(in my case) this is a must see.....!! read more

The Christian Science Church in Boston is a fascinating landmark. Like Temple Square in Salt Lake City or Elmshaven in Angwin (run by the 7th Day Adventists), it proclaims a uniquely American religion,a particularly American take on Christianity. It's a spectacular place to go--and unlike Temple Square, there's a cafe on the grounds. There are random inspirational quotes in the entryway, a small bookstore/souvenir shop,and one can have a free tour. The main church is rather spare. It's an anomaly as a megachurch in Boston. The small side chapel (the original) was crafted by Italians, and the pictures look oddly Catholic. The image of the woman clothed in the sun looks a lot like the one of the Immaculate Conception. The metaphysics of Christian Science is oddly wed to the fleshiness of Catholicism. The Mother Church in Boston is educational. One learns about the roots of Christian Science, whose spiritual offspring are Unity, Religious Science (NOT Scientology), and New Thought. Christian Science stresses positive thinking. It was one of the first inclusive American faiths--the "preacher" is the Bible and Science&Health with Key to the Scriptures;there are male and female readers. The Mother Church is an all-American religious destination. read more

As far as a church or any religious institution's outreach to tourists and seekers, this is a well-oiled and well-run program. The architecture and grounds are stunning. Inside the church, we joined a free 30-minute tour with a fun and informative guide. The first thing she said was, "Christian Science is NOT Scientology." An important distinction. They also have a music series called "Pipes on the Plaza" featuring FREE midday organ concerts at the mother church every other month. Concert dates and details are announced at christianscience.com/organconcert Paid parking is available in the underground garage. read more

The grounds outside the Christian Science Church are absolutely gorgeous, and immaculately well-kept and clean. If you want to go somewhere peaceful and fairly quiet just to relax, this is your spot. It's also a great place for a walk or to sit and read. The reflecting pool, with plants and flowers adding to the scenery, is simply beautiful. The only sounds you hear are that of the water fountain on the other side of the pool, and the occasional shouts from kids playing in it. All of the traffic and hustle and bustle seem far away. It's so tranquil, it is easy to forget you're in the middle of Boston. Well, except for the Pru and all those other buildings in the background. Take 30 minutes out of your day to come and relax here, and I promise all of your troubles will seem far away. read more

The Mapparium is hands-down my favorite tourist attraction in the Boston area, if not my single favorite place in all of Massachusetts. I have been there four times in the past year, and I don't even live in Boston anymore. Seriously, the price of admission is ridiculously low for the amount of awesomeness contained within the Christian Science Monitor building. How often do you get to stand in a gigantic glass sphere of any kind? Let alone one stained to depict the geopolitical layout of the Earth circa 1930. But don't miss out on the fun upstairs. Having a museum dedicated to Mary Baker Eddy, of all people, is brilliant in itself. But then they put in Spirit Quest. Oh man. Probably the greatest interactive museum exhibit of all time. What do you need to take on your quest to the top of Spirit Mountain? An X-Box? Or... courage? After winning Spirit Quest, you get to compose a song with all of the animal friends you met along the way, even if you didn't bother saving them and just left them to die somewhere in Crossroads Forest. Finally, on the way out, you get to make virtual postcards, featuring a clipart giraffe standing in the middle of the ocean with Gandhi quotes around his head. I fear I've given away too much, but there is so much more to discover. It really rewards repeated visits. I could probably spend an hour just spinning around in the backless swivel chairs in front of the virtual postcard station. Seriously, this entire complex is really the hidden jewel of Boston tourism. read more

Don't miss the Mapparium - it's a 35 foot stained glass globe and you walk across a glass-walled bridge into the direct center. The idea is that a flat map distorts the relative size of different countries and land areas by not properly showing the curvature of the earth. Looking at a globe (from the outside) also distorts the relative size of areas on the globe that are closer or farther from (or at different angles to) the viewer. So, the only true way to view the earth so that all areas are properly represented is from the direct center looking out. This is basically the idea that drove the Christian Scientets to create something as whacked out as the Mapparium. The reflecting pool outside is also amazing. Don't miss this. read more

Let me just say.........WOW! I haven't tried to make out here - so, I can't attest to an earlier review - but I did go to the Mapparium today and I was REALLY BLOWN AWAY! It is just magical - I can't believe someone in the 1930's created such a magnificent architectural gem right here in our own backyard! I was also really impressed with the "hall of ideas" - and I would rather not even describe it - I can't do it justice - go see for yourself and pay close attention to the fountain in the middle of the room - it is just really special... I agree with all the other reviewers that the reflecting pool is also a great spot - but I whole heartedly implore you to visit inside the library - it was really something to see. I don't know about the religion - or anything else about the Christian Scientists - I just know it is one heck of a landmark, and we are lucky to have it right here in Back Bay. read more

The reflecting pool and the surrounding grounds of the Christian Science Church Boston is my favorite place in Boston. I appreciate this place because it is peaceful, serene, and clean. I enjoy walking around the reflecting pool during all of the seasons (yes, even when this is a wind tunnel during the late autumn and winter months). I have walked here solo and with friends and all experiences here have been quite pleasant. One of the things that makes this so enjoyable for me is that this is a great place to collect and reflect on my thoughts or have various conversations. I think it is wonderful that this is open to the public because this could have been gated and I say thank you to the Christian Science Church for letting all Bostonians enjoy this beautiful space. read more

This place is awesome. Gorgeous architecture with the main museum and the pool designed so water flows equally off all it's edges at all times...except for windy and really hot days :( And I also like the water shooting out part with kids running around in it. And when I say kids, I mean me. read more

Pretty place but very, very rude security. A black man in black chased me in a golf cart and confronted me and ask me "are you taking photos of me?". Google maps review also has many people with the same experience. I called after together encounter. Reception lady apologized to me and said I'm always welcome, which was sweet. But heck, I live in this area and I frequent here. You have made me feel unwelcome so I won't come back anymore. read more

I don't know if I agree with their cra-zee medical theories, but the good Christian Scientists own one of the nicest spaces in the whole of Boston. The centerpiece is the main church itself. This is the oldest part of the complex, though there have been additions to it since. Flanking it on the left is the Christian Science publishing building. This is where the Christian Science Monitor is put together, as well as much of the organizations literature (which is featured in Christian Science Reading Room shops throughout the US and the World, including one a couple of blocks away from the Mother Church). To the right of the main building is the striking reflecting pool, which is said to be arranged in such a way that it mimics the moons effect on the Earth's oceans (though I doubt they were able to accurately achieve this on such a small scale). It's a thing of beauty, no less, and right or wrong has become a classic Boston make-out spot in the summer. The tall building on the near end of the pool is the church's school, where little children go to Sunday school and learn about Mary Baker Eddy. The very tall building on the far side (nearest to the Pru) is offices and dorm space. You can even see a cola machine and snake vending machine on the ground floor! Finally, the latest addition to the complex is the Mary Baker Eddy Library, complete with a beautiful water wall and benches. This is where the church's infamous glass glob has been housed since its recent expansion. Sadly, the organization has been in financial trouble the past several years, and is operating in the red. I think the time may come when some of their real estate gets sold off to make up for declining membership, but until then, we can thank our lucky stars that they're kind enough to leave the complex open to the public (and not gate it off as some organizations might be inclined to do) and enjoy the beautiful architecture that's found throughout. read more

They closed early owing to weather the first time I went to see the place. The second day I went was Saturday and they were open to 1700. I went on the 30minute 1600 tour. The guide told you all about the founding of Christian Science, a bit about how Mary Baker Eddy came to discover the practice and then gave us a detailed guided tour of the main (newer, larger) church and the original church. The guide was very knowledgeable and passionate about this job. All the staff I encountered here were really friendly. Photos welcome. read more

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I walk through here on occasion and it's just a really relaxing place. Lots of benches, and during lunchtime there are food trucks parked between here and the Pru. read more

Christian Science Plaza - View from the (nearly) top...without water - Churches Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Irrespective of your thoughts on Xian Science, there are two very cool reasons to visit: A) The Mapparium is actually quite neat, but not for the 'Outdated Geopolitical Boundaries From The 1930s Are Interesting' aspect. The *real* attraction of the Mapparium is that the globe becomes Funky Sound Space Supreme for you and your friends due to the acoustics. Stand in the middle, and when you talk it sounds as if you have a 200-decibel Chorus Of Thousands behind every syllable. If you and a friend stand at either end of the globe, you can whisper and it sounds as if your friend is right behind your ear. Get it just right, and it sounds like they're *inside* your head. B) There's also a really neat fountain in the Hall of Ideas. Projectors make phrases and sayings bubble up from a central pool, then "pour" along the floor and up onto the walls. I know, this sounds dumb. But it's actually quite neat! It's all hippy-drippy "we are all one people" platitudes and quotes on the search for spirituality, but the execution is fantastic. And hey, it's six bucks. That's one beer + tip. C'mon. read more

2 a.m., long ago, enjoying a special moment with a certain someone at the edge of the reflecting pool. Cheery guy in a golf cart appears from nowhere: "Howdy folks. Thanks for stopping by the Christian Science Center. You're welcome to enjoy the grounds all night long, but I would like to point out to you that there is no making out permitted here at the Christian Science Center. Thanks, and have a great night." Don't go there trying to donate blood or swap spit, but the Mapparium is worth the visit. read more

This review is just for the mapparium. While the stained glass is beautiful, it was much smaller than I expected. Ventilation wasn't the best inside either since a lot of people are crammed into a small space. I would not go out of my way to come here. Only if you happen to be around the area and have time to spare. read more

This is my favorite place in all of Boston, and always has been in the 8 years I've lived here. I love it so much I once bought a photoshoot to get some nice photos of myself here. Turns out, even with a fancy photographer, I still hate the way I look and so I threw the CD away with all the photos because unfortunately, I was in all of them. Minus one star for the overzealous security. My poor dog tried to get a sippy sip of some nice E-Coli water from the reflection pool and we were told to stop. "Let's keep the dog out of the pool," I was scolded. I know he's just doing his job but how come you can smoke crack here and nod off standing up as the heroin slowly sleeps through your veins, but my dog can't have a sippy of your plentiful water? SAD FACE AND DOG HAS SADDER FACE. read more

Picture this: you are trapped in the urban jungle. It is hot, sunny, and you just want a break from all of the drab concrete, bill boards, and constant hum of motor vehicles. You turn the corner on Dalton Street, and see an urban oasis. Children laugh, and run through a water fountain. Their parents look on from an encircling, concrete bench as their kid runs up, and asks for money for the nearby iced cream truck. Not far off, a huge reflecting pool shine up back at the sun as pedestrians stroll, pose for pictures, and sun bathe right in the heart of Boston. Watchful Christian Science attendees monitor the proceedings to keep every one safe. When you get hot, there is a shady row of trees to stroll through, and you can always retreat indoors, because you are never more than a few yards from all of that urban living. Despite how close this park is to heavily trafficked streets, it never seems too busy, or loud. You mainly hear the sounds of the fountain spray, and laughing children. Walk a little further to the reflecting pool, and you can barely hear any thing, just the sound of a quiet, relaxing environment. To top it all off, the Christian scientists open up their private property to the public for free. You can not beat that. read more

The mapparium is super cool! Of course, it's a little outdated in terms of the country names and stuff (especially for Africa), but that's part of the charm/ history of the thing. The mall is so nice to walk around on a warm evening. May I suggest a nice romantic dinner at Brasserie Jo's followed by a walk around the Christian Science Church? Swoon... read more

I am not a religious person at all, but this place and it 's surroundings are absolutely breath-taking! Beautiful church and architecture. Huge plaza that includes a couple different buildings, a church and a huge reflecting pool with fountain next to it, where a lot of kids play. I call it- min-Europe. Great place to read by the pool or take your loved ones for a stroll. Right in front of the Prudential mall. Great for tourists and camera happy people!! Also, check out the cool "Map room" in the Mary Baker Building. read more

Christian Science Plaza - Churches Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Gorgeous reflection pool, lovely exterior architecture on the church itself (I've never been inside), and an awesome "attraction" in the Mapparium. I'm not down with the religion, but I also wasn't bothered by anyone about religion while visiting. The Mapparium is one of those hidden cool places that really wow visitors and is worth a visit, especially if you are into maps or your kids are learning about world geography. read more

Five stars for the Mapparium, but I got no love for the Christian Scientist brain washing you need to go through to get to it. I like keeping my religious and map adventures seperate, but maybe that just means I lack adventure when it comes to religion/mappariums. Seriously though, put your sensory blinders on until you get into the mapparium and be wowed.....it's one of the prettiest things you'll find in Boston. read more

Some friends and I visited the Mapparium globe in this awesome building. I don't think I've ever walked through something that fantastically neat in my whole life. And we weren't even on drugs! Who'da thunk it?! Seriously though. It was one of the most beautiful and intriguing things I've ever seen. It was an older version of the globe too, so it was really neat to see what changes countries have gone through [like changes of name]. The colors were epic. So incredibly bright and beautiful. One of the coolest parts of this room was the sound. Everything echoed. And if you stood on one end of the catwalk and whispered something, the person standing on the other end could hear it as if you just said it out loud to them. Fantastic. I could have spent hours and hours in there. Definitely something to check out, and great for kids! And adults! read more

The Christian Science Center campus is one of the most beautiful and peaceful open spaces in the city. Boston (and the Back Bay in particular) would certainly feel different in its absence. Everybody talks about the Maparium, but I was lucky enough to be given a private viewing of The Apiary by glass artist Dale Chihuly which is now open to the public (July 2011) which is simply spectacular. Hands-down it is the best permanent glass art installation in the Northeast. read more