SOLD OUT - Rediscover Back Bay through the French Lens

Thursday, August 14, 2025 From 10:30 AM To 12:00 PM Add to Calendar 2025-08-14 10:30:00 2025-08-14 12:00:00 SOLD OUT - Rediscover Back Bay through the French Lens Take a fresh look at Back Bay’s French influences from both historical and architectural perspectives on this 90-minute guided tour en français. America/New_York

Join us for a captivating morning stroll through Back Bay to explore the French influences that helped shape this elegant Boston neighborhood in the 19th century. Beginning at Copley Square and ending at the French Library, this 90-minute tour led by our expert guide Steven Galante will bring to life the shared cultural and architectural history between Boston and France.

Along the way, you’ll discover surprising connections; from Alexandre Vattemare’s role in founding the Boston Public Library to the Haussmannian inspiration behind Commonwealth Avenue. You'll pass historical landmarks such as the Trinity Church, the Hôtel Vendôme, and the original site of the French Library.

The tour concludes at the French Library (53 Marlborough Street), where you’ll enjoy tea, coffee, and cookies in our gallery, followed by an informal Q&A with Steven.

This tour will be led in French.

Please arrive at Copley Square by 10:20 AM so the tour can begin at 10:30 AM sharp. We will meet on the Dartmouth Street steps of the Boston Public Library (between Boylston Street and St. James Avenue).

We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and bringing a water bottle.

For members

$25

For non-members

$35

About Your Guide, Steven Galante

As a tour guide, Steven each year leads hundreds of French visitors on walks to discover Boston's rich history and culture. A former business journalist and publisher, Steven also serves as chairman of the French Library's Board of Trustees.

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