400 Beacon Street Special Tours
Tours scheduled for Annual Meeting Weekend 2025: May 30, June 2, and June 3
Overview
Activity details
400 Beacon Street was the final home of Mary Baker Eddy, the Discoverer, Founder, and Leader of Christian Science—and one of the most well-known women in the U.S. in the early 1900s. Walking into the house today, you will step back to 1908, to the time when Mrs. Eddy and her household moved into this gracious building. More than a private residence, it served as the executive headquarters of the Christian Science movement from 1908 to 1910. As such, it was both home and workplace to the approximately 20 men and women who worked alongside Mrs. Eddy.
What's included
Through engaging exhibits and informative guides, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Mrs. Eddy’s labors and achievements during this period—including founding The Christian Science Monitor, a daily newspaper—as well as the details of day-to-day life in the early 20th century.
Accessibility
The main house and carriage house are accessible. The tour involves standing, walking, some climbing of stairs, and only limited opportunity for sitting. An elevator is available for those needing it, as are a few folding chairs in some locations. If you use a wheelchair or will be accompanied by a service animal, please indicate this when you purchase tickets. Longyear provides wheelchairs for use in the house. (Wheelchairs brought by visitors are only permissible in the exhibit space in the Visitor Center.)
Additional information
Check-in details
- Advance ticket purchase is recommended, but not required. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Your tour will begin in the Visitor Center, which is at the rear of the house.
- We recommend arriving at least 10 minutes ahead of your scheduled tour time.
- If you would like to explore our interactive exhibit and displays, please allow 20 to 30 minutes before the tour begins.
FAQs
Is 400 Beacon Street accessible?
Yes, the main house and carriage house are accessible. The tour involves standing, walking, some climbing of stairs, and only limited opportunity for sitting. An elevator is available for those needing it, as are a few folding chairs in some locations. If you use a wheelchair or will be accompanied by a service animal, please indicate this when you purchase tickets. Longyear provides wheelchairs for use in the house. (Wheelchairs brought by visitors are only permissible in the exhibit space in the Visitor Center.)
Bag policy
No bags larger than 4 by 7 inches are permitted in the house. All bags larger than that size will be stored in our secured closet.
Food and beverage policy
Food or drinks, including water bottles and children’s drink containers, are not permitted inside the main house or the carriage house.
May I take photographs?
Yes. Photography with a handheld device is permitted for personal use. Flash photography is not allowed, nor is the use of selfie sticks. No photos or videos, whether of the inside or outside, may be used or published in print or online for any commercial or academic purposes without permission. Professional/commercial photographers and members of the media should contact the Office of Communication at 617.278.9000 x 250.
Are strollers allowed in the buildings?
Strollers are not permitted in the house, and parents should plan on carrying very young children during the tour. Strollers are permissible when touring the grounds and carriage house.
Cancellations
Tickets purchased are non-refundable but can be transferred to a different date. For assistance transferring your ticket, please call us at 617.278.9000.