About this Event
The Olmsted Network invites you to visit Boston from April 23-25— the first in a new series of affinity travel trips. Join us for a glimpse into Olmsted’s life and work as expert guides lead us through notable parks and places.
The History
In 1889, Frederick Law Olmsted moved his family from New York City to Brookline, MA, a suburb of Boston. Olmsted spent the next 14 years in Massachusetts, living and working at Fairsted and eventually dying at McLean Hospital. His mark on the area is undeniable.
The Itinerary
Get settled in Boston, and we’ll handle the rest!
On Tuesday afternoon, Dede Petri, Olmsted Network’s President & CEO, and Mark Zelonis of the Library of American Landscape History, will welcome travelers to Boston, as we begin a whirlwind tour of some of Olmsted’s great works.
We’ll begin our trip at Trinity Church, the first major work of Olmsted’s friend and neighbor Henry Hobson Richardson, and take a behind-the-scenes tour.
From there, we’ll Uber to Fairsted— the Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site— to see where the profession of landscape architecture was born. If time allows, after touring the home of Olmsted and the working space of the Olmsted firm, we’ll take a quick look at the neighboring homes of Richardson and John Charles Olmsted (saved by passionate Olmsted Network supporters in 2020).
Expect a special welcome dinner at La Voile on Newbury Street to celebrate our first night in town.
On Wednesday, April 24, we’ll start our day at the Arnold Arboretum, where we'll be greeted by Director Ned Friedman and other experts for a walking tour of the grounds and a special glimpse into the arboretum’s archives.
Next, we’ll drive along the Arborway to our next destination— a meeting with the Emerald Necklace Conservancy. Conservancy leadership will offer insights about the park system.
We’ll return to Copley Square and conclude our day at the Leventhal Map Center, meeting with President & Head Curator Garrett Dash Nelson and ending with a tour of the Getting Around Town exhibit.
On Thursday morning, John Kett from the firm of Reed Hilderbrand will join us for a tour of Franklin Park, the last great rural park of Olmsted. Kett is the chief author of the Franklin Park Master Plan and will discuss challenges and opportunities in this park. Our journey will conclude around noon.
A detailed agenda will be available in March.
Logistics & Tickets
Space is limited (minimum 15/maximum 24), and tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There will be no refunds after March 5, and we urge participants to consider trip insurance.
Ticket: $375
The ticket price includes one continental breakfast, one box lunch, one dinner, transportation to/from events, exclusive tours and a small donation to the Olmsted Network. Tickets do not include travel costs (airfare, train fare, etc.) and hotel accommodation.
Additional donations are truly welcome and will be matched 1:1 by a generous donor. You can give through Square here: https://bit.ly/donate2olmsted
Please reach out to [email protected] with comments or questions.
About Our Pop-Up Series
The Olmsted Network is launching a new and exciting travel opportunity! In 2024, join us for exclusive “pop-up” trips in the Olmsted-rich cities of Boston, Seattle, Staten Island and Buffalo.
These short trips will allow our partners and friends the chance to meet like-minded travelers and explore Olmsted parks and places like never before— with expert guides leading the way!
Save the date! Join the Olmsted Network in Seattle on June 21, Staten Island on July 19-20 and Buffalo on Oct 30- Nov 1. Want to be notified when registration opens? Sign up here.
By registering, you consent to receive occasional emails from us.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Trinity Church, 206 Clarendon Street, Boston, United States
USD 375.00
