Developed in the mid-19th century on land reclaimed from the Charles River, Back Bay was designed as a luxurious residential district with grand brownstones and Parisian-style avenues. Over time, it evolved into a mix of high-end shopping, dining, and commercial space while maintaining its historic charm. Back Bay is known for its elegant Victorian brownstones, upscale apartment buildings, and modern high-rises like the Prudential Tower and John Hancock Tower. The neighborhood’s architecture is among the most iconic in Boston, with Commonwealth Avenue and Marlborough Street showcasing some of the most desirable homes in the city. One of the main attractions in Back Bay is Newbury Street, famous for its designer boutiques, cafés, and galleries. Copley Square is home to the historic Boston Public Library and Trinity Church, while the Prudential Center offers high-end shopping and a skywalk observatory. The Esplanade provides scenic running and biking paths along the Charles River. Back Bay attracts affluent professionals, longtime Boston residents, and some students from nearby universities. A fun fact about the area is that the Boston Marathon’s finish line is located here on Boylston Street. Public transportation includes the Green Line at Copley and Arlington stations, the Orange Line at Back Bay station, and commuter rail access at Back Bay station
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