Updated for 2025
Jamaica Plain (JP) is a historical gem in Boston, blending colonial-era landmarks with scenic green spaces. From grand mansions to cultural hubs, these top Boston historic sites in JP offer a fascinating journey through time, perfect for history buffs and curious explorers. After, continue your tour around Boston with our Boston neighborhoods guide.

The Loring-Greenough House

Built in 1760, the Loring-Greenough House (12 South St) is a Georgian colonial masterpiece and one of JP’s last historic mansions. Its symmetrical facade, intricate woodwork, and original fireplaces reflect 18th-century craftsmanship. Once home to Commodore Joshua Loring and the Greenough family, it served as a Revolutionary War hospital. Today, the Jamaica Plain Tuesday Club hosts tours (Thu–Sun, 1–4 PM) and 2025 events like colonial craft workshops.

Jamaica Pond Boathouse

Nestled by Jamaica Pond, the Jamaica Pond Boathouse (507 Jamaicaway) is a Victorian-style retreat for Boston outdoor history lovers. Its rustic wooden beams and overhanging eaves complement the pond’s serene beauty. A recreational hub since the 19th century, it offers boat rentals (kayaks, sailboats; May–Sep, 10 AM–6 PM) and winter ice-skating when conditions allow.

The Arnold Arboretum

Spanning 281 acres, the Arnold Arboretum (125 Arborway), managed by Harvard University, is a Frederick Law Olmsted-designed gem in Boston’s Emerald Necklace. Founded in 1872, this living museum features 16,000 plants and the Hunnewell Building’s research library. Visit for Lilac Sunday (likely May 11, 2025) or free guided tours (weekly, see arboretum.harvard.edu). Open daily, sunrise to sunset.

The Eliot School House

Dating to 1676, the Eliot School of Fine & Applied Arts (24 Eliot St) is one of America’s oldest schools, with its current 1831 building showcasing early 19th-century design—think pitched roofs and classic windows. Known for manual arts since the 1800s, it offers 2025 classes in woodworking, sewing, and ceramics for all ages. Open year-round;

The Footlight Club

Housed in Eliot Hall (7A Eliot St), the Footlight Club, founded in 1877, is America’s oldest community theater. The 1830s Unitarian church-turned-theater boasts high ceilings and a grand stage. Catch 2025 productions like The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (spring schedule TBD). Tours available by request.

Discover more Boston history with our guide 10 Spooky Urban legends.

Forest Hills Cemetery

Founded in 1848, Forest Hills Cemetery (95 Forest Hills Ave) spans 250 acres, blending art and nature in a rural cemetery design by Henry A.S. Dearborn. Winding paths, ponds, and monuments like “The Sphinx” (honoring abolition) house the graves of e.e. cummings and Julia Ward Howe. Open daily, 8 AM–dusk; 2025 walking tours highlight Boston cemetery history.

Discover Jamaica Plain’s History

Jamaica Plain’s historic sites weave Boston’s past into its modern present. From colonial homes to cultural landmarks, these spots invite you to explore Boston’s story.

Explore the architectural history behind these sites in our Boston architecture guide.

Top 6 Historic Sites to Explore in Jamaica Plain