The grounds are open dawn to dusk year-round, but the visitor center and tours have seasonal hours. From November 17 to the spring, the site is closed for winter, except for Fridays and Saturdays. Check the official website for specific tour times and reservations.
There is no entrance fee at Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site. Admission is free for everyone.
From Boston, take Route 9 west to Brookline, exit at Warren Street, and arrive at this historic haven, nestled in the heart of a charming suburb.
Parking is available along Dudley Street and in the Dudley Street Parking lot. Handicap parking is at the Warren Street entrance. No overnight parking, no fees. Limited space, no specific accommodations for RVs or motorcycles.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
In the charming suburb of Brookline, Massachusetts, the Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site stands as a testament to the visionary landscape architecture of its namesake. This historic site, located at 99 Warren Street, is a must-visit for those who appreciate the intricacies of landscape design and the rich history it embodies.
The site centers around Fairsted, an 1810 Federal farmhouse that Olmsted transformed into his family home and the first full-scale professional office of landscape architecture in 1883. The property, set on 1.75 acres, is a masterful example of Olmsted’s design principles, featuring curvilinear paths, a balance of shadow and sun, and layered plant material. The grounds, restored to their 1930 appearance, include an open lawn contrasting with dense plantings near the house, and a façade adorned with vines and evergreen shrubs.
Visitors can explore the historic landscape and the design office, which remains largely unchanged since the Olmsted firm’s heyday. The office complex houses nearly 1 million original design records, detailing work on iconic landscapes such as Central Park and the grounds of the U.S. Capitol. Guided tours offer a deep dive into the site’s history and significance.
While the site itself is not centered around a lake, its proximity to Boston and the scenic New England countryside makes it an ideal base for exploring the region’s natural beauty. Nearby, the Blue Hills Reservation offers hiking trails with stunning views, and the Charles River provides opportunities for kayaking and canoeing.
In the summer, visitors can enjoy ranger-led tours and special events that bring the site to life. The local town of Brookline is replete with artisan shops and gourmet eateries, and a short drive to Boston reveals a plethora of cultural attractions. For those seeking a unique experience, a visit to the Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site is an unforgettable journey into the world of America’s foremost landscape architect.
- Area (mi²)
- 0.1
- Annual visitors
- 9 473
- Established year
- 1979
Top 3 Facts about Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site
The site preserves a world-class collection of plans, drawings, and materials in an early 20th-century storage vault, which is part of a complex set on 1.75 acres of landscape designed by Olmsted and his sons. This vault contains documents related to approximately 6,000 landscape projects.
This enchanting landscape features a giant Eastern hemlock, mountain laurel, and native barberry, alongside a solitary American elm on the rolling lawn. Paths lined with local pudding stone and rock stairs patchy with moss lead to a shady hollow rich with vines, rhododendrons, and a shagbark hickory tree. The grounds, designed to blend seamlessly into the surroundings, are home to a variety of local flora and provide a serene habitat for urban wildlife, inviting visitors to explore and contemplate in a naturalistic setting.
This historic site is set amidst a picturesque landscape where Olmsted integrated the natural terrain, including a gravel pit remnant on the south side, transformed into a path using local Roxbury puddingstone and flanked by native trees and shrubs. The area features an irregular lawn with a mixed composition of trees, shrubs, ferns, and groundcover, blending seamlessly into the rolling hills of the residential neighborhood.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit in mid-May to mid-June for peak blooms. Arrive by public transportation or park on site. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water for the paved pathways. Check the event calendar for guided tours and plan for nearby meals.
Pack Appropriately
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, sturdy shoes, and layers for changing weather. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit. Check the season for additional essentials like a rain jacket or warm hat.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards. Never feed animals and dispose of trash properly to preserve natural behaviors and habitats. Stay on designated trails to minimize impact. Respect the environment as you would your own backyard.assistant
Keep a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards. Never feed animals and dispose of trash properly. Stay on designated trails to minimize impact. Respect the environment as you would your own backyard.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water areas, and check weather conditions. Follow park rules and signs. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at the provided contact number. Be aware of fire restrictions and seasonal changes. Keep children in sight and maintain safe distances from wildlife.
Seasons
Visit in spring as temperatures rise to the 60s and 70s, with blooming flowers and mild weather. Enjoy the 4th Annual Art in the Park in July, featuring music, art, and historic tours. Ideal time for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the grounds and immerse in nature’s renewal.
Summer at this historic site is a verdant delight, with temperatures in the 70s and 80s. Enjoy the 4th Annual Art in the Park in July, featuring music, art, and family-friendly activities. Warm weather and lush gardens make summer an ideal time to visit.
Visit in fall, when crisp temperatures (40s-60s°F) and vibrant foliage enhance the historic grounds. Attend the Fall Walks and Talks event in November, exploring the Emerald Necklace’s Country Park. Ideal for a serene, culturally rich autumn experience.
Experience the serene beauty of winter from December to February, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 40°F. Crisp air, snow-covered landscapes, and bare tree branches reveal hidden birdlife and unique tree bark, making for a tranquil and invigorating winter escape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site is Boston, Massachusetts. The site is located in Brookline, a suburb of Boston.
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Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Leaving a pet unattended or tied to an object is prohibited. Pets must be supervised and kept under control.
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You can park along Dudley Street or in the Dudley Street Parking lot. Handicap parking is available at the Warren Street entrance. Currently, the main parking lot is closed due to construction.
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You can take ranger-led walking tours to explore the restored landscape and the country’s first professional landscape architecture office. The site offers discussion-based tours, archives open houses, and special events. You can also become a Junior Ranger or visit the visitor center and bookstore. The grounds are open year-round, with facilitated programs available on a seasonal basis.