Garden Tour - Frequently Asked Questions
How many gardens will I see?
The tour will feature 10 private gardens that are "hidden" from public view because they are behind walls and at the backs of houses. These gardens are owned and maintained by members of the Beacon Hill Garden Club. In addition, several ribbon gardens are also on the tour.
What are ribbon gardens?
They are gardens for viewing, without entry, graciously provided by Beacon Hill neighbors who are not members of the Beacon Hill Garden Club.
How much time does it take to complete the tour?
However long you would like, it’s up to you. Many visitors arrive to begin the tour at 9 a.m., enjoy lunch on Beacon Hill and then finish the tour by early afternoon. Others might start later and take advantage of shorter lines during lunch time. Late afternoon is typically less crowded and visitors find shorter lines where they can visit gardens more quickly.
How can I buy tickets?
Advance sale tickets can be purchased online, by mail, or at specific shops in Beacon Hill. Tickets can be purchased at information tables on the day of the tour. Please see the Tickets page of this website for details.
Where can I park?
Several parking garages are located within a few minutes walk of Beacon Hill. They are listed on the Parking page of this website. If at all possible, use public transportation to get to the tour as Beacon Hill is near both the MBTA's green line (Arlington and Park Street) and red line (Charles Street/MGH and Park Street) stops.
Where can I eat?
Many restaurants are near our gardens. They are listed on the Restaurants page of this website. Reservations are recommended.
Where can I pick up the tour guidebook and map?
On the day of the tour, purchase or present your ticket for the tour guidebook at the information table at the corner of Charles and Mt. Vernon streets.
Is it a self-guided tour?
Each garden is open all day from 9 am to 5 pm, and the gardens may be seen in any order. The guidebook which you will receive at the information tables indicates where each garden is located. Members will be able to help you with route advice.
How difficult is it to access the gardens?
Beacon Hill has primarily historic brick sidewalks which can be uneven and narrow, and because of the slope of the terrain, most gardens do not have wheelchair access. Tour visitors must be willing and able to navigate fairly steep hills and multiple stairs.
Do you have restrooms?
Restrooms are available in Moseley Hall at the Church of the Advent (enter via Mt. Vernon Square) at Beacon House (19 Myrtle Street). Restroom locations are marked on the guidebook's tour map.
How will I find the gardens? Garden locations?
The map in the tour guidebook clearly shows the location of each garden. Yellow flags with pink tulips mark each member’s garden and ribbon gardens will be marked by ribbons.
Are pets or children allowed?
Pets are not allowed in the gardens. Children may come on the tour, but strollers and baby carriages are not allowed in the gardens. Children 5 and under do not need a ticket for the tour. All other children must have a ticket and be accompanied by an adult.
Is photography allowed?
Inside the gardens, photos may be taken if the owner allows it. Volunteers in the garden will know if photographs are permitted. Photographs are not permitted inside homes.
Are tickets refundable?
No. The tour takes place rain or shine.
Is this a fundraiser?
Yes. The Beacon Hill Garden Club is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. After expenses are met, 100% of proceeds from the tour are donated to local, state and national horticulture, environment, and conservation causes. Click here for a list of organizations that receive donations from the proceeds of our tour.