Metropolitan Waterworks Museum

2450 Beacon St, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, USA

Address:	2450 Beacon St, Chestnut Hill, MA 02467, USA
Phone:	+1 617-277-0065
Site:	waterworksmuseum.org
Rating:	4.9
Working:	Closed Closed 11AM–8:30PM 11AM–4PM 11AM–4PM 11AM–4PM 11AM–4PM

Location

+−

Leaflet

Photos 100

Reviews 24

Rob Bond

I went to the Waterworks Museum one Saturday. I didnt know what to expect going in but was pleasantly surprised by what I found. The staff were very friendly and knowledgeable about the history of Bostons water supply. One of the volunteers, Damian, gave us an hour long tour of the huge water-pumping machinery. His enthusiasm really added a lot to the experience. Inside, there are some very impressive video displays and posters. Its obvious that a lot of work went into turning the old pumping station into a museum. 10-year-old me would been blown away by the three-story pumps and cranks. Kids with an interest in machines would definitely like this place. It isnt very large, so you only need about an hour to see everything. I think the museum would get more visitors if they highlighted the huge pumps on their signs. If I had known how interesting it would be, I would have gone sooner.

A Private User

This free museum is located next to the Chesnut Hill Reservoir in Boston, near the Cleveland Circle T stop. There are massive old steam pumps preserved in a beautiful old building. The museum recently opened, and the displays are very modern. If you liked the clockworks in "Hugo", here three are real-life three story high machines here. This is real 3-D. The only unfortunate thing is that they are no longer running.

cat wu

Such a cool and informative museum. The staff especially Steve and Sally perfectly explained everything and answered all of the questions. It was really impressive how knowledgeable they were. The machinery itself was amazing to look at and fascinating to learn about. I will definitely be recommending this place to others. Its free!

Bill Laird

Did you know Boston has some of the cleanest water in the country? No chemicals used to clean. If you are a fan of old school feats of mechanical engineering, visit the waterworks museum in Chestnut Hill and see what these amazing engineers did to support the growth of Boston. Plan 1 hour, 2 hours if you are really curious.

Abby Ying Li

Fascinating place to visit for a casual afternoon. Its informative and well designed with staffs explaining thing very well. Interesting to know about the story of Bostons water system establishment and expansion. And its cool to understand a little more about engineerings and machines.

Roland Faas

Faszinierend diese Technik.Ein muss in Boston.wir besuchen MWW immer wieder. Anschließend auch das Kennedy Museum in der Nähe besuchen.

Jeff MacDonald

Fascinating story of how they got water from the reservoirs to the big city back in the day. The pumps are immense and a wonder to behold. And the building is an architectural gem. Our guide, Joe, was delightful and full of interesting, detailed stories. Best of all: its free!

Justin Libby

If you like all things steampunk, this is the museum for you. Pipes and wrenches and brass and valves everywhere. Not a big museum, maybe 60 to 90 minutes of content. But the plaques and videos are informative. Worth one visit. Maybe have your wedding here.

Francesca Gordini

When at Chestnut Hill, you shouldnt miss the opportunity of venturing in a museum containing some engineering masterpieces. Simply enjoy a breath-taking experience while learning how tap-water made it to Bostons homes for quite a long time.

Vinnie McMahon

Was just walking around the reservoir and noticed this. Went in for free and wow, the old gigantic water pumps are impressive, its amazing to see how things used to be done and how long this plant was actually used.

Aynan Zaman

Nice place to go see for a short, quiet, chill, relaxing, calm time. Just something interesting to see. Nothing super fun or something like that, just a bit quiet time to think and wonder at what you see.

Rob Hnasko

You must go to this museum. It is a great part of history that could have been demolished to add even more luxury condos to the neighborhood. Very knowledgeable staff tours and video production.

Sharon Gregory

I have no idea, if the information at this museum was interesting. There are no kid activities. My children were not engaged. This is geared for adults.

William Hamilton

Set up so you van walk right up to the big machinery and through the place. Your perspective is kinda in the middle so you can look up and down. Neat.

Robin Walters

One of my favorite places in Boston! The steam engines are absolutely works of art. The tour is interesting and the staff are friendly.

Robert Burns

The staff was incredibly pleasant and well informed. I had a wonderful time and highly recommend this museum to anyone.

Lisa Maxwell-Rounds

Very interesting place. The staff is very knowledgeable. Great location. Parking can be a challenge.

Brian Greenaway

A+ wedding venue. Unique, spacious without feeling too big, plenty of room for everything youd want.

Peter Gilligan

Amazing place. The entire building is a work of art.

Jeremy Valadez

Beautiful location for a wedding or a large party!