Metropolitan Waterworks Museum

Boston, MA

Where are we going?

Metropolitan Waterworks Museum
2450 Beacon St
Chestnut Hill
MA 02467


What is there to do?

Do you ever look at your tap and wonder where water comes from?  Do you love the sound and smells of steam engines?  Wonder how they work?

Metropolitan Waterworks Museum will answer all those questions for you!  They will tell you and your family the story of the country's first metropolitan water systems through fascinating exhibitions and educational programs.  You will learn about engineering, architecture, public health and social history.

There museum has three really cool, and huge retired steam powered pumping engines in the Great Engine Hall.  Each pump is different - see if you can see why!

There are some touch screen monitors and stands with animations to show you how all the gadgets work, like pistons and gears - can you imagine how they would have all kept things working back in its day? 

There is also an interesting video you can watch where you can see what 19th century water engineering would have been like.

So get started using your imagination on what life would have been like in the 19th Century, and how all those people managed to supply Boston with the water you know and love today!

How much does it cost?

Adults: Free but suggested donation $5

Children: Same as adult


Need a little extra help?

The museum is ADA-compliant and accessible (including restrooms, and parking lot access). There is also brailled exhibit text. There is a wheelchair on site, as well as an elevator. For the hearing impaired, they are developing audio assistive devices.


When can we go?

Winter (Jan-March) Wed-Sun 11am-4pm; Summer (April-Dec) Th-Su 11am-4pm, W 11am-9pm



Any top tips?

Parking is limited.

I’m Hungry!

The museum is located near Cleveland Circle and Newton Center where you can find lots of restaurants. There are even picnic tables about the reservoir so you can enjoy the sunshine while you eat!

Healthy Eating

There are lots of healthy options within the nearby restaurants. - Fun things to do with kids and best places to visit in the US
© Family Days Out 2019