Metropolitan Waterworks Museum Tour — Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts

Discover the Metropolitan Waterworks Museum Tour in Massachusetts

Step inside a landmark of public engineering at the Metropolitan Waterworks Museum in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. Housed in the historic High Service Pumping Station, this museum offers visitors a behind-the-scenes look at how clean drinking water has been delivered to Greater Boston for over a century. Through massive steam-powered pumps, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities, guests explore the science, engineering, and public health impact of municipal water systems.

Why it’s special:
The museum preserves one of the most impressive collections of intact steam pumping engines in the United States. Visitors stand next to towering machinery that once powered Boston’s water supply, making complex infrastructure visible, understandable, and surprisingly engaging.

History/Story of the Metropolitan Waterworks Museum

The High Service Pumping Station was built in 1886 as part of Boston’s expanding water system, designed to pump water from the Chestnut Hill Reservoir to higher elevations across the city. Its massive steam engines operated well into the 20th century, ensuring reliable water pressure for homes, businesses, and fire protection. Today, the building and machinery are preserved as a museum dedicated to engineering history, water conservation, and the role of infrastructure in public health.

What You’ll See & Do on the Metropolitan Waterworks Museum Tour

• Walk among giant 19th-century steam-powered pumping engines

• Learn how water was pumped, filtered, and distributed across Boston

• Explore interactive exhibits on water science and conservation

• Discover the relationship between clean water and public health

• Participate in hands-on demonstrations and family-friendly activities

Hands-On Elements: Interactive exhibits, model systems, and educational demonstrations.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed throughout the museum for personal use.
Souvenirs & Extras: Museum shop with educational books, science kits, and themed gifts.

Pricing of Metropolitan Waterworks Museum Tour

• General admission: Free

• Donations: Encouraged to support museum programs

Practical Info for Visiting the Metropolitan Waterworks Museum

Duration: 60–90 minutes
Format: Self-guided museum visit with optional guided programs
Schedule & Seasonality: Open year-round with regular public hours
Working Hours: Thursday–Sunday, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Audience: Families, students, educators, engineering and science enthusiasts
Accessibility: Fully accessible museum floors and exhibits
Safety & Restrictions: Standard museum safety rules apply
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Educational group programs available with advance booking
What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable walking shoes
Facilities: Restrooms, museum shop, nearby street parking
Closures & Downtime: Closed Monday–Wednesday and major holidays

Nearby

• Chestnut Hill Reservoir walking path

• Boston College campus

• Emerald Necklace park system

FAQs About Visiting the Metropolitan Waterworks Museum

Are the steam engines original to the building?
Yes, the massive pumping engines are original and remain in their historic locations.

Is this museum appropriate for children?
Yes, the museum offers hands-on exhibits designed to engage children and families.

Do I need to understand engineering to enjoy the museum?
No—the exhibits explain complex systems in accessible, easy-to-understand ways.

Can I walk around the Chestnut Hill Reservoir after visiting?
Yes, the reservoir path is directly adjacent to the museum and popular with visitors.

Is admission really free?
Yes, general admission is free, with donations encouraged.