Custom House Tower, Boston - a tall brick building with lots of windows
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Custom House Tower Boston

4.6
·491k reviews·Boston, United States

Ascend Boston's historic Custom House Tower for free, breathtaking 360-degree city and harbor views from its 26th-floor observation deck.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daily at 2 PM (except Fri)

Official access time

CrowdMedium
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Custom House Tower, Boston - a tall brick building with lots of windows

Custom House Tower Boston

Best Time

Daily at 2 PM (except Fri)

Official access time

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ascend Boston's historic Custom House Tower for free, breathtaking 360-degree city and harbor views from its 26th-floor observation deck.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Get the best FREE view of Boston from the Custom House Tower observation deck!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Your Free Visit

Reservations are essential! Call the Marriott Vacation Club front desk to book your spot.

⏰ Arrive for 2 PM Access

Aim for the 2 PM tour time for official access to the observation deck.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views

Panoramic City Views

26th Floor Observation Deck

Soar to the top for breathtaking 360-degree views of Boston Harbor, the Financial District, and beyond.

Instagram+1
Historic Maritime Symbol

Historic Maritime Symbol

Exterior and Lobby

Admire the iconic architecture of Boston's former maritime hub, a symbol of commerce since 1915.

Instagram
Free Boston Souvenir

Free Boston Souvenir

Near Public Garden

Keep an eye out for a free custom newspaper about Boston, a unique souvenir from a local creator.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Views, But Book Ahead!

The Custom House Tower offers incredible free panoramic views of Boston, but access requires advance reservations. Call the Marriott Vacation Club front desk to secure your spot, as tours are limited and fill up quickly. InstagramReddit+1

Timing is Key for Access

Access to the observation deck is typically available daily at 2 PM, except on Fridays. InstagramReddit Arriving around this time is recommended for official access, and be aware that non-guests need to make appointments. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Daily at 2 PM (except Fri)
Why
Official access time
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds than weekends
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

custom FREE newspaper about Bos 📰 keep your eyes peeled for the person in the public garden with the vintage camera 🎞️📽️ #bostontiktok #boston #thingstodoboston #publicgarden #souvenir
@theabroadvlog
31K likes • 266.1K views

🎯 Book Your Free Visit

Reservations are essential! Call the Marriott Vacation Club front desk to book your spot. InstagramReddit+1

⏰ Arrive for 2 PM Access

Aim for the 2 PM tour time for official access to the observation deck. Reddit+1

Did you know you can go up to the Custom House Tower observation deck… for FREE?! 👀 When it was completed in 1915, this tower soared into the top 10 tallest buildings in the *world* and held the crown as the tallest building in both Boston and New England for nearly half a century 🌆✨Get the details about the best FREE view of Boston via link in bio🔗 (and in the comments if you’re seeing this on ...
thebostoncal
8.5K likes • 330.4K views
📍Custom House Tower, Boston ✨✨Access to the Custom House Tower is FREE and open to the public✨✨ Daily (except Fridays) at 2pm!! But reservations are required, by calling the Marriott Vacation Club front desk (617)310-6300 ex.4 ✨✨ #bostondatenight #bostondatenightguide #bostondateideas #bostongiveaway #onlyinboston #onlyinfenway #boston #bostonpublicgarden #couplequotes #couplelove #couplegoals ...
boston_datenight
0 likes • 75.8K views

🚫 Bag Restrictions

No backpacks or large bags are allowed on the observation deck. Instagram

🚶‍♂️ Explore the Area

The tower is steps from Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, perfect for a combined visit. Instagram

Free Observation Deck Marriott Vacation Club- Custom House Boston MA This hidden gem is known to locals as the Boston Clock Tower, however it is the Mariott Boston Custom House @mvccustomhouseboston and it was Bostons tallest building from 1915 to 1965. It is a 496 foot structure that for years served as the symbol and epicenter of maritime commerce in Boston. You can visit the Observation De...
frugalluxelife
0 likes • 487 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Your Free Visit

Reservations are essential! Call the Marriott Vacation Club front desk to book your spot. InstagramReddit+1

⏰ Arrive for 2 PM Access

Aim for the 2 PM tour time for official access to the observation deck. Reddit+1

🚫 Bag Restrictions

No backpacks or large bags are allowed on the observation deck. Instagram

🚶‍♂️ Explore the Area

The tower is steps from Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, perfect for a combined visit. Instagram

📰 Free Boston Newspaper

Look for a special free newspaper about Boston near the Public Garden. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Custom House Tower's free observation deck, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Boston. The historical significance of the building and its central location are also frequently praised. Some travelers note that advance reservations are essential and can be tricky to secure, and bag restrictions are in place.

What People Like

Incredible free views
Historic building
Central location

What People Dislike

Reservation required
Bag restrictions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Custom House Tower is located in Boston's Financial District, a short walk from Faneuil Hall and Quincy Marketplace. Instagram It's easily accessible via public transportation, with several MBTA subway lines (like the Blue Line's Aquarium station) and bus routes serving the downtown area. Driving and parking are options, but can be expensive in this busy district. Reddit

Yes, there are several parking garages near the Custom House Tower, including those in the Financial District and near Faneuil Hall. However, parking in downtown Boston can be costly, so consider public transport if you're looking to save money. Reddit

The observation deck is accessed via the Marriott Vacation Club front desk. You'll need to call ahead to make a reservation. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, access to the observation deck at the Custom House Tower is generally free for visitors. Instagram+1 However, it's crucial to make a reservation in advance by calling the Marriott Vacation Club front desk. Instagram+1

Absolutely! Reservations are required to visit the observation deck. Call the Marriott Vacation Club front desk to secure your spot, as tours are limited. InstagramReddit+1

The observation deck is typically open daily at 2 PM, with the exception of Fridays. InstagramReddit It's best to call ahead to confirm availability and book your appointment, as hours can sometimes vary. Reddit

It's recommended to book your visit a few weeks in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure you get your preferred time slot. Reddit

While there are no explicit age restrictions mentioned, children must be accompanied by an adult. Be aware of the bag policy as well. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

From the 26th floor, you'll get stunning 360-degree panoramic views of Boston, including the harbor, city skyline, and surrounding areas. Instagram+1 It's a fantastic vantage point for photography and getting a sense of the city's layout. Reddit

Crowds can vary, but since access is limited and requires reservations, it's generally less crowded than other major observation decks. Reddit Visiting on a weekday might offer a more serene experience. Reddit

Yes, photography is highly encouraged! The panoramic views from the observation deck offer incredible photo opportunities. InstagramReddit+1 Just remember to check if any specific restrictions apply to professional equipment. Reddit

Completed in 1915, the Custom House Tower was Boston's tallest building for nearly 50 years and served as a symbol of maritime commerce. Instagram It's a significant historical landmark in the city. Reddit

While the primary access is to the observation deck, some Redditors mention a 'free tour' that allows access. It's best to inquire about specific tour options when you call to make your reservation. Reddit+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Custom House Tower is now part of the Marriott Vacation Club, and while there isn't a public restaurant on the observation deck, there are many dining options in the surrounding Financial District and near Faneuil Hall. Instagram

Historically, some visitors have mentioned purchasing a drink to gain access or enjoy while on the observation deck. Reddit However, current policies may vary, so it's best to confirm when booking your visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for cityscapes. Instagram+1 However, daytime views are also spectacular for capturing the city's layout and landmarks. Reddit

Policies on tripods can vary. It's advisable to check with the Marriott Vacation Club when booking your reservation to ensure you can bring any specialized photography equipment. Reddit

You can photograph Boston Harbor, the Zakim Bridge, Fenway Park (from a distance), the Financial District, and historic areas like the North End. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Custom House Tower offers a unique and accessible family outing. The free observation deck is a huge plus for budget-conscious families, providing stunning views that will captivate children and adults alike. Instagram+1 The 360-degree panorama allows kids to spot landmarks and imagine stories about the city. Instagram Make sure to book your reservation well in advance, as slots can fill up quickly. Instagram+1 Keep in mind the no large bags or backpack policy to avoid any last-minute issues. Instagram The tower's central location also makes it easy to combine with other family-friendly attractions like Quincy Market. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Custom House Tower observation deck is a gem. The free admission is a major draw, offering incredible city views without the hefty price tag of other observation decks. Instagram+1 The key is planning ahead and securing a reservation by calling the Marriott Vacation Club. Instagram+1 This ensures you get to experience the panoramic vistas without spending a dime on entry. Reddit Consider using public transportation to reach the tower to further minimize costs, as parking in downtown Boston can be expensive. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Custom House Tower observation deck is a photographer's dream. The unobstructed 360-degree views provide unparalleled opportunities to capture Boston's iconic skyline, harbor, and historic architecture. InstagramReddit+1 Golden hour is particularly magical, offering soft, warm light for stunning cityscapes. Instagram+1 While tripods might be restricted, the vantage point is excellent for handheld shots. Reddit Remember to inquire about any specific photography policies when booking your visit to ensure a smooth experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Accessing the Observation Deck: Your Guide

Gaining access to the spectacular views from the Custom House Tower's 26th floor is a highlight for many visitors. Unlike many observation decks, this one is often free, but it comes with a crucial caveat: advance reservations are mandatory. Instagram+1 Travelers consistently emphasize the need to call the Marriott Vacation Club front desk to book a time slot. InstagramReddit+1 The typical access time is 2 PM daily, excluding Fridays, and it's wise to book several weeks ahead, especially during busy periods. Reddit+1

Some Reddit users have shared tips about gaining access through alternative means, sometimes involving a small donation or purchasing a drink, particularly if official tour slots are full or if visiting outside standard hours. Reddit However, these methods are not guaranteed and may depend on current hotel policies. It's always best to try the official reservation route first. Reddit Be prepared for potential bag restrictions, as large bags and backpacks are generally not permitted. Instagram

Once you're up there, the experience is rewarding. The 360-degree views offer a unique perspective of Boston's skyline, harbor, and historic streets. Instagram+1 It's a fantastic spot for photography and for appreciating the city's layout from above. Reddit Remember to check if any specific rules apply to professional photography equipment when you make your booking. Reddit

A Glimpse into Boston's Maritime Past

The Custom House Tower stands as a proud testament to Boston's rich maritime history. Completed in 1915, this striking Beaux-Arts building was once the city's tallest structure, holding that title for nearly half a century. Instagram Its original purpose was to serve as the epicenter of maritime commerce, housing customs officials and facilitating trade. The tower's distinctive clock face and spire have made it an iconic part of the Boston skyline for over a century. Instagram

Beyond its architectural significance, the tower represents a period of immense growth and importance for Boston as a global port. Its construction was a bold statement of the city's prosperity and ambition. Instagram Today, while its function has shifted to a Marriott Vacation Club, its historical presence remains palpable, offering visitors a chance to connect with Boston's past while enjoying modern amenities and breathtaking views. Instagram

For those interested in the building's heritage, exploring the lobby and learning about its history adds another layer to the visit. Instagram The tower's enduring presence serves as a constant reminder of Boston's deep connection to the sea and its pivotal role in American trade and history. Instagram

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