Custom House Tower

Custom House Tower is a 151-meter high-rise in Boston's Financial District that combines residential units, a museum, and an observation deck under one roof. The structure rises 32 stories with a granite exterior and features large marble and bronze clocks on each of its four sides.

Originally built as a customs house in 1847, the building collected import duties for many decades. In 1915 a new tower was added that made it Boston's tallest building at that time.

The building takes its name from the original customs house that once stood at this location. Today, its classical architectural details serve as reminders of the place's long past as an important trading hub.

Access is available from street level, with the museum located on the ground floor for easy entry. The observation deck on the 26th floor offers wide views of the city and can be reached when the building is open to visitors.

The building was allowed to exceed the city's height limit because it was federally owned. This exemption let it tower far above the competition of its time.

Location: Boston

Inception: 1915

Architects: Peabody and Stearns, Ammi B. Young

Official opening: 1915

Floors above the ground: 32

Height: 151 m

GPS coordinates: 42.35907,-71.05337

Latest update: December 20, 2025 14:53