The Metropolitan Waterworks Museum, located at 2450 Beacon Street in Chestnut Hill, MA, offers a unique and historic setting for meetings, conferences, and events. Here is a detailed description of its facilities and function rooms:
Meeting and Event Facilities
The museum is a non-profit dedicated to preserving and interpreting the historic waterworks that supplied Boston with public water. It features several spaces that can be rented for private events, including:
- Great Engines Hall: This is the largest room, rich with mahogany-toned pine ceilings and huge antique windows that open to views across the Chestnut Hill Reservoir. The hall is home to three magnificent, steam-driven pumping engines that stand over three stories high. It can accommodate up to 304 guests.
- Overlook Gallery: Located in a two-story glass-enclosed pavilion, the Overlook Gallery offers a stunning view of the reservoir and can be used in conjunction with the Great Engines Hall for larger events.
Amenities and Services
The museum provides a range of amenities and services to ensure a smooth and memorable event:
- AV Capabilities: The venue is equipped with audio-visual capabilities to support presentations and other multimedia needs.
- Furniture and Table Linens: Preferred vendors are available for furniture and table linens to enhance the event setup.
- Internet Access: Guests can access the internet, ensuring connectivity for all attendees.
- Lighting: The museum offers flexible lighting options to adjust the ambiance according to the event's requirements.
- Private Space: The museum offers private event spaces, including the Great Engines Hall and the Overlook Gallery, which can be reserved for exclusive use.
- Alcohol and Catering: While there is an onsite kitchen, outside caterers are also allowed, providing flexibility in catering options. Preferred vendors for alcohol are available.
- Dance Floor and Staging Area: A dance floor and staging area are available for events that require these amenities.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for all guests.
Venue Costs
The rental fees for the function rooms are as follows:
- Great Engines Hall: The minimum room rental fee is $2,500, and the maximum is $3,500.
- Overlook Gallery: The minimum room rental fee is $1,250, and the maximum is $1,750.
- Combined Great Engines Hall & Overlook Gallery: The minimum combined rental fee is $3,000, and the maximum is $4,200.
Facility Restrictions
To maintain the historic integrity and safety of the museum, there are some restrictions:
- No Smoking: Smoking is prohibited anywhere on the grounds.
- No Banners or Signs: No banners or signs can be hung on the building or placed on the grounds.
- No Helium Balloons: Helium balloons are not allowed inside the museum.
- No Decorations on Machinery: Decorations are not permitted on the machinery exhibits.
- No Open Flame Policy: There is a strict no open flame policy to ensure safety.
The Metropolitan Waterworks Museum offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and functionality, making it an ideal venue for meetings, conferences, and special events.