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Boston's Best Observation Decks

Getting a great view in Boston is easy thanks to its many tall buildings. Several of them boast observation decks for guests to enjoy that afford views of the city. From Boston's current tallest buildings to one that's long been dwarfed by modern architecture, these are the perfect places to get a bird's eye view of the city, a romantic kiss or a guided look at the night sky. Many are free to visit, but some charge a small fee for the service, so be sure to plan ahead.

Marriott Customs House Tower
3 McKinley Sq.
Boston, MA 02109
(617) 310-6300
www.marriott.com

The Marriott Customs House Tower was once Boston's Customs House, but is now one of the international hotel chain's premier locations in the city. The historic clock tower boasts modern amenities and a panoramic view from its 26th floor observation deck. Because it is situated along the water, guests and visitors can look out over the harbor. The space is carefully fenced in and includes seating for a relaxing break when the weather permits.

Related: Best Hotels With A View In Boston

Prudential Center Deck
(Photo Credit: Prudential Center Deck)

Prudential Tower's Skywalk Observatory
800 Boylston St.
Boston, MA 02199
(617) 859-0648
www.prudentialcenter.com

Getting to the top of the Pru will cost between $10 and $17 per person, which is pricey compared to other locations. However, it has the city's most popular observation deck. The entrance is on the 50th floor of the tower. Because the observation deck is so high up, it is possible to see very far in every direction, even beyond Boston's limits. It is open for guests 7 days a week, but is sometimes booked for functions, so be sure to call ahead before making the trip.

Independence Wharf
470 Atlantic Ave.
Boston, MA 02210
(617) 737-0974
www.470atlanticboston.com

Independence Wharf is not the tallest building in the area, but it does have a nice open-air observation deck on the 14th floor. It has pretty views of the harbor, the Harbor Walk and surrounding buildings. There are also binoculars for viewing the harbor islands and the happenings at Logan Airport. Visiting is free, as long as guests have an ID to show staff at the front desk.

Boston University Observation Deck
(Photo Credit: Boston University)

Judson B. Coit Observatory
725 Commonwealth Ave.
Boston, MA 02215
(617) 353-2625
www.bu.edu

On the roof of Boston University's College of Arts & Sciences sits one of the city's hidden gems. The Judson B. Coit Observatory is a space to observe the stars. It is open to visitors free of charge on Wednesday evenings, weather permitting. Not only can guests get a tour of the night sky with the help of astronomy buffs, but they can also get a great view of the city overlooking the water.

Bunker Hill Monument
(credit: www.nps.gov)

Bunker Hill Monument
Monument Sq.
Charlestown, MA 02129
(617) 242-5641
www.cityofboston.gov

The Bunker Hill Monument, built on Breed's Hill to commemorate one of the first battles of the American Revolution, has a fantastic view from the top. At 221 feet tall, there is a catch to getting access to this amazing view. Visitors have to climb 294 steps to reach the top. For those with the health and stamina for the climb, it is well worth the effort. Between the hill itself and the tower, it gets high enough up for a beautiful view back across the Charles River.

Related: Boston's Best Places To Watch The Sun Set

Shelly Barclay is a professional freelance writer and amateur author. She writes on a variety of topics from food to mysteries. She loves to share the culture and rich history of her birthplace and home, Boston, with the rest of the world. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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