Welcome to The Tower, a historic wedding venue in the heart of Boston. This historic gem uniquely blends elegance and character, making it the perfect choice for your wedding. As a seasoned Boston wedding photographer, I'll guide you through the venue's highlights and share creative ideas for a celebration at one of the best Boston wedding venues.
Onsite Wedding Ceremony Location at The Tower
The Tower offers a variety of options for onsite wedding ceremonies. Couples can exchange vows in any of the four distinct areas, each with a unique charm. The large windows provide abundant natural light, ideal for capturing stunning wedding ceremony photos. The historical backdrop adds a touch of timeless elegance to your wedding photography.
The Parlor
The Parlor on the lower level features wood beams and decorative fireplaces, providing a warm and intimate setting for couples to say "I do."
The Gallery
The Gallery on the second floor boasts soaring ceilings and vintage chandeliers, creating an elegant atmosphere for a romantic ceremony.
The Reading Room
The Reading Room is on the third floor, perfect for couples who want a smaller, more intimate ceremony with close family and friends.
The Library
Finally, the Library on the top floor is the venue's largest setting, featuring original bookcases, a catwalk, and large windows that fill the space with natural light. This grand space provides a perfect setting for a grand ceremony.
The Tower's exquisite architecture and historic charm provide a picturesque setting for your wedding ceremony. Exchange vows in one of their elegant spaces, such as the Parlor, Gallery, Reading Room, or Library. Each room offers a distinct atmosphere, from the soaring ceilings and vintage chandeliers in the Gallery to the charming bookcases in the Library. As you walk through The Tower, your Boston wedding planner will help you decide on which one of the ceremony locations is right for you.
Three Nearby Churches to Have a Wedding Ceremony Near The Tower
If you prefer a traditional church ceremony, there are several beautiful options nearby:
This historic Roman Catholic church features stunning architecture and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
With its magnificent stained-glass windows and grand organ, this historic church offers a breathtaking backdrop for your ceremony.
The Paulist Center:
Located in the heart of downtown Boston, this modern church has a welcoming community and a beautiful sanctuary.
Cocktail Hour at The Tower
After the ceremony, guests can enjoy a cocktail hour at The Tower, allowing the newlyweds to take post-ceremony photos while their guests mingle and enjoy drinks and appetizers. The Tower offers a range of options for cocktail hour, including butler-passed hors d'oeuvres, interactive food stations, and full bar service. Couples can also personalize their cocktail hour with signature drinks or incorporate elements that reflect their style and taste. As a Boston wedding photographer with a documentary wedding style, I will document cocktail hour by taking candid photographs while you are celebrating with your friends and family.
Receptions at The Tower
The Library, located on the top floor, is The Tower's largest setting and an ideal location for your wedding reception. Its original bookcases, catwalk, and large windows create a striking backdrop for your wedding photos.
The Parlor
This space has original wood details, antique lighting, and an open floor plan, and it can accommodate up to 100 guests for dinner and dancing.
The Gallery
With soaring ceilings and vintage chandeliers, this elegant setting can host up to 180 guests for a seated event.
The Library
Original bookcases, a catwalk, and large windows make this top-floor room ideal for a grand dance party with up to 130 guests.
Hotels Near The Tower
Ensure your guests have a comfortable stay by recommending one of these nearby hotels:
The Lenox Hotel is a historic luxury hotel in downtown Boston's heart. It was built in 1900 and has since undergone several renovations to maintain its classic elegance while offering modern amenities. The hotel features 214 guest rooms and suites, each individually decorated with luxurious furnishings and equipped with high-end technology. The location is perfect for exploring the city, as it is just steps away from famous attractions like Fenway Park, the Boston Common, and Newbury Street. In addition to its prime location, the Lenox offers exceptional dining options, including its renowned City Table restaurant, and hosts events in its stunning ballroom and other event spaces.
10 minutes from Boston in Everett, Massachusetts, is the resort and casino sits the Encore Boston Harbor. This sprawling waterfront property boasts a 27-floor tower, offering over 600 elegant rooms and suites featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase stunning views of the Boston skyline and surrounding areas. The hotel is outfitted with the latest amenities, such as a world-class spa, a fitness center, and various dining options, including fine dining restaurants, casual eateries, and bars. The resort also features a state-of-the-art casino with over 3,000 slot machines, 144 table games, and a poker room. Encore Boston Harbor offers a unique blend of luxury and entertainment, making it an ideal location for a memorable wedding weekend.
Located in the heart of downtown Boston, the Fairmont Copley Plaza hotel is a historic landmark that exudes timeless elegance and sophistication. The luxurious guest rooms and suites are tastefully appointed with plush furnishings, modern amenities, and classic decor, creating a sense of comfort and relaxation. The hotel offers a range of exquisite dining options, including the elegant Oak Long Bar + Kitchen and the casual but chic OAK. The rooftop health club provides stunning city views and features state-of-the-art fitness equipment,, and a whirlpool. With its prime location, impeccable service, and refined atmosphere, the Fairmont Copley Plaza is ideal for those seeking a truly unforgettable stay in Boston.
Three Activities for Out-of-Town Guests to Enjoy During the Weekend
Entertain your guests with these exciting activities near The Tower:
Explore the Freedom Trail
A 2.5-mile historical walking tour through Boston's iconic sites.
Visit the New England Aquarium
A family-friendly attraction showcasing marine life worldwide.
Shop at Faneuil Hall Marketplace
A lively shopping and dining destination in the city's heart.
Wedding Photo Locations at the Venue and Near the Venue
The Tower offers numerous picturesque spots for wedding photos within the venue and surrounding area. From the grand ballroom to the nearby historical sites, you'll have plenty of options for creating a stunning visual story of your special day. Check out my wedding photos locations guide for a complete list. Below you’ll find the three closest locations I recommend.
Boston Public Gardens
The Boston Garden is a popular location for wedding photos, and for a good reason. With its beautiful landscaping and iconic features, such as the Make Way for Ducklings sculpture, the garden provides a stunning backdrop for couples looking to capture their special day. One of the best times for photos in the garden is during the golden hour leading up to sunset. This time's soft, warm light creates a beautiful, romantic atmosphere, making for truly magical photos. Couples can use the garden's various areas, such as the Rose Garden or the Reflecting Pool, to create a diverse collection of photos that perfectly capture their love story.
Commonwealth Avenue
Commonwealth Avenue is a beautiful location in Boston for wedding photos. This historic boulevard with trees, beautiful architecture, and greenery provides a stunning backdrop for wedding photos. If you're planning a first look, this avenue is perfect for capturing that moment. You can also take family wedding photos here, as the location offers plenty of space to accommodate large groups. Additionally, the avenue's wide sidewalks and beautiful street lamps offer the bride and groom unique photo opportunities. Capture the beauty of Commonwealth Avenue and create lasting memories of your wedding day.
Acorn Street
Acorn Street in Boston's Beacon Hill neighborhood is a picturesque cobblestone street perfect backdrop for Boston wedding photos. Its charming and historic architecture is one of the reasons it’s the most photographed street in Boston. When planning a Boston wedding, Acorn Street is a must-visit location photo location if you’re looking for a classic Boston background to your photos. With its narrow, winding street and beautiful brick townhouses, Acorn Street is a true gem of Boston and an ideal location for capturing memorable moments with your loved ones.
Cost of a Wedding at The Tower
The Tower offers various pricing options, with starting site fees ranging from $2,500 for off-peak wedding ceremonies to $5,000 for peak-season wedding receptions. The starting price per person for bar service is $28, and packages can be customized to suit your needs and budget.
The Tower Amenities Included
The Tower provides a comprehensive list of amenities, including chairs, china, flatware, glassware, linens, tables, event planning, setup, and cleanup. Catering options are available, and wedding catering costs include cake cutting, dessert, server(s), and a wedding cake.
History of The Tower
he Tower, Boston's newest wedding venue, has a fascinating history that adds to its unique charm. Initially built in the 1890s as the Armory of the First Corps of Cadets, the Romanesque Revival-style structure served as a storage space for arms, a military gym, a rifle range, and a drill hall. In the early 2000s, it became home to the popular Smith & Wollensky steakhouse. When the restaurant closed in 2018, the head house was occupied when Lisa Saunders, senior vice president of Saunders Properties, which owns the building, approached Longwood Venues with the idea of turning it into a wedding venue. With its original wood details and wrought-iron doors, the Tower maintains much of its character and is a beautiful reminder of Boston's rich history.
Parking Options at The Tower
Several parking options near The Tower include street parking and nearby parking garages. Valet parking services can also be arranged for your event. The closest parking lot near The Tower is 109 Arlington St, Boston, MA 02116.
Conclusion
The Tower in Boston, MA, is a Boston wedding venue that combines history, elegance, and charm effortlessly. With its stunning spaces and unparalleled service, The Tower is the perfect setting for a couple looking for a modern downtown Boston wedding venue.
Wedding Planning Articles
