Symphony Hall

At 301 Massachusetts Ave in Boston, Symphony Hall is home to the Boston Symphony Orchestra and Boston Pops. Opened in 1900, the National Historic Landmark was designed around scientific principles of acoustics, and its long, high auditorium, shallow side balconies and coffered ceiling help shape the sound. Come for an orchestra concert, a Pops performance or another live event, and take time to notice the Greek and Roman statues in the hall. Seating can feel tight, especially at floor tables, so choose with that in mind.

A concert hall built for sound

Symphony Hall opened in 1900 as the new home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Its auditorium was designed using scientific acoustical principles, with the shape and interior details planned to carry sound through the room.

The hall is long, high and relatively narrow. Shallow side balconies, a coffered ceiling and niches along three sides all form part of its acoustic design. The niches contain 16 replicas of Greek and Roman statues. These details give you plenty to look at before the musicians take the stage.

Concerts and seating

The Boston Symphony Orchestra and Boston Pops both perform at Symphony Hall. The programme includes traditional symphonic concerts as well as Pops events, which can bring a different style of performance to the same historic room. Some concerts pair a live orchestra with a film, while family-oriented events are also part of the programme.

Seating varies by area. Orchestra seats and floor tables can feel close together, so check the seating options when you book. Balcony seats are an alternative if you prefer a broader view of the hall. Popular performances can fill preferred sections early, so advance booking is useful when seat choice matters.