How to Visit the Boston Avenue Methodist Church Tower

The Boston Avenue Methodist Church Tower, located in Tulsa, Oklahoma, stands as one of the most architecturally significant and visually striking religious structures in the American Southwest. Completed in 1929, this Art Deco masterpiece was designed by architect Bruce Goff and is recognized as a National Historic Landmark. While the church itself is open to the public for worship and guided tours, access to its iconic 215-foot tower remains a rare and sought-after experience. Visiting the tower offers unparalleled panoramic views of downtown Tulsa, a firsthand encounter with early 20th-century craftsmanship, and a deeper appreciation for the fusion of sacred architecture and modernist design. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough for planning and executing a successful visit to the Boston Avenue Methodist Church Tower — from understanding access protocols to preparing for the climb and appreciating the historical context.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Confirm Tower Access Availability

Unlike the main sanctuary, which hosts regular public services and daily tours, the tower is not open on a daily or walk-in basis. Access is strictly limited and requires advance coordination. Begin by visiting the official Boston Avenue Methodist Church website and navigating to the “Tours & Events” or “Visit Us” section. Look specifically for information regarding “Tower Tours” or “Special Access.” These are typically offered on select Saturdays during spring, summer, and early fall, and are subject to weather and staffing availability. If no dates are listed online, proceed to Step 2.

Step 2: Contact the Church Office for Scheduling

Send an email to the church’s administrative office using the contact details provided on their official website. Avoid calling unless instructed, as phone lines are often reserved for urgent parish matters. In your email, include:

• Your full name
• Preferred date(s) and time window
• Number of people in your group
• Any mobility considerations or special needs
• Reason for interest (e.g., architectural study, photography, personal heritage)

Be specific and polite. Groups of four or fewer are prioritized. Larger groups may be declined or redirected to group tour alternatives. Allow at least two to three weeks for a response. If you do not hear back within ten business days, send a single polite follow-up email.

Step 3: Prepare Documentation and Expectations

Once your tour is confirmed, you will receive an email with instructions. This will include:

• Meeting location (usually the church’s main entrance on Boston Avenue)
• Start time (typically 10:00 a.m. or 2:00 p.m.)
• Required attire (closed-toe shoes only — no sandals or heels)
• Prohibited items (no backpacks, large cameras, tripods, or drones)
• Physical requirements (the tower climb involves 112 steep, narrow steps with no elevator)

Review these carefully. Failure to comply with any of these conditions may result in denial of entry, even with a confirmed reservation. The church reserves the right to cancel tours due to inclement weather, structural inspections, or religious observances.

Step 4: Arrive Early and Check In

Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time. Parking is available on the street or in the church’s small lot behind the building, but spaces are limited. If you arrive late, your tour may be forfeited without refund or rescheduling. Upon arrival, report to the reception desk near the main entrance. A trained volunteer or staff member will verify your reservation, collect a signed liability waiver (required for all visitors), and provide a brief orientation.

Step 5: Begin the Tower Climb

The climb begins in the lower level of the tower, accessed through a small door behind the chancel area of the sanctuary. You will be accompanied by a guide at all times. The staircase is constructed of steel and concrete, with handrails on both sides. Each step is narrow and steep, with a rise of approximately 8 inches. The walls are lined with original brickwork and exposed structural beams. There are no intermediate landings — the climb is continuous.

Take your time. It is not a race. Most visitors complete the climb in 5 to 8 minutes, depending on fitness level. If you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or fatigued, inform your guide immediately. They are trained to assist and will pause if necessary. Do not attempt to rush or overtake others.

Step 6: Explore the Observation Platform

At the top, you will emerge onto a small, enclosed observation deck with floor-to-ceiling glass windows on three sides. The view extends for miles: downtown Tulsa’s skyline, the Arkansas River, the Gathering Place, and the surrounding neighborhoods. The tower’s original Art Deco metalwork, including ornate latticework and geometric patterns, surrounds the platform. Your guide will point out key landmarks and share stories about the tower’s construction, including how the steel framework was assembled by hand in 1928.

Photography is permitted, but only with handheld devices. Do not lean on the glass or attempt to climb on any railing. The platform is not designed for large groups — only 4–6 people may stand on it at once. You will have approximately 10–15 minutes to observe, photograph, and reflect.

Step 7: Descend and Debrief

After your time on the platform, you will descend the same staircase. The descent is often more physically demanding than the ascent due to the steepness and the need for controlled foot placement. Your guide will lead the way and may offer tips for safe descent. Once back at ground level, you will be thanked and given a printed brochure about the church’s history and architecture. You are welcome to explore the sanctuary, stained glass windows, and the church museum on your own before leaving.

Best Practices

Plan for Physical Readiness

The tower climb is not a leisurely walk. It is a strenuous ascent requiring good balance, core strength, and cardiovascular endurance. If you have any medical conditions — including heart issues, vertigo, asthma, or joint problems — consult your physician before requesting a tour. Children under 12 are not permitted. Even healthy adults may find the climb challenging due to the lack of ventilation and the enclosed nature of the staircase. Practice climbing stairs at home with a similar rise height to prepare.

Dress Appropriately

Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. In summer, temperatures inside the tower can exceed 90°F due to lack of airflow. In winter, the upper levels may be chilly, even if it’s mild outside. Always wear closed-toe, non-slip shoes. Avoid high heels, flip-flops, or shoes with smooth soles. Long pants are recommended to protect against potential scrapes from exposed metal or brick.

Respect the Sacred Space

The Boston Avenue Methodist Church is an active place of worship. Even when touring the tower, you are within a consecrated environment. Maintain quiet, respectful behavior. Do not use loud voices, flash photography near stained glass, or touch religious artifacts. Turn off or silence mobile devices. This is not a tourist attraction — it is a living sanctuary.

Bring Only What You Need

There are no lockers or storage areas. Leave bags, coats, and large items in your vehicle. You may carry a small purse or fanny pack, but it must be worn securely. Water is not permitted in the tower due to spillage risks, but you may drink before or after the climb. No food, gum, or tobacco products are allowed under any circumstances.

Prepare for Limited Cell Service

Signal strength inside the tower is extremely weak. Do not rely on your phone for navigation, photos, or communication during the climb. Download offline maps of Tulsa and save any reference images ahead of time. Inform someone outside your group of your planned visit and expected return time.

Photography Etiquette

While photography is allowed, it is not the primary purpose of the visit. Avoid blocking the path, standing in front of others, or using selfie sticks. The best views are from the observation deck — avoid taking photos mid-staircase, as it creates congestion and safety hazards. If you are a professional photographer, request special permission in advance; commercial photography requires a separate permit and fee.

Timing and Seasonal Considerations

The best time to visit is late spring through early fall, when daylight hours are longest and weather is stable. Tours are rarely scheduled during winter months due to ice and snow risks on the exterior. Early morning tours (10:00 a.m.) offer the clearest views and cooler temperatures. Avoid visiting on weekends when the church hosts services — tower tours are suspended during worship hours. Check the church’s calendar for holidays and special events that may affect availability.

Tools and Resources

Official Website

The Boston Avenue Methodist Church maintains a comprehensive website at www.bostonavenue.org. This is your primary source for tour schedules, contact information, historical background, and downloadable maps. The site includes a digital archive of architectural blueprints and photographs from the 1920s.

Historical Society Archives

The Oklahoma Historical Society and the Tulsa Historical Society & Museum hold extensive documentation on the church’s construction. Their online databases include original construction permits, contractor correspondence, and photographs of the tower being built. Visit www.okhistory.org and search “Boston Avenue Methodist Church Tower” for digitized records.

Architectural Guides

For deeper context, consult:

• Art Deco Architecture in Oklahoma by Dr. Lillian B. Moore
• The Churches of Bruce Goff by the University of Oklahoma Press
• Tulsa’s Architectural Heritage by the Tulsa Preservation Commission

These books are available at the Tulsa City-County Library system and through interlibrary loan.

Mapping and Navigation Tools

Use Google Maps to locate the church: 1111 S Boston Ave, Tulsa, OK 74119. Enable “Indoor Maps” mode to view the sanctuary layout. For the climb, use the “Street View” feature to preview the exterior approach and parking zones. The church’s GPS coordinates are 36.1472° N, 95.9926° W.

Virtual Tour Resources

While physical access to the tower is limited, the church offers a 360-degree virtual tour of the sanctuary and some tower exteriors on its website. This is ideal for those unable to visit in person or for planning purposes. The virtual tour includes audio narration by the church’s historian and clickable hotspots detailing architectural features.

Mobile Apps

Download the “Tulsa Architecture Trail” app (iOS and Android), which includes an audio guide for Boston Avenue Methodist Church and other local landmarks. The app provides historical context, photos, and walking routes between nearby sites like the Philbrook Museum and the Tulsa Performing Arts Center.

Local Guides and Bookings

Though the church does not partner with third-party tour companies, some local heritage organizations — such as Tulsa Preservation and the Tulsa Historic Society — occasionally offer group excursions that include the tower as part of a broader architectural tour. These are announced via their newsletters and social media. Subscribe to their mailing lists for updates.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Architectural Student

In 2022, a graduate student from the University of Oklahoma’s School of Architecture requested a tower visit to document the structural detailing of Art Deco staircases. She submitted her request three months in advance, included her academic credentials, and proposed to write a case study for her thesis. The church approved her visit and assigned a senior volunteer architect as her guide. She documented the curvature of the handrail, the spacing of the treads, and the original steel rivets still intact. Her research was later published in the Journal of Midwestern Architecture.

Example 2: The Family Reunion

A family from Kansas traveled to Tulsa to honor their great-grandfather, who helped install the tower’s original bronze lighting fixtures in 1929. They contacted the church with a family photo and a copy of his employment record. The church arranged a private tour outside regular hours, and the guide shared stories about the workers who built the tower. The family was allowed to place a small floral tribute at the base of the tower — a rare exception to the no-decorations policy.

Example 3: The Photographer

A professional photographer from Chicago sought access to capture the tower at golden hour. He submitted a portfolio and a detailed shot list. Because he requested a commercial shoot, he was referred to the church’s media coordinator and required to sign a usage agreement. He was granted a 30-minute window just before sunset, accompanied by two staff members. His resulting photo series, “Light in the Spire,” was exhibited at the Tulsa Museum of Art in 2023.

Example 4: The Visitor with Mobility Limitations

A visitor with a prosthetic leg contacted the church to inquire about accessibility. While the tower itself is not wheelchair-accessible, the church offered a detailed video walkthrough of the interior and a 3D-printed scale model of the tower’s structure. They also arranged a one-on-one meeting with their archivist to discuss the engineering innovations of the era. The visitor later donated a copy of the model to the church’s educational collection.

Example 5: The International Tourist

A group of four architecture students from Germany visited Tulsa as part of a cross-continental study tour. They had read about the tower in a textbook and traveled specifically to see it. They emailed the church in German and English, attached their university letterhead, and requested a bilingual guide. The church arranged for a volunteer fluent in German to lead their tour. Their experience was featured in their university’s alumni magazine.

FAQs

Is the Boston Avenue Methodist Church Tower open to the public every day?

No. The tower is not open for daily visits. Access is limited to pre-scheduled tours, typically offered on select Saturdays between March and October. Always confirm availability through the church’s official channels.

Can children visit the tower?

Children under the age of 12 are not permitted due to safety regulations and the physical demands of the climb. Teens aged 12–17 may be allowed if accompanied by a parent or guardian and deemed physically capable by the tour guide.

Do I need to pay to visit the tower?

No, there is no fee for tower visits. However, donations are gratefully accepted and help fund preservation efforts. A donation box is available near the exit.

Is there an elevator to the top of the tower?

No. The tower has no elevator. Access is only possible via the original 112-step staircase. This is part of its historical integrity and structural design.

How long does the tower tour last?

The entire experience, including check-in, climb, observation time, and descent, takes approximately 60 to 75 minutes. Plan accordingly.

Can I bring a camera or drone?

You may bring a handheld camera or smartphone for personal photography. Tripods, drones, and professional equipment require prior written permission. Drones are strictly prohibited due to airspace restrictions and safety concerns.

What happens if it rains on the day of my tour?

Tours are canceled during rain, high winds, or lightning. You will be notified by email no later than 48 hours in advance. If canceled, your reservation will be automatically moved to the next available date.

Are restrooms available during the tour?

Restrooms are available in the church’s lower level before and after the climb, but not within the tower itself. Plan accordingly.

Can I bring my service animal?

Service animals are permitted in the church building but are not allowed in the tower due to narrow passageways and safety concerns. Contact the church in advance to discuss alternative arrangements.

Is the tower accessible to visitors with disabilities?

The tower itself is not wheelchair-accessible and requires significant physical mobility. However, the church offers alternative experiences, including virtual tours, detailed tactile models, and personalized historical briefings for visitors with mobility limitations.

Can I propose at the top of the tower?

Proposals are not permitted during scheduled tours due to space constraints and the need to maintain a respectful environment. If you wish to propose, contact the church’s events coordinator to inquire about private rental options for the sanctuary or courtyard.

Conclusion

Visiting the Boston Avenue Methodist Church Tower is not merely a sightseeing excursion — it is an immersive encounter with American architectural innovation, spiritual craftsmanship, and the enduring legacy of the Art Deco movement. The climb is demanding, the access is limited, and the experience is fleeting — but for those who prepare, respect the space, and approach it with curiosity, the reward is profound. From the intricate metalwork of the observation deck to the sweeping views of Tulsa’s evolving skyline, the tower offers a rare glimpse into a bygone era of construction excellence.

By following the steps outlined in this guide — from early planning and physical preparation to respectful conduct and thoughtful documentation — you ensure not only your own safety and enjoyment but also the preservation of this landmark for future generations. This is not a place to rush through. It is a place to pause, to reflect, and to witness the quiet majesty of human ingenuity elevated to the heavens.

As you descend the final steps and return to the quiet sanctuary below, you carry with you more than photographs. You carry a deeper understanding of how faith, art, and engineering converged in one extraordinary structure — a tower not just built of brick and steel, but of vision, patience, and devotion.