Huge 3D Model of Boston On Exhibit at City Hall: Here’s How to See It

If you've ever wanted to gain a bird's-eye view of Boston, here's your chance. Come to the Boston Planning Department's model room inside City Hall. Here, you can witness a 1:40-inch scale, 3D replica of downtown Boston and its surrounding neighborhoods, including Beacon Hill, the North End, Charlestown, Back Bay, and the South Boston Waterfront.

Constructed over 10 to 15 years by a dedicated team of five people, the model features basswood buildings that have been added to over time as the city has continued to evolve. It reflects real-life changes in Boston, most notably the removal of the Central Artery following the Big Dig.

The model is an important urban planning tool that helps Planning Department members visualize and interpret changes, including new buildings and urban area developments. It is maintained by members of the Urban Design Division's design team.

Prataap Patrose of the Boston Planning Department, who has served in his role for more than 40 years, said he's witnessed monumental growth in the city's infrastructure over the past four decades. He told CBS News Boston that he enjoys hearing visitors' reactions when they witness the model for the first time.

"Every time a person walks in here, I know what the first sound coming out of their mouth will be. It'll be 'Wow,' he said. "It's universal, regardless of which country they come from. That word is 'wow.'"

The Planning Department model room, on the ninth floor of Boston City Hall at One City Hall Square, is free to access and open to the public from 9 a.m. through 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Contact Colleen Woods by email to schedule a tour.