Waterfront Destinations in Boston

North America / United States of America / Boston /

Enjoy the Waterfront

Boston's waterfront offers an abundance of activities, from relaxing to more active. Stroll along the waterfront with a leisurely walk along the Freedom Trail, one of the river trails, the Harborwalk, or grab a bite to eat at one of the many waterfront restaurants. You might even want to catch a concert at the Esplanade or enjoy one of the many playgrounds at a waterfront park.
Waterfront
Waterfront
Boston's Waterfront neighborhood is a lively area with a significant history and a unique culture. The Boston HarborWalk is a public walkway that follows the edge of the water, linking a number of sites in the neighborhood. It's the perfect place to take a walk and enjoy public art, parks, gardens, and impressive views. This is also where you'll catch a harbor cruise or a whale watching tour. Also in the neighborhood is the New England Aquarium.
Boston, MA
The Esplanade
The Esplanade is a riverside park in the Back Bay neighborhood. It has a number of charming footbridges including Arthur Fiedler Footbridge. Within the park you'll also find the Hatch Shell bandstand, which is where the Boston Pops Orchestra holds its annual Fourth of July celebration. There are also a number of movies and concerts in the park during the warmer months. The park is a nice place to explore with a number of nice running trails, or you could enjoy a walk beside the river. Also here is the Esplanade Playground for kids which is quite large.
Back Bay, Boston, MA
Interested in more travel advice for Boston? Check out Places to Bike in Boston and Planetariums Near Boston.
The Boston Harbor & Whale Watching
The Boston Harbor & Whale Watching
Head to the Boston Harbor to enjoy a number of iconic experiences in the city. The views from the harbor are impressive. This is also where you catch most of the boats for whale watching. Whale Watching is a popular activity in Boston. For the best experience, visit during the summer months from May through October. This is when you're most likely to see whales migrating through the area. There are a number of different tours that leave from the Boston Harbor. They average between two and four hours in length and the boats vary in size, speed, and quality.
Boston, MA
South Boston
South Boston was traditionally a working class neighborhood, but it has also become a trendy area for dining and nightlife. Head to the "Seaport District" for some of the most lively activities. This area also has some of the city's most famous seafood restaurants. The neighborhood also has a beautiful waterfront with views of Boston's skyline. Along the waterfront there are a number of beaches and parks. Also in the area is Dorchester Heights, which is where George Washington's army forced the British out of Boston in 1776.
Boston, MA
Long Wharf
Long Wharf, home of the New England Aquarium and a variety of shops and restaurants, is located just to the east of Downtown and North End. In addition to the aquarium, visitors can find the Marriott hotel, Christopher Columbus park, whale watching cruises, trolley tours, and more. This is also a good spot to start your journey along either the Harborwalk along the water or the Rose Kennedy Greenway if you want to explore North End or go down to Chinatown. To get here, take the T to the "Aquarium" station.
296 State Street, Waterfront, Boston, Massachusetts
Fan Pier
The recently revitalized Fan Pier is located just to the southeast of North End and Downtown Boston. Here, visitors can find a number of fun activities as well as shopping and restaurants. Home to the Boston Children's Museum, the Institute of Contemporary Art, and the Boston Tea Party Museum, this area is worth exploring, especially if you're looking for a good meal. A park on the north end has nice views of central Boston and a quiet setting, while the large playground at Martin's Park by the Children's Museum is a fun spot for the kids.
50 Seaport Blvd, Seaport District, South Boston, Boston, Massachusetts
East Boston
East Boston has long been a neighborhood of immigrants, and the area's ethnic restaurants reflect its diverse roots. Sitting on the waterfront, it was once the center for shipbuilding in the city but today it is where you'll find Logan International Airport. It's location on the waterfront means it offers impressive views of the city's skyline. You can reach East Boston on the subway's Blue Line or by ferry boat.

Boston, MA
Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park
Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park
At the north end of the Waterfront district and the southern side of North End, this large park is a great place to relax, have a picnic, and enjoy the weather. Here you'll find a ship-themed playground for the kids, a rose garden, a gorgeous trellis, fountains, and some open lawn areas along with benches for lounging. If you're looking for a place to rest or relax before going on a whale watching cruise or into the aquarium, this is a convenient spot.
110 Atlantic Ave, Waterfront, Boston, Massachusetts
If you're looking for more information about Boston, read The Best Places to Run in Boston and Best Things to do in Beacon Hill.
How much does it cost?

Prices for activities, things to do, and tours range from $28 to $259. The average cost for a tour or tickets is $74. A few of the best options are below.

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