Boston Harborwalk Boston
A 43-mile urban promenade showcasing Boston's waterfront, public art, historic sites, and stunning skyline views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Boston Harborwalk Boston
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 43-mile urban promenade showcasing Boston's waterfront, public art, historic sites, and stunning skyline views.
"It's important to make use of public spaces, otherwise they may not always be public. Spread the word on this amazing free observation deck along the waterfront in Boston."
🗺️ Plan Your Route
The Harborwalk is 43 miles! Use the official map to pick a section that suits your interests.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. Some planks can be slippery when wet.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fan Pier Park Views
Seaport District
Stunning skyline vistas, ocean breeze, and peaceful vibes. Perfect for picnics and sunset watching.

Charlestown Navy Yard
Charlestown
Explore historic ships like the USS Constitution and enjoy panoramic city views.

Piers Park
East Boston
Offers top-notch views of the Boston skyline and a great spot for photos.

Public Art Installations
Various locations along the Harborwalk
Discover unique sculptures and art pieces that add character to your stroll.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Walkability
Best Time for Views & Vibes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Plan Your Route
The Harborwalk is 43 miles! Use the official map to pick a section that suits your interests.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. Some planks can be slippery when wet.
🛥️ Water Taxi Option
Consider a water taxi for a scenic ride between neighborhoods, especially from East Boston.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Especially during summer, bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for your walk.
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Plan Your Route
The Harborwalk is 43 miles! Use the official map to pick a section that suits your interests.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. Some planks can be slippery when wet.
🛥️ Water Taxi Option
Consider a water taxi for a scenic ride between neighborhoods, especially from East Boston.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Especially during summer, bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for your walk.
🚲 Biking Challenges
While possible, biking isn't ideal for the entire Harborwalk due to stairs and narrow sections.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone for stunning skyline shots and waterfront scenes.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially on longer walks, or find spots to refill along the way.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Boston Harborwalk's stunning skyline views, diverse public art, and its role as a vibrant public space connecting various neighborhoods. While the sheer length can be daunting, most find it an accessible and enjoyable way to experience Boston's waterfront. Some note that certain sections can be less developed or require navigating sidewalks.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Boston Harborwalk is accessible from numerous points across the city. Popular starting points include the Aquarium, North End, Seaport District, and East Boston. You can use public transport like the MBTA subway (Blue Line to Aquarium or Maverick, Green Line to Government Center) or even water taxis to reach different sections.
Parking can be challenging and expensive in Boston. Garages are available near popular sections like the Aquarium (Post Office Square garage is recommended for weekend parking at $10). Consider using public transport or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.
While parts of the Harborwalk are bikeable, it's not ideal for a continuous, scenic bike ride. Many sections have stairs, narrow paths, or require transitioning to sidewalks and busy streets. The Esplanade or dedicated bike paths might be better options for cyclists.
The most effective way to navigate is to use a map, such as the one provided by Boston Harbor Now (https://www.bostonharbornow.org/what-we-do/explore/harborwalk). This will help you identify specific sections and points of interest.
Many sections of the Harborwalk are paved and accessible, making them suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. However, some older sections or areas with wooden planks might present challenges. It's best to check specific segment details if accessibility is a primary concern.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, the Boston Harborwalk is a public space and is completely free to access and enjoy. It's a fantastic way to experience the city's waterfront without any admission fees.
The Harborwalk is an outdoor public space and is generally accessible 24/7. However, individual parks or attractions along the walk may have specific operating hours. It's best to check the hours for any specific destination you plan to visit.
No, there are no tickets required to walk the Boston Harborwalk. It's a public promenade designed for everyone to enjoy the waterfront.
While there isn't one single official 'Harborwalk tour,' many organizations offer tours that incorporate parts of the walk, such as historical tours in Charlestown or Seaport. You can also explore independently using online maps and guides.
Yes, you can rent boats like electric boats from places like Boston Electric Boats in the North End, allowing you to experience the harbor from the water. No boating license is required for these eco-friendly options.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Key highlights include Fan Pier Park for skyline views, the Charlestown Navy Yard with the USS Constitution, Piers Park in East Boston for great photo ops, and the various public art installations scattered along the route.
The Harborwalk is generally considered safe, especially in well-lit, populated areas like downtown and near the Aquarium. However, as with any urban area, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially in less crowded sections or late at night.
Yes, the Harborwalk near the Aquarium offers playgrounds and splash pads, making it great for families with young children. You can also see sea lions and visit the Greenway Carousel nearby.
Fishing is legal from parts of the Harborwalk and waterfront areas, but you'll need a saltwater permit. Some piers offer better chances for catching fish, especially after dusk.
The Harborwalk features a diverse range of public art, from sculptures to interactive installations. These pieces enhance the urban landscape and offer unique photo opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, you'll find numerous dining options ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants along various sections of the Harborwalk, particularly in the Seaport District, North End, and near Quincy Market.
Absolutely! Many areas, especially parks like Fan Pier Park, are perfect for picnics with beautiful waterfront views. Just remember to clean up after yourself.
Some boat rental services, like Boston Electric Boats, allow you to bring your own drinks, making for a personalized harbor experience.
Near the Aquarium, you can find various eateries. For a family-friendly experience, consider places near Quincy Market or grab a bite at The Anchor, Sail Loft, or Joe's Waterfront after visiting the Charlestown Navy Yard.
While not a constant feature, food trucks can sometimes be found at events or in popular public spaces near the Harborwalk, especially during warmer months. It's worth checking local event listings.
📸 📸 Photography
Fan Pier Park offers stunning skyline shots, Charlestown Navy Yard provides historic ship and city views, and Piers Park in East Boston is renowned for its top-notch city panoramas.
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the skyline and waterfront. Early mornings can also be great for fewer crowds and soft light.
Look for the various public art installations, the historic Nantucket lightship docked at the Boston Harbor Shipyard & Marina, and the iconic USS Constitution.
Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and near airports like Logan. It's crucial to check current FAA regulations and local ordinances before flying a drone in Boston.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both wide cityscapes and details. A wide-angle lens is excellent for the expansive harbor views. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing sky and water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Stroller accessibility is generally good on paved sections, making it easy to navigate with a baby. Consider a short, manageable walk and plan for breaks at one of the many parks or open spaces. Using a water taxi for a short hop between areas can also add an element of adventure for kids.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers
Safety is generally good, especially in well-trafficked areas. Consider starting your walk in the morning to enjoy fewer crowds and pleasant weather. The Harborwalk offers a great way to get acquainted with the city's layout and its connection to the sea at your own pace.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't overlook the details: the public art, the historic ships at the Charlestown Navy Yard, and the reflections on the water can all make for compelling photographs. A versatile lens setup will allow you to capture both grand vistas and intricate details.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the 43 Miles of Harborwalk
Popular starting points include the area around the New England Aquarium, offering easy access to downtown and waterfront attractions, and the Charlestown Navy Yard, home to the USS Constitution and offering fantastic city views. For a different perspective, consider starting in East Boston at Piers Park, which boasts some of the best skyline vistas. Remember that the Harborwalk can transition from paved paths to boardwalks and sometimes even sidewalks, so comfortable footwear is essential.
While the entire length is a significant undertaking, breaking it down into manageable sections allows for a more enjoyable exploration. Whether you're interested in history, public art, or simply enjoying the waterfront, there's a stretch of the Harborwalk for everyone. Consider using water taxis or ferries to hop between different neighborhoods and maximize your exploration time.
Experiencing the Harbor from the Water
No boating license is required for these easy-to-operate vessels, which launch from convenient locations like Lewis Wharf in the North End. This offers a fantastic opportunity to see the city skyline from a different angle, pass by historic sites, and enjoy the sea breeze. It's a memorable way to complement your Harborwalk exploration.
For a more structured aquatic experience, consider the water taxis that connect various points around the harbor, such as between the Aquarium and the Charlestown Navy Yard. This not only offers a scenic ride but also serves as a practical mode of transportation, especially when navigating between different parts of the Harborwalk.
Public Art and Hidden Gems
Beyond the well-known landmarks, the Harborwalk also leads to lesser-known spots that offer unique perspectives. For instance, the Boston Harbor Shipyard & Marina is home to the Nantucket lightship, a historic vessel that provides a glimpse into maritime heritage. Exploring these less-trafficked areas can lead to unexpected discoveries and quieter moments of reflection.
Many visitors discover that simply wandering without a rigid itinerary can lead to the best experiences. The beauty of the Harborwalk lies in its ability to connect you with the city's maritime history, its modern development, and its natural waterfront in a way that feels both expansive and intimate.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit