Get a glimpse into the life of Boston’s waterside neighborhoods at the HarborWalk. This pedestrian footpath and bikeway meanders for 43 miles (69 kilometers) from the Neponset River to East Boston. It incorporates beaches, bridges, marinas, parks and piers as it passes through eight neighborhoods. Tour museums, join a boat cruise and hike nature trails on your next visit to Boston’s HarborWalk.
Choose from over 40 neighborhood parks, where you can enjoy picnics, play sports and participate in events such as concerts and farmers markets. Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park has a prime setting between the water and the high-rise buildings of Downtown. Sunbathe on one of the seven beaches, including East Boston’s Constitution Beach and South Boston’s Carson Beach. Experience almost 400 years of military history at Fort Independence on Castle Island.
Sculptures by Dennis Oppenheim, Tony Smith and William G. Tucker, among other notable artists, are featured along the walkway. In East Boston, visit HarborArts, a sculpture park set inside a shipyard. Browse the exhibits at the Institute of Contemporary Art. Boston Children’s Museum, Boston Fire Museum and Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum are some of the other family-friendly activities.
Take a detour on the Freedom Trail to Charlestown, home of the USS Constitution Museum. Hiking and swimming opportunities await at the Boston Harbor Islands, reachable via passenger ferries from Long Wharf. Spot colorful sea life at the New England Aquarium.
When you need a break from sightseeing, select from dozens of bars, food trucks, grills and restaurants. Enjoy the chic ambiance of a coffeehouse or sip craft beer or cider at a beer garden.
Boston’s extensive network of public buses serves most areas of the HarborWalk. Register online to use the Hubway bike-sharing program and pedal your way around the neighborhood. Check the calendar on HarborWalk’s official website for a schedule of events, festivals and specialty guided tours.
