Explore the Serenity of Charles River Esplanade
Discover the Charles River Esplanade, a serene park in Boston perfect for outdoor activities, picnics, and stunning views of the city skyline.
The Charles River Esplanade is a picturesque park in Boston, offering stunning views of the river and city skyline, perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, and outdoor activities.
A brief summary to Charles River Esplanade
- Storrow Dr, Boston, Back Bay, Massachusetts, 02116, US
- +1617-227-0365
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-8 pm
- Thursday 6 am-8 pm
- Friday 6 am-8 pm
- Saturday 6 am-8 pm
- Sunday 6 am-8 pm
Local tips
- Visit during sunset for beautiful views of the skyline reflecting on the river.
- Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a meal on the grassy areas along the river.
- Check the schedule for free concerts at the Hatch Shell during the summer months.
- Rent a bike to explore the full length of the Esplanade and nearby parks.
- Don't forget your camera; the views are especially stunning in the fall with the changing leaves.
Getting There
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Walking
From the South End, head northeast on Washington Street toward West Dedham Street. Continue walking straight for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with Tremont Street. Turn left onto Tremont Street. After another 0.3 miles, you will reach the Boston Common. From there, follow the path through the Common, heading toward Charles Street, and exit the park at Charles Street. Continue walking straight onto Storrow Drive for approximately 0.5 miles, and you will arrive at the Charles River Esplanade.
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Public Transit - Subway
From the South End, walk to the nearest subway station, which is the 'Back Bay' station on the Orange Line. Board the Orange Line train heading toward North Station. After two stops, get off at the 'Haymarket' station. Exit the station and walk northwest on Hanover Street, which will lead you to the Charles River Esplanade. The total travel time should be around 15-20 minutes, including walking time.
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Public Transit - Bus
Locate the nearest bus stop in the South End. You can take the #43 bus towards Alewife. Get off at the 'Charles/MGH' stop. From there, walk about 0.3 miles along the Charles River until you reach the Esplanade. The bus fare is $2.40, which can be paid with a CharlieCard or CharlieTicket.
Discover more about Charles River Esplanade
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Boston Vendome Hotel Fire Memorial
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General John Glover statue
0.5 km
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Arthur Fiedler Footbridge
0.5 km
Explore the scenic Arthur Fiedler Footbridge in Boston, a perfect blend of nature and urban beauty, ideal for leisurely walks and stunning views.
Church of the Covenant
0.6 km
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Ether Monument
0.6 km
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John Singleton Copley Statue
0.6 km
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Boston Marathon Survivor Memorial
0.6 km
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Copley Square
0.6 km
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Charles Street Meeting House
0.7 km
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Beacon Hills
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Phil and Morgan's Tree
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John Hancock Tower
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William Ellery Channing Statue
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Beacon Hill
0.8 km
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Acorn St
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Unmissable attractions to see
Gibson House Museum
0.4 km
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First Church in Boston
0.4 km
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Hatch Memorial Shell
0.5 km
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ISKCON Boston
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Old South Church in Boston
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Commonwealth Avenue Mall
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Copley Square Park
0.6 km
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Back Bay
0.7 km
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Boston Women's Memorial
0.7 km
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George Washington Statue
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Trinity Church
0.7 km
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Boston Public Library - Central Library
0.7 km
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Sunflower Castle
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Duck Island
0.7 km
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Longfellow Bridge
0.7 km
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Essential places to dine
Buttermilk & Bourbon
0.5 km
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Saltie Girl
0.5 km
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Lolita Back Bay
0.6 km
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Contessa Boston
0.7 km
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75 Chestnut
0.7 km
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Parish Cafe & Bar
0.7 km
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Figs
0.7 km
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Bin 26 Enoteca
0.7 km
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Cobblestones a Beacon Hill Eatery
0.7 km
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Sorellina
0.8 km
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La Voile
0.8 km
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Toscano
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1928 Beacon Hill
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Faccia a Faccia
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Porto
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Simon Pearce
0.5 km
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Riccardi
0.5 km
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Mure and Grand - Back Bay
0.6 km
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Brodney Antiques & Jewelry
0.6 km
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Cheers Gift Shop
0.6 km
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LIT Boutique
0.7 km
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No Rest For Bridget
0.7 km
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Flat of the Hill
0.7 km
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Green Eyed Daisy
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Vintage Taste - Women and Men's New and Modern High-end Consignment
0.7 km
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Soodee
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December Thieves
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Thieves Next Door
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ouimillie
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Crush Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cheers
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The Street Bar
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Solas Irish Pub
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City Bar Back Bay
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OAK Long Bar + Kitchen
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The Sevens Ale House
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Back Bay Social
0.9 km
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Hecate
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Corner Tavern
1.1 km
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Bukowski Tavern
1.1 km
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Clerys
1.1 km
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Delux Cafe
1.1 km
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The Hill Tavern
1.2 km
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Trophy Room
1.2 km
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Wink and Nod
1.2 km
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