Discover the Serenity of Charles River Esplanade
Experience the beauty of Boston at Charles River Esplanade, a scenic park offering stunning views, recreational activities, and vibrant cultural events.
The Charles River Esplanade is a picturesque park in Boston, perfect for tourists seeking relaxation, outdoor activities, and stunning views of the river and city skyline.
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 early in the morning for a quieter experience and beautiful sunrise views over the river.
- Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy lunch on the lawn with the skyline as your backdrop.
- Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the river from a different perspective.
- Check the event calendar for free concerts and festivals happening at the Hatch Shell.
- Make use of the bike paths to explore further along the river or connect to other trails.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in the downtown area of Gloucester, start by walking towards Main Street. Follow Main Street until you reach the intersection with Route 127. Turn left onto Route 127 and continue walking until you reach the Gloucester Harbor. From there, you can take a scenic route along the waterfront heading south. Enjoy the views as you walk towards Storrow Drive in Boston. Keep walking until you reach the Charles River Esplanade, which is located along the riverbank.
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Public Transport - Bus
Begin your journey at the nearest bus stop in Gloucester. Take the Cape Ann Transportation Authority (CATA) bus towards Beverly. Once you arrive at Beverly, transfer to the bus that heads towards Boston. Make sure to check the bus schedule for exact timings. Upon reaching Boston, disembark at the bus station and navigate to the Charles River Esplanade, which is within walking distance from the station. Follow signs for Storrow Drive and head towards the waterfront.
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Bicycle
If you prefer biking, rent a bicycle from one of the local rental shops in Gloucester. Start by heading south towards Route 127 and follow the coastal path along the waterfront. Continue until you reach the junction with Storrow Drive. From there, you can bike along the path that leads directly to the Charles River Esplanade. Make sure to enjoy the scenic views of the river and the Boston skyline as you pedal along.
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
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Arthur Fiedler Footbridge
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Church of the Covenant
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Ether Monument
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John Singleton Copley Statue
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Boston Marathon Survivor Memorial
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Copley Square
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Charles Street Meeting House
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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
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Acorn St
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Unmissable attractions to see
Gibson House Museum
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First Church in Boston
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Hatch Memorial Shell
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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
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Back Bay
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Boston Women's Memorial
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George Washington Statue
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Trinity Church
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Boston Public Library - Central Library
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Sunflower Castle
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Duck Island
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Longfellow Bridge
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Essential places to dine
Buttermilk & Bourbon
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Saltie Girl
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Lolita Back Bay
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Contessa Boston
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75 Chestnut
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Parish Cafe & Bar
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Figs
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Bin 26 Enoteca
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Cobblestones a Beacon Hill Eatery
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Sorellina
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La Voile
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Toscano
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Faccia a Faccia
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Porto
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Simon Pearce
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Riccardi
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Mure and Grand - Back Bay
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Brodney Antiques & Jewelry
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Cheers Gift Shop
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LIT Boutique
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No Rest For Bridget
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Flat of the Hill
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Green Eyed Daisy
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Vintage Taste - Women and Men's New and Modern High-end Consignment
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Soodee
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December Thieves
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Thieves Next Door
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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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Back Bay Social
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Hecate
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Corner Tavern
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Bukowski Tavern
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Clerys
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Delux Cafe
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The Hill Tavern
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Trophy Room
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Wink and Nod
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