Boston Light, Suffolk County Travel Guide

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Explore Boston Light, the oldest lighthouse in the U.S., offering stunning views and rich maritime history on Little Brewster Island.

Boston Light, located on Little Brewster Island, is a historic lighthouse that has guided sailors since 1716. Visitors can explore its rich history and enjoy breathtaking views of Boston Harbor.

A brief summary to Boston Light

Little Brewster Island, Boston, Harbor Islands- Long Island, Massachusetts, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Boston Light.

Check the National Park Service website for tour availability and seasonal hours before your visit.
Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the lighthouse and exploring the island.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning views from the top of the lighthouse.
Consider visiting early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a serene atmosphere.

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Explore Boston Light on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Boston Light, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

If you are driving, start from downtown Boston. Head southeast on Washington St toward State St, then take a slight right onto Atlantic Ave. Follow signs for I-93 S. Merge onto I-93 S and continue for about 2 miles. Take exit 20B on the left for I-90 E toward Logan Airport. Merge onto I-90 E and follow signs for South Boston. After about 2 miles, take the exit toward Logan Airport. Continue straight onto Airport Rd, then take the exit for Logan Airport. From there, follow signs to the water taxi service at the airport. You can take a water taxi directly to Little Brewster Island, which is the location of Boston Light.
Public Transportation

To reach Boston Light via public transportation, start by taking the MBTA subway (the 'T') to the Aquarium station on the Blue Line. Once you exit the station, head towards Long Wharf. From Long Wharf, you can board a ferry operated by Boston Harbor Cruises to the Boston Harbor Islands. Make sure to check the schedule ahead of time, as ferry departures may vary. During the ferry ride, you will be heading towards Little Brewster Island, where Boston Light is located. Be mindful of the return ferry times to avoid being stranded on the island.

Discover more about Boston Light

Perched on the windswept Little Brewster Island, Boston Light is not just a lighthouse; it's a symbol of maritime history and resilience. Established in 1716, it holds the distinction of being the oldest lighthouse in the United States. The lighthouse stands as a testament to the era of sailing ships and the vital role lighthouses played in ensuring safe passage through treacherous waters. Visitors to Boston Light can take a guided tour offered by the National Park Service, allowing them to climb to the top for unparalleled panoramic views of the bustling Boston Harbor and the surrounding islands. The journey to reach the lighthouse is as rewarding as the destination itself, often involving a scenic boat ride that showcases the beauty of the harbor and its numerous islands. As you stand atop the lighthouse, the historical significance of the site becomes palpable, and you can almost hear the echoes of ships that have passed by over the centuries. The area is not only rich in history but also offers a unique opportunity for photography enthusiasts looking to capture the beauty of the lighthouse against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. For those seeking a blend of history and natural beauty, Boston Light is an essential stop on any visit to Boston.