Charles River Esplanade

A three-mile ribbon of riverfront park along the Charles between the Back Bay and the water, free and always open. Locals run, bike, picnic, and sail here; the Hatch Shell hosts free summer concerts and the July 4th Pops. The classic Boston-skyline-and-sailboats view.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to go?

A summer evening toward sunset, when the light hits the sailboats and skyline and the Hatch Shell may have a free concert. Spring and fall afternoons are lovely too. Winter is quiet but windy off the water.

How do I get to the Esplanade?

Cross from the Back Bay via the footbridges over Storrow Drive, from stops like Charles/MGH (Red Line) or Arlington (Green Line). The pedestrian bridges are the key, since Storrow Drive separates the park from the neighborhood.

What is the Charles River Esplanade?

It's a long, narrow riverside park running along the Boston bank of the Charles River, with paths, lagoons, footbridges, docks, and lawns. It's where Bostonians go to run, bike, walk dogs, and watch sailboats. Free and open to all.

What is the Hatch Shell?

The DCR Hatch Memorial Shell is the Esplanade's outdoor concert stage, famous for the Boston Pops' Fourth of July concert and fireworks, plus free Landmarks Orchestra concerts and movie nights in summer. Bring a blanket and arrive early for events.

Is it good for running?

It's the runner's park in Boston, flat, scenic, and you can loop across the bridges to Cambridge for a 3-plus mile riverside circuit. Early mornings and evenings it's full of runners, so you're in good company.

Can I rent a bike or boat?

The Esplanade connects to Boston's bike-share and the riverside bike path, and Community Boating near the Hatch Shell offers sailing and kayaking on the Charles seasonally. It's one of the best urban spots to get out on the water.

Is it safe and family-friendly?

Yes, during the day and evening it's busy and family-friendly, with playgrounds and open lawns. Like any park, use normal caution late at night. The paths are stroller- and wheelchair-friendly for the most part.

Can you go to the July 4th fireworks there?

Yes, the Esplanade is the prime spot for the Boston Pops Fourth of July fireworks over the Charles, but it's extremely crowded with security screening and early lawn claims. Get there hours ahead, or watch from the Cambridge side.

Nearby in Ask Boston

• Back BayNeighborhood0.65 km · 8 min walk
• MIT MuseumAttraction0.89 km · 11 min walk
• Boston Public Library (McKim Building)Attraction0.89 km · 11 min walk
• Mapparium at the Mary Baker Eddy LibraryAttraction1.02 km · 13 min walk
• Trinity ChurchAttraction1.05 km · 13 min walk