Charles River Esplanade
Charles River Esplanade
4.5
About
A popular path for walkers, joggers, bladers and bicyclists, the Esplanade is also home to the Hatch Shell, where the Boston Pops holds its annual summer concerts.
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The area
Address
Neighbourhood: West End
Boston's West End teems with history and a unique blend of old and new. The neighborhood is home to the Museum of Science, a fascinating exploration of natural wonders, and the iconic TD Garden, where Boston's top sports teams compete. Charles River Park, with its lush greenery, is an oasis amidst the city's hustle. Dining options range from Italian bistros to trendy eateries, making it an exciting destination for food lovers. With easy access to the MBTA’s Green and Orange Lines, getting around is a breeze.
How to get there
- Science Park • 1 min walk
- North Station • 7 min walk
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.6
762 reviews
Excellent
482
Very good
242
Average
33
Poor
5
Terrible
0
Grover R
Pensacola, FL22,712 contributions
Sept 2024 • Solo
If you are looking for a great way to get some exercise and see a beautiful park of the city while you are in Boston, I highly recommend you take the opportunity to walk here. This is a great trail the winds between the Charles River shoreline and the city will the best views of both.
I woke up early on our first morning and wanted to get out and see things while others in our party slept. If you are the same way, find a way to get here. There is an easy cross over, not far from where the Public Garden intersects with Beacon Street. Cross here and you will have fully access to the Esplanade.
Here you find miles of pathways, along the water with statues and wildlife a plenty. I walked to get some exercise, but my pace was slowed as I was constantly taking pictures. If you want to walk in the city, come here and you will not be disappointed.
I woke up early on our first morning and wanted to get out and see things while others in our party slept. If you are the same way, find a way to get here. There is an easy cross over, not far from where the Public Garden intersects with Beacon Street. Cross here and you will have fully access to the Esplanade.
Here you find miles of pathways, along the water with statues and wildlife a plenty. I walked to get some exercise, but my pace was slowed as I was constantly taking pictures. If you want to walk in the city, come here and you will not be disappointed.
Written 10 February 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SwonQonDoi
Boston, MA405 contributions
Apr 2024 • Couples
When spring arrives, there are many things we are truly excited about, and Cherry Blossoms are among them.
The beauty of Cherry Blossoms is undeniable; they seem to cast a spell on us. For those of us living in Boston, the Charles River Esplanade is one of the most beautiful spots to enjoy this natural art every year.
Many people come to this place to make the most of Boston's spring, engaging in activities such as running, picnicking, playing with their kids, and enjoying outdoor activities after a long winter, which is almost over, and welcoming the warm weather that is beginning to arrive.
The pink hues of the Cherry Blossoms blanket the entire park against the backdrop of the Charles River. We spend hours strolling around and cherish every minute spent in this amazing place, the Charles River Esplanade.
The beauty of Cherry Blossoms is undeniable; they seem to cast a spell on us. For those of us living in Boston, the Charles River Esplanade is one of the most beautiful spots to enjoy this natural art every year.
Many people come to this place to make the most of Boston's spring, engaging in activities such as running, picnicking, playing with their kids, and enjoying outdoor activities after a long winter, which is almost over, and welcoming the warm weather that is beginning to arrive.
The pink hues of the Cherry Blossoms blanket the entire park against the backdrop of the Charles River. We spend hours strolling around and cherish every minute spent in this amazing place, the Charles River Esplanade.
Written 20 April 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thomas V
Oakland, CA19,426 contributions
Oct 2024 • Couples
A beautiful part of the city, a linear park that runs along the Boston side of the River. This is where you will see outdoor concerts including Boston Pops and also the July 4th fireworks. Note that there is an expressway on one side, so lots of traffic noise, unfortunately.
Written 20 October 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alexandra Arrivillaga
Newton, MA729 contributions
Aug 2024 • Friends
If you’re visiting Boston you must come to the Charles ! There is no parking so take the redline in and get off at the stop called the Charles ! Lots of outdoor walking so make sure you bring the correct clothing for the weather and comfortable shoes .
Written 10 August 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Steve F
1 contribution
Sept 2024 • Couples
I live in the area, and always enjoy a walk along the charles, especially in the Esplanade area. Parking can be difficult, but it is so nice that Boston has such a pretty walking area so close to congested downtown. One can bike, rollarblade or stroll. Always a good time.
Written 22 December 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jola O
Las Vegas, NV518 contributions
Jul 2022
What a fun evening! I have washed the Boston Pops 4th of July Spectacular my entire life. It was a must-see since I was visiting Boston for the 4th of July weekend.
It was so much easier than I imagined. We went to the Esplanade at 11:30am and waited in line. Entrance wristbands to the event were being given out starting at noon.
The line wasn't crazy long. We got our wristbands, scoped out the area to see where we could sit, then left the enclosure for the day and returned in the evening at 7pm before the show began.
Since we did not have anything with us except a fanny pack and a jacket, we were able to get close to the front and find a small patch of grass to sit.
Hint- Do not bring backpacks or large coolers. These people were turned away. Look at the event website for the items you cannot bring into the secure area. Bags are inspected and your body is wanded.
It was a fantastic event and surpassed my expectations. A must do if you are in Boston on July 4.
It was so much easier than I imagined. We went to the Esplanade at 11:30am and waited in line. Entrance wristbands to the event were being given out starting at noon.
The line wasn't crazy long. We got our wristbands, scoped out the area to see where we could sit, then left the enclosure for the day and returned in the evening at 7pm before the show began.
Since we did not have anything with us except a fanny pack and a jacket, we were able to get close to the front and find a small patch of grass to sit.
Hint- Do not bring backpacks or large coolers. These people were turned away. Look at the event website for the items you cannot bring into the secure area. Bags are inspected and your body is wanded.
It was a fantastic event and surpassed my expectations. A must do if you are in Boston on July 4.
Written 14 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mmmmmllllllll
Boston, MA27 contributions
Aug 2023
We have been enjoying the 2023 season of Landmark Orchestra concerts on Wednesday nights at the Hatch Shell. It's been excellent programing with an amazing range of conductors, performers, and programming. We have been especially enjoying the incredibly expressive ASL interpreters (even though we don't need the interpretation -- we are loving it as an aspect of the performance!)
Picnicking on the lawn in front of the Hatch Shell at the Esplanade on gorgeous summer evenings while listening to exquisite live music is not something I will ever take for granted again (after missing it during the pandemic). We haven't missed a single Wed. night for the 2023 season.
Picnicking on the lawn in front of the Hatch Shell at the Esplanade on gorgeous summer evenings while listening to exquisite live music is not something I will ever take for granted again (after missing it during the pandemic). We haven't missed a single Wed. night for the 2023 season.
Written 23 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
363cymru123
Cardiff, UK128 contributions
Aug 2023
We had a very relaxing afternoon visiting the Charles River Esplanade. We started our walk at the Hatch Shell which is a area for outdoor concerts. As you walk along there are areas to sunbathe on boardwalks over the river. There are plenty of benches both in the sun and shade to stop and enjoy watching the boats out on the river itself. Also plenty of trees with low branches to shade under during the summer too. On the other side of the esplanade there is the lagoon which has lots of ducks and geese going by and from time to time some people enjoying a paddleboat or canoe ride, its all very laid back and we enjoyed a little picnic lunch while we we watching the world go by on a sunny day. There are public restrooms here which is very welcome but not very common in Boston.
Written 6 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jaskel08
California382 contributions
Jun 2023
The Esplanade has a green space along the banks of the Charles River. It extends from the Museum of Science to Boston University. We stayed in the Back Bay. I spent my morning running the Esplanade’s paved paths. It’s really close to Newberry Street. Beautiful views of nature, as well as the city. Runners, walkers, and bicyclists all share the path and the green space with plenty of space for everyone.
Written 2 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Adventure Diva
Manchester, CT2,780 contributions
May 2021 • Solo
The esplanade attracts anyone looking to take a stroll whether you are a runner, cyclist or walker. This public park is a perfect place to also catch some rays. Along the way there are park benches that you can seek shade if it gets too hot and check out the local scenery.
Written 14 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
How do you keep out of the sun? I am planning to go this july 4 but they won't let me bring a tent. And the canopies cost atleast 50. Do you end of staying in the sun the whole day?
Written 29 June 2016
The prime seating area in front of the stage is open and there is no cover from the sun. There are trees around the perimeter and towards the back of the performance area. You would be sacrificing view for comfort, but I would go for the comfort. I'm not sure how early they allow people in to the area, but as soon as it opens, it fills quickly. If you're part of a small group, you can put a blanket or chairs down and hold the space for yourselves. You can all take turns leaving for food, restroom breaks, walk a bit, etc. Good luck! It's been years since I've done the Esplanade on the 4th. I hope you enjoy it.
Written 29 June 2016
Hi Jamal,
Can you advise when your family got in lines for the wristband? Secondly, does all family members have to be in line the whole time? I have a little one and want to know if they to be with me the whole time or only when we are closer to the gate?
Written 28 March 2016
Bostonians take the Fourth of July serious and have been known to show up as early as 4:00 a.m. since they banned overnight camping. I believe the City now attempts to regulate this at 6:00 a.m. There is limited space and a major Holiday here. We show up after dusk and sit on the river in front of the barge to watch the fireworks. The Pops concert is played from speakers close to the hatch shell if you don't get a seat in front and people bring radios up and down the river. Remember there is limited viewing of the fireworks from the Hatch Shell and little shade during the day. Google what the Hatch Shell looks like as there really are no "gates". They put up barriers around the area of the Shell where the best viewing is, which is a large section of grass with a walkway around it. It is not an enclosed area on a regular day. This will give you a better idea of what your options are. It's a fantastic way to spend the 4th. Boston has a sense of pride and tradition on the Fourth of July that you will not find anywhere else and it's contagious! Even if you don't get a seat in front of the Hatch Shell you'll have a blast.
Written 29 March 2016
What time should we arrive to be in line for the Pops concert REHEARSAL on 7/3 in order to have the best chance at getting a spot on lawn in front of the hatch shell????
Written 30 June 2015
I cannot give a specific answer because this is a very subjective question, which depends on what criteria are important for selecting the "best" spot. Typically the events at the hatch shell are extremely popular, drawing large crowds well in advance. Depending on weather conditions and time availability, a 2-3 hour time period before the event is very advisable. This is somewhat comparable to Tanglewood where the gates typically open two hours before an event.
Written 2 July 2015
How do you get there? Is there a place to park?
Written 27 April 2015
You can park on streets parallel to newbury street or in the garage and then take footbridge to the esplanade. There is no parking there.
Written 28 March 2016
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