The 10 Best Parks in Boston

Whether you need to escape to an urban oasis or convene with nature, these parks are the perfect answer.

Take an evening stroll or plan a weekend of outdoor fun at places all around Boston.

The Best Parks in Boston

Arnold Arboretum

Take a trip to Harvard University to catch a glimpse of this beautiful park space. Arnold Arboretum is teaching the world about trees and plants with its living museum.

This lively and green space is the perfect way to escape the city and explore nature without going too far and in a safe way.

Learn about trees and flowers as you explore this massive property. Over 281 acres make up this park, and there’s so much to see, from woody plants to wildlife and beautiful blooms of flowers.

There are educational opportunities for everyone, plus it just makes for a great relaxing walk. Arnold Arboretum is, without a doubt, one of the best parks in Boston.

• Location: 125 Arborway, Boston, MA 02130

Castle Island Park + Fort Independence

Take some time to explore this 22-acre land-bound island which is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Castle Island Park + Fort Independence is the perfect place to walk along the Boston Harbor and features numerous historical sites to visit.

There are walkways around the entire island, perfect for those who are wheelchair-bound or who wish to bring rollerblades.

You’ll take in views of both the Boston skyline and nearby Logan Airport, plus the surrounding water.

This whole island contains a string of parks to play in and run around, plus a snack bar so you can grab a bite when you’re hungry. Castle Island Park + Fort Independence is the perfect place to spend a weekend just outside of the city.

• Location: 2010 William J Day Blvd, Boston, MA 02127

Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park

You’ll find this public park in Boston’s North End. Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park is a large lush lawn area with a playground for children.

Along the waterfront and just a short walk from the North End is the perfect Boston park for spending the day with family.

The playground has lots of climbing activities and other playground equipment, plus tons of empty space for kids to run around and have fun.

The excellent views and rose garden are also big attractions of this park. You can even get food to go from the nearby Faneuil Hall and have a picnic on the green grass.

Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park is one of the best Boston has to offer.

• Location: 100 Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02109

Franklin Park

Escape into nature with a visit to 527-acre parkland. Franklin Park is Boston’s largest open space and contains miles of trails plus playing fields and historical attractions.

This park is part of the Emerald Necklace here in Boston and is deemed the crowning jewel of the project.

Also on-site, you’ll find the Franklin Zoo in addition to all the playgrounds, athletic fields, William J Devine golf course, and other areas that draw people in.

There’s truly something for the whole family on this massive plot of Boston land. Take in a more natural side of Boston with a trip any day of the week to Franklin Park.

• Location: 1 Franklin Park Rd, Boston, MA 02121

Lo Presti Park

Enjoy all outdoor recreation at this waterfront Boston park. Lo Presti Park is not only a go-to for everything sports, but it also offers a terrific view of the Boston skyline and Charles River.

On-site, you’ll find several basketball courts, a soccer field, and more open lawn space that’s multi-purpose.

There’s even a newer playground and fitness equipment on the grounds, plus a walking path, picnic areas, and even a ping pong table.

Pack a lunch and spend the weekend outside and having fun. The whole family will enjoy a trip to Lo Presti Park.

• Location: 33 Sumner St, Boston, MA 02128

Olmstead Park

Part of the Emerald Necklace Conservatory, this local Boston park is a favorite for wooded scenic views.

Olmstead Park allows you to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the busy city to unwind with nature.

Explore the wooded trails along either of the dual paths, and you’ll find picturesque fresh-water ponds along with meadows and other natural sights.

Wildlife is abundant, and there’s always plenty to see. Plus, there are athletic fields, a wildflower meadow, and concerts every weekend in the summer. Olmstead Park is the perfect local getaway.

• Location: 217 Jamaicaway, Boston, MA 02130

Paul Revere Park

This 5-acre park can be found along the Charles River in Charlestown.

Paul Revere Park offers a great view of the North Washington Street bridge and includes an amphitheater plus an ample lawn area.

This large space is oval-shaped and also contains tons of public art throughout the space. Plus, they’ve done landscaping to include ornamental grasses, trees, and shrubs.

This lush space is welcoming to all, and you never know what events might pop up at the multi-functional Paul Revere Park.

• Location: N Washington St, Boston, MA 02129

Piers Park

Along the riverfront of Charles River, you’ll find this pier and park combination.

Piers Park offers some of the best waterfront views along with the backdrop of the Boston skyline across the river.

This space has been beautifully landscaped with overhanging trees and lush green grasses. Plus, the brick pathway is a beautiful contrast against the blue water.

There’s a splash pad to play on in the summer and dock access for boaters. Piers Park has something for the whole family to enjoy.

• Location: 95 Marginal St, Boston, MA 02128

Public Garden + Boston Commons

You’ll find these large parks in the heart of Boston, where they lie adjacent to one another.

Public Garden + Boston Commons is a great area to escape work for a while or a perfect place to explore on the weekend.

Although these two parks are near one another, they couldn’t be more different.

Spend time however you’d like in the lush Boston Commons with recreational activities, or venture into the ornamental landscape of the Public Garden for something unique.

Either way, these parks will impress you.

• Location: 4 Charles St, Boston, MA 02116

Rose Kennedy Fitzgerald Greenway

This massive green area throughout the entirety of the downtown and waterfront districts in Boston is the perfect place to take a break.

Rose Kennedy Fitzgerald Greenway runs from near the Paul Revere house in the heart of Boston all the way into the Leather District, and there’s plenty to do all throughout the greenery.

Shops, fountains, public art, and pop-up events line this massive urban park area. T

here are historical stops along the way, plus plenty for kids to do with interactive features and playgrounds. Rose Kennedy Fitzgerald Greenway is arguably the best park in Boston.

• Location: Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02109

Final Thoughts

Parks aren’t just for families; they’re also great places to get exercise, read a book, or enjoy a meal.

Luckily there are parks all over Boston that are the perfect setting, no matter what you want to do.