The 10 Best Views in the Boston Area

When you’re in search of the best views Boston has to offer, look no further than this list. From natural wonders to urban settings, these sights are unforgettable.

The Best Views in Boston

BU Bridge

In nearby Cambridge, you’ll find one of the best views around. BU Bridge, aka Boston University Bridge, is a steel truss bridge directly over the Charles River that offers some of the best waterfront views in the city.

Drive or walk across this bridge around sunset, and you’ll be met with some of the most beautiful water views, and breathtaking sights of the skyline as the lights come on.

There’s also a hiking and biking pathway below, which allows even more up-close views of the riverfront and cities on both sides.

Any time of day, you’ll love to catch a glimpse off the side of the well-known and loved BU Bridge.

• Location: Boston University Bridge, Cambridge, MA 02134

Bunker Hill Monument

In the neighboring town of Charleston, you’ll find one of the best 360-degree views of the entire area, including the city of Boston.

Bunker Hill Monument is home to rich American History and also the only place to go for the most incredible views in New England.

High up at the tip top of the monument, up 294 stairs, you’ll be in awe of the park and city that surrounds you below.

If you don’t feel like making the trek up the spiral staircase, they also offer 360-degree webcams going 24/7, so you can take a peek at the surrounding city from the comfort of your home.

But those who decide to make the trip up all those stairs at Bunker Hill Monument will be rewarded with some of the best views Boston has to offer.

• Location: monument Square, Charleston, MA 02129

Deer Island

This little peninsula contains a wastewater treatment plant and some of the best city views around.

Deer Island will allow you a full panoramic view of the Boston skyline from just across the harbor.

Hike around this little peninsula, and you’ll be treated to some of the best sights of the city while also enjoying the natural surroundings.

There are also many areas of the island you can climb for even better views of the surrounding city and Logan airport, making it a great spot for plane watchers.

Deer Island gets you out of the city while still enjoying the views.

• Location: Deer Island, Boston, MA 02152

Longfellow Bridge

From this historic arch bridge, you’ll have some of the best views of both Cambridge and Boston, plus the water below.

Longfellow Bridge is used for both motor vehicles and pedestrians alike, and either way, you’ll be impressed with all you can see from atop those arches.

The fabulous views are best enjoyed with a stroll across, often stopping to look out at the river or take in the skyline of the surrounding city.

It’s a great place to catch the sunset or enjoy an evening walk. Longfellow Bridge has unforgettable views you won’t want to miss out on.

• Location: Longfellow Bridge, Boston, MA 02114

Lo Presti Park

Enjoy both waterfront and skyline views with a trip to this park. Lo Presti Park is a popular spot in Boston to enjoy the breeze and play games on their lawn or basketball courts.

Also the perfect place for a picnic, this park is a great place to enjoy views and spend time with the whole family.

This outdoor recreation area is perfect for strolling along the pier and capturing great pictures along the way, from the boats floating along in the harbor to the downtown views right behind you.

Lo Presti Park easily has some of the best views in the Boston area.

• Location: 33 Sumner St, Boston, MA 02128

Massachusetts Ave Bridge (Harvard Bridge)

Another bridge across the Charles river just so happens to be the perfect place to see wonderful views of Boston and the waterfront.

Massachusetts Ave Bridge, or Harvard Bridge, connects Back Bay with Cambridge and is a great spot to catch the sunset on an evening stroll.

Walkable any time of year, this spot offers great views of both city skylines on either side, plus the busy water below.

From wildlife to boats, there’s always something to see. Plus, nothing can beat when the lights come on at night and reflect on the water. Massachusetts Ave Bridge is the place for unforgettable sights.

• Location: Massachusetts Ave Bridge, Boston, MA 02115

Peter’s Hill Arnold Arboretum

When you need a break from cityscapes and skyscrapers, take a trip to this scenic outlook.

Peter’s Hill Arnold Arboretum is a 281-acre preserve in the heart of Boston, where you’ll find one of the best-documented collections of woody plants in North America.

Explore the wooded trails and immerse yourself in a completely natural escape from normal city life.

There are botanical gardens on sight that bloom throughout the year and add even more interest to these views. Peter’s Hill Arnold Arboretum, without a doubt, has some of the best views in Boston.

• Location: Peters Hill Rd, Boston, MA 02131

Piers Park

Here is a beautifully landscaped park along the waterfront of the Charles River.Piers Park offers a more upfront view of the Boston waterfront and beautiful views of the city as well.

Overlooking downtown Boston, a stroll down the brick walkway along Charles River will include some of the best looks at the skyline.

Stop and sit on the benches to watch boats float by and take in the sights and sounds of the river. These spectacular views at Piers Park won’t soon be forgotten.

• Location: 95 Marginal St, Boston, MA 02128

Prospect Hill Monument

This historical stone structure is found in Somerville, and up on the first deck of the building, you’ll find some of the best views around.

Prospect Hill Monument was built in 1904 and today is still one of the best vantage points in Boston.

Only a block away from Union Square, you’ll be able to climb up to the first deck of this tower and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding city.

Often the city will offer tours of the entire tower, which leads to even better views from the very top tower.

Don’t miss out on some of the best views of the surrounding area from Prospect Hill Monument.

• Location: 68 Monroe Street, Somerville, MA 02143

Washington Tower

Just a short jaunt from Boston, you’ll find Mt. Auburn Cemetery, and inside is one of the best views of the surrounding area.

Washington Tower provides a birdseye view of the cemetery below and the city of Boston.

From inside this historical tower and on a clear day, you’ll be able to see as far as the State House, Harvard, and even the summit of the nearby Wachusett Mountain.

Arguably the best view Boston has to offer, Washington Tower is one you won’t want to miss.

• Location: Mt Auburn Cemetery, Mountain Ave, Watertown, MA 02472

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking to see the skyline or treeline, these views around Boston will let you take a break from life and slow down a bit.