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Party Earth Review A six-mile stretch of trails offering spectacular views along the Charles River, the Boston Esplanade is a year-round destination for Bostonians of all stripes. Early morning sees suited bicycle commuters and joggers passing... ... read full review
Along the Charles River between the Longfellow Bridge and Massachusetts Avenue
Boston, MA 02108
Red Line: Charles/MGH
617-227-0365
24/7
Beacon Hill, Boston –
A six-mile stretch of trails offering spectacular views along the Charles River, the Boston Esplanade is a year-round destination for Bostonians of all stripes.
Early morning sees suited bicycle commuters and joggers passing each other on the picturesque riverbank, while later in the day, fit young professionals take to the tennis courts, playing fields, and waterways for activities as diverse as rugby and windsurfing.
Although bustling with activity in all seasons, the park is really at its best in the summer, when warm nights draw everyone from couples in the mood for a romantic stroll to movie buffs settling in for an outdoor film screening.
A popular free concert series at the Hatch Shell brings in a mixed crowd of music lovers, college students, twenty-somethings, and older couples, who spread out their picnic blankets and kick back to the sounds of everything from the Boston Pops to the Gin Blossoms.
Perhaps the biggest event is the all-day Fourth of July celebration, when up to half a million revelers pack into the park to watch the jaw-dropping fireworks display over the Charles.
A haven of natural beauty, the Boston Esplanade is the perfect destination for a quick in-city getaway.
Fitness enthusiasts, college students, outdoorsy young professionals, picnickers, and dog walkers, early 20s to 30s.
Jogging and biking trails, softball and soccer fields, tennis courts, kayaking, discovery walks, regattas, and sailboat rentals (www.community-boating.org for more info).
Cultural events include free summer movie screenings and concerts featuring the Boston Pops and popular groups like Dispatch, Peter Cetera, and Toby Keith.
The Esplanade Café concession stand serves burgers, salads, and nachos. Various food vendors selling ice cream and hot dogs. As parking is difficult, visitors should plan on using public transportation.
Esplanade Café items $3+, vendor snacks $2+.
Casual.
Summer Friday and Saturday nights draw huge crowds for the movie screenings and concert series, though the best and biggest party happens on the Fourth of July.
The Sevens (77 Charles Sreet) offers their signature Sevens Ale and a classic Boston pub atmosphere perfect after an evening stroll at the Esplanade.
Boston Esplanade User Reviews