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Wow, I love this park. You feel away from it all unless you walk along the perimeter with the busy traffic especially during rush hour. Wouldn't go out of your way for this, but if you are in JP dining it is a great for a pre or post stroll. Lots of people come after work hours with numerous joggers because the circuit around the two ponds. 2+ miles?
Gorgeous retreat in the middle of the city! The best kept secrete of the Emerald Necklace. If you walk around (about 1.9 miles around the pond), you will see sleeping swans and mallard ducks. The path around the ponds are beautiful as well. A great picnic spot. There are also interesting million dollar houses and condos and Mayor Curley's house across the street. You can get a nice take out meal from center street or Whole Foods near by and walk to the pond for a lovely picnic. In addition to jogging or walking, it is also a great spot for dog watching - adorable pups walking all around with friendly owners. It's our favorite park in Boston!
They have free street parking . You can sit on a bench or bring a blanket and sit on the grass. To relax and enjoy the friendly atmosphere and the pond. The view is priceless.
Jamaica Pond is one of my favorite places to go running in Boston! The area feels incredibly safe and the views of the pond and wildlife are lovely. I routinely see lots of water birds like ducks and swans. My favorite time to visit is around autumn when the leaves turn. The entire loop is about 1.5 miles I'd guesstimate, so it's great for jogging and generally getting your steps in while enjoying a serene environment.
How does one rate a pond? Well first I'll tell the [rather brief] story of how my housemate and I got here. We were on our way to the Arnold Arboretum when my housemate looked out the window, pointed at the glistening pond, and asked, "can we go there instead?". The answer was "yes" and we were very proud of that decision. With regard to parking, be prepared to do some u-turns when searching for a spot, which you will find either along the perimeter of the pond or on an adjacent side street. The perfect amount of tree cover and sunlight made for a very pleasant jaunt around the paved pond path. It seems larger than the Chestnut Hill Reservoir, for reference, and significantly more interesting. There are exercise stations along the path to get in some sets and reps. Of note is the Jamaica Pond Bench, a design prank that I will NOT ruin for you, but rather you should find. There are also some lounge chairs overlooking the pond on one side, a boat dock, and a cute little island in the middle of the pond. Lots of adorable dogs made J Pond a full five stars. Fabulous location for a Hot Girl Walk. Must visit.
Beautiful neighborhood gem to walk around the most beautiful city pond and see beautiful scenery. People like to fish and go boating here. I think it's absolutely gorgeous. On weekends, there is an occasional jazz band. Very ideal for both residents and visitors.
Love this place! You can come here to run, walk and it's beautiful! There is a 1.5 mile loop around the pond and you can see almost all the way around. The path is mostly covered in trees and there is a small path if you don't want to run on the cement. They are always hosting activities, etc to build community. You can rent a boat and just relax. They are currently doing more renovations and park improvements which is wonderful!
i walk or run here almost every single day. this is a great spot for getting some outdoor time in. the loop around the pond itself is exactly 1.5 miles, which makes things easy if you are measuring distance. around the pond are several other trails composing the emerald necklace, which can bring you back into boston, further into jp, or further into brookline. you will likely be able to pretend, for a moment, that you are not in the middle of the city. there are trashcans available everywhere and the boat house is open occasionally for questions and facts about the pond. for the most part, the trail is kept very clean and is relatively safe. the bathrooms have been closed at least since covid restrictions began, which makes things a little hard if you are hanging around for awhile. the "rules" are also unclear. bikes frequently are on the pedestrian only path, and despite signs and park rangers attempting to enforce a one-way loop, it's about 50/50 with direction. not a huge deal to me, and definitely worth the view. in all weather, this is a beautiful view and a great spot to exercise or enjoy the outdoors.
Beautiful for events, great atmosphere especially in the fall. I have bumped into so many people here and they all seem to be down to earth, will give the shirt off their back type of people Jamaica plain as a whole is just a wonderful place! Went here last week for a 5k Family Fun Run/walk and had a great time. There was a dance performance, food, snacks, activities, and more. Just a wonderful experience
This is my favorite place to run in the entire Boston area -- maybe with the exception of the Charles River. I lived nearby the pond for almost five years and never got tired of circling it in almost any weather. It's 1.4 miles around and makes a decent training location if you're preparing for long road races. On really nice days it will get crowded by noon, so it's best to go out early in the morning if you are looking to do some serious, uninterrupted running. The pond itself was incorporated into Boston Emerald's Necklace park system in the late 1800s, and a boathouse was later added. If you're not into walking, running or biking, you can always take a row boat out to enjoy the beautiful scenery. The pond is surrounded by trees and green fields, as well as some big historic houses to peek at. Here's a good resource if you're interested in general J.P. history: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamaica_Plain
I don't run.. I barely like to walk.. but I like watching other people do it. This is one of the best running and walking spots in Boston and if you get tired in 5 minutes like I do.. there's plenty of benches to just chill and look at the pond. We usually drive to the pond and parking can be a little tricky at times. It can get packed during the summer. We've even rented row boats and rowed across the pond. (Is that how you say it? row across the pond? *shrug*) I think it was $5 the last time we rented them. Good times. :)
I've been coming to Jamaica Pond for a few years for my runs and it's easily my favorite running destination and path. The pond itself is about 1.5 miles (hardly considered a "pond") and it has a very scenic and nature-y route. The pond is always a great destination to just chill, walk, run, bike, go on a date and anything else you can think of outdoors! I absolutely love it there and it's a nice getaway from the busyness of the city. Enjoy the fresh air and hope to see you there! :)
Biked here from Harvard Square on a Saturday evening. The 30-40 minute bike ride there was a lil tiring but beautiful! The pond itself is great! You can rent out boats and kayaks. Definitely the perfect place for a date. There are bathrooms and water fountains available. There were bird droppings everywhere but we eventually found a clean picnic spot.
6 months ago
Lovely walk around Jamaica Pond! It was cold and raw and lightly raining but still very serene and beautiful. Lots of runners and walkers passing by me, it was nice to feel the fresh air and get some exercise. Street parking and not too far from the downtown area of JP. read more
I'm absolutely obsessed with Jamaica Pond. I've driven by a hundred times and now I've finally gone out to run it this summer and let me just say - where have I been! It's so big which is great for mid-length walks and runs (I'm still trying to figure out the exact distance of one lap though). There's plenty of benches along the loop to sit down and catch your breath, people-watch, read a book, meet a neighbor, etc. They also have a few outdoor exercise stations during one stretch of the loop and I've seen people use them! A really cool addition to have. There's street parking and I've had no troubles finding a spot. The best part: SHADE. This summer has been the summer of Jamaica Pond and I think a large part is due to how shaded the path is! This heat wave is no joke! Sometimes there's folks playing instruments in the gazebo which is always fun to hear. read more
If one were to look at my Hinge profile today, I have a blurb that says "I am outside-y, not outdoorsy." To me, an outdoorsy individual is one who enjoys hiking, camping, and being far(ther) from civilization than do I. However, if I am indoors all day, I start to get wicked cabin fever. I need to get out of the house and move my body in the fresh air. At the same, I am not a bear, I am a human being that needs indoor plumbing, if you catch my drift. With all this, i am delighted to have this wonderful spot to get my fresh air, and be able to move my body. The area around Jamaica Pond is an almost 1.5 mile loop. While not secluded, the area is quiet enough that you don't feel like you're breathing exhaust gasses. Further, it, and the associated restrooms feel safe and clean. There are plenty of benches (including that U shaped "Hincman's Bench"). Also installed is stationary outdoor-friendly workout equipment, like incline push up bars, and a pull up bar, among others. So, while I wish the T did not require me to go into the center of the city, so I could transfer to the Orange Line and head south again to visit, I am still beyond happy that this gem exists, and look forward to visiting many times during the summer and fall. read more
Wow, I love this park. You feel away from it all unless you walk along the perimeter with the busy traffic especially during rush hour. Wouldn't go out of your way for this, but if you are in JP dining it is a great for a pre or post stroll. Lots of people come after work hours with numerous joggers because the circuit around the two ponds. 2+ miles? read more
10 months ago
Gorgeous retreat in the middle of the city! The best kept secrete of the Emerald Necklace. If you walk around (about 1.9 miles around the pond), you will see sleeping swans and mallard ducks. The path around the ponds are beautiful as well. A great picnic spot. There are also interesting million dollar houses and condos and Mayor Curley's house across the street. You can get a nice take out meal from center street or Whole Foods near by and walk to the pond for a lovely picnic. In addition to jogging or walking, it is also a great spot for dog watching - adorable pups walking all around with friendly owners. It's our favorite park in Boston! read more
11 months ago
2 years ago
They have free street parking . You can sit on a bench or bring a blanket and sit on the grass. To relax and enjoy the friendly atmosphere and the pond. The view is priceless. read more
Jamaica Pond is one of my favorite places to go running in Boston! The area feels incredibly safe and the views of the pond and wildlife are lovely. I routinely see lots of water birds like ducks and swans. My favorite time to visit is around autumn when the leaves turn. The entire loop is about 1.5 miles I'd guesstimate, so it's great for jogging and generally getting your steps in while enjoying a serene environment. read more
How does one rate a pond? Well first I'll tell the [rather brief] story of how my housemate and I got here. We were on our way to the Arnold Arboretum when my housemate looked out the window, pointed at the glistening pond, and asked, "can we go there instead?". The answer was "yes" and we were very proud of that decision. With regard to parking, be prepared to do some u-turns when searching for a spot, which you will find either along the perimeter of the pond or on an adjacent side street. The perfect amount of tree cover and sunlight made for a very pleasant jaunt around the paved pond path. It seems larger than the Chestnut Hill Reservoir, for reference, and significantly more interesting. There are exercise stations along the path to get in some sets and reps. Of note is the Jamaica Pond Bench, a design prank that I will NOT ruin for you, but rather you should find. There are also some lounge chairs overlooking the pond on one side, a boat dock, and a cute little island in the middle of the pond. Lots of adorable dogs made J Pond a full five stars. Fabulous location for a Hot Girl Walk. Must visit. read more
1 year ago
Beautiful neighborhood gem to walk around the most beautiful city pond and see beautiful scenery. People like to fish and go boating here. I think it's absolutely gorgeous. On weekends, there is an occasional jazz band. Very ideal for both residents and visitors. read more
7 years ago
Love this place! You can come here to run, walk and it's beautiful! There is a 1.5 mile loop around the pond and you can see almost all the way around. The path is mostly covered in trees and there is a small path if you don't want to run on the cement. They are always hosting activities, etc to build community. You can rent a boat and just relax. They are currently doing more renovations and park improvements which is wonderful! read more
6 years ago
i walk or run here almost every single day. this is a great spot for getting some outdoor time in. the loop around the pond itself is exactly 1.5 miles, which makes things easy if you are measuring distance. around the pond are several other trails composing the emerald necklace, which can bring you back into boston, further into jp, or further into brookline. you will likely be able to pretend, for a moment, that you are not in the middle of the city. there are trashcans available everywhere and the boat house is open occasionally for questions and facts about the pond. for the most part, the trail is kept very clean and is relatively safe. the bathrooms have been closed at least since covid restrictions began, which makes things a little hard if you are hanging around for awhile. the "rules" are also unclear. bikes frequently are on the pedestrian only path, and despite signs and park rangers attempting to enforce a one-way loop, it's about 50/50 with direction. not a huge deal to me, and definitely worth the view. in all weather, this is a beautiful view and a great spot to exercise or enjoy the outdoors. read more
Beautiful for events, great atmosphere especially in the fall. I have bumped into so many people here and they all seem to be down to earth, will give the shirt off their back type of people Jamaica plain as a whole is just a wonderful place! Went here last week for a 5k Family Fun Run/walk and had a great time. There was a dance performance, food, snacks, activities, and more. Just a wonderful experience read more
4 years ago
This is my favorite place to run in the entire Boston area -- maybe with the exception of the Charles River. I lived nearby the pond for almost five years and never got tired of circling it in almost any weather. It's 1.4 miles around and makes a decent training location if you're preparing for long road races. On really nice days it will get crowded by noon, so it's best to go out early in the morning if you are looking to do some serious, uninterrupted running. The pond itself was incorporated into Boston Emerald's Necklace park system in the late 1800s, and a boathouse was later added. If you're not into walking, running or biking, you can always take a row boat out to enjoy the beautiful scenery. The pond is surrounded by trees and green fields, as well as some big historic houses to peek at. Here's a good resource if you're interested in general J.P. history: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamaica_Plain read more
18 years ago
I don't run.. I barely like to walk.. but I like watching other people do it. This is one of the best running and walking spots in Boston and if you get tired in 5 minutes like I do.. there's plenty of benches to just chill and look at the pond. We usually drive to the pond and parking can be a little tricky at times. It can get packed during the summer. We've even rented row boats and rowed across the pond. (Is that how you say it? row across the pond? *shrug*) I think it was $5 the last time we rented them. Good times. :) read more
I've been coming to Jamaica Pond for a few years for my runs and it's easily my favorite running destination and path. The pond itself is about 1.5 miles (hardly considered a "pond") and it has a very scenic and nature-y route. The pond is always a great destination to just chill, walk, run, bike, go on a date and anything else you can think of outdoors! I absolutely love it there and it's a nice getaway from the busyness of the city. Enjoy the fresh air and hope to see you there! :) read more
12 years ago
Biked here from Harvard Square on a Saturday evening. The 30-40 minute bike ride there was a lil tiring but beautiful! The pond itself is great! You can rent out boats and kayaks. Definitely the perfect place for a date. There are bathrooms and water fountains available. There were bird droppings everywhere but we eventually found a clean picnic spot. read more
12 years ago
Beautiful pond to sit at and enjoy. Boats for rent (not sure of the price). Not sure how the building on the east side ever got put up...it's so terrible to look at when you're at the 'beach' part of the pond. Dog friendly and baby friendly. read more
11 years ago
Looooooove having some green space close to where I live. Full lap around is ~1.5 miles. On a bright day there are tons of runners, walkers, sunbathers, dog-walkers, and otherwise happy folks out and about! Ooh and as this is JP, you always have the chance to see some interesting characters. For example, parrot guy. read more
My favorite place in Boston. Great views around the pond including swans, ducks and sailboats! Beautiful place to go on a run especially in the fall! There's a set of restrooms near the boating house which is open all of the time. It's so nice to be able to go on a run after work and go people watching. Fall is the best season here, with beautiful colors around the pond. read more
11 years ago
Jamaica Pond offers a serene oasis in Boston. As part of the Emerald Necklace chain of parks and green land, the pond is the culminating experience full of joggers, dogs, kiddies, and paddle boats. It was approximately a 20 minute walk all the ways around the pond and we were strolling rather slow (enjoying the fall foliage!). And on that note, what better place to view fall leaves? Gorgeous blends of firey red and electric yellow offer a backdrop on a chilly day's walk around the pond. The boat house is a community magnet that regularly hosts events including music, children's parties, and fall festivals. The day I went it was swarming with children in costumes for a lantern parade and I made sure to get the prerequisite hot apple cider to watch the festivities. I'm constantly thankful I live close by. So why 4 stars? I saw a dead duck in the pond and it was emotionally scarring.... read more
This place is a great little JP treasure. Grab some food and picnic next to the water or do a jog along the banks. The boathouse is a nice touch and it is nice to see people on the water. See very few white bellies in the sun here and most people mind their own business. The parking is neighborhood only and there are some busy streets surrounding the park. If you move up farther North you can find some quieter areas. read more
12 years ago
Beautiful pond in the middle of the city gives the feel you are miles from the city when in reality you're only a couple of blocks from JP & The Fens. Although this past week there was a drowning scare, drowning are very rare with only 3 since the 80's (with 1 due to a man having a medical emergency while in pond). Surprisingly #JamaicaPond was Formed by a glacier, the 60-acre Jamaica Pond reaches a depth of 53 feet, making dives and searches difficult. read more
***100TH REVIEW*** To one of my favorite places of all time: Jamaica Pond, the perfect escape from the rest of the city. The only season that you won't find me here is winter (when I'm hibernating at my local gym). Any other time, I'll be enjoying my walks or runs around the pond, especially during Spring when the mornings are crisp and cool. Fast forward to Summer: find me rowing on the shimmering waters on a sunny afternoon alongside a family of ducks. Change to Fall: I'll be there to photograph the amazing foliage or enjoy an after-work run, passing by cute dogs and the locals fishing until sunset. Really, the natural beauty of this pond is what makes living in Boston amazing. Definitely the #1 spot to visit if you're in the JP area, although Sam Adams Brewery is a close tie. It's no wonder some couples have their engagement photoshoot here. If all this sounds too pansy for you, do the 1.34-mile run around the pond, then work out using the wooden equipment (i.e. pull-up & push-up bars, leg-lift bench, etc.), which are scattered along the route. P.S. I once spotted a river otter in the pond before. No lie, that made my day :) read more
18 years ago
Although the area is not a big and green as the Arboretum, I love coming down to the pond to relax, sit on a bench and read, watch people or feed the ducks (although I have to admit that the constant stream of joggers always makes me feel guilty for being so lazy - but you'll see: one of these days you'll see me running too...). It is a beautiful and serene place, and you can even go sailing on the pond! read more
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More info about Jamaica Pond
507 Jamaicaway
Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
Jamaica Plain
Directions
(617) 522-5061
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http://www.courageoussailing.org/jamaicapond
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