Don't know why people are posting the esplanade is closed. This park along the river is one of my most favorite parks, from sunrise to sunset. Spring time when the cherry blossom bloom is the best. Running along the river around summer time is the best. Spectacular views. Love the docks with people just mingling, the benches that face the river, not to mention walking my dog is fun here. Must go during spring and summer. read more

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I like to ride my bicycle along the river when it's not too cold. It can get pretty crowded when the weather is nice(especially docks), but probably for a good reason. Also a good location for engagement photos. read more

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+ Beautiful scenery + Flat and paved paths will shave off time on your miles, ego increased! + Nice breeze why you do all sporting activities + Endless...as in you can run and run and virtually never run out of room or you can do yoga, or walk the dogs, or sit and read a book, the fun don't stop! - so crowded in summer The Esplanade is probably one of Boston's go-to places for all things athletic. I'm currently training for the BAA half marathon and have been running it at dusk after work and I have to say that it's crazy crowded!! Everyone and their mom is here doing something, no joke. However, the place is big and spacious and it doesn't bother me to have to squeeze by a few people on my run because the paved and flat paths make up for the hassle I have to go through. Just be warned that you will be running into bikers, runners, out-door yoga, dog walkers, people just lounging, intensely slow walkers...the list goes on and on. During the summer the Hatch Shell amphitheater that's along the esplanade hosts a bunch of events including free concerts on Weds and free movie on Fridays so those are the busy days, but they're also a good time to take the family out and enjoy some sun. I really appreciate Boston going through so much trouble maintaining and putting on events...kind of reminds me of central park in NY. It's a get away place that's much nicer than the Fens in Fenway, but still nestled in the city. Bottom Line: exercise at your own discretion. If you don't mind crowds, the Esplanade is honestly so beautiful. Great place to breath some fresh air, catch a flick or concert at the Hatch Shell or do some sailing. read more

The BEST park in Boston by far. Running along the banks of the Charles River just north of Back Bay, the Esplanade gives you the chance to temporarily escape city life. Whether you want to run, walk, bike, sail, kayak, or even take a gondola ride you can do it all here! Venture between the Longfellow Bridge down to Boston University without ever having to cross into the city. Along the way you'll find breath taking foliage, statues of famed Bostonians, docks that jut out onto the water and you'll do it all with the city skyline lingering behind you. My favorite spot along the whole river is the area near the Dartmouth Street cross bridge where you can have a body of water on either side of you while you walk. On the edge of this area you'll find a gigantic willow tree that's lying lazily along the ground. It's a PERFECT spot for a picture and a beautiful sunset. If you're visiting Boston in the Spring, Summer or early Fall then you MUST add this to your itinerary. After an afternoon of shopping on Newbury street walk 10 minutes north to one of the cross bridges (Find a map for these on the Esplanade's official website). Whoever you are, stop what you're doing and get on over to the Esplanade immediately. You won't regret it! read more

Beautiful park located right on the Charles across from MIT. The sunsets here are quite beautiful (as you can see from the MANY photographs). It's a great place to pack a picnic, go jogging (although it can be quite crowded), or rollerblading. I don't recommend biking because there are so many pedestrians that biking for sport is rather pointless. In the summer, they have FREE fitness classes from Zumba & Tai Chi to running and CrossFit. You can see them all here: http://www.esplanadeassociation.org/what-we-do/programs/healthy-fit-and-fun/ If you're an out of town visitor, this is definitely a nice place to walk around and take a moment to appreciate Boston the City. read more

Let's spend the entire night here :) No joke. I could spend the whole night here. I came here late in the evening and it was simply gorgeous, relaxing, and just my kinda thing. I can't get enough of.. ...that calm Charles River ...that view of Cambridge ...that cool summer breeze (with lack of humidity.. yeah.. you heard me). Coming here on a late summer night was sucha good decision. I'm not use to the humidity the East Coast has during summer, especially being a Californian. But coming here on a summer night is the best because all of that is gone. I bet even running along the river is awesome too. But if you're like me with a recovering sprained ankle, go park yourself on the deck and just admire the beauty surrounding you. I honestly can't wait to go back to Boston, just to go here again. Damn Boston, you make me seriously wanna move here. Also, take a stroll through the Boston Public Garden too before you go here. I did :) Damn, I'm romantical. Overall, if you're into being outdoors & scenery, this is it. (I feel like that's a Michael Jackson concert tour name :P). read more

Lovely in the summer, cold in the winter. One of the best spots in Boston! Kids love the large playgrounds. Great biking and running there too! read more

Oh Esplanade...every summer you never stop amazing me with providing to be my favorite stretch of land to hide from everything or everyone in Boston. You lure me out of bed for runs, you beg for me to visit at night during sunsets and you never cease to amaze with your views time and time again. I bring friends, family and out-of-towners here...everyone feels the same way, but what they don't know is I really have you all to myself. If this were a real relationship, you would be the most committed based on your consistency to surprise. Sustained Seduction, that's what you are Esplanade. You are so good at it too! If I were to ever move away, my fondest of memories would be here. Run, Bike, Rollerblade, Make-out, Picnic, Lay-out...This place is the best free day in Boston! Don't worry, I guess I'll share. read more

I lived in Boston for five years and my greatest/only regret is not spending more time at The Esplanade. My friend and I picnic-ed here on Saturday (I was in town for the weekend) and it was perfect -- like, postcard-perfect. The sail boats, the breeze, it wasn't too crowded (I mean, depending on where you sit; we opted out of sitting on the docks), the sun streaming through the trees... Basically what I'm trying to say is, if you're looking for a relaxing spot to spend a summer afternoon, I'd highly (!!!) recommend The Esplanade. read more

The Esplanade - Picnic-ing at The Esplanade - Parks Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

Great place to stroll or watch movies. Sometimes gets a bit packed, but that's to be expected when the weather is nice. read more

The Esplanade - Yelp goes to the Goonies! - Parks Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

I have a confession to make. Ready? I've lived here going on three years now, and last weekend was the first time I'd been to the Esplanade. *audible gasps, record comes to screeching halt, crickets* It's true. I have a running list of places in Boston that I absolutely must visit, and this was one of them. The day I went couldn't have been better, either. The weather was perfect, and everyone was out to enjoy their day off and bask in the sun. The Esplanade is one of the best people-watching spots in Boston, in my opinion. Everyone seemed to truly enjoy whatever activity they were in engaging in there--biking, Rollerblading, windsurfing, kayaking, jogging, strolling, or simply lazing in the grass. Couples, babies, and dogs were out in full force. Sunbathers sprawled on the dock while the Red Line rumbled in the distance. All was calm. My only qualm lies in the lack of recycling bins. Plenty of trash bins, yes, but none specifically for recyclable containers. It's an otherwise wonderful public space, but there is a lot of trash present, and I have to wonder why recycling bins were overlooked in the planning. I'm surprised, given how many areas of Boston are super-committed to recycling. Hopefully they'll change this and allow people to toss their recyclables "responsibly". Uh-oh. Now I sound like a hippie ;___; (patchouli-scented tears) read more

This is my absolute favorite place to run in Boston. The views, the nature, the variety of paths, and the very easy ability to run across the Charles to Cambridge make this an awesome experience. Plenty of parks and water fountains along the way, too. read more

The Esplanade - Awesome - Parks Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

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Beautiful escape from the hustle and bustle of Boston. Great place to exercise, read a book, people watch and picnic. The Esplanade is my favorite place in Boston! read more

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There's no way I could give this place anything less than 5 stars. Wow, so incredibly beautiful. My friends took me to this park when I was visiting Boston this past weekend. (From what I saw) it was a decently sized park and packed with people -- running, sleeping, having picnics, reading, biking, etc. We sat down on the dock bordering the Charles River. It was a really hot day so it was nice to stick my feet in the cool water. And I got the chance to sunbathe a bit. And be with my best friend. With the breeze and warm sunshine, it was just one of those perfect moments I'll never forget. Looking out onto the river was very cool. People kayaked and sailed their boats right near us. I even saw a guy pull up and dock near us... and he began to grill some burgers! Then we relocated to a nice shade-y area and I almost took a nap because it was so relaxing. It's just a great overall place to hangout - especially on a beautiful day like I had this weekend. I can't wait to visit The Esplanade again. read more

I LOVED walking through this park on the misty Saturday morning that I spent there. It was a grey morning, but that didn't stop the locals from enjoying it. Tons of people were walking, running, biking with their kids. To me, this was the heart of Boston. read more

The Esplanade - Beautiful Morning! - Parks Near Me - Boston, Massachusetts

The best for running/walking/working out/gymming it/watching July 4th fireworks/viewing the Head of the Charles Race/feeding ducks/avoiding Beacon St and or Comm Ave traffic/watching a show at the half shell....and so much more! read more

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Great free concerts and movies in the summer at the Hatch Shell. Suntanning on your lunch break at the docks. A car-free bike ride home seeing the glittering lights of Fenway and Cambridge at night. Hot tip: Great at all times of day. read more

My favorite running route because of the view of the river, the vibe of all the other runners and the options of various distances depending which bridges to loop around from. read more

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The Esplanade is a gem of Boston! The area has been cleaned up and substantially renovated. The Hatch shell is amazing, but too often the performances are not so great... Kudos for the large event planners and city for closing Storrow drive when there are bumper crowds. It may be an inconvenience for the motorists, but it makes a world of difference for the concert. I wish that they would allow more quality free concerts. There are all sorts of events about, most of the schools could use the space for a cappella, jazz and classical performances. read more

The Esplanade's hatch shell is where the Boston Pops do that thing they do, and there are so many cool things to do out on the Esplanade even without them being in season. There's a gondola ride company, walking across a million lanes of traffic via the bright orange Arthur Fiedler Footbridge, and the water. The Charles River. It's gorgeous, glorious outdoors time. There are a few benches, but mostly it's just a green space that is lovely to walk around, with a sweetheart or a kid. Bonus? It's right next to the Boston Common (on the *other* side of the AF Footbridge), and thus you can take in a lot of exciting green space in one afternoon. I've seen regular city wildlife here (pigeons, squirrels, other smaller birds) and also birds of prey like hawks and owls! You just have to look up and pay attention. read more

The best thing about Boston. Beautiful place for bike rides and long runs. On a nice day, bring your dog or kids out to enjoy the park and grass. And of course, when they weather is good, pop some beers and enjoy the sun on the wooden decks. Or bring a book or laptop, work and contemplate while staring into the lovely sail boats. Or take a nap on the soft grass. This place is honestly so perfect for anyone and everyone. I love it! Small tip: if the weather is exceptionally good it may not be ideal for a really fast bike ride as there are a ton of people out. read more

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Lovely park along the Charles River on the Boston side in Back Bay. Great for walking, running, reading, or picnicking... any of those things you'd want to do in a park. I'm sorry I didn't get to stay for the 4th of July fireworks and Boston Pops. I hear it's quite a celebration. read more

Gawd, I really am showing my age, came here to see Rick Springfield tonight with my Barbies (Best girlfriends) a nice big sheet to laon the grass for all of us; Check A cooler of nice cold beverages; Check Being able to be a goofy & dance to your Childhood crush that was plastered all over your walls; Priceless! I was being a little goofy, But dont worry cause: I "Don't Talk To Strangers" but "I've Done Everything For You, But You've Done Nothing For Me" I was yearing for "Human Touch" So, now I'm "Jessie's Girl"! ;) read more

Just heard on the radio that a new runner's group will meet on the Esplanade every Tuesday and Thursday at 5:45 from a group 5 mile run. I must say I have NOT been running here out of safety concerns so I am glad there is a way for me to get back out there. It is a truly awe inspiring run all 4 seasons. I wish I remember who was organizing this so I could say thank you. read more

I live nearby and am always grateful for this clean, enjoyable respite from the downtown hustle. We have recently started attending the Friday night movies, and I couldn't be happier that I found it. It is a wholesome, fun, enjoyable experience. The events are well run, clean and feel safe. read more

Wonderful place to watch the fireworks. Yay for another wonderful celebration in Boston!

It's a great place for people to run, bike, or to take a stroll and enjoy the river-view. Not saying that you need to be moving to enjoy it, there are also plenty of benches for you to sit on! I first discovered this place with Dustin from the Giant Bike store and took a ride for hours on the esplanade. You can take it all the way from the Massachusetts Avenue bridge down to Watertown and even further! You see rowers on the river all the time, if you spot Riverside Boat Club, say hi as I may be on it! As you walk down the Esplanade you will find places for canoe, gardens, parks, and boat clubs. It's hard to find nature in Boston other than the commons and I'd suggest this place if you're looking for one! read more

WWWWWWHHHHHHHOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!! 4TH of July on the Esplanade!!! If you aren't here right now, you're out of the circle of trust. Make your way through the clusterf*ck and find me! I'm not above starting a martini-fueled U.S.A. chant. read more

BEEEEEEEAUTIFUL. The Esplanade is one of my favorite spots in Boston. Whether you're looking for a place to sit and read while staring out at the water, or a great picnic spot, or somewhere to go for a bike ride or a walk or a run, or to simply lay in the grass and do absolutely nothing at all (just watch out for goose and/or dog poop), the Esplanade's got you covered. And there's plenty of space! The Esplanade extends for about 3 miles along the shore of the Charles River, so if you're looking for a quieter spot with few people around, it's likely that you'll be able to find it if you look around for long enough. Plenty of benches right along the water, too! Ahhhhh. So peaceful. The Esplanade is also host to a whole variety of events, with one of the most notable being the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular at the Hatch Shell on July 4th. They also show Free Friday Flicks every week throughout the summer, which is tons of fun - just make sure you bring bug spray! Looking to get in shape? There are free fitness classes, like Zumba, that are offered weekly throughout the summer. You get the idea. There's something going on here for anyone and everyone. Come by yourself. Come with friends. Come with family. Just COME!! The Esplanade should definitely be on your must-visit list in Boston. And once you stop by, you'll see why. read more

I am one of the lucky ones who gets to live just a few blocks away from the Esplanade. It's got a plentiful mix of locals & tourists, runners & loungers, pets & picnics, and sunshine & shade. I am there most often to run (get yourself a copy of the Marathon Sports Charles River Running Guide for perfect distance measurements), but enjoy all time spent in this lovely little park. There is something magical about seeing the Charles glittering in the sunlight, dozens of little sailboats tooling around in front of you, a soft breeze rustling the trees overhead... ::sigh:: Makes me wish every day was a warm, lazy Saturday so that I could take full advantage! read more

I love The Esplande. I love when I'm frustrated on Storrow Drive that it gives me a little smile to look to the right. I love seeing all the runners and trying to decide which of them will be running the Boston marathon. I love joining the runners and hoping that others are thinking that I'm going to run the marathon. I love finding a bench in the shade and reading a good book while watching the sailboats on the Charles. I love the small lagoons and walking bridges that break up the park. I love how it has both trash and recycle bins as well as water fountains along the way. Did I mention that I love this place? read more

What can you say about the Esplanade that hasn't already been said! It's a dope spot for catching up on some culture - take in the Pops here or catch a Free Friday Flick. Bring a blanket and a picnic supper, or those super low-profile beach chairs. Don't be the dumkopf who brings a tall chair, because then people behind you can't see. Enjoy the summer in Boston! read more

A perfect place for a beautiful Boston walk. Whether you're off on a run, or just checking out the Charles, you get an awesome view of Cambridge, as well as a nice environment to walk around aimlessly. It's nature within the city at its finest. read more

Run, walk, sprint, stroll, bike, sit, sun...whatever you like, the Esplanade is the place to do it. The Esplanade has many a hidden spot to relax in, to read, have a picnic, to take a breather from the craziness of Boston traffic. There are many public docks along the water (mostly on the Boston side) and it is a great place to sit and enjoy some sunshine while watching the Charles. Don't miss a chance to see a Boston sunset from the Esplanade or take in a concert at the Hatch Shell, to walk among the geese flocks hidden near the BU bridge (watch out they can get cranky), or see cute kids and cute puppies frolicking in the grass while some hard bodies work out in the outdoor workout space, or be a big kid and play on the many playground sets. There's plenty to see here, so take advantage of it! read more

This is one of my favorite spots in Boston. I love running here in the mornings, sitting on the docks at night, bringing my son to play here, going to concerts at the Hatch Shell, on and on. It's gorgeous. read more

Great place for runs. Clean (except maybe the water) and a little slice of nature. Great views of Cambridge, and walk across one of the bridges to the Cambridge side to see great views of Boston looking back! If you start in the Esplanade at the Mass Ave bridge, run across, turn right on the Cambridge side and run along that until you can run head back to the Boston side on the Longfellow Bridge, head down the eplanade to where you started, its not far from a 5k. Good quick training route. read more

The esplanade is one of the best parts of Boston. That views are so beautiful and it is an excellent spot to go running. I go several times each week with my friends and our dogs. There are several play grounds and places for dogs to play. There are many docks to sit out on on nice days as well. This will always be my favorite place to go running. read more

Personally I think the Esplanade is one of the best places in Boston to bike or run. There are several docks where you can relax by the Charles and watch the rowers and sailboats. Great views of Boston and Cambridge, and a couple really great playgrounds for kids. read more

in the modern world it's quite hard to find a place where your heart and soul would be pleasantly surprised with the atmosphere but the Esplanade is exactly what you need. great place for running at any season, great place to watch the birds, to walk with pets, friends, children. this place really gives a peace of mind and soul. read more

Awesome if crowded spot to watch 4th of July fireworks! Perfect for morning run around the Charles before it gets hot mid-day in the summertime. read more