Where to Go for Walks in Greater Boston

Illustration by Allie Runnion for Just Us Gals

The warm weather has returned to our city once again! The sounds and smells of spring are abundant; birds chirp, rain falls, flowers bloom and their aromas permeate through the air. All around the Greater Boston area people are craving the outdoors and the sunshine and serenity that nature provides. 

Today we are sharing 6 locations for where to walk in Boston and the surrounding area. Walking is a superb springtime activity and a safe way to get fresh air, exercise, and see a friend or 2 (if everyone takes the proper COVID precautions).   

The Arnold Arboretum

125 Arborway
Boston, MA 02130

Founded in 1872, the Arnold Arboretum (according to the official website) “is a museum of trees teaching the world about plants”. The arboretum is made up of 281 acres of preserved land and is North America’s oldest public arboretum. There are over 2,000 different species of plants in the living collection! This public park was designed by Frederick Law Olmstead and is free to visit! It is a lush and beautiful place to wander around. The arboretum is accessible by bus, subway, and car and free parking can be found on Walter Street, Bussey Street and on the Arborway.

Mount Auburn Cemetery

580 Mount Auburn Street
Cambridge, MA 02138

Located on the Cambridge and Watertown border, Mount Auburn Cemetery is a National Historic Landmark that was established in 1831. This 170 acre cemetery was designed by Jacob Bigelow, Henry A.S. Dearborn, and Alexander Wadsworth. It is the first “garden” cemetery in the United States, created to function similarly to a public park and green space to welcome nature lovers. It features over 5,000 plants and trees from various countries, beautiful sculptures, and a myriad of paths to meander along. This landmark is also listed as a Massachusetts Important Bird Area by Mass Audubon. There is free parking within the cemetery and there are public transportation options nearby as well.

Boston Public Garden

4 Charles Street
Boston, MA 02116

Established almost 200 years ago in 1837, the 24 acre Boston Public Garden is America’s first public botanical garden. This National Historic Landmark is situated in Downtown Boston and stays true to its decorative Victorian era design. Gorgeous fountains and statues, historic and otherwise (think Make Way for Ducklings) are dispersed throughout the garden and one of the most popular attractions is the tranquil pond filled with Swan Boats. Plenty of plants bloom each spring, including over 20,000 tulips planted by the gardeners. Walking through the idyllic garden can be a refreshing change of pace from the hustle and bustle of busy city life. 

Blue Hills Reservation

695 Hillside Street
Milton, MA 02186

The Blue Hills Reservation is a state park overseen by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). It covers over 7,000 acres and has more than 100 miles of trails that serpentine through the landscape. It’s just 10 miles south of Boston but feels like a world away. Hiking, walking, mountain biking, canoeing and rock climbing are just a small sample of all the activities that can take place here. There are wonderful views, scenic paths, outdoor and indoor exhibits (the latter are currently closed) and so much flora and fauna to admire! Visitors can park in the Houghton’s Pond lot for free.  

Charles River Esplanade

Charles River Esplanade
Boston, MA 02116

The Charles River Esplanade is a 3 mile long park in the Back Bay neighborhood of Boston spanning the banks of the Charles River from the Museum of Science to the Boston University Bridge. This trail is perfect for walking along and enjoying the scenes of the city while also reaping the benefits of sunshine and fresh air. As there is no parking on the Esplanade, visitors are recommended to take the T, utilize ridesharing, or park in a facility in Boston city proper. 

Middlesex Fells Reservation

4 Woodland Road
Stoneham, MA 02180

Located a short ride away from Boston, the Middlesex Fells Reservation is a 2,000 acre state park with impressive history. Portions of the park and some of the park’s structures have even made it onto the National Register of Historic Places. It is one of the first reservations that the Metropolitan Parks Commission created and has more than 100 miles of trails for walking, hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Spot Pond is a focal point of the reservation and in the 19th century ice cut from the pond supported New England’s ice industry. Now the woodlands and watersheds are protected in order to be preserved and enjoyed for years to come! Various parking options exist for visitors but are limited at this time due to covid.

We hope that this list of pleasant places to walk in the Greater Boston Area is beneficial to you and that you’re able to take advantage of these locations in the sunny spring and summer days ahead!

Emily Movsessian is a writer, explorer, and foodie. You can follow her Boston-area food adventures on Instagram at @ems.eats.n.experiences

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