Boston's bustling Waterfront

The Waterfront, one of Boston's oldest districts, is a must-see when visiting New England's largest city. Boston's 'waterfront' is mainly made up of quays, footbridges and piers. A stroll through this area will give you a feel for the harbour atmosphere just a stone's throw from the city centre. But there's more to life than the sea. The waterfront is home to numerous bars and seafood restaurants. The shops bring a certain liveliness to this corner of the city. Alongside the district, the Rose Kennedy Greenway and Christopher Columbus Park are pleasant places to relax, with gardens, merry-go-rounds and fountains.

The Waterfront and downtown Boston

- © Gordon Bell / Shutterstock

A bit of history on Boston's Waterfront

In the 19th

century, this part of Boston was very active. From the first sailing ships to the shipyard, the city grew steadily under the shelter of its harbour.

After a definite decline on the Waterfront, it wasn't until the 60s and 70s that the link between the city centre and the Waterfront was re-established. From then on, modern buildings, residences and luxury hotels sprang up.

Most of the quays were rehabilitated. Finally, the creation of the Institute of ContemporaryArt in 2006 confirmed the renaissance and growing appeal of this part of Boston.

Waterfront pier with downtown Boston in the background

- © Rachel Moon / Shutterstock

Waterfont, an area full of activities and discoveries

The New England Aquarium is a popular destination for families. This aquarium offers a fun and instructive approach to underwater life and its fragile ecosystems.

In fact, the focus is mainly on the Massachusetts Bay environment.

Here, close to Boston, the Atlantic Ocean is rich and hides a multitude of species that the museum brings within immediate reach of your amazed eyes.

Admission charge, reduced rates.

Entrance to the Boston Aquarium

- © FrimuFilms / Shutterstock

If you're with the family and you'd like to fill your little ones with wonder, head for the Boston Children's Museum! Dozens of activities are on the programme.

We strongly recommend that children take part, as the fun aspect of the activities makes it an exciting place to learn while having fun.

The museum introduces visitors to other cultures and countries around the world. It's a real trip that includes a visit to a house in Japan!

As an added bonus, there are a number of temporary exhibitions on a variety of themes.

The museum is open every day from 9am to 5pm (9pm on Friday evenings). It is closed on certain public holidays. Admission charge, reduced rates.

Entrée du Boston Children’s Museum

- © f11photo / Shutterstock

To top it all off, the Waterfront is located on the famous Harborwalk. This pedestrian path follows Boston's waterfront for several kilometres. The perfect place for a hike or a rollerblade outing!

Boston sunrise from the Waterfront Harborwalk

- © Richard Brew / Shutterstock

Finally, the Waterfront is the place to be if you want to get away from it all! This is where the many cruises to the islands and the ocean depart from. Here you can enjoy magical encounters with whales...

To choose your service provider, visit the Massachusetts Tourism website.

Looking for a seafood restaurant?

This is the perfect place to satisfy your craving for fish or seafood! There are plenty of addresses on this itinerary.

We have selected the Legal Sea Foods restaurant located near the Waterfront at 255 State Street. Even though it's a chain of restaurants, this address serves very fresh produce.

Special mention should go to the tasty Clam Chowder and the lobster with all its sauces!

Where to stay near Boston's Waterfront?

⭐ Boston Marriott Long Wharf

The Boston Marriott Long Wharf is the best placed hotel in the area. This 4 star hotel charges very high rates in line with those offered in downtown Boston.

On the other hand, the standard of the rooms and the quality of the services offered are worth the stay. Some rooms overlook the bay and harbour quays.

Special mention should be made of the beautiful indoor swimming pool. The hotel also offers a modern gym.

A restaurant completes the range of services on offer.

Boston Marriott Long Wharf Boston
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Boston Marriott Long Wharf

Situated in the heart of Boston, this hotel features an outdoor swimming pool.
8.8 Superb
From
£330 / night
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Practical info

👉 When to come to Boston's Waterfront?

You can come to this touristy corner of the city at any time of year. However, it's during the summer months that activity is at its peak. In fact, in summer the cruises, concerts and café terraces bring remarkable liveliness.

🚌 How do I get to Boston's Waterfront?

The city's harbour area is located right next to Boston city centre. As a result, public transport is plentiful.

By metro, take the Blue Line and get off at the Aquarium stop.

Public transport (metro, bus, ferry) is managed by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority.

As the Boston Waterfront is a walking tour, it goes without saying that you will need to park your car. Whenever possible, use public transport to get to the Waterfront. However, there are several private car parks close by. Please note that parking charges are high, with a minimum charge of $25 per day.

by Faustine PEREZ
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