Boston by nature

Boston lies 300 kilometres north of New York. This bustling metropolis on the north-east coast of the United States is nevertheless well connected to nature. In fact, its location on the Atlantic Ocean, between land and sea, promises a host of discoveries and activities. So whether you love whales, nature reserves or urban parks, Boston is the place for you! It's the ideal place to enjoy both the hustle and bustle of the city and the peace and quiet of the nearby countryside. For all these outdoor activities, don't forget that the climate is very marked here. Winters are harsh and prevent some of these activities.

Boston Waterfront Park

- © Belia Koziak / Shutterstock

Discover Boston's exceptional natural setting

The oldest of the great American cities spreads out between Cape Ann to the north and Cape Cod to the south. In fact, the city lies at the head of Massachusetts Bay.

The Gloucester Cape Ann coastline north of Boston Bay

- © Robert J. Bradshaw / Shutterstock

Inland, further north and to the west of Boston, the land is covered in forests, located in the states bordering Massachusetts (New Hampshire and Vermont). To protect these sensitive areas, a number of reserves allow city dwellers to enjoy the pleasures of nature, including the White Mountain National Forest and the Green Mountain National Forest, both of which are only a two-hour drive from Boston. Both can be reached in just two hours by car from Boston, but you don't have to go that far to enjoy the great outdoors!

It's possible to take a whale-watching cruise from Boston!

Here's an original summer excursion from Boston Harbour. Particularly popular with families and nature lovers, this activity takes place in fine weather. Between May and October, whales approach the coast with their young.

Among the different species of cetacean present, you can observe blue whales and humpback whales. The average cruise lasts 4 hours.

The Massachusetts State Office of Tourism lists the various operators offering whale watching itineraries from Boston harbour.

Port de Boston

- © Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

Walking through a small nature reserve on the outskirts of Boston

Another opportunity to recharge your batteries in the heart of nature, just a few kilometres from the big city! Here, west of Boston, in the town of Sudbury, come and discover the Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge.

You can observe the protected ecosystem of a wet meadow on a nature trail. The best time to explore is at dawn or dusk. These are the times of day when the animals are most active.

If you're lucky, you may spot birds of prey, turtles, herons, muskrats, white-tailed deer, etc.

Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge wooden trail and observatory.

- © SciTech Photos / Shutterstock

Discover the Harborwalk, an ocean-facing path in the heart of Boston

All you have to do is follow the 70-odd kilometres of the Harborwalk. This promenade, currently under construction, follows the piers and quays of Boston harbour. It also takes in a number of coves and beaches along the city's coastline. The path is ideal for pedestrians, as well as rollerbladers and cyclists. Families with pushchairs are also very welcome.

Along the way, stop off in the shade of the trees in the parks and gardens, a welcome break in the middle of the city! However, it is the urban aspect that predominates, with Boston's small skyline as a backdrop. But the ocean and the call of the sea are always there! A dream of escape just around the corner...

Harborwalk in Boston

- © Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

Where to sleep nearby?

⭐ Seaport Hotel Boston

The Seaport Hotel Boston is a very good option. In fact, ideally located, it offers easy access to the Harborwalk as well as to the cruisers in the port. In addition to its pleasant, soundproofed rooms, the hotel offers a bar-restaurant and fitness room. The suites can accommodate a family of 4. The icing on the cake is the superb indoor swimming pool. The prices are as high as the services provided.

Seaport Hotel Boston Boston
Booking.com

Seaport Hotel Boston

4-star hotel on the seafront with swimming pool and bar-restaurant. Some rooms have large windows offering a remarkable view.
8.9 Superb
From
£280 / night
Book

Practical info

👉 When to go on these adventures near Boston?

The climate is a factor to consider in this part of the United States. That's why favour a discovery between June and September if you want to carry out these activities. With very distinct seasons, New England's climate is pleasant from late spring to early autumn. Winter is harsh, but it adds to Boston's character. When snow covers the streets, the atmosphere changes dramatically. At this time of year, other attractions take over.

🚌 How do you get to these natural spaces?

  • For whale-watching cruises, head for the harbour quays, especially Long Wharf. Access by metro via the Blue Line Aquarium station.

  • For the Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, the easiest way to get there by car is to follow Concord then Sudbury. Address**: 73 Weir Hill Road.** The visitor centre is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm.

  • Walking the Harborwalk is easy. Just follow the route along Boston Harbour.

by Editorial Team
Need a hand? take a look at our guide
Boston
Boston
Latest news
Berlin
Checkpoint Charlie
Brussels
A weekend in the heart of Brussels
Bruges
Discovering Bruges' historical and cultural heritage
Ajaccio
Sunbathing on Argent beach near Ajaccio
Miami
Miami and the surrounding area in six days
Read more articles
Best cities