Exploring Long Wharf: A Must-See Stop on the Boston Harborwalk

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If you’re walking the Boston Harborwalk, Long Wharf is one spot you absolutely shouldn’t skip. Sitting right on Boston Harbor between the New England Aquarium and Downtown Boston, Long Wharf is one of the most historic—and most scenic—sections of the entire Harborwalk. It’s easy to reach, full of waterfront views, and a perfect place to slow down and soak in the city. If you are new visitor to Boston, the Long Wharf is one of the best places to start your Boston tourist experience.

Bustling with activity, Boston's Long Wharf along the Harborwalk showcases a blend of historic and modern architecture against a bright blue sky, with ferries docked at the lively waterfront.

Where Is Long Wharf?

Long Wharf is located along Boston’s downtown waterfront, directly across from the New England Aquarium and just steps from Faneuil Hall Marketplace. It stretches into Boston Harbor, making it one of the city’s most prominent and recognizable piers. If you’re walking the Harborwalk, Long Wharf connects the North End / Aquarium area with the Seaport District, making it a natural stop along the route. Why Long Wharf Is So Important

Built in 1710, Long Wharf was once Boston’s primary commercial pier and one of the longest wharves in the world at the time. For centuries, ships carrying goods, immigrants, and ideas docked here—helping shape Boston into a major port city.

Today, it’s less about cargo and more about connection: ferries, harbor cruises, and pedestrians all flow through this historic space.

Replica boats are available for Harbor Cruises - a perfect activity for a family

Peaceful summer day at Boston's Long Wharf, featuring moored sailboats with city skyscrapers in the background.

What You’ll See at Long Wharf Harbor & Skyline Views

Long Wharf offers some of the best waterfront views in Boston. Look out across the water and you’ll see:

• Boston Harbor Islands

• Ferries and sailboats

• The downtown skyline rising behind you

• East Boston across the harbor

It’s a fantastic spot for photos—especially in the early morning or at sunset.

Crowds gather at the Boston Harborwalk Long Wharf Ferry Center Ticket Booth, ready to explore the Boston Harbor Islands National Park Area on a sunny day.

Ferries & Harbor Cruises

Long Wharf is a major transportation hub on the water. From here you can catch:

• Boston Harbor Islands ferries

• Charlestown Ferry

• Salem Ferry (seasonal)

• Boston Harbor Sunset Sightseeing Cruise

• City Cruises Boston Historic Sightseeing Cruises This 60-minute narrated cruise takes you out onto Boston Harbor, where the city’s history unfolds from the water—just as it did during the Revolutionary War. With live commentary, panoramic skyline views, and classic Boston landmarks along the route, it’s a perfect activity for first-time visitors, families, and anyone short on time.

• Sightseeing Day Sail Boat Around Boston Harbor

  
  

Even if you’re not boarding one, watching the boats come and go is part of the charm. New England Aquarium (Next Door)

The New England Aquarium sits right next to Long Wharf, making this a great pairing for families. Outside, you’ll often see:

• Street performers

• Kids watching seals

• People sitting along the water enjoying snacks

Sailboats gently drift across the shimmering waters of Boston Harbor, with the skyline and Boston Logan Airport faintly visible in the distance from the Long Wharf on the Boston Harborwalk.

Walking the Harborwalk at Long Wharf

This section of the Harborwalk is:

• Flat and fully paved

• Wide and easy to navigate

• Accessible for strollers and wheelchairs
  

Benches line the water, and the open layout makes it a relaxing place to pause before continuing your walk toward the North End or Seaport. Is Long Wharf Good for Families?

Yes—this is one of the most family-friendly Harborwalk spots.

Why families love it:

• Close to the New England Aquarium

• Space for kids to move around

• Boats and ferries to watch

• Easy access to food and restrooms nearby
  

It’s a great stop if you’re traveling with younger kids or planning a flexible sightseeing day.

Long Wharf compass artwork at Boston Harborwalk, marking a historic location in Boston.

Food & Nearby Stops

While Long Wharf itself is more about views than dining, you’re surrounded by options:

• Faneuil Hall & Quincy Market (5-minute walk)

• North End bakeries & Italian restaurants

• Waterfront seafood spots along the Harborwalk
  

Grab food nearby and bring it back to enjoy by the water. How to Get to Long Wharf by Public Transportation

Long Wharf is one of the easiest Harborwalk locations to reach.

Subway (The T)

• Aquarium Station (Blue Line) – Directly across the street

• State Street (Orange/Blue Line) – 5-minute walk

• Government Center (Green Line) – 10-minute walk
  

By Ferry

Ferries from Charlestown, East Boston, Salem, and the Harbor Islands dock directly at Long Wharf.

Old wooden piers wrapped in thick metal cables stand prominently along Boston Harborwalk at Long Wharf, with city buildings towering in the background.

Best Time to Visit Long Wharf

• Morning: Quiet, peaceful, great light for photos

• Midday: Lively with boats, visitors, and performers

• Sunset: One of the best skyline views in the city

Spring through fall is ideal, but even winter visits can be beautiful on clear days.

How Long Should You Spend Here?

Most visitors spend:

• 15–30 minutes relaxing and exploring

• 1–2 hours if pairing with the Aquarium or a harbor cruise

It’s an easy stop to add into any downtown Boston itinerary. Long Wharf perfectly blends Boston’s maritime history with modern city life. Whether you’re catching a ferry, boarding a Historic Sightseeing Cruise, visiting the Aquarium, or simply strolling the Harborwalk, this spot offers some of the best harbor views in the city—and it’s incredibly easy to fit into your day.

If you’re walking the Boston Harborwalk for the first time, Long Wharf is the place to start—or stop and stay awhile.

View of Charlestown, showcasing the historic USS Constitution and the Bunker Hill Monument under a clear blue sky in Boston.