Exploring the Boston Harborwalk

If you’re visiting Boston for the first time and want a relaxing way to experience the city’s history, skyline, and coastline all in one route, the Boston Harborwalk is one of the easiest and most rewarding paths to follow.

What Is the Boston Harborwalk?

The Boston Harborwalk is a 43-mile public walkway that traces the city’s shoreline, stretching across different neighborhoods and offering continuous waterfront access wherever possible. You can jump in at dozens of points, explore short sections, or try a longer adventure.

Skyline view from Boston's Fan Pier Park showcasing the city's blend of modern architecture against a clear blue sky.

The Harborwalk is one of the most walkable routes in the city. The paths are paved, flat, and stroller-friendly. There are some locations where I did find that there were a short flight of stairs around the Fan Pier area or over open-grate bridges that span Charlestown and the North End that could be challenging for some young families to navigate.

This is one of my favorite things to do when I want to take an hour or two to relax and take a stroll through Boston. I consistently stumble across surprises along the way.

The Northern Lights boat docks at Boston Harbor, ready to set sail on the calm waters under a clear blue sky.

Whether you have an hour or an entire afternoon, this waterfront walkway gives you a front-row view of Boston Harbor—passing parks, piers, museums, public art, and some of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods.

What Do You Recommend For First Time Visitors?

Because the Harborwalk is long, you can choose your own adventure! Take a quick visit by picking a neighborhood section.

I would recommend the North End -> Long Wharf -> Seaport section, which is about 2 miles. You would start at the Aquarium Station (Blue Line), walk through the Christopher Columbus Park -> Long Wharf -> Rose Kennedy Greenway Connector -> Seaport Harborwalk -> Fan Pier Park. You can then pick up the Silver Line Courthouse Station should you want to jump back on Public Transportation.

View of Boston Harbor showcasing the Harborview dome and moored yacht, with a plane cruising through the clear blue sky.

Other popular stretches include:

• Seaport -> Castle Island

• Piers Park East Boston Loop which has great skyline views.

Walking the full length of the Harborwalk of 43 miles is not typical for visitors.

Where the Harborwalk Starts and Ends

The Boston Harborwalk spans across several Boston neighborhoods, via several connected paths.

The Boston Harborwalk starts on the Northern end at Charlestown Navy Yard where travelers begin near the USS Constitution, Bunker Hill, and nearby historic Charlestown. The Boston Harborwalk ends at the Southern end through South Boston and down to the Neponset River Reservation.

Between these two ends, the Harborwalk loops through Boston's most scenic waterfront districts, including:

• The North End

• Downtown / Long Wharf

• Seaport District

• Fort Point

• South Boston Beaches (Castle Island!)

• Dorchester Bay

What You'll See Along the Harborwalk

This is where the Harborwalk really shines, there is always something to see!

A large American flag hangs prominently under the grand arches of Boston Harborwalk, with the cityscape visible in the background.

Waterfront Views

• View of the skyline

• Boats and ferries coming and going

• Harbor islands in the distance

• Sunrise and sunset on the water

Colorful fishing buoys and floats adorn a vibrant red wall along the Boston Harborwalk, adding nautical charm and character to the waterfront scene.

Historic Sites

• USS Constitution ("Old Ironsides")

• Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum

• Long Wharf and Custom House Tower

• Fort Independence at Castle Island

Parks & Green Spaces

• Christopher Columbus Park (beautiful trellis!)

• Piers Park in East Boston

• Fan Pier Park in the Seaport

• Castle Island paths and beaches

Boats gently float in the calm waters of Boston Harbor, with the iconic Long Wharf and city buildings gracing the skyline under a clear blue sky.

Places to Eat

• Quincy Market / Faneuil Hall

• Seaport restaurants

• North End bakeries and cafes

• Sullivan's on Castle Island

• Waterfront seafood spots

The Boston Harborwalk is one of the best things to do in the city—free, scenic, and customizable for any schedule. Whether you're here for a few hours or spending a full day exploring, you’ll get a beautiful look at the harbor and some of Boston’s most iconic neighborhoods.