Exploring the Boston Harborwalk

Affiliate Disclosure:

This post may contain affiliate links. If you book through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tours and experiences I genuinely believe are helpful for visitors to Boston. 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 nearly 40-mile public waterfront walkway that wraps around Boston Harbor, connecting the city’s neighborhoods to the water in a way that feels both scenic and surprisingly accessible. Stretching from Chelsea Creek to the Neponset River, the Harborwalk winds through East Boston, Charlestown, the North End, Downtown, Fort Point, South Boston, and Dorchester, offering ever-changing views of the harbor, skyline, historic sites, parks, and working waterfront.

Designed to bring the public right to the water’s edge, the Harborwalk links Boston’s open spaces, piers, beaches, and promenades into one continuous path. Some sections feel lively and urban, while others are peaceful and park-like, making it easy to explore in short walks or longer day adventures.

Along the way, you’ll find playgrounds, public art, benches, food stops, ferry terminals, and iconic Boston landmarks. Whether you’re strolling with a stroller, heading out for a scenic jog, or slowly exploring one neighborhood at a time, the Harborwalk invites you to experience Boston from its most beautiful angle — right along the water.

Click here for an interactive map to explore the Boston Harborwalk.

The Harborwalk is one of the most walkable routes in the city. The paths are paved, flat, and stroller-friendly. You can jump in at dozens of points, explore short sections, or try a longer adventure. Each section of the Harborwalk provides a unique Boston experience.

Also read: Harborwalk from Long Wharf to New England Aquarium

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

Boston Harborwalk map - bostonharborwalk.org

This is one of my favorite things to do when walking around Boston. I love to explore different parts of the Harborwalk from Fan Pier Point in the Seaport District, Long Wharf with its bustling atmosphere, and the Charlestown Navy Yard for its view of the North End (with the spire of the Old North Church visible in the distance).

Skyline view from Boston's Fan Pier Park showcasing the city's blend of modern architecture against 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. First Time Visitor Recommendation: Harborwalk from Long Wharf to New England Aquarium

This portion of the Harborwalk is one of the perfect first-time visitor experience. It’s short, flat, full of classic harbor views, and perfect for first-time visitors, families with strollers, or anyone wanting a relaxed way to experience the city by the water. Click here to learn more about where to start this portion of the Harborwalk, attractions, food options, and photo opportunities.

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

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 Boston skyline

• Boats and ferries coming and going

• View of airplanes taking off and landing at Boston Logan Airport

• 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

Places to Eat

• Quincy Market / Faneuil Hall

• Seaport restaurants

• North End bakeries and cafes

• Sullivan's on Castle Island

• Waterfront seafood spots

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.

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.

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.

Psst: We have several other posts about exploring Boston on foot! Make sure to take a look at them for more inspiration and travel advice.

• Best Things to Do in Boston Without a Car

• 25 Things to Do In Boston as a First-Time Visitor

• Iconic Boston Attractions You Can't Skip

• Best Walkable Areas in Boston for Families

• Is Boston a Walkable City for First-Time Visitors to Explore