Harborwalk from Long Wharf to the New England Aquarium
- Lori S.
- Jan 10
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 11
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The Harborwalk stretch from Long Wharf to the New England Aquarium is one of the easiest and most rewarding waterfront walks in Boston. 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.
Where to Start the Harborwalk
The most common and convenient place to start this walk is Long Wharf itself, located right near Aquarium Station on the MBTA Blue Line. You’ll find clear signage for the Harborwalk as soon as you reach the waterfront. If you are taking the "T", get off at the Aquarium Stop and you will be right at the perfect spot to start walking this portion of the Harborwalk.
If you’re already downtown, you can also enter from nearby streets like State Street or from the Rose Kennedy Greenway and walk toward the water. The path is well-marked and intuitive, making it easy to join at several points along the way.
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Attractions, Things to Do & Photo Opportunities
Starting at Long Wharf, you’ll immediately be greeted by wide-open views of Boston Harbor. This is a great spot for photos looking out toward the water, watching ferries depart, or capturing the skyline behind you.
As you walk south, you’ll pass historic piers and docks where you can watch boats coming and going throughout the day. Seagulls, sailboats, and harbor tour vessels create a lively atmosphere that feels distinctly Boston.
Just off the Harborwalk, you’ll also see Christopher Columbus Park, a lovely green space with fountains, gardens, and a playground. It’s an easy detour if you’re walking with kids or want a shaded spot to pause. There is a beautiful large trellis that you can walk under. Perfect for photos!
Your walk ends at the New England Aquarium plaza, where the harbor opens up again for beautiful waterfront photos. Even if you don’t go inside the aquarium, the outdoor area is a popular place to sit, relax, and enjoy the view. There are also several harbor cruises or water shuttle options in this area of the Harborwalk. Consider taking a Boston Historic Sightseeing Cruise.
How Long This Stretch Takes
This section of the Harborwalk is short and manageable, making it ideal for all ages.
The walk itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes at a relaxed pace. Most people spend closer to 30–60 minutes total when factoring in photo stops, watching boats, or grabbing a snack along the way.
Bathrooms & Food Stops
Public restrooms are available near the entrance to the New England Aquarium, which is especially helpful for families. There are also public bathrooms about 1 block away at Quincy Market.
Food options are plentiful in this area. Near Long Wharf, you’ll find quick-service spots and seasonal vendors offering chowder, lobster rolls, and ice cream. There are also cafés and casual restaurants just a block or two inland if you’re looking for something quick and easy. If you want a sit-down meal with a view, Rowes Wharf and nearby waterfront restaurants are within walking distance. Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market are only about one block away.
Stroller Friendliness & Accessibility
This is one of the most stroller-friendly sections of the Harborwalk. The path is wide, paved, and completely flat, with no stairs or steep inclines. Benches are scattered along the route, making it easy to stop for breaks.
Wheelchairs and mobility devices can also navigate this stretch comfortably, and the aquarium entrance is fully accessible.
Why This Walk Is Worth Adding to Your Boston Itinerary
If you’re short on time but want a true taste of Boston’s waterfront, the Harborwalk from Long Wharf to the New England Aquarium delivers big scenery with minimal effort. It pairs perfectly with a visit to the aquarium, a harbor cruise, or a stroll through nearby downtown neighborhoods.
This is the kind of walk that works just as well for a quiet morning stroll as it does for a mid-day family outing — simple, scenic, and unmistakably Boston.
