Why You Should Visit Boston in April: Magnolia Season in Back Bay

If you’re thinking about visiting Boston in the spring, let me save you the guesswork—April is one of the most beautiful months of the entire year. Every April, the magnolias bloom in the cobblestone streets of the Back Bay neighborhood. Magnolias typically bloom in Mid-April, but timing could vary slightly year by year.

Magnolias in full bloom adorn the Back Bay neighborhood in Boston, bringing vibrant color to the April streetscape.

Visiting the Back Bay is always a highlight for me, but in particular when the lush, creamy-pink blossoms transform some of Boston's most iconic streets into a postcard-perfect scene.

Nothing will stop you in your steps like when you turn the corner onto Dartmouth Street or Commonwealth Avenue, and see a magnolia tree full of light pink or pure white blossoms. And the fragrant smell of the flowers must be experienced!

Magnolia blossoms line the historic streets of Boston's Back Bay, creating a picturesque scene in April.

For first-time visitors, photographers, families, and anyone craving a little beauty in their life, April might be one of the best times to visit Boston.

Magnolia trees in full bloom outside a historic building in Boston's Back Bay, showcasing the beauty of spring in April.

Along with the magnolia blossoms, you will also experience the best flowers of spring and decorated front stoops of the Back Bay neighborhood. Tulips and daffodils abound in potted arraignments on steps or within iron work gated gardens in front of a lovely Back Bay home.

If you love taking photos for Instagram, this is the perfect backdrop to your perfect Instagram moment.

Along Commonwealth Avenue Mall and throughout the Back Bay brownstone neighborhoods, these towering magnolia trees burst into bloom - with flowers that paint the sidewalks in pink pastels.

Places to see the best blooms

• Commonwealth Avenue Mall (especially around Arlington St and Dartmouth St)

  This is the famous stretch - the iconic long row of magnolias with historic brownstones in the background.

• Marlborough Street

  Quieter, but stunning. Some of the most Instagram-worthy magnolia shoots are taken here.

• Newbury Street side streets

  Look for the magnolias spiling over iron gates and brownstone steps

Magnolia blooms in full splendor adorn the historic Back Bay neighborhood in Boston, creating a picturesque spring scene in April.

How to get to Back Bay to view the magnolias

One of the best things about seeing the magnolias is how easy they are to reach - even for first-time visitors.

Walking from Boston Common (10-12 minutes)

If you're already near Boston Common or Public Garden, you're incredibly close to the magnolias.

1. From the Public Garden, exit on the Arlington Street side

2. Cross Arlington Street and walk one block to Commonwealth Avenue Mall

3. You'll immediately see the famous magnolia-lined path

Blooming magnolia trees create a picturesque scene along a sunny sidewalk in Boston's Back Bay during April.

By Public Transportation (the T)

Green Line - Arlington Station (Best Option)

• Take any Green Line train (except the E-train)

• Get off at Arlington

• Exit the station and you're steps from the magnolias - Commonwealth Ave begins right across the street

Green Line - Copley Station

• A great option if you want to explore Newbury Street first

• Walk 5 minutes to Commonwealth Ave

April in Boston is short, sweet, and unbelievably beautiful—and the Back Bay magnolias make it one of the most photogenic times of year. Whether you’re taking a spring getaway, capturing photos for your travel album, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk, this is the perfect moment to experience Boston at its loveliest.

Magnolia blooms adorn the entrance of a charming brick building in Boston's Back Bay; an elegant display of springtime beauty in April.