The best green spaces in Greater Boston and beyond, 2024

Readers Say

Readers shared 35 of their favorites.

When the weather is great and you get that itch to get outside and soak in the sunshine, Boston has a number of easily accessible green spaces to help you do exactly that. 

Surrounded by buildings, cars, and concrete, it can be easy to forget that there are still some green areas of refuge in and around Boston. As the days get longer and start to experience more consistent spring and summer-like weather, we wanted to know from Boston.com readers what green spaces in Greater Boston they love the most.

In 2022, we shared a list of reader favorites, featuring a handful of the most popular places to visit. This year, we’ve featured all recommendations and what readers had to say about them. Some of the most popular green spaces our readers shared were the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill in Boylston, the Arnold Arboretum in Jamaica Plain, the Boston Common and Public Garden, and the Charles River Esplanade.

Whether they voted for the Rose Kennedy Greenway or the string of parks known as the Emerald Necklace, above all, readers seem to love an opportunity to escape into nature with very little effort.

“Being outside, regardless of the weather, helps clear the head and get perspective,” said Jill R. from South Boston, whose favorite green space in Boston is Castle Island Park and Fort Independence.

Below you’ll find a map and a full list of reader-recommended parks, gardens, and trails in Greater Boston and beyond.

Reader submissions, from 2022 through 2024, have been lightly edited for clarity or grammar. The most popular suggestions for 2024 are marked with a 🌳.

Adams Farm

Adams Farm is a town-owned farm in Walpole that is made up of approximately 365 acres. It also loosely includes land adjacent to the farm, like private conservation trusts, which amounts to more than 700 acres, according to the website. The farm offers more than 10 miles of nature trails for hiking, but also has open spaces for recreational activities, picnics, and sledding in the winter. The farm also has a community garden, a butterfly garden when weather is warm, and an abundance of wildlife throughout their trails.

“An absolutely amazing 700-acre green space with trails, beautiful fields, and gardens.” —  Barbara M., Walpole

Arnold Arboretum 🌳

Harvard University’s Arnold Arboretum “is a jewel in the Emerald Necklace park system” located in Jamaica Plain. As of January 2024, the arboretum’s permanent collections house 15,953 individual plants. During the spring and summer months guests can walk to paths under the blooming flowers and learn about diverse plant species.

“It’s a gorgeous collection of plants, flowers, and trees from all over. You can get lost in nature, or enjoy a manicured area. You really can’t beat this place. It is so big and constantly breathtaking.” — Topher, Roslindale

“The Arnold Arboretum is a good place to lose yourself in. The trees are magnificent, and I love taking a stroll, breathing in clean air, and people watching.” — Renee D., Wellesley

“I lived in Jamaica Plain for 30 years and went to the Arboretum almost every day in every season to enjoy the beautiful trees and plants. Sadly I had to move out of Jamaica Plain and miss the Arboretum. It is one of the most beautiful and well maintained parks and I am thankful I was able to enjoy it all the years I lived there.” — Angela, Plymouth

“I walk in the arboretum almost every day! It feels like I am hiking in the woods when I live in a city! An instant mood booster and an excellent resource in Boston.” — Olivia, Roslindale

“It takes you to another world! You could explore for weeks and never find all its beauty.” — A Boston.com reader

Back Bay Fens

Back Bay Fens is part of the long string of parks that make up the Emerald Necklace. Located in the Fenway neighborhood, this park is made up of gardens, ball fields, memorials, and historic structures. Visitors can also check out the Kelleher Rose Garden and the World War II, Vietnam, and Korean War memorials.

Blue Hills Reservation

Blue Hills Reservation’s 7,000 acres span from Quincy to Dedham and Milton to Randolph. The green oasis has 125 miles of trails, peaks at 635 feet of elevation, and offers a swimming and fishing area at Houghton’s Pond.

“It has great hiking trails and is so close to the city but feels like it’s another world.” — A Boston.com reader

“It is miles of green separation from the city buildings.” — A Boston.com reader, Dorchester

“It is great for biking, hiking, swimming, sitting, etc.” — Rebecca, Milton

Borderland State Park

Located in North Easton, Borderland State Park has over 20 miles of hiking trails, mountain biking paths, and six different ponds to fish or boat in. It is also home to the Ames Mansion, which was built in 1910, and facilities where you can play disc golf or tennis.

“The miles of trails, view of ponds and lots of furry friends for my dog to meet.” — Wendy D., Easton

Boston Common and Public Garden 🌳

In its 350-year history, the Boston Common went from a cow pasture to a place with walking paths, fountains, and public art. The Public Garden in Downtown Boston has its own unique history, as well. Established in 1837, the Garden was the first public botanical garden in America and adopted a Victorian style incorporating “vibrant floral patterns” and exotic trees, according to the City of Boston. 

“I am in the Common every morning and evening with my dog and I love interacting with all the other dog walkers and people using the park. It’s a great vantage point to watch the city and still have this amazing feeling of being surrounded by a beautiful tree canopy. I especially enjoy watching children use the frog pond in summer and winter and who doesn’t love a moment of peace on the swan boats.” — Leslie A., Beacon Hill

“The Make Way for Ducklings statue! It’s my favorite place in the city to people and dog watch, the people performing music are always a plus.” — Taylor T., East Boston

“The Public Garden brings so much joy. I can’t wait for the abundance of tulips and see what the gardeners come up with this year. And I adore the ducklings statue.” — Gisela N., Beacon Hill

“The Boston Public Garden is my favorite place in the world. I love to visit often in spring to see everything in bloom at different times. It’s an oasis of calm in the city, even when crowded. As for views, the juxtaposition of tall buildings and trees is very pleasing to the eye.” — Louise B., Brimfield

“The exceptional plant collection and even better horticulture crew keep me coming back to this Olmstedian landscape of my dreams.” — Zach, Allston

“I love that it’s easy to get to via walking or public transportation.” — Alfredo H., Dorchester

Boston Harbor Islands

Hop on the ferry, enjoy the ride, and take a trip to the Boston Harbor Islands. Just minutes from downtown Boston, the islands are a great escape from the noise of the city. The Boston Harbor Islands are made up of 34 different islands featuring picnic areas, harbor views, a historic fort, and camping grounds.

“It feels like a vacation just a hop, skip, and jump from home.” — Alankrita, Cambridge

“The Boston Harbor Islands are pure magic. From the views atop the north drumlin on Spectacle to the history lurking in every corner of Fort Warren on Georges, to the stunning, spooky landscape of Peddocks. I’m obsessed.” — Brittany, Arlington

“History, peace from the pace of city life, and the boat rides!” — A Boston.com reader

Boston Harborwalk

The Boston Harborwalk is a 40-mile walkway right on the water that goes through East Boston, Charlestown, the North End, Downtown, Fort Point, South Boston, and Dorchester. While on the walk, take a stop at one of the many playgrounds, parks, beach areas, and restaurants on the way.

“It’s a very long path with varied scenery, lots of interesting harbor activity, architecture, and plenty of opportunities to stop along the way for a drink or a bite to eat.” — A Boston.com reader

“With 43 miles of Harborwalk, Boston’s coastline offers everything from big open parks to beaches to boardwalks to boat clubs.” — Alice B., Jamaica Plain

“Best views, close to some of the best restaurants, great for walking or riding your bike, ICA.” — Maria S., South Boston

Castle Island Park and Fort Independence

Castle Island Park in South Boston is fun in and of itself aside from also being home to the historic Fort Independence, which served as a military fortification for hundreds of years and now acts as a historic monument on Castle Island. The space itself is a 3-mile-long green space with plenty of areas for picnicking or taking a stroll on the Harborwalk.

“Being outside, regardless of the weather, helps clear the head and get perspective.” — Jill R. 

“I went for ice cream here as a little boy.” — Griffin M., Quincy

Charles River Esplanade 🌳

The Esplanade, which spans across Back Bay and part of Beacon Hill, is a 64-acre park loved for its natural beauty and riverfront location. It is a three-mile-long, natural green space on the Charles River that offers walking paths, jungle gyms, and recreational activities including boating, kayaking, and biking. 

“The Esplanade is a gem. I love spending summer evenings on the Hatch Shell lawn with my friends. The park looks gorgeous at sunset.” — Bryan M., Saugus

“The Esplanade is easily the best outdoor space in the Boston area. The sunset views along the river is the single best ‘moment’ you can have in Boston, perhaps outside a walk-off winner at Fenway Park. Their beer garden is the nicest in Boston. The playgrounds and gardens are well-kept. The pathways are always bustling. And it’s definitely the best shade canopy in the city, even when the cherry blossoms aren’t in bloom!” — Jeff S., East Cambridge

“Water is relaxing and people watching is fun.” — Joseph Z., Boston

“The Esplanade simply is never unattractive. Great paths for running and cycling, ample spots for picnics, even easily T accessible with waterfront views. It’s simply wonderful.” — Dan, Dorchester

“The beautiful flowers and green space with a wonderful river flowing by. Walking, jogging, biking, and hanging out with my family. This is one of the best places in the city.” — Srivi, Sharon

Christopher Columbus Park

Christopher Columbus Park is right on the waterfront by the Long Wharf in Downtown Boston and its main attraction is its trellis, which is covered in greenery when the warm weather months arrive. The park was built with the intent of offering the community and visitors the enjoyment and beauty of a public green space on the water.

Commonwealth Avenue Mall 

The 32-acre Commonwealth Avenue Mall in Back Bay, designed by Arthur Gilman in 1856, is decorated with sweetgum, green ash, maple, linden, zelkova, Japanese pagoda, and elm trees. The area connects the Public Garden to the Back Bay Fens and is equipped with pathways, benches, and statues.

“A peaceful stroll or bike through the heart of the Back Bay.” —  Philip P., Concord

“It’s such a historic and beautiful road, especially when the magnolia trees are in bloom and the tall trees are starting to open their high canopy.” — Douglas B., North Billerica

Fenway Victory Gardens 

The Fenway Victory Gardens span 7.5 acres and is the oldest surviving victory garden in the country, according to National Geographic. If you are looking to be a little more hands-on, the Fenway neighborhood space also holds over 500 gardens where Boston residents can grow their own flowers and vegetables.

“I love that the city gives me this opportunity to have a garden right next to downtown in the middle of a beautiful park.” — A Boston.com reader

“The Fenway Victory Gardens are a little slice of heaven. Imagine a thriving urban neighborhood with all the typical urban amenities; meanwhile, for those of us who garden in this space, it is our yard, it is our slice of the outdoors, it is where we pick our dinner ingredients fresh from the stalk while the birds and the bees fly by…” — Christine N., Boston

“Diverse use of garden space and wildlife.” — Allen, East Fenway

Franklin Park

What is known as Boston’s largest open space and considered Boston’s “country park,” Franklin Park is a part of the Emerald Necklace and was designed in the 1890s by Frederick Law Olmsted. The park has 485 acres of trails, playing fields, and historical features with attractions like the Bear Cages, Scarboro Pond, the William Devine Golf Course, a cross-country running course, the Franklin Park Zoo, White Stadium, the Elma Lewis Playstead, and playgrounds.

“It has the criminally underrated Franklin Park Zoo.” — Carlo, Jamaica Plain

“The park has so much going on you can walk around the golf course or the woods area. It is just pleasant, great trails and open to all. I live in Jamaica Plain so I have five good parks!” — Len, Jamaica Plain

“Great space, great amenities, great people.” — Scott, Jamaica Plain

Garden in the Woods

In Framingham you’ll find Garden in the Woods, a botanical garden teeming with New England native plants. Visitors have described the 45-acre green space as “magical,” according to their website. The garden employs different conservation efforts in order to conserve rare New England plants in danger of extinction. 

“Beautiful, peaceful, well maintained, friendly staff and they sell eco-typic native plants.” — Paul C., Northborough

Jamaica Pond

Established in 1891, Jamaica Pond is the largest standing body of water on the Emerald Necklace and needed very few alterations to make the space a beloved park. Natural springs within the pond make it the purest body of water in Boston. Jamaica Pond is equipped with a boathouse and bandstand and offers visitors concerts, children’s programs, theater performances, rowing, sailing, fishing, running, and biking paths. 

“This pond does so much for the community. It has fishing, sailing, walking and biking paths, lantern festivals, picnics, and more. Jamaica Plain is lucky to have it!” — A Boston.com reader

“There are so many places to visit on the Emerald Necklace from Franklin Park to Boston Common. The trail from Jamaica Pond to Kenmore Square is a favorite and we visit the Arboretum several times each week.” — Deb M., Boston

Larz Anderson Park

This park — the largest in Brookline — provides visitors with both a 61-acre expanse of green space and a history lesson. The land, which has been owned by various people since the American Revolution, was donated to the Town of Brookline by heiress Isabel Weld Anderson in 1951 “for purposes of public recreation, or for charitable purposes, or for purposes of public education.” Today, Larz Anderson Park contains an outdoor skating rink, picnic areas, a community garden, and the Larz Anderson Auto Museum.

Loring Greenough House

This historic house in Jamaica Plain is more than just a green space. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Loring Greenough House, built in 1760, has been maintained by the Jamaica Plain Tuesday Club for 100 years. In the summer, the house hosts Thursdays on the Lawn, where visitors can picnic in the gardens and which often feature live music and food trucks.

“The grounds of the Loring-Greenough House are a green oasis in the heart of Jamaica Plain. The garden is carefully tended by the stewards of the House. The beautiful scenes of blooming flowers or the snow covered lawn brings joy all year round.” — A Boston.com reader

Mass Audubon’s Boston Nature Center and Wildlife Sanctuary

Mass Audubon’s Boston Nature Center and Wildlife Sanctuary is a community-based urban sanctuary with over 350 species of plants, over 150 species of birds, and 40 species of butterflies. Located in Mattapan, the sanctuary offers programs year-round and contains walking trails and boardwalks for visitors. 

“It’s a wild oasis in the middle of the city.” — Heather, Boston

Middlesex Fells Reservation

Just north of Boston is Middlesex Fells, 2,200 acres of forest, wetlands, and hills. The area offers hiking, biking, and walking paths to explore and offers options for boat rentals. 

“It has great hiking trails and views of the Boston skyline.” — James, Medford

“Just out of the city but with many hiking and walking options in the woods. This is a favorite area of mine to explore, it feels remote and lush without being a long drive away.” — Ingrid G.

“It is large with multiple reservoirs to walk or bike along.” — A Boston.com reader, Medford

Millennium Park 

Millennium Park in West Roxbury was established in 2000 after it was renovated through soil excavated from the Big Dig. The park has a playground, soccer fields, running track, walking paths, and a canoe launch. The city is planning renovations which will focus on the playground, pathways, and a restroom. 

“Great place with just about every conceivable usage for a park.” — A Boston.com reader, West Roxbury

Mount Auburn Cemetery

Mount Auburn Cemetery, a National Historical Landmark located in Watertown and Cambridge, combines history and natural beauty into one experience. The garden cemetery is more than just a burial ground — the landmark has a lot to offer for those who love history, nature, scenic paths, and birdwatching. 

“Mount Auburn is a beautiful getaway from the city. Its vibrant public garden and green space make it the perfect place to connect with both nature and history.” — Joe C., Boston

“Mount Auburn always feels like a safe, welcoming space. The meandering hills, dells, and thousands of trees make you feel like you’re miles away from the city. It’s such a calming, beautiful place to walk around.” — Julie-Anne W., Somerville

“I always thought of Mount Auburn Cemetery as just an active cemetery until I visited for the first time last spring and then again for their Winter Solstice event. It was then that I realized that it isn’t just a cemetery, but an urban oasis with history, a horticulturally rich environment, and even programming for people of all ages. What a gem.” — Jovanny R., South Boston

“Greatest variety of trees and much wildlife.” — Paula M., Boston

Neponset River Greenway 

Neponset River Greenway is a trail running from Dorchester to Milton that has many parks running along its 13-mile length. It is equipped with trails for walking and biking under a dense canopy that you cannot get in the heart of Boston.

“It’s unusual to find such an idyllic place to walk in a dense urban area like Boston, especially one that’s accessible by public transit. The path runs between a river on one side and the historic Mattapan Line trolley on the other, with a lush tree canopy overhead and a variety of birdsong to accompany your walk.” — Gaby G., South End

Noanet Woodlands 

The Noanet Woodlands’ 595 acres in Dover have much to offer, with its network of trails bringing you to ponds, expansive woodlands, a former mill site, and Noanet Peak, where you can see the Boston skyline. Birds like warblers and thrushes can be heard in the warmer months and other wildlife like bluegills, painted turtles, and bullfrogs can be found at the ponds. 

“Great for hiking and being in nature, it’s dog friendly, too.” — Danyel, Fort Point

New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill 🌳

In Boylston, the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill is dedicated to being a place where people can “experience the wonder of plants, learn about the natural world, and make joyful connections,” according to their website. Today, the garden offers 171 acres of conservatories, gardens, a café, a gift shop, and walking trails.

“Love the open space. Beautiful flowers. Great walking trails. Very relaxing. Just pack up a lunch and go enjoy!” — Linda D., Worcester

“The four-season beauty of this garden is beyond comparison. The gardens are thoughtfully designed, the trails allow you to explore the natural woodlands, the conservatories offer something you can’t find anywhere else, and of course the cafe and gift shop are fabulous too.” — Grace C., Worcester 

“This space is inclusive and allows people from all backgrounds to be able to enjoy the gardens and nature. Everything is beautifully kept and the horticulture staff take pride in their gardens and work.” — Jill, Northborough

“The grounds are beautiful and it is very peaceful. The area has woodland trails in addition to formal gardens as well as the indoor plants! Kids love being outdoors there with the paths and water garden features. Just a beautiful place.” — Laurie G.

“It is a peaceful sanctuary. The beauty abounds. It never fails to provide an atmosphere that is restorative to the soul.” — Marge M., Hudson

Olmsted Park

Olmsted Park in Jamaica Plain, part of the Emerald Necklace designed by Frederick Law Olmsted features walking and biking paths, Leverett Pond, athletic fields, a wildflower meadow, and summer park concerts.

Partridge Island Trail

In Lynnfield, the Partridge Island Conservation Area features a 3,600-foot trail and boardwalk. Within its 540 acres, the area houses many endangered or rare species of birds, amphibians, and plants.

“Partridge Island Trail is a short quiet easy walk into Reedy Meadow, which is the largest freshwater cattail marsh in Massachusetts. It is a beautiful walk filled with wildlife such as swans, ducks, water snakes and frogs. I have taken many wildlife photos and videos in this area.” — Steve F., Lynnfield

Paul Revere Park 

Paul Revere Park is a 5-acre green space along the Charles River and the Freedom Trail in Charlestown. It offers walking paths, a playground, an outdoor mural, and is a perfect place to bring dogs. Looking to relax and take in some sights? The park also offers amazing views of the Zakim Bridge. 

“Great skyline views, great water views, there are multiple playgrounds for kids, a splash pad in the summer, skate park, open spaces for dogs… This place has it all.”  — Chris, Charlestown

Ramler Park

Ramler Park in Fenway is a hidden treasure owned by the City of Boston, and maintained by The Friends of Ramler Park. The half-acre sanctuary is made up of a small garden lined with paths and benches. The garden has different flowers, trees, and a stone gazebo and provides free programs like music and cultural events. 

“Tiny neighborhood park that is well looked after and loved.” — Liz, Jamaica Plain

“It’s such a nice, somewhat hidden spot of greenery in the Fenway area. I love going there on lunch breaks for some calm.” — Sharon, Brighton

The Riverway

The Riverway is another green space along the Emerald Necklace which borders Boston’s Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood and Brookline. It is a 34-acre park with walking paths as well as Bridle Path, a historic equestrian path, and a stone gazebo at the Chapel Street Bridge.

Rose Kennedy Greenway

Located right by the North End, the Greenway has so much to offer. Stop by one of North End’s bakeries and then lounge in the sun or, in the summer, spend the day cooling off with your kids in the fountains or take a spin on the Greenway Carousel.  

“The Greenway is the best because of its location and contrast with the surrounding urban landscape. It’s almost an oasis. There are so many great green spaces in the city. The Rose Kennedy Greenway was a highway and could be fancy condos, apartments, or businesses but instead is a great green space for my family and all residents and visitors.” — Will V. West Roxbury

“The public programs are almost entirely free and incredibly diverse and it is 100% organically maintained!” — Olivia, Brighton

“The Greenway gives so much to the city and downtown. Free public programs, amazing public art, and organic park care. It’s the best!” — A Boston.com reader

“The ribbon of parks through downtown Boston is a boon to all residents, businesses, and visitors! I enjoy sitting on the lawns and benches, visiting the gardens, food trucks, beer, and wine gardens as well as the farmers and specialty markets. Not to mention, the spectacular public art, best in the city!” — Matt C., Boston

Shining Sea Bikeway 

The Shining Sea Bikeway is a 10.7-mile cyclist path that opened in 1975 on the coast of Falmouth, Woods Hole, North Falmouth, and Vineyard Sound in Cape Cod. The bikeway is lined with native Cape Cod flower and tree species and goes through Sippewissett Marsh, cranberry bogs, Chapoquoit Beach, and the Salt Pond Bird Sanctuary.

“Walking or riding along the ocean and can detour to the lighthouse and other lovely areas.” — Sarah, Falmouth

Southwest Corridor Park 

This hidden gem runs about four miles in length from Back Bay to Forest Hills. The Southwest Corridor Park has six miles of trails perfect for enjoying the nice weather, several playgrounds, basketball and tennis courts, and amphitheaters.

“It has beautiful gardens and large lawns. The friendly volunteers there do so much and will answer any questions.” — L.H., West Roxbury

“Beautifully maintained, tons of different types of trees, bushes, flowers. Dog parks. Playgrounds. They keep expanding where they plant things. Protected area away from cars so kids and dogs can safely walk. A hidden gem!” — Christine, South End

Walden Pond 

Walden Pond is a National Historic Landmark located in Concord known as the “heart of the Walden Pond State Reservation.” You may be familiar with this location if you read Henry David Thoreau’s book, “Walden.” Check out the famed pond for a swim, a walk in nature, or a trip through history as you visit Thoreau’s single-room cabin.

“If you want to escape work pressure, and really unwind, walk the perimeter of the pond any time of day.”  — A Boston.com reader

Wellesley College Botanic Gardens

The Wellesley College Botanic Gardens has over 22 acres of diverse gardens, greenhouses, and a visitor center that is open to the public. The space houses thousands of plants with more than 1,500 different taxa from over 150 different plant families. While different areas and exhibits within the garden have unique themes, the community’s goal is to foster an environment for learning and for loving plants.

“Amazing new year-round indoor space reflecting all climates on earth. Arboretum, edible landscape, beautiful landscaping everywhere. An undiscovered gem.” — Joeth B., Carlisle