Say goodbye to the long winter by taking advantage of these uniquely Bostonian outdoor attractions
Faneuil Hall Marketplace
This historic, open-air shopping, dining and entertainment nexus truly comes to life in the spring when its famed street performers (pictured) come out of hibernation to amaze the masses with juggling, magic, music and more. Also enjoy activities ranging from chess to billiards to the occasional art and fitness class, all in the great outdoors.
617-523-1300, faneuilhallmarketplace.com
Boston Red Sox
A sure sign of spring in the Hub, the Sox vie against the Rays (April 27–29), Royals (April 30–May 2), Athletics (May 14–16) and Orioles (May 18–20) at Fenway Park.
4 Yawkey Way, 617-226-6666, mlb.com/redsox
Swan Boats
This beloved tradition has been a fixture of the Boston Public Garden since 1877. Cruise in leisure on these iconic vessels, taking in the serene sights of spring.
Public Garden Lagoon, 617-522-1966, swanboats.com
Boston Public Garden
Be on the lookout for the Return of the Swans in early May, as well as the Duckling Day Parade on Mother’s Day, which culminates at the country’s first public botanical garden.
4 Charles St., 617-635-4505, friendsofthepublicgarden.org
Rose Kennedy Greenway
This strip of greenery in the heart of the city hosts a colorful, custom designed carousel, and the seasonal Boston Public Market at Dewey Square—a farmers’ market featuring local produce, cheese, bread and more—every Tuesday and Thursday beginning May 15.
617-292-0020, rosekennedygreenway.org
Emerald Necklace
The Frederick Law Olmsted-designed park system begins free seasonal tours with a glimpse at the Back Bay Fens May 5 & 6, followed by a look at the Muddy River May 19.
617-522-2700, emeraldnecklace.org
SoWa Open Market
Every Sunday beginning May 6, the SoWa District of the South End hosts local artisans, farmers and food trucks, as well as a brand-new craft beer garden.
460, 500, 530 & 540 Harrison Ave., 857-362-7692, sowaboston.com
Commonwealth Avenue
Magnificent magnolias have been blossoming on Boston’s grandest thoroughfare for decades—enjoy the explosion of spring color while it lasts.
Back Bay between Arlington Street and Massachusetts Avenue
Charles Street
Window-shop antique dealers, galleries and unique local boutiques like Helen’s Leather on this picturesque Beacon Hill boulevard, then grab a gourmet picnic lunch at Savenor’s or DeLuca’s markets and head to the nearby Charles River Esplanade for a meal with a view.
Beacon Hill between Beacon and Cambridge streets
Arnold Arboretum
A botanical wonderland year-round, this Harvard-run facility is particularly poignant when in spring bloom, especially on Mother’s Day when the annual Lilac Sunday celebration takes place.
125 Arborway, 617-524-1718, arboretum.harvard.edu
