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Best Picnic Spots In Boston

The words "picnic" and "city" don't often go hand-in-hand, but don't let the skyscrapers fool you, some of the best picnic spots can be found in Boston. You just have to know where to look.
Spectacle_Island
(credit: DickClarkMises/Wikimedia Commons)

Spectacle Island, Boston Harbor Islands

Spectacle Island
Boston, MA 02171
(617) 223-8666
www.bostonharborislands.org

Spectacle Island is one of 12 explorable islands in the Boston Harbor. Just 15 minutes from Boston-proper, this island offers one of the best picnic spots in Boston. Hike up the tallest hill on the island and you'll enjoy great panoramic views of the city. Before and after your picnic, you can also enjoy swimming and hiking. Tours of the island are available. There are also toilet facilities and drinking water on the island. Ferries run from both Boston and Quincy. Check the website for times. A round-trip ticket for adults is $14.

Lewis_Wharf
(credit: www.bostonharborwalk.com)

Lewis Wharf

Commercial Street
Boston, MA 02110
(617) 482-1722
www.bostonharborwalk.com

Known as the hidden gem of Boston's North End, Lewis Wharf offers tranquility among the hustle and bustle of city life. The "secret garden" at Lewis Wharf, which can be found by walking down an unmarked, gravel path, is one of the best picnic spots in Boston. In 2007, Adirondack chairs were added and offer a nice spot to relax and take in the harbor views.

City_Square_Park
(credit: www.bostonharborwalk.com)

City Square Park

Boston, MA 02129
(617) 626-1250
www.bostonharborwalk.com

Just outside of Boston, Charlestown's City Square Park is one of the best spots to picnic in Boston. Located in what is known as historic Market Square, the park offers a lush, green landscape with more than 70 different types of trees, shrubbery and flowers. A central fountain and sculptures throughout the park offer interesting items to gaze at while you're enjoying your picnic. You'll also have terrific views of the Zakim Bridge.

Bell_Isle_Marsh_Reservation
(credit: www.bostonharborwalk.com)

Bell Isle Marsh Reservation

Bennington Street
East Boston, MA
(617) 727-5350
www.friendsofbelleislemarsh.org

With 350 acres of marshland, Bell Isle Marsh Reservation in East Boston is truly a unique place and one of Boston's best picnic spots. One of the largest salt marshes in Boston, Bell Isle Marsh Reservation offers city-goers a chance to unwind and get in touch with nature. The marsh is an important habitat for diverse wildlife, including monarch butterflies and songbirds. Visitors can walk along the paths and observe nature at its best. Don't forget to visit the observation tower for a great view of the water. The park is open from 9:00 a.m. till dusk.

Puopolo_Park
(credit: www.bostonharborwalk.com)

Puopolo Park and Langone Park

Nazarro Community Center (Mirabella Pool)
30 North  Bennet Street
Boston, MA 02113
(617) 626-1250
www.bostonharborwalk.com

Planned by the same firm that designed New York City's Central Park, Puopolo Park and Langone Park offer not only a great place to picnic, but also a place to play with the family outdoors. With baseball diamonds, basketball courts and three regulation bocce courts, Puopolo Park and Langone Park are the perfect place to bring your family on a sunny Sunday. Public benches and green space also offer the ideal setting for one of the best picnic spots in Boston.

- Stephanie Geary
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