Family Guide To Sledding In Boston
- By Jill Rosenthal Notkin
Living in New England, snowy winters are a matter of fact. Whether we like it or not, for at least four months of the year, we are forced to become creative with regards to recreational activities. Preventing cabin fever is not easy, but luckily we have some pretty cool ways we can embrace winter.
Sledding is one way to get out of the house, get some fresh air, and release those endorphins! Take a look at some of our picks for great places to hit with the toboggan.
Larz Anderson Park
23 Newton Street
Brookline, MA 02446
617.739.7518
website
Larz Anderson Park is the green-space that has it all. From ice skating to an auto museum to beautiful grounds that stretch for 64-acres, there's no shortage of fun at this Brookline locale. And if you're looking for a thrilling place to go sledding, this is it. The hills are huge and the views from the summit are gorgeous (there are smaller options for smaller people as well). From there you can hit the ice or the playground or visit the "Temple of Love", a historic gazebo that was originally part of the estate that used to stand on the grounds. Enjoy free parking as well! Larz Anderson Park is definitely a real hidden gem.
Flagstaff Hill in Boston Common
148 Tremont Street
Boston, MA 02112
617.635.2120
Visiting the Boston Common in winter (or any season) is a treat, so pack both your ice skates and your sled and hit Boston's "Central Park" for a day of mid-winter fun. Running parallel to Charles Street, Flagstaff Hill is a popular family destination and can become crowded on weekends. When you're done, warm up in one of Charles Streets many yummy kid-friendly restaurants including The Paramount and The Upper Crust.
The Sugar Bowl at Jamaica Pond
Jamaicaway and Perkins Street
Boston, MA 02130
website
Jamaica Pond is easily one of the most picturesque spots in the area, so just imagine the pristine setting after a snowfall. Perfect for any recreational activity, in addition to the view of the pond (gorgeous during any season) the Sugar Bowl also offers a unique sledding experience. An inverted hill, the idea is that thrill-seekers to gain enough momentum on the down side to get back up by way of the snow. This spot is located next to the baseball diamond at Jamaica Pond and should not be missed on your tour of local sledding spots.
Jill is a mom of two little girls and founder of The Daily Grind. She is also the owner of Alex Casey Baby, an online store specializing in baby and children's items. Read more of her work at http://workathomemom.typepad.com.