Welcome to Waterfront
An urban oasis with stunning water views and fantastic amenities
Boston Harbor has always played an important part in the city’s development, history, and culture. Today, Boston’s waterfront has an active and vital role in the fabric of the city’s contemporary cultural life. It’s a popular destination for visitors and locals all year, but it is especially busy during the warmer months.
The Boston Harborwalk, a continuous public walkway running along the water’s edge, connects neighborhoods in the city to recreational, cultural, and historical attractions, as well as providing access to various forms of public transportation, including by water. Strolling along the harbor, you will pass pocket parks, public art, restaurants, and cafes, all of which share breathtaking views. Take a short detour and join a harbor cruise, a whale watching tour, a schooner sail, or an entertainment cruise. The New England Aquarium on the Central Wharf has another fantastic aquatic experience in store for you. Other places you may want to explore are the Rose Kennedy Greenway, Christopher Columbus Park, the Boston Waterboat Marina, and the Faneuil Hall Marketplace.
What to Love
- Harborwalk — a linear park along Boston’s shoreline that connects all the waterfront neighborhoods to Boston Harbor and the city’s neighborhoods.
- The Rose Fitgerald Kennedy Greenway
- Christopher Columbus Park
- New England Aquarium
Local Lifestyle
Waterfront residents wake up to gentle breezes blowing across the harbor and fall asleep to the soothing sounds of water lapping against the docks. The piers are lined with well-known restaurants, such as the historic Chart House.
Because the Waterfront lacks a concentrated center, residents have the impression that the entire city is truly their home. Modern art installations rotate through The Greenway, transforming it into an outdoor gallery and shielding the neighborhood from the hustle and bustle of downtown Boston.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Boston has its own culinary tradition typical of New England. The luxurious InterContinental Boston’s three dining and socializing establishments each offer something unique. Miel Brasserie reinvents organic French classics, RumBa prepares signature drinks in a stylish setting, and VodkaBa scours the globe for the best vodkas. All three will leave you wanting more. Other fabulous spots for entertainment and dining are Maine lobster purveyor James Hook & Co., local favorite Boston Sail Loft (known for one of Boston’s best clam chowder), casual chic Rowes Wharf Sea Grille, and the renowned eatery Chart House. The Waterfront is packed with places to shop and dine.
From June to August, Bostonians, visitors, and adventurers take advantage of the many pleasures of a New England summer: sun-splashed days, breezy nights, and time spent on the water. Music aficionados will love Boston Harbor Hotel’s annual Summer in the City entertainment series, which features free live waterfront entertainment. Relax on the Harborwalk Terrace while listening to the varied lineup playing at one of Boston’s most anticipated summer traditions.
As the sun sets, the harbor comes alive with a wide range of bands performing on the hotel’s floating barge stage on a nightly basis. There is a different theme each night, such as Pop Soul Tuesdays, Rat Pack Wednesdays, and Blues Thursdays. Cool breezes and passing yachts create a lively summer scene that should not be missed.
Things to Do
Explore the city where the old and the new coexist, where cobblestone streets meet glass-enclosed shopping galleries, where the Freedom Trail landmarks stand alongside novel restaurants, and where renowned performance theaters rub shoulders with trendy nightclubs.
Discover Boston’s history while appreciating its distinct modern edge, such as artwork of the old masters, tasty samplings of today’s brewmasters, pontoon swan boat rides, or high-speed catamaran whale watching tours. Shop at artisanal markets or fashionable boutiques. Lounge the afternoon away at a sidewalk cafe or dine at one of the city’s popular food trucks. Enjoy star-studded concerts, some of which are held under the stars. Take a walking tour or create your own trail.
