Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area

Things To Do Near Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area

Many of the islands contain hiking trails that offer scenic views from off the coast and within the island. Georges Island is home to Fort Warren, a historic 28-acre military structure that was used during the Civil War. Little Brewster Island is home to the Boston Light, which was built in 1716 and is the oldest lighthouse in the country. Spectacle Island has an area of 105 acres and features attractions such as a lifeguarded swimming beach, a cafe, and a guest center. Peddocks Island is one of the largest, and it contains the remnants of the now-abandoned Fort Andrews.

Hiking Trails

• World’s End Trail

  Designed by renowned land architect Frederick Law Olmstead, World’s End Trail is a loop trail that includes beautiful flowers and wildlife. It also offers unforgettable views of rolling hills and the Boston skyline. It stays accessible throughout the year, and dogs are permitted as long as they are kept on leashes.

  Location

  Martins Ln, Hingham, MA 02043

  Length

  3.8 miles

  Intensity

  Moderate

• Deer Island Trail

  Deer Island Trail is a relatively short trail that provides a pleasant mixture of city and ocean scenery. The loop trail is heavily trafficked and located very close to Winthrop. Its main uses include bird-watching, walking, running, and biking. It stays open throughout the year and allows dogs.

  Location

  Deer Island, Boston, MA 02152

  Length

  2.9 miles

  Intensity

  Easy

• Franklin Park Loop

  Franklin Park Loop is a circular trail that runs through the largest park in Boston. Located near Dorchester, 527-acre Franklin Park is a perfect setting for hiking and sightseeing. The trail takes visitors to some of the recreation area’s focal points and also features views of a lake. The park and trail have a dog-friendly policy.

  Location

  Franklin Park Rd, Boston, MA 02121

  Length

  2.3 miles

  Intensity

  Easy

Sightseeing

• Freedom Trail

  The Freedom Trail is a historic path that extends through Downtown Boston for a total of 2.5 miles. It was established in 1951, and it passes 16 locations that are considered significant to United States history. A few of these include Boston Common, Park Street Church, and the Massachusetts State House. 

  Location

  Freedom Trail, Boston, MA 02114

• Boston Public Garden

  Boston Public Garden is a beautiful public park that offers a variety of different plantings. Tree types you can find here include beech, river birch, bald cypress, tea crab, elm, maple, and oak. Statues located at the public garden include an equestrian of George Washington, the Ether Monument, and Bashka Paeff’s Boy and Bird.

  Location

  4 Charles St, Boston, MA 02108

Museums

• Boston Museum of Fine Arts

  The Boston Museum of Fine Arts, which houses over 450,000 pieces of artwork, ranks at 14 among the largest museums in the world. Founded in 1870, the museum now has one of the most diverse collections on the planet and receives 1.2 million visitors on an annual basis. A couple of the highlights include Ancient Egyptian artifacts and Chinese paintings.

  Location

  465 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115

• Museum of Science

  The Museum of Science provides guests with a compelling history of the progression of technology, as well as an indoor zoo. The destination puts on live presentations daily and includes hundreds of interactive exhibits. It also comfortably houses over 100 rescued and rehabilitated animals. The establishment has been recognized by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. 

  Location

  1 Museum Of Science Driveway, Boston, MA 02114

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

• Neptune Oyster

  Neptune Oyster has been one of the most popular spots for fresh seafood in Boston since it opened in 2004. The architecture and interior design of the building provide a unique retro atmosphere. Oysters and lobsters are among the most commonly ordered items on the menu.

  Location

  3 Salem St #1, Boston, Massachusetts 02113

• Sorellina

  Sorellina is known for its well-informed staff, modern decor, and sophisticated take on Italian-Mediterranean food. The menu offers delicious Italian cocktails and wines. Two of the most popular dishes here include the clam chowder and lobster roll.

  Location

  1 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02116

• Black Ink

  Black Ink is a cozy local shop that provides a wide range of gifts, greeting cards, and wrapping paper. The souvenirs here are unique and perfect to give to a friend or family member once you return from your trip.

  Location

  101 Charles St, Boston, MA 02114

• Brattle Book Shop

  Brattle Book Shop is a popular destination for literature lovers near the national recreation area. It offers a quaint vibe, excellent prices, and rare first-edition books.

  Location

  9 West St, Boston, MA 02111

How To Get To Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area

To reach the visitor information center from the Boston Logan International Airport, get onto I-90 W from Transportation Way. After continuing on I-90 W to John F Fitzgerald Surface Rd, take Exit 23 from I-93 N. Continue on John F Fitzgerald Surface Rd and then drive to Atlantic Ave to arrive at the destination.

Seasonality affects operations, so it is important to take note of availability during your trip. Ferry rides to Georges Island and Spectacle Island are offered from early May to Columbus Day. Ferry rides to Grape Island, Peddocks Island, Bumpkin Island, and Lovells Island are available from late June to Labor Day. Deer Island and Nut Island are open to visitors all year and can be accessed by car.

Address

191 W Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02109

Fee: Entry fee $0

The Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area is an incredible travel destination surrounded by a countless selection of attractions. Not only can you see a vast network of scenic islands during a trip here, but you can also experience the historic locations and fantastic restaurants of downtown Boston. An RV journey to the national recreation area could be one that stays with you for the rest of your life.