The Esplanade

Overview

The Esplanade is a 3-mile parkland along the south bank of the Charles River, stretching from the Museum of Science to Boston University. It serves as Boston's premier outdoor recreation corridor, with the Hatch Memorial Shell as its cultural centerpiece.

Highlights

• Hatch Shell: The outdoor concert venue hosting the Boston Pops' famous July 4th Fireworks Spectacular.
• Charles River Basin: Rowing crews, kayakers, and sailboats share the calm basin waters.
• Community Boating: The oldest public sailing program in the US (since 1936) offers affordable lessons and rentals.

History

Landscape architect Arthur Shurcliff designed the Esplanade in the 1930s when the Storrow Memorial Embankment was created along the Charles River. The Hatch Shell was built in 1940 and has hosted the Boston Pops July 4th concert since 1929.

Visitor Tips

• July 4th: Arrive very early (before noon) for the evening Pops concert — the event draws 500,000+ people.
• Running and cycling: The paved path connects to the full 17-mile Charles River Loop.
• Duration: 30–60 minutes for a walk; longer for activities.