The Boston Common and the Public Garden are Boston’s most popular attractions. Located in the center of the city, Boston Common was established in 1643, making it one of the oldest parks in the United States. Initially, it served as common pasture land for grazing livestock but was eventually transformed into a recreational area in the middle of the city.
Today, the Common truly is the heart of Boston, being at the center of many activities such as ice skating, sightseeing, and picnics. Due to its central location, it is popular as a meeting point for many city adventures, including shopping, dining, the theater, and bar-hopping.
The Common is surrounded by prominent historic landmarks such as the Public Garden, Massachusetts State House, Beacon Hill, and the Park Street Church. It is also part of the famous Freedom Trail, a walking trail that connects 16 historic sites with a red brick line.
The Boston Public Garden, established in 1837, is a historic park located adjacent to the Common. It holds the distinction of being the first public botanical garden in America. This beautiful and meticulously maintained green space is a beloved urban oasis known for its lush landscapes, diverse flora, and iconic swan boats.
The garden boasts a classic Victorian design with meticulously planned flower beds, carefully curated plantings, and ornamental trees. Each season brings a new display of flowers and greenery, making it a vibrant place year-round.
One of the most famous attractions in the Boston Public Garden is the Swan Boats. These pedal-powered boats, designed to resemble swans, have been a popular feature since 1877. They glide gracefully around the lagoon, offering a peaceful and scenic ride.
More about the Boston Common
Restaurants near the Boston Common
West End Johnnie's Contemporary American Faneuil Hall $$ *4.5
Beacon Hill Hotel European Beacon Hill $$ *4.5
75 Chestnut Contemporary American Beacon Hill $$ *4.7
Carrie Nation Contemporary American Beacon Hill $$ *4.3
Rosa Mexicano - Boston Mexican Seaport $$ *4.3
Para Maria Kitchen and Bar Global, International Seaport $$ *3.8
Trattoria Il Panino Italian North End $$ *4.6
Gordon Ramsay Burger - Boston Burgers Faneuil Hall $$ *3.9
Ma Maison French Beacon Hill $$ *4.8
Beacon Hill Books & Cafe Café Beacon Hill $$ *4.5
Margaritaville - Boston American Faneuil Hall $$ *4.3
Lucia Ristorante Italian North End $$ *4.1
Moxies - Boston Seaport American Seaport $$ *4.6
Alma Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse Seaport $$ *4.7
Tiki Rock Comfort Food Financial District $$ *4.1
Citrus & Salt Contemporary Mexican Seaport $$ *4.6
Emmet's Irish Pub and Restaurant Irish Beacon Hill $$ *4.6
TreMonte Restaurant - North End Italian North End $$
Ristorante Saraceno Italian North End $$
Antonio's Cucina Italiana Italian Beacon Hill $$
Assaggio Italian North End $$$ *4.7
Aqua Pazza Seafood North End $$$ *4.8
Joia Italian Financial District $$$ *4.4
Amber Road American Financial District $$$ *4.6
Oceanaire Seafood Room - Boston Seafood Financial District $$$ *4.7
Riccardo's Italian North End $$$ *4.4
The Dubliner Irish Pub & Restaurant Irish Beacon Hill $$$ *4.6
Ocean Prime - Boston Seaport Steak Seaport $$$ *4.7
Libertine Italian North End $$$ *4.4
Lucca North End Italian North End $$$ *4.5
Bacco Ristorante & Bar Italian North End $$$ *4.5
Villa Francesca Italian North End $$$ *4.4
The Fed at the Langham, Boston Cocktail Bar Financial District $$$ *4.4
Servia Mediterranean Financial District $$$ *4.8
The Florentine Cafe Italian North End $$$ *4.7
Joe’s Waterfront American North End $$$ *4.2
Tuscan Kitchen - Seaport Italian Seaport $$$
Umbria Italian North End $$$$ *4.5
Smith & Wollensky Boston – Atlantic Wharf Steakhouse Seaport $$$$ *4.5
The Palm Boston Steakhouse Financial District $$$$ *4.5
The Nautilus - Boston Pier 4 Pan-Asian Seaport $$$$ *$50
Eddie Merlot's Prime Aged Beef & Seafood - Boston Steakhouse Seaport $$$$ *4.3

