The Esplanade is an exciting and popular park that stretches for 4 miles along the Charles River Basin, offering stunning views of the river and the Boston skyline. It is a popular urban oasis among residents and visitors alike, offering many activities such as walking, jogging, cycling, sailing, and picnicking.
The Hatch Shell borders the esplanade and is a revered concert venue. It is best known for hosting the Boston Pops annual Fourth of July celebration and fireworks, but it is also used for free concerts most weekends and many weeknights during the summer months. The Hatch Shell also hosts special events—walkathons, races, and festivals such as Earth Day—that draw hundreds of thousands of additional spectators each year.
There are several children's playgrounds along the Esplanade, including the Charlesbank Playground, near the Museum of Science, and the Stoneman Playground, near Massachusetts Ave.
The park is accessible for wheelchair and scooter users, offering 4 miles of paved walkways.
More about the Esplanade
Restaurants near the Esplanade
Authentic, flavorful options with great quality and value—perfect for casual dinners, business lunches, or enjoying a meal after strolling the scenic Charles River Esplanade. A mix of mid-price favorites and upscale dining in the Back Bay and Beacon Hill areas.
| Name | Type & Description | Reserve at OpenTable |
|---|---|---|
| Saltie Girl | Seafood *4.7 $$$ 8 min walk (map) Popular seafood spot known for lobster rolls, tinned fish, oysters, and creative seafood dishes in a lively Back Bay setting close to the Esplanade. |
Reserve |
| The Salty Pig | Italian / Charcuterie *4.6 $$–$$$ 10 min walk (map) Modern Italian spot famous for house-cured meats, wood-fired pizzas, and small plates. Casual yet sophisticated vibe near the Esplanade. |
Reserve |
| Contessa | Italian *4.7 $$$$ 12 min walk (map) Elegant rooftop Italian restaurant with handmade pastas, seasonal dishes, and stunning views. Upscale dining perfect after a walk along the river. |
Reserve |
| 1928 Beacon Hill | Contemporary French / American *4.6 $$$$ 9 min walk (map) Sophisticated speakeasy-inspired spot blending French technique with New England ingredients in a refined, intimate atmosphere. |
Reserve |
| 75 Chestnut | American / Neighborhood *4.5 $$–$$$ 10 min walk (map) Quaint Beacon Hill favorite with rustic charm, American classics, burgers, and comfort food in a warm neighborhood setting. |
Reserve |
| Toscano Restaurant | Italian *4.9 $$$ 11 min walk (map) Classic Beacon Hill Italian with house-made pastas, fresh seafood, excellent wine list, and elegant yet welcoming atmosphere. |
Reserve |
| Ma Maison | French *4.8 $$$–$$$$ 7 min walk (map) Charming French bistro offering classics like escargot, coq au vin, and steak frites in an intimate setting. Great for special meals. |
Reserve |
| Mistral | French / Mediterranean *4.8 $$$$ 12 min walk (map) Elegant Provençal-inspired restaurant with sophisticated dishes, excellent service, and a warm, romantic ambiance near the Esplanade. |
Reserve |
| Buttermilk & Bourbon | Southern / American *4.6 $$–$$$ 10 min walk (map) Southern-inspired comfort food with creative twists, great cocktails, and a lively atmosphere perfect after enjoying the Esplanade. |
Reserve |
| Grill 23 & Bar | Steakhouse *4.7 $$$$ 13 min walk (map) Classic upscale steakhouse with prime dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and an extensive wine list in an elegant Back Bay setting. |
Reserve |
Hotels near the Esplanade
| citizenM Boston North Station | North Station / West End | $$ | Scored 8.8* |  |
| Courtyard Boston Downtown/North Station | North Station / West End | $$ | Scored 8.8* | |
| Wyndham Boston Beacon Hill | Beacon Hill | $$ | Scored 7.3* | |
| Hilton Boston Park Plaza | Theater District / Downtown | $$ | Scored 7.4* | |
| Eurostars The Boxer | North End | $$ | Scored 7.8* | |
| The Liberty, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Boston | Beacon Hill | $$$ | Scored 8.1* | |
| Pennyweight Hotel Boston, Curio Collection by Hilton | West End | $$$ | Scored 8.2* | |
| The Eliot Hotel | Back Bay | $$$ | Scored 9.0* | |
| Hotel Indigo Boston Garden by IHG | North Station / West End | $$$ | Scored 8.5* | |
| Good Hotels Boston | Downtown | $$$$ | Scored 7.8* | |
| The Whitney Hotel Boston | Beacon Hill | $$$$ | Scored 9.1* | |