Summer Fun in Boston’s Parks: Your Guide to Outdoor Adventures

Boston, with its beautiful green spaces and vibrant community events, is the perfect city to enjoy summer fun in the park. From picnics and playgrounds to concerts and outdoor fitness classes, there’s something for everyone. Here’s your guide to making the most of Boston’s parks this summer.

Boston Common

As America’s oldest public park, Boston Common is a hub of activity during the summer months.

Picnics and Relaxation: Spread out a blanket and enjoy a picnic under the shade of the park’s historic trees. The Frog Pond Café offers refreshments if you prefer to grab a bite on the go.
Frog Pond: The Frog Pond turns into a wading pool in the summer, providing a perfect spot for kids to cool off.
Shakespeare on the Common: Enjoy free performances by the Commonwealth Shakespeare Company. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and experience world-class theater under the stars.

Boston Public Garden

Adjacent to Boston Common, the Public Garden is a serene and picturesque escape.

Swan Boats: A ride on the famous Swan Boats is a must-do. These pedal-powered boats have been a beloved Boston tradition since 1877.
Botanical Beauty: Take a leisurely stroll and admire the beautifully landscaped gardens, vibrant flower beds, and majestic weeping willows.
Make Way for Ducklings: Visit the charming bronze statues inspired by the classic children’s book. It’s a perfect photo opportunity for families.

Charles River Esplanade

The Esplanade is a beautiful park along the Charles River, offering stunning views and a variety of activities.

Biking and Walking: Rent a bike or simply take a stroll along the scenic pathways. The Esplanade’s paths are perfect for an active day out.
Esplanade Playspace: This state-of-the-art playground is a hit with kids, featuring innovative equipment and a splash pad for hot days.
Outdoor Fitness: Join free outdoor fitness classes, including yoga, Zumba, and boot camp sessions, hosted by the Esplanade Association.
Hatch Shell Concerts: Enjoy free concerts and movie nights at the iconic Hatch Shell. The Boston Pops’ Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular is a highlight of the summer season.

Arnold Arboretum

For those looking to immerse themselves in nature, the Arnold Arboretum in Jamaica Plain is a must-visit.

Tree and Plant Collections: Explore the vast collection of trees and plants from around the world. The arboretum’s winding paths are perfect for a peaceful walk.
Guided Tours and Events: Participate in guided tours, workshops, and family-friendly events that provide insight into the arboretum’s diverse flora.

Franklin Park Zoo carousel. Beyond My Ken, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Franklin Park

As the largest park in Boston, Franklin Park offers a wide range of activities and attractions.

Franklin Park Zoo: Spend a day at the zoo and meet animals from around the world. The zoo’s playground and splash pad are perfect for young visitors.
Golfing: Enjoy a round of golf at the William J. Devine Golf Course, one of the oldest public golf courses in the country.
Sports and Recreation: Take advantage of the park’s sports fields, hiking trails, and picnic areas for a day of outdoor fun.

Jamaica Pond

Jamaica Pond in the Jamaica Plain neighborhood is a peaceful oasis perfect for water-based activities.

Boating: Rent a rowboat, sailboat, or kayak and spend the day on the water. The boathouse offers rentals and sailing lessons.
Fishing: Try your hand at fishing. The pond is stocked with fish, making it a popular spot for local anglers.
Walking and Running: The 1.5-mile path around the pond is ideal for a leisurely walk or jog.

Activities for the Elderly

Boston’s parks offer plenty of accessible activities that the elderly can enjoy. Take some time off to bring your elderly loved ones or hire a home caregiver to accompany your loved one.

Accessible Walks: Many parks, like the Boston Public Garden and the Arnold Arboretum, have smooth, paved paths that are perfect for leisurely walks or wheelchair strolls. The beautiful scenery provides a calming environment for relaxation and conversation.
Outdoor Concerts: Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy free outdoor concerts at the Hatch Shell on the Esplanade. These events are a wonderful way to enjoy live music in a comfortable and welcoming setting.
Picnic Areas: Many parks have shaded picnic areas with accessible tables. Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal outdoors. Parks like Franklin Park and the Boston Common offer plenty of quiet spots for a peaceful lunch.
Gardens and Horticulture: Visit the Boston Public Garden or the Arnold Arboretum to explore beautiful gardens and plant collections. These locations offer a sensory-rich experience with the sights and smells of various flowers and trees.
Boat Rides: The Swan Boats in the Boston Public Garden are a gentle and scenic activity that can be enjoyed by all ages, providing a serene way to experience the beauty of the garden from the water.

Tips for a Perfect Park Day

Pack Smart: Bring sunscreen, hats, water bottles, and snacks to stay comfortable and hydrated.
Check Event Schedules: Look up park events and activities ahead of time to make the most of your visit.
Respect the Environment: Follow park rules, clean up after yourself, and respect the natural surroundings to keep Boston’s parks beautiful for everyone.

Boston’s parks offer endless opportunities for summer fun, from relaxing picnics to exciting outdoor activities. Whether you’re exploring historic Boston Common, paddling on Jamaica Pond, or enjoying a concert on the Esplanade, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the great outdoors in this vibrant city. So take time out from work, laundry and other household chores, pack your picnic basket, grab your sunscreen and insect spray, and head out to experience the best of summer in Boston’s parks!

Summer Fun in Newton

It’s official. We are now in summer. Whether you live in Newton or surrounding towns, or you are a visitor from afar, there are a lot of fun activities that you can do in Newton during the summer. Here are some ideas:

Visit Newton’s Parks and Conservation Areas: Explore Cold Spring Park, Hemlock Gorge Reservation, and Crystal Lake. Take a walk, have a picnic, or enjoy the nature trails and playgrounds. Remember to use sunscreens and insect repellents available from community pharmacies like Keyes Drug in Auburndale.
Attend Free Summer Concerts: The Newton Centre Bowl comes alive with music and dancing for six weeks this summer in the open space adjacent to the playground and just down the hill from the Tyler Terrace hut. With free open-air seating, there is plenty of room for families, friends. Bring along a blanket, a chair, a picnic dinner, and enjoy diverse musical styles in these summer performances in the park.
Explore the Newton Free Library: The Newton Free Library offers more than just books. Visit the library and take advantage of its free programs, workshops, and events for all ages, including lectures, author talks, and children’s activities.
Discover Newton’s Farmer’s Markets: Visit the various farmer’s markets in Newton, such as the Newton Centre Farmer’s Market or the Newton Farmers Market at Cold Spring Park. Stroll through the market, browse local produce, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Enjoy the Newton Centre Green: Spend some time in Newton Centre Green, a small park in the heart of Newton Centre. Relax on the grass, have a picnic or simply people-watch in this lively neighborhood gathering spot. Bring your elderly parent or ask his or her home care companion to accompany him or her to this favorite spot to enjoy the warm weather outdoors.
Take a Bike Ride: Enjoy a bike ride along the scenic bike trails in and around Newton. The Upper Charles River Trail and the Charles River Bike Path are popular options for cycling enthusiasts, offering beautiful views and a chance to enjoy the outdoors.
Visit Local Farms: Newton is located in a region with several farms and orchards. Some of these farms offer free admission and allow visitors to explore and enjoy the surroundings. Check out farms like the Newton Community Farm or nearby places for a unique agricultural experience.
Explore Historic Sites: Newton has a rich history, and there are a few historic sites to explore. Visit places like the Durant-Kenrick House and Grounds, the Jackson Homestead and Museum, or the Eliot Church to learn more about the city’s past.
Attend Community Parks and Recreation Programs: Newton’s Parks and Recreation Department often offers free or low-cost programs during the summer, such as fitness classes, nature walks, or sports activities. Check their website or community bulletin boards for the latest schedule of events.
Shopping and Dining: Newton offers a range of shopping and dining options. The city has several commercial areas, such as Newton Centre, Chestnut Hill, and Newtonville, with a mix of local businesses, boutiques, restaurants, and larger retail centers like The Street at Chestnut Hill and the Chestnut Hill Mall.

Remember to check for any specific schedules, restrictions, or updated information related to these activities before visiting. Enjoy your summer in Newton!

Image credit: © alepdaru, 123RF Free Images

Everyone’s Irish on St Patrick’s Day in Boston

Boston has a little something for everyone when it comes to celebrations and holidays, but none tops St. Patrick’s Day. Whether you’re new to the city or a long-time resident looking for new experiences, St. Paddy’s has it all– even if you don’t like to drink.

Why Boston?

For those uninitiated, Boston has a massive Irish population (about 23% of its citizens identify as Irish!). Originally emigrating from persecution in the colonial era, Boston’s had a long-standing history of Irish origin. Immigrants escaping the potato famine in the 19th century further built the Irish population, and Boston quickly became a hub for Irish Americans.

Things To Do on St. Patrick’s Day

So, what can you do on St. Patrick’s Day in Boston? We’ve got 5 great ideas for you to get the most out of our rich Irish culture.

The Southie Parade and Road Race

Whether or not you are Irish, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Road Race are great ways to celebrate Irish heritage and enjoy the area. This is a fun activity, away from the familiarity of the slides and swings at the playground, that children will enjoy. This year, the parade and the road race take place on Sunday, March 19th. The parade starts at 1 pm, and the road race starts at noon.

Both events are on a first-come-first-serve basis, so be sure to grab yourself a good spot by getting there early! While you are there, be a good neighbor and shop local. Visit the local drug store, gift shop, bakery or book store and buy a little souvenir or whatever.

If you want to run in the race, we recommend registering early. All proceeds from the Southie St. Patrick’s Day Road Race go towards the Boston Boys and Girls Club.

Enjoy Irish Culture

If you’re not too keen on parades and would rather enjoy some more traditional Irish celebration, why not check out some traditional Irish dance and enjoy some Celtic music? Enjoy some music, food, and drink any day of the week during Lansdowne Pub’s St. Patrick’s Week, or catch some traditional Irish music at The Burren. If you’re looking for dance, Ned Devine’s hosts step dancers at 1 pm. Be sure to wear green — some Boston dry cleaners in the North End may offer special discounts for dry cleaning or alterations for your green costume.

Get Some Traditional Irish Food

It’s not Paddy’s without some good Irish food and a Guinness! Boston’s extensive selection of traditional Irish pubs offers some of the best Irish food you can get in the States, and enjoying a pint with a good meal is essential on St. Patrick’s Day! Alongside great entertainment, sit and relax with some great food and beer from Lansdowne Pub, The Black Rose, The Kinsale, or J.J. Foley’s Cafe. Alternatively, you can organize a cookout in the backyard, weather permitting. A propane heater might be needed.

Explore Heritage Trails

For a calmer daytime experience, Boston’s Irish Heritage Trail celebrates the city’s rich Irish history and provides a beautiful scenic experience bound to enchant anyone looking for a relaxing stroll through time. Visit Irish monuments, buildings, and other historic locations on a guided tour, or walk the city yourself to peruse each location at your own pace. It’s perfect for those with senior loved ones — rather than hiring home care services, you can take your elderly loved one to a walk down memory lane. Tours cost roughly $15 for adults and $12 for students, children, and seniors.

Stop by a Celtics Game

Of course, it wouldn’t be Paddy’s in Boston without celebrating our local basketball team– the Celtics! While St. Patrick’s Day games are usually sold out, feel free to enjoy a game any time of the year to show off your inner Celtic spirit. Just make sure you wear plenty of green!

Fun Activities for the Family on Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is a fun and festive time to celebrate love. While Valentine’s Day is commonly used to celebrate romantic relationships, it can also be a good day to spend time with family and friends and celebrate the love you share for each other. If you’re wondering how to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your loved ones, here are some family-friendly fun activities for you to consider.

Decorate Your Home

Decorating your home in pink and red is a great way to start. Make decorating an enjoyable activity by putting on some light music and having kids help with hanging up the decorations. You can even make Valentine’s Day crafts with your kids, friends and relatives who share your knack in making heart tassel charms, sequin pins, tissue paper wreaths, air-dry clay hearts and the like. Another sweet way to decorate is to get some colorful post-its from your neighborhood drugstore and write kind loving notes to each other. You can use these to decorate by sticking them on the wall, the fridge, the kitchen table, or just keep them for a bad day.

Spread Love Through Gifts

Heart-shaped boxes of chocolates, candy hearts, and cards are inexpensive gifts that can make a big impact on Valentine’s Day. You can also often find fun toys, salty snacks, and other small Valentines-themed items throughout the first two weeks of February. These are cute gifts to give to kids or other family members to spread love. Your local drugstore is a great place to find festive gifts for your family members, even at the last minute. Shop local helps spread love to your local community too!

Spend Time with Family

Valentine’s Day is a good day to spend time with family looking back on the memories you share. With elderly parents, you can look back on old photo albums from weddings, births, and other family milestones. If you’re unable to spend time with a parent, share albums with another relative or pass albums along to home care aides who offer companionship to your elderly loved one.

If you have kids who are old enough, you can also reminisce on old memories with a Valentine’s Day theme, looking back on old home videos or baby books with some heart-shaped snacks.

We all remember fun times in the kitchen at home. How about making Valentine’s Day cupcakes or candy together? Be sure to prepare plenty of coloring, frosting, powdered sugar, and other fun ingredients!

Dress Festively

Wear pink and red at home or work and take pictures to celebrate Valentine’s Day! You could even buy fun accessories like feather boas or bead necklaces and do a family photoshoot. If you enjoy throwing parties, have a pink and red themed party. Valentine’s Day parties are a great way to put your festive decorations and pink and red attire to good use.

If you’re throwing or attending a party where you plan to wear pink or red, some Boston dry cleaners offer Valentine’s Day discounts for pink or red garments and household items. Get your garments and table linens cleaned before your party to look your best!

Enjoy Valentine’s Day with plenty of fun, laughter, good food, music and dancing, and don’t forget to show your love. Take advantage of local stores and discounts to get in the community’s Valentine’s Day spirit too!

The Boston Marathon and Fun With Running

How many times have you tried to develop an exercise routine but failed, simply because it’s just really boring? You might have tried running in the past, but abandoned your efforts due to sheer lack of willpower.

Developing and sticking to an exercise routine can be tough. But making your routine a family activity, and having a specific goal in mind does wonders for your motivation. If you’re looking for a fun, healthy, activity that gets the whole family outdoors, why not train together for the Boston Marathon?

Why Should I Be Running?

Cardiovascular exercise is a fundamental part of building a healthy lifestyle. But why is it so important? Research shows that just 10 minutes of running a day can drastically lower your risk of cardiovascular disease.

Did you know that running can also prevent knee and back pain as you get older? By integrating running into your daily routine, you’re less likely to experience arthritis and back problems that come with age.

These wonderful benefits aside, it is also particularly good for maintaining a healthy weight and building fitness levels. Just make sure to check in with a healthcare professional if you suffer from any chronic injuries.

Running is not only great for your physical health but does incredible things for your mental well-being too. Running is great for upping your energy and boosting your mood. It helps maintain focus and has even been known to help you sleep better.

How To Make Running Fun

Running can get lonely and monotonous. It can also be discouraging when you can’t see an immediate improvement. But there are some proven tricks to making running fun. These include setting realistic and specific goals to work towards and getting your whole family involved!

Make A Marathon Goal

Saying that running is good for your health just isn’t enough motivation to build a habit. You need to be able to set a realistic goal and hold yourself accountable for it.

That’s where marathons come into the equation. Signing up for a marathon like the Boston Marathon is the perfect way to set a running goal.

Marathons are great events, as they usually provide a few distances to choose from, depending on your fitness. If you’re still a newbie, sign up for a half marathon to get a feel for it. As you build your confidence, you can work your way up to a full marathon.

Marathons are also great for the whole family. They’re social events where people gather to cheer you on and show support. There’s usually an air of excitement and encouragement that makes the whole process a lot easier. Plus, they’re outdoors which makes for a safer COVID-friendly family activity. Even your elderly loved ones can be involved, by enrolling them to keep track of everyone’s progress, and acting as cheerleaders. Taking part in family activities reduces the need to hire home care aides for companion care.

Train Together

Now that you’ve set a specific goal for a specific date, it’s time to make running a family activity. This makes exercising less lonely as you have other people working with you towards your goal. It’s also a great bonding activity, as you cheer each other on and spend quality time together during training.

It’s essential that kids spend some time outdoors to get exercise and fresh air. If you’re doing it together as a family, you’re setting a great example and encouraging your kids to lead healthy lifestyles. Plus, you can hold each other accountable. It’s harder to skip a training session when the whole family is relying on you to show up.

Running Fun With Family: How Should I Start?

In order to make running a family activity, you have to start slow. If your kids are younger, or you’re starting from a low level of fitness, start with very short distances. Once you’re able to run a short distance without struggling, you can increase your training miles.

You should also vary your training activities so that you don’t get stuck in a rut. You might run around the block one week and do a trail run the next. Treadmill running can also be a good addition to your training schedule.

But you might be wondering how to make treadmill running fun. The secret here is to build a great playlist and focus solely on running to music. It’s recommended that you don’t listen to music if you’re running around the block as your eyes and ears should be aware of any traffic.

The only drawback to running or most other exercises is that you’ll end up with a lot of sweaty clothes to wash — just kidding. You can always use a nearby laundry service to take care of it.

Go for The Boston Marathon

All it takes to make running fun is making it a family activity, and setting a realistic goal. If you live in Massachusetts, the Boston Marathon is the perfect event to aspire to. This historic running event attracts thousands of visitors every year and is a celebrated sporting activity for the whole family.

If you’re looking for some more excellent family-related activities and tips and tricks, or you have any questions about our site, follow our blog!