Discover a fresh perspective on the Charles River with this guide to Boston and Cambridge. From scenic parks and cultural attractions to unique tours and active adventures, there’s a world of fun waiting beyond just rowing boats. Explore the Charles River Esplanade, immerse yourself in Harvard Square, and marvel at the Museum of Science. Experience the iconic Boston Duck Tours or get on the water yourself with Charles River Canoe & Kayak. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this article will inspire you to find your next great activity along the Charles River Basin.
Charles River Esplanade
Located along the Boston side of the Charles River Basin, between the Longfellow and Boston University bridges, the grassy green Esplanade is always filled with people. Spread a blanket for a picnic with scenic foliage views or take a jog along the park’s length. Let the kids run free at the Esplanade Playspace, an incredible recreational area for ages 5-12 that features climbing, ziplining and more. The Esplanade is also home to the DCR Hatch Memorial Shell, an iconic site that often hosts free concerts.
Harvard Square
The heart of Cambridge, Harvard Square, is a two-minute walk from the Weeks Footbridge at the Charles River. Explore the city’s Ivy League university, the Yard and all of Harvard’s cultural offerings, like the Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology, Harvard Film Archive, and Sanders Theater. In the Square, shop at The Coop, Harvard Book Store, or one of many specialty boutiques, grab a burger at Charlie’s Kitchen or Mr. Bartley’s, and see the best local comics at The Comedy Studio.
Museum of Science
It’s a fun fact that the Museum of Science sits half in Boston and half in Cambridge from its perch over the Charles River Dam. Exhibits include the new Hall of Human Life, a dynamic journey through human biology using live data, and “Maya: Hidden Worlds Revealed,” which opens Oct. 12. There’s also an IMAX theater, a 4-D Theater experience, a state-of-the-art planetarium, and the always hair-raising live presentations in the Theater of Electricity.
Boston Duck Tours
One of the city’s more unique offerings, Boston Duck Tours combines a rolling street tour with a splash in the Charles River. For 80 minutes, a character guide (conDUCKtor, naturally) drives passengers around from downtown all the way the Charlestown, pointing out sights and relaying interesting facts. Driving straight into the river is the highlight and offers visual perspectives of Boston and Cambridge from points not easily otherwise reached.
Charles River Canoe & Kayak
Get a workout while you sightsee by renting a kayak at Charles River Canoe & Kayak and navigating the waters of the Charles River. The season ends Oct. 13, but this is the best time of year to see the skyline, the MIT dome and Kenmore Square’s iconic Citgo sign set amid New England’s fall colors. True athletes can paddle a one-way, five-mile voyage from Kendall Square upstream to CRCK’s Allston location.
