Parks and Facilities in Boston, Massachusetts

Boston, Massachusetts, offers a rich array of parks and recreational facilities managed by various organizations dedicated to maintaining and enhancing these public spaces.

Boston Parks and Recreation Department

The Boston Parks and Recreation Department oversees approximately 2,346 acres of parkland, which includes:

• 217 city parks, playgrounds, and athletic fields
• Two golf courses
• 65 squares
• 17 fountains
• 75 game courts
• 16 historic and three active cemeteries
• Urban wilds
• Four high school athletic fields
• Approximately 125,000 trees, with over 35,000 street trees

A significant portion of this green space is part of the historic Emerald Necklace, a chain of parks linked by parkways and waterways designed by Frederick Law Olmsted.

Contact Information:

• Address: 1010 Massachusetts Avenue, 3rd Floor, Boston, MA 02118
• Phone: 617-635-4505
• Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR)

The DCR manages state parks and oversees more than 450,000 acres throughout Massachusetts, including several significant areas in the Boston region. Their mission is to protect, promote, and enhance the state’s natural, cultural, and recreational resources.

Notable DCR-managed sites in the Boston area include:

• Charles River Reservation: A park stretching along the Charles River, offering walking and biking paths, as well as boating opportunities.
• Blue Hills Reservation: A large natural area south of Boston with hiking trails, scenic views, and diverse wildlife.
• Revere Beach Reservation: The oldest public beach in the United States, providing a sandy shoreline for swimming and recreation.

Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area

Managed collaboratively by the Boston Harbor Islands Partnership, this national recreation area comprises several islands offering historical sites, hiking trails, and beaches. Visitors can explore forts, enjoy panoramic views of the Boston skyline, and participate in various outdoor activities.

Community Centers and Recreation Programs

Boston provides numerous community centers throughout the city, offering summer camps, enrichment and recreation programs, pools, and adult education programs. These centers serve as hubs for local residents to engage in various activities promoting wellness and community engagement.

Collectively, these organizations ensure that Boston’s parks and recreational facilities are well-maintained and offer diverse programs and amenities for residents and visitors alike.