Charles River
The winding river, the lush greenery, and the bustling cityscape – all these elements come together to make Charles River an enchanting destination for both locals and tourists alike.
Location
Charles River stretches for over 80 miles, with its source in Hopkinton and its mouth in Boston Harbor. The river forms a natural boundary between the cities of Boston and Cambridge, making it easily accessible from both locations. Its picturesque views can be enjoyed from various points along the banks, including parks, bridges, and boathouses.
History
The river is named after King Charles I of England, who granted the land surrounding it to the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1630. It played a significant role in Boston's early development as a major transportation route for goods and people. Over the years, it has also served as a source of power and water for industries located along its banks
Activities
There are plenty of activities to enjoy on and around the Charles River. Visitors can take a stroll or bike ride along the Esplanade, a picturesque park that runs alongside the river. The river is also popular for water sports, such as kayaking, canoeing, and sailing.
Nearby Attractions
Several noteworthy attractions surround the Charles River. On the Boston side, visitors can explore the historic Beacon Hill neighborhood, visit the iconic Fenway Park, or take a trip to Harvard University in nearby Cambridge. The river also offers stunning views of popular landmarks such as the Longfellow Bridge and the Boston skyline.
Planning Your Boston Tour
If you're planning to visit Boston and want to include the Charles River in your itinerary, consider booking a tour with Boston Sightseeing. Our double-decker buses offer a unique perspective of the river and its surroundings, giving you an unforgettable experience. Plus, our knowledgeable guides provide interesting insights into the history and culture of the area.
Our Tour Packages
Single Ride Pass
$40.25
Explore Boston in 90 Minutes
Ride above the crowd and enjoy the panoramic view of Boston
- Boston City Tour Single Ride Pass
- Stop-1 to Stop-8
- Blue Route Tour
- Double-Decker Bus Tour
- 90 Minutes Tour
- 1 Day Validity
- Hop-on Hop-off Tour
- Charlestown Sightseeing Tour
Hop-On Hop-Off All Day
$50.55
Boston City Sightseeing Tour
Experience historic Boston with unlimited hop-on hop-off at your own pace.
- Stop-1 to Stop-8
- Hop-on Hop-off Boston Tour
- Blue Route Tour
- Double-Decker Bus Tour
- 90 Minutes tour
- 1 Day Validity
- Shuttle Bus Service
- Charlestown Tour
Hop-on Hop-off Boston & Charlestown Tour
$54.65
Boston & Charlestown Tour
Experience the charm of Boston & Charlestown with Boston Sightseeing at your own pace.
- Hop-on Hop-off Boston Tour
- Stop-1 to Stop-11
- Hop-on Hop-off Charlestown Tour
- Blue & Orange Route Tour
- Double-Decker Bus Tour
- Shuttle Bus Tour
- 120 Minutes Tour
- 1 Day Validity
2 Days Boston & Charlestown Hop -On Hop-Off Tour
$81.40
2 Days Boston & Charlestown Tour
Explore Boston & Charlestown with Boston's first double-decker bus at your own pace.
- Hop-on Hop-off Boston Tour
- Stop-1 to Stop-11
- Hop-on Hop-off Charlestown Tour
- Blue & Orange Route Tour
- Double-Decker Bus Tour
- Shuttle Bus Tour
- 120 Minutes Tour
- 2 Days Validity
Cruise Terminal Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
$55.00
200 Minutes Hop-on Hop-off
Get onboard from Boston Cruise terminal and explore the historic beantown with Boston Sightseeing double-decker bus.
- Hop-on Hop-off Boston Tour
- Stop 1-8, 12-15
- Blue & Purple Route Tour
- Double-Decker Bus Tour
- Shuttle Bus Tour
- 200 Minutes Tour
- 1 Day Validity
- Charlestown Tour
Boston & Cambridge City Tour
$63.00
Guided Photo & City Tour
A 3.5-hour guided shuttle tour featuring Boston’s most iconic neighborhoods, Cambridge highlights, waterfront views, and curated photo opportunities.
- Guided Boston & Cambridge sightseeing tour
- Approximately 3.5 hours
- Curated stops and photo opportunities
- Climate-controlled shuttle bus transportation
- Live local tour guide
- 45-minutes Quincy Market lunch break
- Same-day tour experience
- Double-Decker Bus Service
- Hop-on, hop-off service
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