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.
![](https://bostonsightseeing.us/storage/app/public/image/media/boston-sightseeing-double-decker-bus-at-state-house.png)
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](https://bostonsightseeing.us/storage/app/public/image/package_image/package_image_11709263283.jpg)
Single Ride Pass
$39.00
Explore Boston in 80 Minutes
- City Tour Single Ride
- Double-Decker Bus Tour
- Hop-on Hop-off
- Cambridge Tour
- 80 Minutes Tour
- 1 Day Validity
- Shuttle Bus Service
- Blue Route Tour
- Night Tour
![Hop-On Hop-Off All Day](https://bostonsightseeing.us/storage/app/public/image/package_image/package_image_11709263259.jpg)
Hop-On Hop-Off All Day
$49.00
Boston City Sightseeing Tour
- Hop-On Hop-Off Boston Tour
- Double Decker Bus Tour
- Unlimited Hop-on Hop-off
- Hop-on Hop-off Cambridge Tour
- 80 Minutes Tour
- 1 Day Validity
- Shuttle Bus Service
- Blue Route Tour
- Night Tour
![Hop-On Hop-Off 24 Stops](https://bostonsightseeing.us/storage/app/public/image/package_image/package_image_11709263249.jpg)
Hop-On Hop-Off 24 Stops
$63.00
Hop-0n Hop-Off - Boston & Cambridge Tour
- Hop-on Hop-off Boston Tour
- Double-Decker Bus Tour
- Unlimited Hop-on Hop-off
- Hop-on Hop-off Cambridge Tour
- 200 Minutes Tour
- 1 Day Validity
- Shuttle Bus Service
- Blue, Orange, Purple Route Tour
- Night Tour
![Hop-On Hop-Off 2 Days](https://bostonsightseeing.us/storage/app/public/image/package_image/package_image_11709263235.jpg)
Hop-On Hop-Off 2 Days
$97.00
City Tour Highlights With 2 Days Pass
- Hop-on Hop-off Boston Tour
- Double-Decker Bus Tour
- Unlimited Hop-on Hop-off
- Hop-on Hop-off Cambridge Tour
- 200 Minutes Tour
- 2 Day Validity
- Shuttle Bus Service
- Blue, Orange, Purple Route Tour
- Night Tour
![Night Tour](https://bostonsightseeing.us/storage/app/public/image/package_image/package_image_11709263152.jpg)
Night Tour
$44.00
Boston's Vibrant Evening Tour
- City tour Single Ride
- Double-Decker Bus Tour
- Hop-on Hop-off
- Cambridge Tour
- 75 Minutes Tour
- 1 Day Validity
- Shuttle Bus Service
- Blue Route Tour
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