Emerald Necklace
The Emerald Necklace is more than just a chain of parks. It's a living masterpiece, each link in the chain reflecting the visions of Frederick Law Olmsted and the urban oasis he crafted in the heart of a rapidly growing metropolis. For the eager tourist looking to experience the beauty of Boston beyond its historical landmarks, the Emerald Necklace is an unmissable gem waiting to be discovered.
Location
Stretching from the Back Bay Fens to Franklin Park, the Emerald Necklace defines a significant portion of Boston's landscape, connecting diverse neighborhoods. It spans over 1,100 acres, including parks, waterways, and tree-lined boulevards, forming a continuous chain of greenery that's hard to miss and easy to enjoy.
History
Conceived in the 19th century as a means to provide a green escape to city dwellers, the Emerald Necklace was a pioneering project in urban park design. Meticulously planned by Olmsted, who is also celebrated for designing New York's Central Park, this jewel aims to balance aesthetics with ecological preservation. The parks embody Olmsted's belief that urbanites should have the opportunity to interact with and appreciate nature without leaving the city.
What to See
Exploring the Emerald Necklace isn't just a walk through the park — it's a historical and horticultural adventure. Here are the highlights:
The Public Garden and Boston Common
The Emerald Necklace's story commences with the Public Garden and Boston Common, the "grandparents" of the Necklace. The Boston Common, dating back to 1634, is one of the oldest city parks in the United States. Adjacent to it, the Public Garden delights with its iconic swan boats, seasonal floral displays, and enchanting bronze sculptures that stretch from Make Way for Ducklings to the equestrian monument of George Washington.
Back Bay Fens and the Riverway
The Back Bay Fens and the Riverway, the "protectors" of the Necklace, are significant for their role in flood control. The picturesque Fens make an impression with the Herter Park and Edmund H. Shea, Jr. Memorial Bridge, reflecting in the still waters. The Riverway, designed as a carriage ride through the park, features a meandering stream and an arching stone bridge, inviting you to follow the tranquil path.
Olmsted Park
Linking the Riverway with Jamaica Pond, Olmsted Park is a peaceful expanse of green bisected by Leverett Pond. Here, you will find bucolic meadows, winding paths, and a graceful stone pier that offers a spectacular view of the waters.
Jamaica Pond
Considered the "jewel in the Necklace," Jamaica Pond is a beloved destination for sailing, walking, or picnicking. Its expansive landscapes and clear waters provide a sanctuary for Bostonians, making it a serene counterpoint to the city's hustle.
Arnold Arboretum
The Arnold Arboretum serves as an arboreal museum, with over 15,000 plants representing almost 5,000 taxa. This section of the Necklace, given by the city in 1882, showcases a diverse collection of flora and is a centerpiece in the academic and public understanding of plants.
Franklin Park
The final gem in the Necklace, Franklin Park, is the largest in Boston and the site of Olmsted's grand vision. A patchwork of woodlands, meadows, and rocky outcrops, the park hosts the Franklin Park Zoo, a golf course, and is the venue for numerous recreational activities and events.
Nearby Attractions
While the Necklace is a destination in its own right, it also acts as a thread, weaving together other Boston landmarks. A walk-through Palm Avenue in the Arboretum leads you to the striking State House dome. Follow the waters of the Muddy River and revel in a lively game at Fenway Park, the oldest baseball stadium in Major League Baseball, or cross the Charles River to take in historic Harvard and MIT.
Plan your Boston Tour with Boston Sightseeing
The best way to experience the full spectrum of charm that Boston and its Emerald Necklace offer is by hopping aboard a Boston Sightseeing double-decker bus. With our tour, you can potentially glimpse all these green spaces and landmark attractions, enabling you to plan your subsequent visits with in-depth knowledge of what these places offer.
Our Tour Packages
Single Ride Pass
$39.99
Explore Boston in 90 Minutes
Ride above the crowd and enjoy the panoramic view of Boston
- Stop-1 to Stop-8
- Boston City Tour Single Ride Pass
- Blue Route Tour
- Double-Decker Bus Tour
- 90 Minutes Tour
- 1 Day Validity
- Hop-on Hop-off Tour
- Charlestown Sightseeing Tour
- Night Tour
Hop-On Hop-Off All Day
$48.99
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
- Night Tour
Hop-on Hop-off Boston & Charlestown Tour
$58.99
Boston & Charlestown Tour
Experience the charm of Boston & Charlestown with Boston Sightseeing at your own pace.
- Stop-1 to Stop-15
- Hop-on Hop-off Boston Tour
- Hop-on Hop-off Charlestown Tour
- Blue & Orange Route Tour
- Double-Decker Bus Tour
- Shuttle Bus Tour
- 120 Minutes Tour
- 1 Day Validity
- Night Tour
2 Days Boston & Charlestown Hop -On Hop-Off Tour
$89.99
2 Days Boston & Charlestown Tour
Explore Boston & Charlestown with Boston's first double-decker bus at your own pace.
- Stop-1 to Stop-15
- Hop-on Hop-off Boston Tour
- Hop-on Hop-off Charlestown Tour
- Blue & Orange Route Tour
- Double-Decker Bus Tour
- Shuttle Bus Tour
- 120 Minutes Tour
- 2 Days Validity
- Night Tour
Boston Sightseeing Night Tour
$47.99
90 Minutes Boston Night Tour (Non-Stop)
Sit back, unwind, and let the magic of Boston after dark captivate you
- Stop-1 to Stop-8
- Boston City Night Tour
- Blue Route Tour
- Double-Decker Bus Tour
- 90 Minutes Tour
- 1 Day Validity
- Hop-on Hop-off Tour
- Shuttle Bus Tour
- Charlestown Sightseeing Tour
Attractions To Explore Near This Stop
10 Best Things To Do In East Boston
East Boston is an eclectic neighborhood located just across the harbor from downtown Boston, which is often overshadowed by the larger...
8 Best Things to do in Fort Point Channel
Located in the heart of Boston, Fort Point Channel is a vibrant and lively area that offers endless opportunities for exploration...
Best Fun Things To Do In Back Bay
Boston Back Bay is a beautiful, vibrant neighborhood that oozes history and charm. Situated just south of the Charles River in downtown Boston,