5 Ways to Enjoy Boston in the Springtime
Boston truly comes alive in the springtime, and each time this glorious season arrives, I fall even more in love with my beautiful city. There are so many ways to enjoy the gorgeous weather and it is always great to see people taking advantage of all the city has to offer once the temperature warms up.
Beyond catching a Red Sox game or attempting to dine at every local restaurant with an al fresco patio (you can see a few of my favorite spots here), I have staple activities that I always enjoy when it’s warm and sunny in Boston. The best part is that many of them are FREE!
Whether you live here or are planning an upcoming visit, I’ve rounded up a few of my favorite ways to enjoy the spring season in Boston.
The A-Lyst for Enjoying Springtime in Boston
Enjoy the Boston Public Garden and Take a Swan Boat Ride
The Boston Public Garden is one of my favorite places in the entire city. From its stunning landscaping with meticulously maintained trees and flower beds to its many sculptures and quaint benches, the Garden offers a quiet respite from bustling Back Bay. I love wandering through the Garden and admiring its beauty, and when I feel like playing ‘tourist’ for the day, I take a ride on the swan boats. Since 1877, the swan boats have been a fixture in the gorgeous Boston Public Garden and for just $3.50 ($2.00 for children), you can take a leisurely ride through the lagoon. Keep your eyes open for Romeo & Juliet, the Garden’s two real swans, as well as ducklings, turtles, and a white squirrel, all of whom make this public green space so special. TIP: Bring cash and make sure to check the hours for the swan boats!
Take a Walk on a Scenic Path
Boston has so many wonderful places to take a scenic walk, run, or bike ride. My usual go-to spot is on the Esplanade, which follows the path of the Charles River, but I also enjoy walking the HarborWalk and Castle Island in South Boston. Instead of hitting the indoor gym after work, I often exercise outside to get some fresh air and enjoy gorgeous views. It’s amazing to see how many people take advantage of these paths — if you are walking or biking, make sure to be courteous to those around you, as I have definitely witnessed a few ‘run-ins’ over the years!
Spend a Sunday at the SoWa Open Market
Springtime marks the return of one of my favorite Sunday activities; the SoWa Open Market in Boston’s South End. My husband and I love spending a weekend afternoon pursuing the countless vendors, including artists/designers/bakers/farmers, and food trucks that fill the market’s outdoor spaces. Originally the SoWa Open Market was only offered on Sundays, but now in its 14th year, it also pops up on Saturdays! We have a certain strategy for our trips to SoWa. First, we love getting a bite to eat from the food trucks, because let’s face it, nothing good ever happens when you shop on an empty stomach! Next, we move on to pick up fresh fruits and veggies from the farmers’ market, before beginning to browse the dozens of amazing vendors set up at the arts market. Finally, when the sun has gotten too hot, we seek relief and admire antiques in the indoor vintage market (note: this indoor area is only open during the Sunday market). I am a big fan of the SoWa Open Market because it provides an opportunity to shop and support local, small businesses that may not yet have a storefront and find amazing goods & treats that you would otherwise not have discovered!
Buy Fruits & Veggies at a Farmers’ Market
I feel so fortunate to live in a city that supports farmers’ markets. We have not one, but many different markets across Boston’s various neighborhoods, and it’s always great to see them come back in the springtime. Whether you’re in Copley Square, Dewey Square, or over the bridge in Charlestown, a farmers’ market is available on certain days of the week. You can check the helpful schedule here and make your way over to pick up fresh flowers, cheeses, honey, and produce that is brought in from area farmers and artisans. When I worked in the Back Bay, I used to love to spend my lunch breaks at the Copley Square market, which is there every Tuesday and Friday, 11am – 6pm.
Believe it or not, it took me a good 10 years of living in Boston to visit the beautifully lush Arnold Arboretum. For plant and flower lovers, you’ll be in heaven as you walk through this tranquil park that’s filled with interesting species of greenery (the botanical garden is a personal favorite). Although it requires a drive from downtown Boston and the parking can be tricky (there is a small lot near the entrance or I’d recommend trying to find a spot along the Arborway), once you are inside, you instantly feel more peaceful and relaxed. The Arboretum is free and open year-round, but I especially love visiting in the spring when everything is blooming (the lilacs abound during the month of May). This is by far one of the most lovely spots in the Boston area and if you haven’t been, add it to your list!
Outfit Details:
Top: J.Crew Striped Bell-Sleeve Top
Jeans: FRAME Le Color Skinny White Jeans (cropped version linked)
Handbag: Prada Saffiano Lux Small Double-Zip Tote
Shoes: Chanel Ballerinas in Blush Pink (available at Chanel boutiques and select department stores)
Sunglasses: Tom Ford Telma Cat-Eye Sunglasses (similar here)
Necklace: J.Crew Factory Crystal Necklace
The A-Lyst is a Boston-based lifestyle blog curating the very best of style, beauty, food, and travel.
