Boston Common

Overview

Boston Common is a central public park in downtown Boston, Massachusetts. Often referred to as 'The Common', it is the oldest city park in the United States. The park is surrounded by historic landmarks, vibrant city life, and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Boston Common is the oldest city park in the United States, with a rich history dating back to 1634. It has been a public gathering space for centuries and is an important cultural and historical landmark in Boston.

Public Park Historic Site Recreation Area

Location

Address

115 Boylston St., Beacon Hill, Boston, Massachusetts

Neighborhood: Downtown Boston

Coordinates

42.352800, -71.066000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 6:00 AM - 11:45 PM

tuesday 6:00 AM - 11:45 PM

wednesday 6:00 AM - 11:45 PM

thursday 6:00 AM - 11:45 PM

friday 6:00 AM - 11:45 PM

saturday 6:00 AM - 11:45 PM

sunday 6:00 AM - 11:45 PM

Admission

Adults

Free

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May and September-November

Best Time of Day

Early morning or late afternoon

Fewer crowds and more pleasant temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

Half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild to warm, occasional rain

• Cherry blossoms
• Blooming flowers

summer

Warm to hot, humid

• Outdoor movie nights
• Concerts

autumn

Cool to mild, occasional rain

• Fall foliage
• Harvest market

winter

Cold, occasional snow

• Holiday lights
• Ice skating rink

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Free admission
Open daily
Check for events

What to Bring

essential

Comfortable shoes Water Camera

seasonal

Winter coat Umbrella Sunglasses

not allowed

Drones Alcohol Pets (except service animals)

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Low to moderate (walking, standing)

• Stay hydrated
• Use sunscreen

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit/Debit cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $0

parking $15-20/hour

food $10-20

souvenirs $5-15

Dress Code

Casual and comfortable, Comfortable walking shoes, layers for changing weather, Walking shoes, sneakers, Inappropriate or revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• Not required for general admission
• Official website for events
• Not applicable for general admission
• Not applicable

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Boston Common Official Guide

Size: 20 MB

Features: Interactive map, Event schedules, Park history, Accessibility information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Near visitor centers and cafes

Charging Stations: Available at some cafes and visitor centers

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Logan International Airport (BOS)

Distance: 5 miles (8 km)

Travel Time: 15-30 minutes

Taxi

$25-35 15-20 min

Public transportation

$2.40 30-40 min

From City Center

Distance: Varies (0-2 miles / 0-3 km)

Metro (Subway)

$2.40 10-15 min

Bus

$1.70 10-20 min

Walking

Up to 30 min from farther points in downtown

Biking

Up to 15 min from farther points in downtown

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: A historic and central gathering spot for all seasons and events

Historical Significance: Oldest city park in the U.S., used for public hangings, protests, and celebrations throughout history

Insider Tips

Visit the nearby Boston Public Garden for more stunning scenery
Check out the Shaw Memorial for a striking piece of history
The park is a great starting point for exploring downtown Boston

Local Recommendations

• Try a lobster roll at a nearby food truck
• Visit the nearby Boston Public Library
• Explore the historic streets of Beacon Hill

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hi there

thank_you Thanks

where_is Where's

how_much How much is

beautiful Gorgeous

ticket Pass

Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French, Mandarin

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Near the Frog Pond

Best Time: Early morning or sunset

Tips: Capture reflections in the water

Result: Serene and picturesque shots

#BostonCommon #Boston #PublicPark

Central Burying Ground

Best Time: Sunset

Tips: Use the historic gravestones as a backdrop

Result: Unique and historic photos

#BostonHistory #HistoricBoston #OldGraves

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas, Open spaces

prohibited areas Inside buildings or private events

flash photography Allowed in most areas

commercial photography Permit required for professional shoots

drone policy Prohibited without special permit

tripod policy Allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Boston Public Garden

Distance: 0.2 miles

Walking: 5 min

Type: Garden

Boston State House

Distance: 0.3 miles

Walking: 7 min

Type: Government Building

Freedom Trail

Distance: 0.1 miles

Walking: 3 min

Type: Historic Trail

Quincy Market

Distance: 0.4 miles

Walking: 10 min

Type: Market

Boston Public Library