Spring in Massachusetts Is Best Spent Exploring Boston Public Garden

Let’s face it: Winters in New England are cold, harsh, and can be downright unbearable. And they often last weeks beyond their astronomical end date of March 20. So it is no wonder that the first signs of spring are cause for celebration in Boston. As soon as the weather soars into the high 50s, the vibe in town begins to change. The paths along the Charles River Esplanade become filled with joggers, bikers, and caregivers pushing strollers filled with happy toddlers. College students emerge from their dorms and fill the courtyards and green spaces of their urban schools with energetic conversation and friendly games of frisbee. And the whole city buzzes with the excitement of a much-anticipated baseball season at Fenway Park. And there is another Boston landmark where the signs of the season surround every corner. If you are looking for a great way to celebrate spring in the city, the Boston Public Garden is hands-down the best place to go.

Did you know that the Boston Public Garden was the first public botanical garden in America? It is one of my favorite places to visit year-round, and I find it to be particularly gorgeous in the springtime when the carefully designed park blooms with cherry blossoms, pansies, roses, and thousands of colorful tulips.

Come early May, the iconic Make Way for Ducklings family of ducks (one of my favorite city statues) get dressed up in spring hats in honor of the family-friendly Duckling Day celebration, which takes place at the park around Mother’s Day each year. This annual event is simply adorable.

But ducks aren’t the only birds symbolizing spring in this scenic outdoor space. The Public Garden is also the seasonal home of Romeo and Juliet, a pair of beautiful swans who frequent the garden’s lagoon year after year.  An official ceremony marking their return and symbolizing the start of springtime typically takes place every May. 

And while we are on the subject of swans, there is another Boston Public Garden activity that can not go unmentioned. A ride on the historic Swan Boats is such a fun way to experience spring in the city. The iconic boats paddled by family-owned operators, have been carrying happy visitors around the lagoon since 1877. They make several daily trips from April to October. 

No matter what draws you to the Boston Public Garden in the spring, you will surely have a fabulous visit. You can learn more about this beautiful city oasis on the City of Boston Public Garden webpage. To learn even more about the history of this gorgeous park (and other nearby landmarks), I suggest exploring our Travel Planner!