Rose Kennedy Greenway is a chain of public parks and gardens along Atlantic Avenue in downtown Boston, on land opened up when the elevated Central Artery was moved underground. Its paths connect areas including the North End, the waterfront and Chinatown. Take a walk among seasonal flowers, lawns, fountains and changing public art, or pause on a bench. Families can cool off at the splash fountains or ride the Greenway Carousel, whose animals draw on New England wildlife. Food trucks and outdoor drink gardens add seasonal stops along the way.
From elevated highway to park
The Greenway occupies the path of Boston’s former elevated Central Artery. The highway was moved underground as part of the Big Dig, and the space above became a connected public park through downtown. Construction on the Central Artery/Tunnel Project began in 1991; the Greenway is one of the results of that work.
The park runs between Chinatown and the North End, with sections through downtown and near the waterfront. Its route gives pedestrians a way to move among these neighborhoods on foot, with gardens, paths and places to sit along the way.
A different feel on each block
The connected spaces mix planted gardens with lawns and more natural-looking areas. Trees, shrubs, flowering plants and ornamental grasses bring seasonal color. In the Chinatown section, plantings sit beside a stream and waterfall, creating a quieter stretch for a stroll. The gardens also provide habitat for wildlife, including butterflies and birds of prey.
Public art appears throughout the park, and installations change over time. Water features add another point of interest, from fountains where children can splash in summer to sculptural displays. Benches and other seating make it easy to pause between neighborhoods rather than walk the whole route at once.
Things to do with children
The Greenway Carousel has figures based on New England animals, including lobsters, whales and harbor seals. The animals were inspired by drawings made by local children. Open lawns give families room to spend time outdoors, while the Ring Fountain and other interactive fountains offer a place to cool off during the warmer months.
Armenian Heritage Park has a walkable labyrinth. These attractions sit among the park’s gardens and public spaces, so families can combine play with a walk through different sections of the Greenway.
Food, markets and seasonal events
Food trucks and artisan vendors appear along the park, and outdoor markets and community events add activity at different times of year. In summer, outdoor beer and wine gardens have included Trillium Brewing Company and City Winery. These are seasonal additions, not permanent stops to count on for every visit.
For a simple picnic, pick up a snack from a Chinatown bakery or restaurant and take it to a Greenway bench. The park also connects with nearby restaurants and cafes, so it can work as a pause between downtown sights or a place to stretch your legs after a meal.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is Rose Kennedy Greenway free to visit?
The park is free to visit. The carousel and food or drink vendors may have their own charges.
How long is the Greenway?
The connected parkland is about a mile and a half long, running through downtown between Chinatown and the North End.
Can children play in the fountains?
Yes. The interactive fountains are used for splashing in the warmer months. Bring swimsuits for children on hot days.
Are dogs allowed at Rose Kennedy Greenway?
Dogs are allowed, but they must remain leashed.
