Boston is full of incredible vantage points. Sure you can head down to Long Wharf and take the same basic photos as every tourist and photographer that’s ever been to Boston—or you can check out some of these lesser-known places to watch the sun go down. Here’s a few of our favorite spots to catch the best sunsets in Boston.
Piers Park, East Boston
With views of Boston Harbor and the downtown skyline, Piers Park in East Boston is a wonderful choice for a summer sunset. Visitors looking to incorporate a workout can make use of the calisthenics equipment at the park.
Castle Island, South Boston
While it’s technically a peninsula these days, Castle Island is a great choice to chase sunsets. With views of the water and Boston skyline, what’s not to love? Pro tip: Castle Island has awesome views of fireworks on the Fourth of July.
Deer Island, Winthrop
Deer Island combines West Coast-style sunsets with beautiful skyline views. While it may be home to a wastewater treatment facility today, visitors can still enjoy a variety of hiking trails offering stunning views of the Boston Harbor islands. Fun fact: Deer Island became a peninsula as a result of the 1938 New England hurricane.
Boston Navy Yard (formerly Charlestown Navy Yard)
Home to the USS Constitution, the Boston Navy Yard is a historical haven. Easily connected to Boston courtesy of the Freedom Trail, tourists can check out the Constitution Museum and Commodore’s house before twilight. Fair warning: Since the Boston Navy Yard is under jurisdiction of the US Navy there may be security check points.
Central Parking Garage, Logan Airport
If you opted out of the red-to-silver route to Logan Airport, you might be able to catch a stunning sunset from the top deck of the Central Parking Garage. Watch incoming or outgoing planes and take in the sites before trekking back home.
Longfellow Towers, West End
If you or someone you know is lucky enough to reside in the Longfellow Towers, chances are you’ve seen at least one incredible sunset without ever leaving your apartment. Unfortunately public tours are only available for people interested in relocating.
Wingaersheek Beach, Gloucester
This popular North Shore beach offers warm waters, nature-filled tide pools, rock climbing opportunities, and incredible sunsets. Wingaersheek Beach is the perfect place to spend a summer day. Please note: some Gloucester beaches are only accessible to residents. Learn more here.
North Point Park, Cambridge
Just across the Charles River visitors will stumble upon North Point Park. With 8.5 acres of beautiful green space, picnic tables and playground areas, and views of the Zakim Bridge this hidden gem is the best place for family fun and sunsets.
The Esplanade
And finally would this list be without including the Esplanade? Catch a concert, watch boats and kayaks cruise down the Charles River, or camp out for the 4th of July fireworks display at this well-known Boston landmark. You can click here for a calendar of Esplanade events.
