With spring here, free & low-cost events provide access along Boston’s downtown waterfront

BOSTON, MASS. (April 2025) – Spring is here and the Downtown Waterfront is coming alive as foot traffic increases and families take advantage of dozens of activities along the water’s edge.

“We are so fortunate to have such a beautiful front-row seat to our active Harbor,” said Luz Arregoces, the New England Aquarium’s Director of Community Engagement. “And, it’s open to everyone. You can stroll along the Harborwalk, see large scale public art, and get involved in fitness and cultural activities, many of which are free or low-cost. The warmer months really showcase how lucky we are to be a coastal city, one we need to protect and prepare for the impacts of climate change, like sea level rise.”

• In April, the Aquarium will host free programming on Central Wharf Plaza to mark Massachusetts Right Whale Day on Thursday, April 24, when visitors can learn more about the plight of these critically endangered whales during April School Vacation Week. Events around Boston for Earth Week are also coming together.
• Year-round, the 43-mile Boston Harborwalk affords the best views of the active harbor, and it’s all free to traverse the public pathway along the ocean.
• For simple crossings between East Boston, the Seaport, and North Station, there are inexpensive public ferries that offer short, daily rides for commuters or tourists.
• In East Boston, Piers Park offers low-cost sailing lessons and more extraordinary views and access to the water in a picturesque park into the Harbor.
• On the first and second Sundays each month, Boston Family Days continues to offer free admission to cultural institutions across Boston for students who live in Boston and their families. Participating locations along the waterfront include the New England Aquarium, Boston Children’s Museum, Institute of Contemporary Art, JFK Presidential Library and Museum, and USS Constitution Museum.
• The Aquarium is hosting free, public lectures this spring. On Tuesday, April 29, the founder of S’well reusable, insulated water bottles, Sarah Kauss, will be the featured speaker in the Lowell Lecture Series from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
• On April 16, the Aquarium is also hosting a free event for a night of learning with the North American Indian Center of Boston’s (NAICOB) Past, Present & Future. As the oldest urban Indian center in the Commonwealth, NAICOB’s discussion from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. will center on the city’s urban Indigenous histories and current activities. Guests are invited for light appetizers and songs from the Red Hawk Singers (Mashpee Wampanoag).
• Along The Greenway, there are myriad art experiences, fitness and yoga classes, activities for families and children such as the carousel, play areas, and food trucks.

MEDIA CONTACT: Diana McCloy, diana@teakmedia.com; 978-697-9414