East Boston is spoiled for choice when it comes to green spaces, from the recently opened Piers Park II to the picturesque LoPresti Park. Now that the weather is finally warming up, shake off the winter chill and spend some time strolling, biking, or enjoying a springtime picnic at one of these six parks in the neighborhood.
Piers Park, 95 Marginal St.
In search of spectacular skyline sights? Look no further than Piers Park. The 6.5-acre open space is home to the Piers Park Sailing Center, a nonprofit community center offering sailing classes for all ages and levels. The park also recently expanded with the adjacent Piers Park II in December, featuring an active play area, picnic grove, and water features.
LoPresti Park, 33 Sumner St.
A hub for outdoor recreation, this harborfront park on Sumner Street boasts several basketball courts, a soccer field, and a playground with fitness equipment. As a bonus, this lush green space is situated by ReelHouse – a waterfront dining experience with fresh New England fare.
Central Square Park, 216 Border St.
This small park, located in – you guessed it – Central Square was renovated into a pedestrian-friendly streetscape in 2017. It’s also the site of the East Boston Farmers Market, typically held from mid-July through October.
Mary Ellen Welch Greenway, Multiple locations
This 3.3-mile pathway is located along the path of a former Conrail line and connects many of East Boston’s green spaces – including Bremen Street Park, located under the I-90 bridge. Stretching from Jeffries Point to Constitution Beach, this popular path for biking, running, and walking was renamed from the East Boston Greenway in 2019 to honor Mary Ellen Welch, a leading activist in the neighborhood.
East Boston Memorial Park, 143 Porter St.
Situated in the heart of Eastie, this 18-acre park on Porter Street boasts sports amenities galore. Think: a turf soccer field, a baseball and football field, a playground, and a covered picnic area. Bring the dogs along for a walk in one of the pup-friendly areas.
Belle Isle Marsh Reservation, 1399 Bennington St.
Visit Boston’s last remaining salt marsh for prime birdwatching and wildlife observation. The Bennington Street reservation and urban nature preserve is perfect for a quick hike, with a 0.6-mile loop that allows dogs.
This is just a sampling of the parks East Boston has to offer – check out Urbnparks to discover additional green spaces in the neighborhood!
Sara Frazier is a writer and editor living in East Boston. She has a degree in journalism from Boston University and can usually be found with her nose in a book at a local coffee shop.
how come NO parks at orient height were read off why because nothing is ever talked about.