No matter when you choose to visit the city, sunset in Boston is beautiful throughout the year and all you need to do is find a place to watch it from and perhaps something to munch on while you do.
Here is everything you need to know about sunset in Boston:
When Does the Sun Set in Boston?
Boston is amongst the many cities in the United States which experiences all four seasons and depending on when you are visiting the city, the sunset timings may differ. Spring or summertime may be the best time to be out and about hoping to see the sunset in Boston but it is just as beautiful during fall and winter. Sunset in Winters: Generally, during these months, the sun tends to set sometime between 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm. Chances are that the grounds may be covered in snow so your best chances of watching the sunset occur would be from an observation deck, rooftop or maybe even the waterfront.
Sunset in Autumn: You might catch the sunset sometime around 7:00 pm and 7:30 pm during the fall or autumn months. It might be slightly cool outside but you will be able to enjoy a fun day out walking around the city, amongst the colourful autumn leaves and then finding the perfect spot to watch the sunset from!
Sunset in Summer: If you wish to watch the sunset in Boston during the summer months, you will have to wait till about 8:00 pm or slightly later. This gives you an opportunity to enjoy the natural light for the majority of the day and explore more, and then finally decide on the ideal spot to catch the sunset to end your day on a peaceful note.
Sunset in Spring: The spring season is another great time to want to get a glimpse of the setting sun since the weather is quite pleasant and you will be able to enjoy your time outside. Normally, during these months, the sun tends to set anywhere between 5:30 pm and 7:00 pm, owing to the change in Daylight Saving Time.
10 Places to Get the Best View of the Sunset in Boston:
There is no one place which offers a beautiful view of the sunset in Boston but numerous. You can find a multitude of locations around the city for this activity and some of them are as follows:1. The Esplanade
The Esplanade situated along the Charles River is perhaps one of the best places to be if you are looking to get a gorgeous view of the sunset. This site provides you with an opportunity to either be on land or on the water to catch a glimpse of the sky; you can choose to sit on the floating docks while dipping your feet in the water or go kayaking. Moreover, if you intend on spending a decent amount of time at the park, you can simply set up a picnic. Alongside the setting sun, you’ll get to admire some popular structures like the MIT dome building and the Mass Ave Bridge, and also part of Cambridge.
Address: Charles River Esplanade, Boston, MA 02116, United States
Subway Line: Blue/ Green/ Orange/ Red line
2. Corey Hill
A neighbourhood in Brookline, outside of downtown Boston, Corey Hill, or “The Greater Hill” is the ideal place to go if you are looking to get a great view of the sunset. Take the Cleveland Circle green line, make your way up to the top of Summit Avenue and find yourself a nice spot at the park to watch the sunset from. The area is not only wonderful because it provides a great view of the sunset, but also because you would find yourself amidst greenery with the greater Boston area in front of you, set against a backdrop of the evening sky.
Subway Line: Green line
3. Piers Park
This East Boston park is a great option if you wish to catch a glimpse of the setting sun and also have a fun day out. As you watch the sunset unfold in front of your eyes, the sky changing colours, you also get to admire the calm waters and the beautiful Boston skyline. Moreover, while you are there, make sure to take advantage of the promenade, the play areas, the Pier, the Sailing Center and the Pavilions.
Address: Unnamed Road, Boston, MA 02128, United States
Subway Line: Blue line
4. Castle Island
If you like the idea of spending a nice day out on a peninsula along the Boston Harbour shore, then Castle Island is the place to be. Situated in South Boston, the area is great for a number of recreational activities like sightseeing, swimming and picnicking, and also for watching the sunset. The relatively quiet and open spaces are ideal for sitting down and watching the beautiful colours of the sky during sunset as well as the Boston skyline while munching on something.
Address: 2010 William J Day Blvd, Boston, MA 02127, United States
Bus Routes: 5,7,9,10,11
5. Sunset Boston Harbor Cruise
Boston Harbor is not only known for its beauty but also for its historical significance. If you fancy embarking on a bit of a boat ride, the Sunset Boston Harbor cruise is a wonderful choice. It runs between May and September and offers you some scenic views of the sunset, the city and a history lesson too!
Admission Fee: USD 36.95 (adults), USD 34.95 (ages 65 and above), USD 32.95 (ages 3 to 11), Free (ages 0 to 2)
6. Bunker Hill Monument
The Bunker Hill Monument is quite a popular choice when it comes to watching the sunset since you can climb up to the top, and get a clear view of the changing colours of the sky alongside the Boston skyline. Besides having to climb up the 294 steps to catch a glimpse of the sunset, you also get to know more about the monument which was erected in honour of the Battle of Bunker Hill.
Address: Monument Sq, Charlestown, MA 02129, United States
Subway Line: Green/ Orange line
7. Institute of Contemporary Art
A treat for art lovers, a visit to the Institute of Contemporary Art is like killing two birds with one stone since you get to go around the various exhibits featuring contemporary art and also get to see the sunset if you are at the museum long enough, along with a gorgeous view of the Boston Harbor.
Address: 25 Harbor Shore Dr, Boston, MA 02210, United States
Subway Line: Blue/ Green/ Orange/ Red line
8. Harvard Bridge
Often known as the Mass Ave Bridge or the MIT Bridge, Harvard Bridge over the Charles River connects Back Bay to Cambridge and is a wonderful choice if you wish to go out on a stroll. While you cannot sit in one place for long, you can admire the view of the waters, the skyline, the famous Citgo sign, and of course, the sunset.
Address: Massachusetts Ave Bridge, Boston, MA 02115, United States
Subway Line: Green/ Red line
9. Boston Harborwalk
Set alongside the Boston Harbor, the Boston Harborwalk is a very popular public walkway in the city which would undoubtedly be an idyllic location to watch the sunset from. You can take advantage of the long walkway and go on walks, bike or simply sit and enjoy the view of the beach, piers, public artworks and even several historical exhibitions or structures. Of course, the large open area is perfect if you are looking to sit peacefully and await the gorgeous sunset.
Address: 15 State Street, Suite 1100 Boston, MA 02109
Subway Line: Blue/ Green/ Red line
10. Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park
A public park in the North End area of Boston, the Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park is a suitable place to watch the sunset from. The green open spaces are ideal if you wish to escape the busy city for a while and enjoy a little bit of peace. Moreover, you can set up a picnic, play with family and friends and also grab something to eat.
Address: Atlantic Ave, Boston, MA 02110, United StatesOne of the best ways to spend your free time in the city is to find yourself the perfect spot to watch the sunset in Boston; the vision of the ever-changing sky is unforgettable. Make sure to add this activity to your itinerary while in the city.
Subway Line: Blue/ Green/ Red line