What is a good place to watch the New Year's fireworks on the Boston Harbor?
Preferably a short walking distance from restaurants.
- Thanks,
John
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Boston's huge New Year's Eve fireworks show, put on by Zambelli Fireworks at midnight as the grand finish to the First Night celebration, takes place high in the air over Boston Harbor so the spectacular display can be seen for quite a distance - as long as there are no tall buildings blocking your view.
Fortunately, Boston's waterfront stretches on for miles, giving lots of viewing spots right at the water's edge if you want to be that close.
Best Locations to See Boston's New Year's Eve Fireworks from Shore
The two best city-side areas for unobstructed views will be along the downtown waterfront, stretching from Christopher Columbus Park at the border of the North End all the way south to Fort Point Channel, and along the South Boston Waterfront on the other side of the Channel.
Across the Harbor, the East Boston shoreline near Boston Logan Airport also offers great views.
More about the Fireworks, Ice Sculpture Stroll, & other New Year's Eve Events in Boston
The largest crowds around the Downtown and South Boston waterfronts will be along HarborWalk, a wide path that basically winds along the waterfront.
Several particularly popular spots along HarborWalk include Christopher Columbus Park, which has a nice slope down to the water, the plaza area around and behind New England Aquarium, the area behind the Boston Harbor Hotel, the Moakley Footbridge to the South Boston Waterfront, the plazas surrounding the Institute of Contemporary Art, and then finally, the broad expanse of HarborWalk adjacent to the new South Boston WaterFront restaurants such as Legal Harborside.
What if Boston's weather is bad on New Year's Eve?
The wild card, of course, is the weather.
If there's a howling wind coming from the east over the water, you will turn into a human icicle if you're right at the edge of the waterfront, especially in the most exposed areas around the Aquarium where the wind will hit you full on.
Under those conditions, you'll be a little more comfortable inland - for example, on the Rose Kennedy Greenway.
The issue here is that there are several tall buildings, especially at the southern end toward Chinatown, partially blocking the view so you may have to experiment to find the best position.
However, the Greenway is over a mile long, so you'll have plenty of space to move around.
Can You See Boston's New Year's Eve Fireworks from a Boat?
Yes, the local Northern Lights yacht-style cruise boat offers a special New Year's Eve cruise to watch the fireworks on the Harbor, as well as a special New Year's Day cruise to welcome the new year. This lets you watch the show while staying warm and comfortable.
These cruises always sell out - so make your reservations early to get a spot.
- New Year's Eve Cruise - Say goodbye to 2024 and welcome 2025 on this elegant Boston Harbor cruise with fireworks, live music, and gourmet appetizers; purchase the beverage of your choice onboard - or pre-order a bottle of Moet & Chandon when you book - Book now
- New Year's Day Brunch Cruise - Welcome the New Year with a tasty hot 3-course brunch on this relaxing sightseeing tour around Boston Harbor - perfect start to the New Year! - Book now
- Gift Card - Give the perfect holiday gift! Shop now
Restaurants & Bars along Boston Harbor near the New Year's Eve Fireworks
Both the Downtown and South Boston waterfront areas have plenty of restaurants.
Best views FROM a restaurant may be in the new waterfront restaurants along the South Boston Waterfront.
Along the Downtown waterfront, check out Chart House on Long Wharf, Joe's American Bar & Grill at the edge of the North End by Christopher Columbus Park, and the bars and restaurants overlooking the water at Boston Harbor Hotel and InterContinental Boston.
Be sure to make your restaurant reservations as soon as possible because they will book up early.
Have a great time!
Publisher, BostonDiscoveryGuide.com
More Things to Do in Boston on New Year's Eve
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More Articles about New Year's Eve in Boston
- First Night in Boston
- Find out about other New Year's Eve Events in Boston
- New Year's Eve Boston Hotel Packages - Special deals to celebrate!
- Find out about New Year's Eve parties in Boston
- Where to go for a vegetarian-friendly dinner on Christmas Eve in Chinatown and Copley Square
- Christmas in Boston
Boston Discovery Guide makes best efforts to update event information but we cannot guarantee the information as it may change without our knowledge. Please confirm details with event sponsors prior to attending.
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