Explore Boston’s Emerald Necklace on an Urban Bike Tour
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for riders in moderate physical condition with basic endurance for several miles of cycling.
Overview
Discover Boston’s Emerald Necklace on a guided bike tour that blends nature, history, and urban exploration. Perfect for all skill levels looking for an active outdoor experience.
Emerald Necklace Tour
10AM • 3.5-4 Hours • Our Fall-Foliage Tour!
Select participants and date
Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Tour Times
• 10am (after September 15th)
Duration
• 3.5-4 hours long • 15+ miles • *Please note that this tour is not recommended for inexperienced or young riders.
Some of the highlights of this tour include:
- The Boston Common and Public Garden
- The famous Charles River Esplanade
- The Museum of Fine Arts and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
- The Rose Kennedy Greenway – Boston’s newest public park
- The Arnold Arboretum
- Jamaica Pond and Jamaica Plain
- The Southwest Corridor Park
- And many more exciting sights!
Want to see an American masterpiece in landscaping?
The Emerald Necklace tour is an amazing way to see Boston’s most famous green spaces in a ‘green’ way.
Discover Frederick Law Olmsted’s famous system of parks on this bicycle tour of the historic Emerald Necklace. From the shaded boulevard on Commonwealth Avenue to the popular shores of Jamaica Pond to the winding paths of the Arnold Arboretum, come enjoy a route that’s a favorite among locals and the best way to see the green side of Boston. The Parks are gorgeous any time of the year, but the foliage peaks in color between mid October and early November.
This tour visits the Emerald Necklace, a series of parks designed by Fredrick Law Olmsted, that snake through different neighborhoods of Boston.
All of our tours include an individually-fitted bicycle, helmet, water, and, of course, a friendly and knowledgeable guide who will lead you on your travels.
Additional Information
This tour is not recommended for inexperienced or young riders. Participants must be comfortable riding 15+ miles over a time span of up to four hours. We do not allow tandem bikes, burley trailers, or trail-a-bikes on this tour.
While our guides will provide water, you might consider bringing a sports drink or snack as well as sunglasses and sunscreen. Any luggage, large bags, or bulky jackets can be left at the shop during the tour.
This tour may be scheduled as a private tour any time of the year. Please call us for more information.
Adventure Tips
Bring a Helmet
Always wear a helmet for safety to protect yourself while cycling through mixed urban and park areas.
Stay Hydrated
Carry a water bottle as you’ll be riding for several miles through the parks, and fountains may not be readily available.
Watch for Pedestrians
Share the trail respectfully and slow down near bridges and park pathways where walkers and runners are common.
Check Your Bike
Ensure your bike is in good working condition before the tour, especially brakes and tires, to avoid issues on varied terrain.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great blue herons frequently spotted near the park’s waterways.
- Eastern gray squirrels commonly seen darting through the trees along the trails.
History
The Emerald Necklace was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted in the late 19th century to bring green space and clean water to Boston’s urban environment.
Conservation
Community groups actively maintain the parks, focusing on pollinator gardens and sustainable trail management to preserve the ecosystem.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Boston
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Helmet
Protects your head and is required by most guided tours and park regulations.
Water Bottle
Keeps you hydrated during warm rides through the park system.
summer specific
Light Rain Jacket
Useful for unexpected showers and cooler spring temperatures on the trail.
spring specific
Gloves
Adds comfort and warmth during chilly autumn rides.
fall specific