Explore Rowes Wharf: Boston’s Waterfront Transformation
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, including those preferring a gentle stroll.
Overview
Join Boston By Foot for an immersive tour of Rowes Wharf, where Boston’s maritime heritage meets bold modern architecture. Discover how this iconic waterfront spot shapes the city’s identity.
Rowes Wharf: Sensationally Good City Making
Learn about the modern Rowes Wharf and how colonial wharves transformed the city
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About This Adventure
Embark on an engaging hour-long tour of Rowes Wharf, where history meets modern design. Discover the groundbreaking vision behind this iconic building and explore the rich maritime heritage of Boston. This accessible quarter-mile journey offers a unique glimpse into the city’s transformation, making it a memorable experience for all.
Duration, Distance, Terrain
1 hour 1/4 mile at a moderate pace, stopping at various sites along the tour
About
When the modern Rowes Wharf was conceived in 1982, it was a design competition with a bold vision of a new Boston. Learn why this building was such a breakthrough, and how it remains at the center of 21st-century Boston.
Our hour-long, accessible, quarter-mile tour will lead you through memories of colonial wharves and elevated trolleys, schooners and steamships, and into the transformed city.
Presented in partnership with the Boston Harbor Hotel
Meeting location:
Meet your guide in front of the concierge desk in the lobby of the Boston Harbor Hotel, 70 Rowes Wharf
Finding Your Guide: All guides carry an 8×11 sign that says “Boston By Foot Walking Tours.”
Nearest MBTA Stations: Aquarium (Blue Line) or South Station (Red & Silver Lines)
What to bring
Comfortable shoes, dress for the weather, water bottle
Adventure Tips
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The tour covers about a quarter-mile on paved surfaces; comfortable footwear will enhance your experience.
Arrive Early for Best Parking
Parking can be limited near Rowes Wharf, so arriving 10-15 minutes early helps secure a spot.
Bring a Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during the walk, especially in warmer months.
Check Weather Beforehand
Boston’s waterfront can be breezy or rainy; dress accordingly and bring a light jacket or umbrella.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Seagulls gliding over the harbor
- Occasional harbor seals visible near the piers
History
Rowes Wharf was transformed in the late 1980s from a neglected shipping terminal into a vibrant urban space blending architecture and maritime history.
Conservation
The revitalized Rowes Wharf area promotes sustainable urban waterfront use, incorporating green design elements and supporting local ecosystem health.
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Adventure Hotspots in Boston
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for navigating the paved paths comfortably during the tour.
Water Bottle
Helps stay hydrated during warmer weather while exploring the waterfront.
summer specific
Layered Clothing
Allows for comfort as temperatures fluctuate near the harbor breeze.
fall specific
Compact Umbrella
Useful in case of spring showers to keep you dry and comfortable.
spring specific