Plan Your Visit

Young visitors run toward camera over a wooden footbridge.

NPS Photo

 

Begin your Islands Adventure!

With 34 islands and peninsulas, Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park offers experiences for all to enjoy. As a partnership park, Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park brings together federal, state, city, and nonprofit agencies to manage and protect a unique and diverse environment. Please visit the Boston Harbor Islands organization website, BostonHarborIslands.org, for the most up-to-date information about things to do, special events, and ferry schedules.

 

 
 

Visit the Islands

Take in breathtaking views, hike dozens of trails, catch a glimpse of local wildlife, or learn about the long and storied past of Boston Harbor. Whether it's for a few hours of relaxation or a day spent adventuring, the islands offer an escape from Boston's busy downtown.

 
Georges Island
Bridge and entrance to a fort with greenery on top of the stone.
Step back in time by visiting Fort Warren, a Civil-War era fort and National Historic Landmark.
Spectacle Island
Gravel trail leading towards visitor center and dock.
Hike the drumlins and enjoy spectacular views of the city and other islands from the highest point in the harbor.
Thompson Island
two blue Adirondack chairs on grassy knoll leading to beach. Dock to the right & city in distance.
Visit Thompson Island, also known as Cathleen Stone Island, on weekends during the 2026 season.
Peddocks Island
green lawn with a couple tall trees and a brick one story building with water in background.
Explore Peddocks Island, one of the largest islands in the harbor and known for its rich biodiversity.
 

Getting Here

Visitors can access the islands via public ferry or private boats. There are also opportunities throughout the summer to obtain discounted or free ferry tickets to the islands.

 
Public ferry docked
Take the Ferry!

Ferry Tickets

Public ferries will be running several islands throughout the season. Buy ferry tickets on our partnership website.

View of Georges Island from the water. See docks, a ferry, and visitor center. Fort in background.
Explore the Harbor!

Boating

Recreational boaters, sailors, and paddlers can get to some islands on their own. Public moorings are available for reservation.

Three walkers (one man and two women) on a trail at Spectacle Island.
Get Free or Discounted Tickets

Free Access

Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park offers free and discounted tickets for both groups and individuals.

 

Immerse Yourself

As the largest open recreational space in eastern Massachusetts, many adventures await you during your visit. From beaching, camping, and hiking to touring and wildlife viewing, there are endless ways for you to immerse yourself in the history and landscape of the islands.

 
Two girls running with kites
Enjoy the Outdoors

Kids & Families

Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park offers family-friendly activities to enjoy during your visit to the Islands.

cruise-goers taking pictures and looking at Boston Light.
Lighting up the Harbor

Lighthouse Cruises

Take a cruise of Boston Harbor and learn about three historic lighthouses.

Signpost on Peddocks Island pointing to a campsite, picnic site, and mortars
2026 Season

Camping

Escape the busy city with an overnight camping stay on Peddocks Island this summer!

Last updated: July 16, 2026

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park
21 Second Ave
Charlestown, MA 02129

Phone:

617 819-3587
This is the phone number for the Boston Harbor Islands Welcome Center on the Rose Kennedy Greenway. It is only checked while the Welcome Center is operational. During the off-season, please contact us via email.

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