Favorite running routes in Boston

Boston is renowned for so many things, including the Boston Marathon. And if you’re a runner, our city makes it easy to keep up your mileage. Ranked third in the Runner’s World top US cities for running, Boston has it all: great routes, great scenery and great places for post-run relaxation.

Boston Park Plaza is ideally situated for those who love to run. Not only is Lynx Fitness on property, but our unrivaled location is also just steps from the oldest public park in the country, with its pathways waiting for you to discover.

Here are a few of our favorite Boston running routes.

The Public Garden and the Common

Head out our front doors and towards the Public Garden. Follow the perimeter of the Public Garden and Boston Common and you’ll have covered about 1.5 miles. Explore some of the Common’s paths and add to your mileage.

Commonwealth Avenue

The Public Garden marks the start of Commonwealth Avenue. The beautiful boulevard is rich with pathways to run and statues and memorials to enjoy along the way. Continue for eight blocks. At Massachusetts Avenue take a right. Follow it to the river, where a ramp leads to the Charles River Esplanade. Follow the path to the Longfellow Bridge. Return along Charles Street and soak in the history of Beacon Hill. Then you’re back at the Public Garden and just a short jog to Boston Park Plaza.

The Charles River running paths

Running along the Charles River is one of the iconic experiences for visitors to our city. The path starts at Science Park and passes several bridges, which makes this waterfront route ideal for runners of all levels. If you’re looking for a quick 2-mile loop, take the first crossing, Longfellow Bridge, and return along the Cambridge side of the river until you reach the Museum of Science. If you want a longer distance, the next crossing is the

Harvard Bridge. This loop will cover almost four miles. The third crossing of the Charles River is the Boston University Bridge, making for a 5.7-mile loop.

Check the maps, see which crossing fits your running needs and lace up your sneakers. It’s a glorious way to take in distinct views of our city while getting in your mileage.

The final mile of the Boston Marathon route

Do you dream of crossing the finish line at the Boston Marathon? The Boston Marathon Route may be too much for most runners but consider running the last mile. Start at Kenmore Square on Beacon Street – mile 25 of the celebrated race. Run along Commonwealth Avenue, passing the Citgo Sign. Then enjoy The Big Turn. Take a right onto Hereford Street and a left onto Boylston and you are now running the final few blocks of the race. Cross Exeter then start raising your hands in triumph as soon, you’ll be crossing the finish line.

Boston is celebrated for our history and open spaces. Together, they are the ideal combination for runners looking to explore a city one step at a time. For other running route suggestions, please visit our Concierge desk.

About Us

Boston Park Plaza is so much more than a hotel. We are a Boston icon, integral to the city’s heritage. As one of the best hotels in Boston, we offer a true one-of-a-kind experience, as richly textured and profoundly memorable as Boston itself.