Finding a city’s secret spots can only really happen at human speed. In this series, World Running Guide, we’ll provide information to help you discover your next destination through the eyes (or rather, feet) of a runner.
Every river, stone chapel, park or 18th century house has a story. Some of the nation’s greatest legends and founders rode their horses along your evening route. Some of today’s greatest minds are on their morning commute, crossing the river and walking were America’s earliest patriots once strode. All you have to do is enjoy it one step at a time. Welcome to Boston.
On Your Mark
Photo courtesy of Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism, CC-BY-ND
When people think of Boston, there’s one activity most probably associate with the city (besides sightseeing the classic historical landmarks): running. Thanks to the prestigious Boston Marathon and its overall athletic stamina, Massachusetts’ capital is considered by some to be the running capital of the U.S. In terms of the best running cities in the country, it made #3 for Runner’s World and Active.com, #7 in Women’s Health, #9 for Forbes, and is in Outside Magazine’s top 10 for best cities to live in for active families. Surrounded by colorful scenery like the Charles River, the Rose Kennedy Greenway and the 19th century Trinity Church amongst the glass skyscrapers, nothing dull meets a runner’s eye.
Underneath its looks, Boston also has a big heart and an even bigger community. Since the Boston Marathon bombing four years ago, volunteers and locals have continually united to support each other and honor those who were lost. Recently the town celebrated One Boston Day on April 15, where people donated socks to the homeless, split pizzas with first responders, placed daffodils along the marathon course, and other kind acts. So while you’re taking an early morning jog through this landmark-filled city, take the time to look past the forts and chapels and see the people who hold the capital together.
Get Set
Photo courtesy of Craig Stainfill, CC-BY-SA
While the people are the heart of this city, the landscape isn’t too shabby, either. There are countless ways to see the highlights of what Boston has to offer, but here are just a few routes to ease you into the culture before diving deep with a running club or a race.
The classic trail that seems almost to be a rite of passage for tourists is the Freedom Trail that squeezes some of the most important historical landmarks into a 2.5-mile stretch, like Ben Franklin’s statue or Paul Revere’s house. Another favorite of visitors is the almost 3-mile straightaway along the Charles River Esplanade. You’ll most likely pass the Museum of Science, the Boston University Bridge, and apparently, some flocks of geese.
Photo by