Charles River Esplanade

Technically, the Esplanade stretches for three miles along the Boston side of the Charles River, between the Museum of Science and the Boston University (BU) Bridge. When locals colloquially refer to the Esplanade, they're likely referring to the key stretch between Beacon Hill and the Back Bay, which becomes ground zero of the city's Fourth of July celebrations. This is a popular location for runners, but walking its paths by the river, watching as boats bob in the water, is a most soothing activity.