Outdoors

The Head of the Charles Regatta brings two days of nonstop rowing to the river each October, and Boston’s banks fill with spectators. If you want to stay on the Boston side (without crossing into Cambridge), here are six of the best spots to take in the action, along with tips on food, access, and the best times to visit.

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Weeks Footbridge — Back Bay

Weeks Footbridge is the iconic crossing point with panoramic views up and down the Charles. It’s one of the busiest spectator spots, so plan to arrive early if you want rail space. The flat bridge deck makes it easy to linger, and Harvard Square food trucks often line up nearby, so you can grab coffee or a sandwich before heading over. Bathrooms are limited, so plan ahead.
Cost: Free
MBTA/Parking: Harvard (Red Line), 10–12 min walk
Accessibility: Fully pedestrian bridge, level surface
Link: hocr.org

BU Bridge — Allston/Brighton

The BU Bridge gives a sweeping perspective of crews as they come around the bend toward Cambridge. Crowds are lighter than at Weeks or Anderson, and you can walk down to Magazine Beach on the Boston side if you want more open space. After the races, grab pizza or beer in Allston, just a ten-minute walk away.
Cost: Free
MBTA/Parking: Boston University Central (Green Line B)
Accessibility: Narrow sidewalks; steep approach
Link: hocr.org

Anderson Memorial Bridge — Allston/Brighton

Anderson Bridge connects directly into Harvard Square but gives a solid Boston-side view of passing boats. It’s packed by midday, so the trick is to show up early or linger later in the afternoon when turnover happens. Food trucks cluster on both ends, and there’s usually a festive atmosphere. Restrooms are a walk away in Harvard Square.
Cost: Free
MBTA/Parking: Harvard Ave (Green Line B) + 15-min walk
Accessibility: Narrow sidewalks; crowd-heavy
Link: hocr.org

Charles River Esplanade — Back Bay/Fenway

The Esplanade runs for miles along the river, and it’s one of the most flexible viewing options. Families spread blankets on the grass near the BU Boathouse, while runners and cyclists weave through the crowd. Bring snacks or stop at a Back Bay café beforehand, since food options along the river itself are limited. Bathrooms are available at a couple of Esplanade facilities and are open from 8 AM to 6 PM, but lines may form.
Cost: Free
MBTA/Parking: Hynes (Green Line), 8–10 min walk
Accessibility: Paved paths; stroller- and wheelchair-friendly
Link: esplanade.org

Eliot Bridge — Allston/Brighton

At the bend near the finish stretch, Eliot Bridge offers a high vantage point and a little more breathing room than the central bridges. It’s still busy, but you’ll often find local families and alumni groups setting up tents nearby. Grab coffee in Allston or Fenway on your way, since food is less plentiful here. Bathrooms are scarce, so plan to walk back toward Harvard Square or the Esplanade.
Cost: Free
MBTA/Parking: Harvard Ave (Green Line B) or Central (Red Line) + 15-min walk
Accessibility: Narrow sidewalks, uneven pavement
Link: hocr.org

Charles/MGH Riverfront — Beacon Hill

Near the Charles/MGH station, you’ll find wide sidewalks and benches along the river, offering a calmer perspective than the busy bridges upriver. It’s an easy meet-up point for friends, and you can pair it with brunch on Charles Street afterward. Restrooms are inside the Red Line station.
Cost: Free
MBTA/Parking: Charles/MGH (Red Line)
Accessibility: Paved paths, ADA access
Link: hocr.org