Swan Boats
The Lagoon
Why locals love it
For childhood readers of Make Way For Ducklings and The Trumpet of the Swan, and tourists looking for that picturesque Boston photo-op, a ride on the Swan Boats in The Lagoon at the center of the Public Garden is an absolute must. Since 1877, these dual-pontooned Swan Boats have been offering brief pleasure rides from April through September.
Why you should visit it
This family dynasty is something of the old world that has been able to survive for its simplicity and serenity. The design of the boats has changed very little. Legend has it, the Paget's designed the boats after seeing the opera, Lohengrin, in which a knight rescue's a damsel in distress by riding to her upon a swan.
Special tip
Check out the Make Way for Ducklings monument on the NE corner of the Public Garden before or after your inspiring swan ride among the willow trees.