Boston Common Frog Pond
Boston's iconic Frog Pond offers ice skating in winter and a splash pool in summer, a beloved spot in Boston Common for all ages.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical atmosphere
Boston Common Frog Pond
Best Time
Magical atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Boston's iconic Frog Pond offers ice skating in winter and a splash pool in summer, a beloved spot in Boston Common for all ages.
"A classic Boston experience, whether you're gliding on ice or splashing in the summer sun!"
Check Official Hours First
Don't rely on Google hours; always check the official Boston Parks website for the most accurate opening times. :iphone:
Skate Rentals Available
Bring your own skates or rent them on-site. Prices vary for adults and children. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ice Skating at the Frog Pond
Boston Common
Glide across the ice in the heart of Boston, a classic winter activity for all ages.

Summer Splash Pool
Boston Common
Kids can splash and play in the refreshing spray pool, a perfect summer escape.

Frog Sculptures
Around the pond
Discover whimsical frog statues scattered around the pond, adding a playful touch.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Winter Ice Skating Season
Summer Splash Pad Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Official Hours First
Don't rely on Google hours; always check the official Boston Parks website for the most accurate opening times. :iphone:
Skate Rentals Available
Bring your own skates or rent them on-site. Prices vary for adults and children. :ticket:
Kid-Friendly Splash Fun
Perfect for little ones to cool off in the summer with sprinklers and shallow water. :child:
Winter Wonderland Vibes
The Frog Pond offers a quintessential Boston winter experience with ice skating. :snowflake:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Official Hours First
Don't rely on Google hours; always check the official Boston Parks website for the most accurate opening times. :iphone:
Skate Rentals Available
Bring your own skates or rent them on-site. Prices vary for adults and children. :ticket:
Kid-Friendly Splash Fun
Perfect for little ones to cool off in the summer with sprinklers and shallow water. :child:
Winter Wonderland Vibes
The Frog Pond offers a quintessential Boston winter experience with ice skating. :snowflake:
Student Discounts
Some local universities offer discounts for students on skating admission. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Frog Pond's dual seasonal appeal, offering delightful ice skating in winter and a fun splash pool in summer. It's a beloved spot for families and a classic Boston experience, though it can get quite crowded on weekends. Some note the splash pool's late opening date.
"Just to take your shoes 👟 off and walk through the water 💦 to cool off and have some fun and be a kid again was relaxing and enjoyable.
There are sprinklers for the kids to play with. The water 💦 is circulated and you can see the water bubbling up from vents along the edge of the pond.
There was an attendant checking the water for debris. I found a stone 🪨 without stepping on it.
My only concern was a parent who was letting her toddler play ▶️ with a diaper on instead of a Little Swimmer. The potential for the combination of the water being contaminated was a little disconcerting.
There are at least two of the "🐸 Frogs on the Common" sculptures at the edge of the pond.
The pond may have received its name 📛 from the legend that men during the Revolutionary War ate the frogs from food."
Stephen Priest
"Check their website not Google hours. Splash pad is seasonal and opens amazingly late for a big city, this year (2025) June 24th. Mind blowing, right?!?!"
Walter Stelz
"Great place in the summer to dip your feet in the fountain filled frog pond (btw there are no real fogs, only 3-4 large statuesque cartoonish frogs). In the Winter it's the best place to go ice skating."
Matt Greil
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Frog Pond is centrally located in Boston Common. It's easily accessible by public transportation, with several MBTA subway lines stopping nearby, including Park Street and Downtown Crossing. Many visitors also walk or bike to the area.
While there isn't direct parking at the Frog Pond, several parking garages are located within walking distance in the downtown Boston area. Public transport is generally recommended to avoid parking hassles.
Dogs are generally allowed in Boston Common on leash, but they are not permitted in the splash pool area during the summer or on the ice rink during winter. Always check park regulations for the most current rules.
Boston Common has paved pathways that are generally accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, allowing easy access to the Frog Pond area.
From Logan Airport, you can take the Silver Line bus to South Station and then transfer to the Red Line subway towards Alewife, getting off at Park Street. Alternatively, a taxi or rideshare service is a quicker option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission for ice skating is typically $10 for adults and free for children under 58 inches tall. Skate rentals are an additional fee, usually $15 for adults and $10 for children.
The ice rink usually opens in November and operates through March, weather permitting. It's crucial to check the official Boston Parks Department website for exact opening and closing dates.
Yes, students can sometimes get a discount, especially if they are affiliated with local universities like UMass Boston. Keep an eye out for special promotions or student nights.
The splash pool at the Frog Pond is generally free to use during the summer season. There may be special events with associated costs, but daily access is typically complimentary.
Absolutely! Bringing your own ice skates is encouraged and will save you the rental fee. Make sure they are sharpened for the best experience.
🎫 ⛸️ Onsite Experience
Winter hours typically run from 10 AM to 9 PM, with extended hours until 10 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. Mondays often have an earlier closing time around 3:45 PM. Always verify with the official schedule.
The spray pool usually operates from 11 AM to 6 PM throughout the summer. There might be a kickoff event with specific timings.
The Frog Pond can get quite crowded, especially on weekends during both the ice skating season and summer. Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours can offer a more relaxed experience.
Yes, public restrooms are typically available near the Frog Pond facilities.
The Frog Pond is located within Boston Common, offering opportunities for walking, picnicking, and enjoying the park's scenery. You can also find the 'Frogs on the Common' sculptures nearby.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photos. Winter evenings with the rink lights on also create a magical ambiance.
Capture skaters gliding on the ice in winter, or children enjoying the splash pool in summer. The surrounding Boston Common also provides a picturesque backdrop.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide shots of the pond and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the expansive park setting.
Drone usage is generally restricted in Boston parks, including Boston Common, for safety and privacy reasons. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
The view of the pond with the city skyline in the background is a classic shot. The 'Frogs on the Common' sculptures also make for fun, quirky photo subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During winter, ice skating at the Frog Pond is a memorable family activity. While rentals are available, bringing your own skates can be more economical. Look out for potential student discounts if applicable. The surrounding Boston Common also offers space for kids to run around and explore.
💰 Budget Travelers
For ice skating, while there's an admission fee, it's relatively affordable compared to indoor rinks. Bringing your own skates eliminates rental costs. Keep an eye out for any special promotions or student discounts that might further reduce the cost. The general atmosphere of Boston Common is also free to enjoy, offering a pleasant backdrop for a stroll.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
In summer, focus on the joyful moments of children playing in the splash pool, with vibrant colors and water splashes. The surrounding greenery of Boston Common provides a beautiful natural backdrop. Don't forget to capture the whimsical 'Frogs on the Common' sculptures for unique shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Seasonal Transformations: From Ice to Splash
As the weather warms, the ice rink is replaced by a vibrant splash pool for the summer months. This area is a haven for children, offering sprinklers and shallow water to cool off during hot days. While it's a fantastic spot for families, some reviews note that the opening date can be later than expected, so it's always wise to confirm the seasonal transition online.
This dual-season functionality makes the Frog Pond a year-round destination, offering distinct but equally enjoyable experiences depending on when you visit. Whether you're lacing up skates or splashing around, the Frog Pond provides a memorable experience in the heart of Boston.
Navigating the Crowds and Timing Your Visit
For ice skating, arriving early in the morning or later in the evening can help you avoid the largest crowds. Some TikTok videos showcase the lively evening atmosphere, with lights illuminating the rink, creating a magical setting. For the summer splash pool, early mornings are also ideal to beat the heat and the midday rush.
It's also worth noting that special events, like Boston's First Night celebrations, can significantly increase crowd sizes. Planning your visit around these events or opting for a quieter time will greatly enhance your experience.
Understanding Admission and Rentals
Skate rentals are available on-site for those who don't own their own. These rentals come with an additional cost, usually around $15 for adults and $10 for children. Bringing your own skates can be a cost-saving measure.
For the summer splash pool, entry is generally free. This makes it an accessible and budget-friendly option for families looking to cool down. Always double-check the official Boston Parks Department website for the most current pricing and rental information, as these details can change seasonally.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit