Boston Common Frog Pond, Boston - Image 1
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Boston Common Frog Pond

4.3
·98 reviews·Boston, United States

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

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Winter evenings

Magical atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Boston Common Frog Pond, Boston - Image 1

Boston Common Frog Pond

Best Time

Winter evenings

Magical atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

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.

4.3
(98 reviews)

"A classic Boston experience, whether you're gliding on ice or splashing in the summer sun!"

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ice Skating at the Frog Pond

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

Summer Splash Pool

Boston Common

Kids can splash and play in the refreshing spray pool, a perfect summer escape.

Frog Sculptures

Frog Sculptures

Around the pond

Discover whimsical frog statues scattered around the pond, adding a playful touch.

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Planning Your Visit

Winter Ice Skating Season

The Frog Pond transforms into a popular ice rink from November to March. Check the official website for exact opening dates and hours, as they can be weather-dependent. Arrive early on weekends to avoid the biggest crowds.

Summer Splash Pad Fun

During warmer months, the Frog Pond becomes a vibrant splash pool for kids. While it's a great way to cool off, be aware that the opening date can be surprisingly late in June. Always confirm hours online.

Best Times

When
Winter evenings
Why
Magical atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer mornings
Why
Beat the heat
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

TIKTOK WE NEED YOUR HELP!!! At the Boston Commons Frog Pond Boston Massachusetts 12/30/2022 We need to find the guy in the black zip up 🤩 also, the crowd definitely passed the vibe check!
@raeofsunphotos
414.1K likes • 2.4M views

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:

is everyone else’s local holiday ice rinks up and running again? i’m back and the boston common frog pond is back 🤩 (in this house we stan @Joey Graziadei @jennajohnson and @Kelsey Anderson 🥹🥹) #figureskating #outdooriceskating #IceSkating #boston #outdooricerink #bostoncommonfrogpond
@_nicoleskates
32.3K likes • 217K views
Just go skating at the frog pond in Boston.❄️🛼 💡where is bottom frog pond? Boston Common Frog Pond is a small lake area in warmer weather and is located within Boston Common at one end (besides the Cheers Pub of former TV fame). Tag a friend who'd love to see this! 🎥: @heythereney #boston #winter #snow #skating #adventure #explore
boston.travel
1.9K likes • 40.3K views

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:

Localização é: Frog Pond, Boston Common ! Aproveitem muito ❤️🇺🇸🇺🇸
carlapadilha4
1.5K likes • 92.3K views

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

4.3
(98 reviews)

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

Seasonal fun
Family-friendly
Iconic Boston spot

What People Dislike

Weekend crowds
Late summer opening

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Boston Common has paved pathways that are generally accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, allowing easy access to the Frog Pond area. Reddit

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Absolutely! Bringing your own ice skates is encouraged and will save you the rental fee. Make sure they are sharpened for the best experience. Instagram

🎫 ⛸️ 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. Instagram

The spray pool usually operates from 11 AM to 6 PM throughout the summer. There might be a kickoff event with specific timings. Instagram

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. Reddit

Yes, public restrooms are typically available near the Frog Pond facilities. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

Drone usage is generally restricted in Boston parks, including Boston Common, for safety and privacy reasons. Always check local regulations before flying a drone. Reddit

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Frog Pond is a fantastic destination for families. In the summer, the splash pool is a guaranteed hit, offering a safe and fun way for children to beat the heat. Sprinklers and shallow water make it perfect for toddlers and younger kids. Reddit Parents often appreciate the attendants who monitor the water quality. Reddit

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. Instagram The surrounding Boston Common also offers space for kids to run around and explore. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The Frog Pond is an excellent budget-friendly option. The summer splash pool is free to enter, making it a perfect way to spend a hot afternoon without spending a dime. Instagram

For ice skating, while there's an admission fee, it's relatively affordable compared to indoor rinks. Bringing your own skates eliminates rental costs. Instagram Keep an eye out for any special promotions or student discounts that might further reduce the cost. Instagram The general atmosphere of Boston Common is also free to enjoy, offering a pleasant backdrop for a stroll. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Frog Pond offers diverse photographic opportunities throughout the year. In winter, capture the festive atmosphere of ice skating with dynamic shots of people in motion, illuminated by rink lights. TikTokInstagram The golden hour light can create stunning reflections on the ice. TikTok

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. Instagram Don't forget to capture the whimsical 'Frogs on the Common' sculptures for unique shots. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Seasonal Transformations: From Ice to Splash

The Boston Common Frog Pond is a dynamic attraction that completely transforms with the seasons. In the winter, it becomes a beloved ice skating rink, drawing locals and tourists alike to enjoy a classic New England winter activity. The pond is meticulously maintained to provide a smooth surface for skaters of all levels. Videos often capture the festive atmosphere, with people of all ages enjoying the crisp air and the joy of gliding on ice. TikTokInstagram

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. InstagramReddit

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. TikTok

Navigating the Crowds and Timing Your Visit

The Frog Pond's popularity means it can get quite crowded, especially during peak times. Weekends are particularly busy, with both skaters and families flocking to the area. If you prefer a more serene experience, aiming for weekdays is highly recommended. Reddit

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. TikTokInstagram For the summer splash pool, early mornings are also ideal to beat the heat and the midday rush. Instagram

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. TikTok

Understanding Admission and Rentals

When visiting the Frog Pond for ice skating, there's an admission fee, typically around $10 for adults and free for children under 58 inches. This height-based pricing ensures affordability for families. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

For the summer splash pool, entry is generally free. This makes it an accessible and budget-friendly option for families looking to cool down. Instagram Always double-check the official Boston Parks Department website for the most current pricing and rental information, as these details can change seasonally. Reddit