
The Riverway
A serene urban oasis along the Muddy River, offering distinct paved and woodsy trails as part of Boston's Emerald Necklace.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls

The Riverway
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene urban oasis along the Muddy River, offering distinct paved and woodsy trails as part of Boston's Emerald Necklace.
"Offers two very different paths - both great in their own right."

🚗 Parking is Tough
Street parking is very limited, especially in Brookline. Consider public transport or ride-sharing.
👟 Choose Your Path
Boston side is unpaved/woodsy, Brookline side is paved. Pick what suits your activity!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Muddy River Paths
Explore both the unpaved, woodsy Boston side and the paved Brookline side for diverse walking and biking experiences.

Emerald Necklace Connection
Part of the historic Emerald Necklace, offering a green escape within the city.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Pointers
Trail Variety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is Tough
Street parking is very limited, especially in Brookline. Consider public transport or ride-sharing.
👟 Choose Your Path
Boston side is unpaved/woodsy, Brookline side is paved. Pick what suits your activity!
Incoming resident. Is it going to be easy to find street parking around Riverway?
What are your favorite helpful 'secrets' of the T that you are willing to share?
🌳 Embrace Nature
Enjoy the peaceful, natural setting as part of the Emerald Necklace.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is Tough
Street parking is very limited, especially in Brookline. Consider public transport or ride-sharing.
👟 Choose Your Path
Boston side is unpaved/woodsy, Brookline side is paved. Pick what suits your activity!
🌳 Embrace Nature
Enjoy the peaceful, natural setting as part of the Emerald Necklace.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate The Riverway for its natural beauty and the dual experience of its paved and unpaved paths, offering a peaceful escape within the city. However, the significant challenge of finding parking is a recurring point of frustration for many.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Riverway is accessible via public transportation. Several MBTA bus routes run along its perimeter. For those driving, be aware that street parking is extremely limited and often requires a resident permit, especially on the Brookline side.
On-street parking is very difficult to find and often restricted. Brookline has strict 2-hour limits during the day and no overnight parking. The Boston side may offer more options but typically requires a resident parking permit.
Yes, biking is a great way to access The Riverway. It's part of the Emerald Necklace, offering scenic routes. Bike racks may be available at various access points.
Walking or jogging are popular. The Brookline side offers a paved path, ideal for strollers and wheelchairs, while the Boston side provides a more natural, unpaved trail experience.
The paved path on the Brookline side is excellent for strollers. The unpaved, woodsy trails on the Boston side may be more challenging with a stroller.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, The Riverway is a public park and is free to access. There are no admission fees.
As a public park, The Riverway is generally accessible from dawn until dusk. Specific park hours may vary slightly by section, but it's typically open year-round.
There are no entry fees. The only potential costs would be for parking if you manage to find a metered spot, or for public transportation to get there.
Dogs are generally allowed in The Riverway, but it's important to check local regulations for leash requirements, especially in Brookline. Always clean up after your pet.
The paved path on the Brookline side offers good accessibility. The unpaved trails on the Boston side may present challenges for those with mobility issues.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, jogging, biking, birdwatching, and simply relaxing in nature. It's a great spot for a peaceful escape.
Expect a mix of natural landscapes, including the Muddy River, trees, and open green spaces. The Boston side is more wooded, while the Brookline side is more manicured.
Restroom facilities may be limited and can vary by access point. It's advisable to check local park information or plan accordingly.
The Riverway is generally considered safe, especially during daylight hours. It's a popular spot for locals. As with any urban park, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings.
Look for scenic views along the river, especially during sunrise or sunset. The changing foliage in autumn also provides beautiful photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the unpaved trails on the Boston side offer a more adventurous feel, they might be less manageable with very young children or strollers. Pack snacks and water, as amenities can be sparse. The open green spaces provide room for kids to run around and enjoy the outdoors.
🚶♀️ Walkers and Runners
The unpaved Boston side offers a more challenging and varied running experience, with natural surfaces that engage different muscles. Both sides connect to the larger Emerald Necklace system, allowing for extended routes and exploration of other park areas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating The Riverway's Paths
In contrast, the Brookline side boasts a completely paved path, making it highly accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and cyclists. This side is more manicured and offers a different, yet equally pleasant, perspective of the Muddy River. Visitors often appreciate the ability to choose their preferred terrain based on their activity and accessibility needs.
Parking and Accessibility Challenges
While the Boston side might offer slightly more flexibility, it often requires a resident parking permit, making it challenging for non-residents. Many travelers recommend using public transportation or ride-sharing services as a more reliable and less stressful alternative to driving and searching for parking.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit