Swan Boats Public Garden
History & Tradition
Founded by Robert Paget, the Swan Boats have remained family-owned and operated for over 145 years.
Inspired by the opera Lohengrin, which features a knight crossing a river on a swan, Paget designed the boats to resemble graceful swans gliding across the water.
The Paget family continues to maintain and run the boats today, preserving this cherished Boston tradition.
What to Expect on a Swan Boat Ride
A 12- to 15-minute ride around the beautiful Public Garden Lagoon.
The boats are pedal-powered by a driver seated in the swan’s body, moving at a gentle pace.
Passengers sit on wooden benches and enjoy scenic views of the gardens, weeping willows, fountains, and wildlife.
Look out for the famous resident ducks, inspired by the children's book Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey.
Season & Operating Hours
The Swan Boat season runs from mid-April to mid-September (weather permitting).
Open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM (spring and fall) and until 5 PM in the summer.
Tickets & Cost
Tickets are affordable and available at the dock (cash only).
Prices (subject to change):
Adults: $4.50
Children (2–15): $3.00
Seniors (65+): $4.00
Kids under 2 ride free.
Why Visit?
A peaceful, quintessential Boston experience.
Perfect for all ages, whether you're a local or a visitor.
A chance to admire the lush gardens, historic statues, and city skyline from the water.
Create lasting memories. We still remember our first ride on the swan boats....decades ago. We love the Swan Boats. You will too....
Opening Day: April 19th, 2025
Devon suggests that a ride on the iconic Swan Boats would make the perfect Mother’s Day treat—and we couldn’t agree more. The last time we glided across the water in those elegant boats, we were just kids. What a joy it would be to relive that magic, this time with our mother by our side!
Parking near the Boston Public Garden can be challenging due to limited street parking. However, several nearby garages offer convenient options:
Boston Common Garage
Located beneath Boston Common, this spacious facility operates 24/7 and is a short walk to the Public Garden. The entrance is at Zero Charles Street.
CityPlace Garage
Situated at 40 Charles Street South, this garage provides parking within a 5-minute walk to the Public Garden.
Motor Mart Garage
Located at 201 Stuart Street, it’s approximately a 10-minute walk to the Swan Boats.
And to make a day of it...Here are a few great lunch places nearby:
Bistro du Midi: a French Bistro overlooking the Public Garden
Contessa, An upscale Italian restaurant offering sweeping views of Back Bay and the Public Garden!
Parish Café and Bar: Casual Dining experience with a wide variety of great food and known for their creative sandwiches crafted by local chefs.