Readers Say

10 best spots to see spring flowers in bloom

"It's one of those things that makes Boston one of the best cities to live in, and near, in the country." 

A woman passes through the Boston Public Garden on June 30, 2020. Craig F. Walker/Globe Staff

By Kristina DaPonte

3 minutes to read

Spring has officially sprung in Boston.

As May draws closer, so does the promise of perfect temperatures and scenic views of the city. Some of Boston’s trees may still be barren, but others are seeing the beginnings of a bloom. At spring’s peak, the city’s trees and grounds will be alive with color and beauty.

We asked readers to tell us where they go to see spring flowers in bloom and combined their responses with recommendations from the Boston.com newsroom. In total, 10 spots across Greater Boston were highlighted for their beauty.

Scroll down to explore the interactive map and a full list of where to see spring flowers in bloom.

Some responses have been lightly edited for length and clarity.

Arnold Arboretum, Boston

The Arnold Arboretum, spread across Jamaica Plain and Roslindale, is well-known for their plant collection and conservation — as of January 2024, it houses nearly 16,000 individual plants. It is also famous for its annual Lilac Sundays, which puts on display the Arboretum’s 400 lilacs and also includes children’s programming, picnicking, and tours. This year, Lilac Sunday falls on May 12.

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“The fragrance is heavenly,” said Patricia D. of Jamaica Plain. “An entire hill of multi-colored lilacs, usually around Mid-May.”

Back Bay Fens, Boston

Part of Boston’s Emerald Necklace, a walk through the Back Bay Fens in the spring is always a treat. Not only is there plentiful green space in the park and along its waterway, but the Fens also houses the Kellecher Rose Garden, which showcases an intimate but might display of over 1,500 roses.

Charles River Esplanade, Boston

Across from Cambridge and along the South bank of the Charles River is the well-known Esplanade, a park where you’ll see many people on a run or soaking up sun. In the spring, the Esplanade’s trees bloom in full color, especially the multiple cherry blossom trees lining the walkways.

Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park, Boston

The North End is home to Columbus Park, located adjacent to Long Wharf and the Greenway. Flowers that can be seen at the park include colorful coneflowers and classic daisies, with the Rose Kennedy Rose Garden holding court in the middle of the park.

Commonwealth Avenue and Marlborough Street, Boston

If you’re looking for Boston’s most vibrant blossoming trees, Back Bay is one of the best neighborhoods to visit. Readers suggested visiting Marlborough Street and Commonwealth Avenue to see the magnolias at their peak.

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“From Mass Ave. all the way to the [Public] Garden, Commonwealth Ave. is a lined with these beautiful blossoms,” said Anabel G. from Lexington. “It’s one of those things that makes Boston one of the best cities to live in, and near, in the country.” 

Franklin Park, Boston

The largest open space in Boston connects five of its neighborhoods: Roxbury, Dorchester, Mattapan, Roslindale, and Jamaica Plain. The park offers 485-acres of green space and open-air sitting areas — flowers sprouting from trees and bushes are easy to come by as well.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Boston

The courtyard garden in the middle of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is one of its most iconic and photo-worthy attractions. Ten unique displays rotate throughout the year in the courtyard, but all of them create a beautiful backdrop. The hanging nasturtiums that briefly appear at the beginning of spring signal the beginning of the season, with hydrangeas, azaleas, blue cineraria, daffodils, and orchids populating the garden until summer.

Mount Auburn Cemetery, Cambridge and Watertown

North of Boston is Mount Auburn Cemetery, which sees a variety of plants and flowers sprout in the springtime. In April, one might see ornamental cherries, honeysuckles, and tulips; and going into May, the cemetery’s trees and shrubs begin to bloom.

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“Botanical garden and historic cemetery with prominent horticultural research,” said Kathryn from Watertown. “Was once one of the most visited places in the U.S.!” 

Public Garden, Boston

The Public Garden is one of the true hearts of the city. The first public botanical garden in the United States, it truly springs to life when the warm weather hits. Various flowers and plant species can be found across the garden, from tulips and allium flower beds to cleomes and magnolia trees.

Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway, Boston

Snaking through several of Boston’s neighborhoods, the Rose Kennedy Greenway boasts attractions from various fountains and food trucks to the Greenway Carousel. Along the park’s mile-long stretch, you’ll find blooming flowers and trees — and the Greenway keeps an impressive guide of the plants you may see.

“Start and end your stroll with a nosh. Many early spring bulbs [and] flowers are in bloom now. Great spots to sit and gather sun, people watch,” said Liz from Jamaica Plain.

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