East Boston

Belle Isle Marsh

The 241-acre Belle Isle Marsh is one of the Boston area's largest surviving salt marshes, and is a calming, natural oasis in the midst of the city's bustle. With saltwater, freshwater, and meadow areas, this coastal marsh is a critical habitat for diverse wildlife and vegetation. Tall reeds provide cover for muskrats, opossums, snapping turtles, and garter snakes, and the grasslands are home to meadow voles, monarch butterflies, and songbirds. Visitors can stroll along Belle Isle Marsh's winding pathways, sit quietly and enjoy the natural surroundings, or take in the wide ocean view from an observation tower.

Site Photos:

Getting There:

  • Subway:
    Take the Blue Line to Suffolk Downs (3 minute walk).
  • Public Parking:
    Free public parking is available at this site during the daytime.
  • Bus:
    Take MBTA Route 119 to Crescent Avenue or MBTA Route 120 to Bennington Street.

Things to Do:

  • Go boating
  • Ride a bicycle
  • Walk the dog
  • Go fishing
  • Learn about history
  • Play with the kids
  • Enjoy nature
  • Have a picnic
  • Go for a run
  • Take a school group
  • Go for a swim
  • Bask in the sun
  • Take in the view
  • See the working port in action
  • Enjoy arts and culture
  • Audio Tour

What You Will Find:

  • Binoculars
  • Drinking water
  • Exhibit / interpretive signage
  • Fishing pier
  • Food service
  • Lighting
  • Marina facilities
  • Monument or public art
  • Playground
  • Playing fields
  • Public telephone
  • Restrooms
  • Seating
  • Shelter
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