"Boston's fall foliage blazes across the city from late September through October - and often well into November.
Although you can see lots of gorgeous leaves on New England fall foliage tours, you can also enjoy spectacular leaf color by touring around Boston on your own. Check out these spots to peep some local foliage...
#1: Boston's Public Garden
Located in the heart of the city next to Boston Common, the Public Garden puts on a spectacular display of color throughout the fall months.
The Public Garden contains many densely planted trees and shrubs. Each species changes color at a slightly different time, making a constantly shifting tapestry of autumnal tones.
If you're curious about what types of trees you're admiring, look for brass labels under the trees.
For even more stunning views, walk onto the footbridge across the Lagoon.
In the distance, you can see Mallard Island, of Make Way for Ducklings fame - that it on the left in the photo below. On warm days, you'll usually spot a few ducks sunning themselves on the ramp leading down to the water.
Insider tip: Many of the wide variety of ornamental trees growing in the Public Garden change color early - so splashes of autumn color can usually be see first here.
#2: The Esplanade
The tree-filled Boston Esplanade, the long linear park along the Charles River across from Beacon Hill and Back Bay, turns into a sea of gold and orange in October when Boston's fall foliage begins to reach its peak.
You can walk, jog, or bicycle along the river paths and enjoy the dancing water reflections of the many-hued leaves. Bring your camera and capture the perfect photos of the colorful fall leaves along the river.
#3: Back Bay, Beacon Hill, & Bay Village
Spend 10 minutes walking randomly through any of these elegant neighborhoods and treat your eyes to a panorama of colorful leaves and varied textures.
In Beacon Hill, the narrow lanes and alleys blaze with color from the street trees. Look closely, and you'll see glimpses of color from almost-hidden gardens. A particularly lovely walk is up Mount Vernon street to tree-filled Louisburg Square.
In Back Bay, Commonwealth Avenue - a magnificent statue-filled boulevard with a long park down the middle - is spectacular.
Start at the Public Garden, walk down Comm Ave all the way to Hereford Street, turn right and walk another block, and then turn right again and walk back on Marlborough Street. Magnolias, so magnificent when blooming in the spring, now make a swath of gold.
The Southwest Corridor Park provides a perfect starting point for leaf viewing in the South End. From Back Bay Station, cross Dartmouth Street to the park's entrance.
Walk as far as you want, enjoying the colorful gardens and trees. Then either come back the same way or detour through the neighborhood's small streets, enjoying how the crimsons and maroons of the Boston fall foliage harmonize with the red brick Victorians."
