Whether you’re looking to find a place to cool down — or a cool spot to visit — we have you covered.
guide
Summer in Boston
Last updated:
Community center pools
Summer programs
Summer programs
Emerald Necklace
The 1,100-acre chain of nine parks is linked by parkways and waterways.
Cemeteries / Historic Burying Grounds
We manage three active cemeteries and 16 burying grounds in Boston.
Historic districts
The nine historic districts in the City of Boston feature unique architecture and landmarks.
George Wright and William J. Devine Golf Courses
The City boasts two magnificent golf courses for the enjoyment of City residents and non-residents alike.
Summer safety
Contact: Emergency Management
Mosquitoes and ticks
Heading to a grassy or wooded area? Make sure to apply a repellent that will protect against mosquitoes and ticks.
Bug tips:Always check yourself, children, and pets for ticks after returning indoors. Remove attached ticks right away using tweezers. Mosquito bites can spread West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis. Ticks can spread Lyme disease.
Wear long sleeve shirts, long pants, and socks to prevent mosquito and tick bites. You should also limit your time outdoors between dusk and dawn. Mosquitoes are most active at that time.
To stop mosquitoes from breeding:- limit places around the home where standing water can collect
- turn over unused flower pots, buckets, wheelbarrows, and garbage cans
- remove leaves and other debris that can clog gutters and trap water
- get rid of or cover old tires, and
- cover swimming pools when not in use.
Extreme heat
During periods of extreme heat, we'll declare a heat emergency and open community centers as cooling centers. Please check on your neighbors and the elderly to make sure they're okay.
Watch out for those at riskInfants, children, people age 65 and older, and the homeless are at greater risk for heat-related illness. Other high risk people are those who are physically ill or who take certain medications.
Drink water and stay hydratedDrink more water no matter how active you are. Avoid alcohol and sugary or caffeinated drinks. Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink.
Don't leave children or pets in carsNever leave children and pets alone in cars. Cars heat up quickly even if the windows are slightly open.
Useful maps
We have maps that can help you navigate your way around the City of Boston.
City of Boston pools and tot sprays
View a map of tot sprays and pools managed by the City.
Public restrooms in Boston
View an interactive map and a list of public restrooms.
State pools and spray decks
The state also operates pools and spray decks in and around Boston.
Mass. saltwater ocean beaches
Find ocean beaches along the Atlantic Coast in the state.
