guide

Summer in Boston

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Whether you’re looking to find a place to cool down — or a cool spot to visit — we have you covered.

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Pools and tot sprays map

A map of places to cool down in the City of Boston.
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Upcoming events

Upcoming events
View the full calendar

Places to visit

Places to visit
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Emerald Necklace

The 1,100-acre chain of nine parks is linked by parkways and waterways.

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Cemeteries / Historic Burying Grounds

We manage three active cemeteries and 16 burying grounds in Boston.

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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.

Book a tee time

Summer safety

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 risk

Infants, 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 hydrated 

Drink 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 cars

Never leave children and pets alone in cars. Cars heat up quickly even if the windows are slightly open.

More heat safety tips

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