Tour the Esplanade October 28, 2012

Walk among beautifully landscaped paths and learn of the evolution of this urban parkland on this guided tour of the Esplanade. The Esplanade is rich in history and one of Boston's best loved parks with stunning views of the Charles River.

You will see how the Esplanade and Charles River basin developed and learn of the designers and advocates who built this urban oasis.

The Esplanade is one of Boston's best loved parks with stunning views of the Charles River. From the filling of the Back Bay to the construction of James Jackson Storrow Memorial Drive, the Esplanade was built in stages fulfilling the vision of landscape architect Charles Eliot.

Today, the once malodorous mudflats are now bustling with walkers, joggers, skaters, and bikers. This tour begins with Frederick Law Olmsted's Charlesbank, the first outdoor gymnasium in the United States, precursor to today's 17-mile Charles River Reservation, and now home to Teddy Ebersol's Red Sox Fields.

Walking among beautifully landscaped paths lined with over 1,900 trees, we'll examine the evolution of this urban park and Arthur Schurcliff's landscape designs. Crowned by the Edward A. Hatch Memorial Shell, the famous outdoor concert venue, the Esplanade is host to concerts, movies, events, and the annual Boston Pops Fourth of July Celebration.Join us on this walk through the jewel of the Charles River visited by millions every year.

Boston By Foot tours feature the architecture and history of Boston. See www.bostonbyfoot.org for information about walking tours of Boston and information about becoming a Boston By Foot member.

Official Website: http://www.bostonbyfoot.org/tours/Esplanade