Summer, daily: 9am-sunset; Spring & Fall, weekends: 9am-sunset
These 30 islands scattered throughout Boston Harbor have recently become one of the nation's newest national parks, but Bostonians in-the-know have been visiting this recreational haven for years. As a result of legislation signed in November 1996, the islands, ranging in size from just under 1 acre to more than 200 acres, now make up the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreational Area. While the majority of the islands contained in the recreational area are accessible only by private boat, six are serviced by ferry and water taxi service originating at the Boston waterfront. Suburban island commuters can also access those six islands - Bumpkin, Gallop's, George's, Grape, Lovell's, and Peddock's - from a South Shore ferry stop in Hingham and a North Shore ferry stop in Lynn. Ferries depart Boston for George's Island every hour from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the summer season. Water taxis originating at George's Island run a continuous loop among staffed islands throughout the day.
Ideal venues for hiking, beachcombing, picnicking, and bird-watching, Boston Harbor Islands are also historic treasures. Left in the wake of a retreating glacier at the end of the last ice age, the islands have served as strategic defense points at key points in history including the American Revolution, Civil War, World War I, and World War II. George's Island may be the most celebrated of the Boston Harbor Islands. Fort Warren, a Civil War-era encampment is rumored to be haunted by the ghost of the wife of a Civil War soldier once imprisoned on the island. According to local legend, the young woman slipped ashore disguised in a soldier's uniform. Apprehended before she could free her beloved, the woman was tried and sentenced to hang. Her last request - since she was caught wearing a man's uniform - was to die in woman's clothing. Through the years, visitors to George's Island have reported seeing the wispy form of a woman dressed head-to-toe in vintage black clothing. That figure has come to be known as 'The Lady in Black.'
Fort Warren on George's Island remains open to the public. Visitors can explore the nooks and crannies of the old fort; wander through prisoners' quarters; and climb atop fort walls on their own or in the company of a park ranger well-versed in island history. The only Boston Harbor Island with an on-site snack bar, George's Island also features waking trails, picnic areas, and limited docking space for private boats. Amenities at nearby Gallops Island include picnic grounds, a swimming beach, and hiking paths. Lovell's Island features campsites, a picnic area, and the remains of Fort Standish. Peddock's Island - one of the largest Boston Harbor Islands - is the site of Fort Andrews and a trail that winds around a pond and salt marsh. Once the site of a children's hospital, Bumpkin Island is criss-crossed with trails leading to the ruins of an old stone farmhouse. Bird-watching is a favorite activity at Grape Island where an abundance of wild berries attracts birds of all shapes and sizes. Overnight camping - by permit - is allowed on several Boston Harbor Islands.
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