Top Running Spots Near Northeastern University in Boston

Boston, with its rich history and scenic landscapes, is a fantastic city for running. Whether you are a seasoned athlete or a casual runner, there are plenty of routes near Northeastern University that offer a perfect blend of tranquility and urban adventure. Let's explore some of the best spots for your next run!

The Emerald Necklace

The Emerald Necklace is a 1,100-acre chain of parks and parkways that stretch from Boston Common to Franklin Park. This extensive network of trails and green spaces offers a variety of terrains and distances, making it a versatile route for runners of all levels. The paths are beautifully landscaped and traverse through gardens and wetlands, offering a peaceful and scenic experience. Many of the parks, such as Back Bay Fens, are within walking distance from Northeastern University and are ideal spots for a pre or post-workout run.

Boston Common and Public Garden

Just a short distance from the Northeastern campus lies two iconic parks: Boston Common and the Public Garden. These busy yet picturesque parks feature paved paths surrounded by beautiful landscaping and offer a pleasant running experience. The parks are bustling with activity, especially during warmer months, but the paths remain relatively quiet, providing a calm setting for your run. Be sure to explore the historic Peace Pagoda in the Public Garden and the expansive Mudge Hall fountain in Boston Common.

Charles River Esplanade

A bit farther from the university but easily accessible, the Charles River Esplanade offers a long, flat path along the river, making it an excellent spot for a steady run. This route is popular among runners and offers stunning views of the river and the Boston skyline. The Esplanade, located between the Museum of Science and Arsenal St, is a prime area for a longer run, and there are various access points from the Northeastern campus, including the 1 bus stop.

Franklin Park

Franklin Park, located a bit further out but still within a reasonable distance, is a hidden gem for runners. This expansive park features a variety of trails, including some hilly areas, making it ideal for varied terrain training. Additionally, the park is home to the Franklin Park Zoo, which adds an extra layer of interest to your run. For a longer route, consider running a loop around the park to cover around 5 miles, or choose from several other trail lengths depending on your energy levels and goals.

Northeastern Campus

Lastly, the Northeastern Campus itself offers several paths and green spaces perfect for running, especially around the quad areas. These trails are less crowded and provide a serene setting for a quick jog or a leisurely run. The quad areas are often quiet during weekdays, making them ideal for a peaceful cooldown after a more intense workout elsewhere.

Additional Running Suggestions

The Emerald Necklace: This series of 6 parks in Boston/Brookline is connected by one trail, and the first of these parks, the Back Bay Fens, begins on the northwest edge of the Northeastern campus. This park offers a network of trails through gardens and wetlands, providing a quiet running environment close to the city.

The Charles River: For a longer run, the Charles River particularly between the Museum of Science and Arsenal St is a very popular running route. The route can be customized to various lengths by truncating the loop at different bridges, making it suitable for runners of different durations.

Boston Common and Public Garden: Accessible either by a short jog or via public transportation, these iconic parks offer shaded paths surrounded by beautiful landscaping. Though busy, they provide a pleasant running environment, especially early in the morning or late in the evening.

Urban Adventure: For a unique running experience, try to outrun the green line. The MBTA green line runs above ground along Huntington Avenue, starting from the Northeastern campus. Attempting to outrun the train can be a fun and challenging way to mix up your routine.

When running in Boston, be mindful of traffic and pedestrian areas, especially in busier neighborhoods. Always stay aware and stay safe during your runs.

Whether you choose to run along the scenic routes, enjoy the tranquility of the Emerald Necklace, or explore the diverse terrain of Franklin Park, you're sure to find a spot that suits your running style and goals.