Jamaica Pond is a 68-acre glacial kettle lake and the largest body of fresh water in Boston, forming a centerpiece of the Emerald Necklace, the chain of parks designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. Ringed by a roughly 1.5-mile tree-lined path, the pond in Jamaica Plain is a beloved spot for walking, jogging, and quiet contemplation, its deep, spring-fed waters once harvested for ice in the 19th century.
The Tudor-style Boat House on the pond’s edge is the hub for seasonal recreation, offering sailboat, rowboat, and kayak rentals along with sailing programs when the water is open. Fishing from the shoreline is also popular. Because boating and programming are seasonal and weather-dependent, check the Emerald Necklace Conservancy or the City of Boston Parks website for current rental availability, hours, and any program details before you go.
Good to know
- The largest freshwater body in Boston and part of Olmsted’s Emerald Necklace park chain
- A roughly 1.5-mile loop path circles the pond for walking and jogging
- The Boat House offers seasonal boat rentals and sailing programs; fishing is popular from shore
- Boating is seasonal and weather-dependent; check the Emerald Necklace Conservancy or Boston Parks for current details
Getting there
- Address: 507 Jamaicaway, Jamaica Plain, Boston, MA 02130
- Neighborhood: Jamaica Plain
- Nearest T: Green Street or Stony Brook on the Orange Line, then a walk up to the pond