Cities & Water

The Role of Bodies of Water on Urban Life

by Bethany Hartman

Photo by Amanda Hess

From Venice’s winding canals to Singapore’s bustling ports and New York’s iconic harbor, cities across the globe are shaped by their relationships with water. These blue spaces —areas dominated by water— offer ecological diversity, food, recreation, and tourism to urban life.

Boston, with notorious ties to the Atlantic Ocean and the Charles River, is no exception.

Whether it’s ferries shuttling passengers to and from Logan Airport, crowds lining the Esplanade during the Head of the Charles, or the Seaport district grappling with rising tides during heavy rains, water plays a major role in Boston life. Add to that the city’s proximity to Cape Cod, and it’s clear that Boston thrives on its water accessibility, offering both challenges and opportunities for residents. 

Transportation and Tourism

Boston’s waterways serve both residents and visitors. The MBTA ferry system connects commuters and weekend adventurers to destinations throughout the Boston Harbors. City residents can escape the bustling city life for a weekend to explore calming views and picturesque trails. 

For visitors, Boston’s ferries offer unforgettable trips. Tours offer historic sightseeing tracing the city’s revolutionary past, whale-watching adventures in the open ocean, and a sunset dinner cruise, with views overlooking Boston under cotton-candy skies.

Climate Change

Boston’s close relationship with water also comes with challenges, particularly coastal flooding. Rising sea levels, driven by melting ice caps and a warming planet, have made coastal flooding a persistent threat. This is evident in the Seaport district, which BU Professor David Abel notes “has a greater flood risk than 99 percent of the rest of the zip codes in Massachusetts.”

Frequent flooding in areas like the Seaport and East Boston highlights the urgency of addressing climate resilience. These challenges could underscore a stark reality, as Boston's connection to water could also become its greatest vulnerability.

Well-being

Blue spaces are vibrant hubs for socializing, relaxation, and physical activity. Places like Paddle Boston offer canoe, paddleboard, and kayak rentals for solo or group dates. But, this can look more casual too—like enjoying a hot summer day splashing in the Boston Common Frog Pond, or roller skating around the Public Garden pond. These spaces offer something for everyone.

The true appeal of blue spaces lies in their benefit to both body and mind. Studies show that being near water reduces stress and promotes peace. 

These effects are amplified when paired with physical activity, which is more prominent when in blue spaces. Whether it's a rocky hike through Lodge Park, a sail along the Charles River, or a chill sunset run past the Fenway Gardens.

In Boston, water defines not only our geography but also our lifestyle. Water is an important part of our city experience. We have moments for connection, recreation, and renewal. Boston’s future depends on its ability to safeguard these vital spaces; because blue spaces don’t just shape the landscape— they shape us.