North Point Park
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About North Point Park
A Riverside Urban Oasis
Located next to the Charles River, where Cambridge meets Boston, North Point Park - officially renamed Richard McKinnon State Park by the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) in December 2025 - stretches across 8.5 acres of thoughtfully designed greenspace. The new name recognizes McKinnon's long-running efforts to transform the North Point area of Cambridge; you may still hear locals call it North Point Park, but the official name has changed.
The park didn't come about through ordinary city planning - it was created as mitigation for parkland lost during the construction of the Big Dig, Boston's massive highway rerouting project. It repurposed what locals call the "lost half mile" of the Charles River Basin, with a design by Carr Lynch & Sandell of Cambridge and Oehme, van Sweden & Associates of Washington, DC. The result - small islands, pedestrian bridges, and kayaking canals - has a subtle nod to the area's historical waterways. You'll find it right near the Museum of Science, making it easy to combine visits if you're exploring the area.
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The park's location also comes with a minor geographic quirk: the historic boundary between Cambridge and Boston runs roughly along the center of the Charles River, but when the park was built, it extended the shoreline outward - meaning part of what feels like Cambridge riverfront is technically within Boston.
Picture-Perfect Views
Photography enthusiasts (or just anyone who appreciates a good view) will find plenty to capture here. The Boston skyline creates a striking backdrop, with the Zakim Bridge standing out as a particularly dramatic focal point. While attractive during daylight hours, the park takes on a different character after sunset when city lights reflect off the water and the illuminated bridge stands out against the night sky.
For the active visitor, there's plenty to do. A spacious playground features colorful equipment and bouncy surfaces divided into zones for different age groups. Right beside it, a splash pad offers welcome relief during Boston's warmer months. Peaceful walking paths wind through native plantings, excellent for a morning stroll or an afternoon of people-watching.
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Just under the nearby highway ramps, you'll come across the Lynch Family Skatepark - a haven for skateboarders, BMX riders, and scooter enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Family Time by the Water
The playground deserves special mention if you're visiting with kids. It features an impressive array of play structures with forts, bridges, tunnels, swings, and rope climbing elements that will keep children entertained for hours. While it is fenced, note that it doesn't have fully enclosed gates.
Scattered picnic tables and shaded areas make this an ideal spot for a family lunch or casual gathering. The open grassy areas invite impromptu games of frisbee or just lounging with a good book. Just plan ahead for bathroom breaks, as there are no public restrooms within the park itself.
Nature and Water Activities
The riverside location means you'll likely spot local wildlife - the resident geese are particularly abundant. There's something uniquely Boston about watching the Duck Boats launch into the water nearby, adding to the park's charm.
For those looking to get on the water themselves, a floating dock provides easy access for kayaking and small boats. The canals make for a gentle introduction to water activities, especially for beginners.
Connected to the City
North Point Park represents an important connection point in Boston's pedestrian and cycling network. The North Bank Bridge, which opened in July 2012 and was funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, spans both the MBTA Commuter Rail tracks and the mouth of Miller's River before linking to Paul Revere Park in Charlestown. From there, you can access larger trail systems like the Mass Central Rail Trail and the East Coast Greenway.
The park's proximity to the developing Cambridge Crossing area means it's becoming increasingly accessible. You can easily reach it from North Station on foot, or via the EZRide shuttle. If you're driving, just be aware that parking can be somewhat limited in the area.
Seasonal Charm
While beautiful year-round, autumn transforms the park into something worth planning around. The fall foliage creates a colorful frame for the water and skyline views. Year-round, the park also hosts community gatherings like charity walks and rallies.
When you need a coffee break or snack, Starbucks and Tatte Bakery are just a short walk away, making it easy to extend your visit with some local refreshments.
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