Martin's Park

Martin's Park in Boston's Seaport District is one of the most emotionally resonant and practically exceptional playgrounds in New England. Built in memory of Martin Richard, the youngest victim of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, the park embodies Martin's family's wish for inclusion — it was designed from the ground up to be fully accessible to children with physical disabilities while being equally exciting for typical children.

The centerpiece is a striking ship-themed play structure with climbing towers, slides, bridges, and sensory elements. Universal design principles are integrated throughout — ramps alongside stairs, equipment accessible to wheelchair users, sensory play panels, and textures that engage children of all abilities. It's not a "handicapped-accessible afterthought" — it's a genuinely world-class playground that happens to be inclusive.

The setting along Fort Point Channel adds a waterfront dimension that few Boston playgrounds can match. Views extend across the channel to South Boston and along the Seaport skyline. The park connects to the Fort Point Harborwalk, making it easy to extend the outing with a waterfront walk.

Martin's Park sits within easy walking distance of the Boston Children's Museum (two blocks north) and the Institute of Contemporary Art — a natural anchor for a full Seaport day. Dozens of restaurants in the Seaport District range from casual food trucks to sit-down options.

Parking in the Seaport is expensive and often tight. The Silver Line T bus stops nearby, and the park is bikeable from much of the city via the Harborwalk path. The park is fully free with no admission fees.