Mass Parks For All

If you were part of the hundreds of thousands who watch the July 4 fireworks from the Esplanade in , you were on a riverbank invented between 1910-1936, and its so much more than a viewing spot. Art, playgrounds, bridges over lagoons, the 1941 Hatchell where the Boston Pops host world-renown musicians, bikeways for commuters through the Back Bay and it's all supported by Charles River Esplanade. Check out their page for more excellent events in this storied park.

Connors Pool in Waltham is an accessible pool that's great for families with all ages -- the western end starts off at a gentle slope for anyone with tiny legs holding mom's hand or older legs needing a gentle slope and a son's arm guiding them into the water. The splash pool depth gradually increases until you're in a swimming pool with lifeguards and everyone in Waltham looking to cool off. Don't drive in without a handicap placard -- there are few DCR spots and parking is tough on a busy corner -- but there are plenty of bike parking spots. Use a locker to store your stuff and get cool.
The City of Waltham

DCR's beaches and pools keeping us healthy and cool in a heatwave! Thank your lifeguards when you see them this week.

Dangerous heat: Find beaches, pools, cooling centers across Mass. Looking for ways to beat the heat? The Department of Conservation and Recreation encourages residents and visitors to visit one of its beaches, pools, spray decks or wading pools located across Massachusetts. See list inside.