Gazebo and picnic table at the top of the North Drumlin on Spectacle Island, Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area
There are picnic areas all over Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area’s Spectacle Island, but if you are going to have a picnic lunch, you’ll want to do it either at the top of the north or south drumlin (hills in geological terms) because there is nothing like having a bite to eat while taking in some great views. See the Spectacle Island Hiking Trails web page for information on getting there.
Spectacle Island map (click to enlarge)
At the top of the North Drumlin, the highest point in Boston at 155 feet above sea level, is a gazebo with a picnic table, plus six other tables out in the open. All are taken on a first come, first served basis. There are no grills here or anywhere else on Spectacle Island.
Picnic tables at the top of the North Drumlin on Spectacle Island, Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area
There are also six other small picnic sites along the spiral road to the top of the North Drumlin. All but one have two tables and a couple of benches for those who just want to sit and relax. All have views of the bay, but not a 360º view as you get at the top of the hill.
Small picnic area on the way up to the North Drumlin on Spectacle Island, Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area
There are only three picnic tables at the top of the South Drumlin. One is located on the south side of the hill in a gazebo and has views south towards Moon and Long islands, as well as to the east and west. The other two tables are located on the north end and have views of the North Drumlin and also to the east and west. The tables are not located at the crest of the hill, which is why there is no 360º view like there is at the top of the North Drumlin.
Gazebo and picnic table on the south end of the South Drumlin of Spectacle Island, Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area
Picnic tables on the north end of the South Drumlin at Spectacle Island, Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area
View towards Boston from the north end of the South Drumlin on Spectacle Island, Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area
There are also a half-dozen picnic tables located just south of the Spectacle Island Visitor Center.
Picnic tables near the Spectacle Island Visitor Center, Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area
Spectacle is one of two islands within Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area that has a food vendor, the other being Georges Island. Just outside is a tent with more picnic tables that are all taken on a first come, first served basis, unless the tent is being used for an event. Yes, you can host a picnic event for a large group here on Spectacle Island. See the Host Your Event web page on the Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park website for more information.
Picnic tent next to the Spectacle Island Visitor Center, Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area
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Last updated on January 21, 2024
