The park was designed by Sasaki Associates to replace industrial maritime land with public green space.
The stone stairs leading to the water are specifically engineered to double as amphitheater-style seating for harbor views.
The park is physically adjacent to the Institute of Contemporary Art, which cantilevers over the water.
The site sits on the former location of the massive Atlantic Avenue Elevated train tracks and maritime shipping piers.
The landscaping utilizes salt-tolerant coastal plantings to survive the harsh harbor environment.
Fan Pier Park is a reclaimed waterfront space in Boston's Seaport District that offers an unobstructed, panoramic view of the downtown skyline across the harbor. The site features a distinctive tiered grassy lawn and stone steps designed to serve as both landscape architecture and public seating. It serves as a connector between the Harborwalk and the Seaport’s modern commercial developments. The park is situated on a pier that extends into Boston Harbor, providing unique sightlines of the Moakley Federal Courthouse and the ICA building. It features a private-public partnership model where developers maintain the space for public access. The shoreline is reinforced to manage tidal activity while providing close proximity to the water's edge.
The lower stone stairs at the water's edge during sunset for the classic reflection of the Boston skyline.
Bring a windbreaker or layers, as the harbor breeze can be significantly stronger and cooler than in the city center.
Visit during the shoulder seasons to avoid the heavy weekend crowds that gather at the Seaport's dining venues.
Check the tide charts; the visual experience of the water-level stairs changes dramatically between high and low tide.
Do not mistake the private docks adjacent to the park for public access areas, as these are restricted.
Casual, but remain aware of shared space as it is a common thoroughfare for office workers and runners.
