swan boat tours

To Do Today: Take a Ride on the Iconic Swan Boats in Boston’s Public Garden

One of the Hub’s most beloved attractions since 1877

The 15-minute pedal-powered Swan Boat ride takes passengers on a leisurely tour around the Boston Public Garden lagoon. Photo by iStock/lawrencetfay

Kayla Dungee

The Swan Boats in the Boston Public Garden.

Daily, weather permitting, Through June 20, 10 am to 4 pm; from June 21 to September 2, 10 am to 5 pm.

Boston Public Garden, 4 Charles St., Boston.

Tickets: $4.50 for adults, $4 for seniors, $3 for children 2 to 15 years old, and free for children under 2 years old. Purchase tickets at the dock before boarding the boat.

Why should I go?

One of Boston’s most popular tourist attractions, the pedal-powered boats take riders on a leisurely 15-minute tour of the Boston Public Garden lagoon, offering a unique glimpse of its 24 acres of flower beds, specimen trees, and lawns.

The boats have been a Boston summer fixture since 1877. Lore has it that the boats’ founder, Irish immigrant and shipbuilder Robert Paget, was inspired by the Richard Wagner opera Lohengrin , where a knight crosses a river in a boat drawn by a swan. The design of the fleet has evolved through the decades, with the oldest boat being 114 years old. The Paget family continues to operate the business.

The Swan Boats were made famous in Robert McCloskey’s beloved classic children’s picture book Make Way for Ducklings . The book has never been out of print since it was first published in 1941, and has sold millions of copies. More recently, the boats have appeared in several films, including the 2021 Netflix film Fatherhood , starring Kevin Hart.

So, hop in line, buy a ticket (no reservations necessary), and enjoy one of Boston’s most popular attractions. And it’s only a four-minute walk from the MBTA’s Green Line Arlington stop, so you don’t have to worry about the hassle of parking.

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There are 4 comments on To Do Today: Take a Ride on the Iconic Swan Boats in Boston’s Public Garden

One of my favorite Boston traditions lives on. My mother and I used to take duck boats rides every spring/summer. It is one of the most quintessential Boston sites that everyone visiting the city must experience. (The other thing being Fenway Park, in my humble opinion.) Very relaxing, and always stunning.

I rode the SwanBoats with my husband, Archie.

It’s a Great history story you have shared with us. Thank you so… And it’s inexpensive and an elegance of time and pride…

Magdalen S. Perez Medford Sq.

Utterly enchanting.

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The Swan Boats are the enduring centerpiece of the Public Garden and the only boats of their kind in the world. They were launched in 1877 by shipbuilder Robert Paget, a lover of opera, who had been inspired by the finale of Richard Wagner’s Lohengrin, when the hero crosses a river in a boat drawn by a swan. He designed a new boat, with a foot-propelled paddle mechanism enclosed by the figure of a giant swan.

Only a year after the Swan Boats began, Paget died at the age of 42, leaving his wife, Julia, and four children. The young widow assumed full management of the new enterprise, persevering despite the prejudice against women business owners. Her descendants, the fourth generation of Pagets, still operate the Swan Boats, continuing a cherished tradition.

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Swan (Boats on Pleasure) Lake

Swan Boats are open daily for you to enjoy during the day, or experience an amazing evening trip on illuminated Swan Boats throughout October. See you there!

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Swans By Day And Night

Starting June 1, 2020: Changed access to Roger Williams Park

Three ways for you to give back to the People’s Park

Tel: (910) 325-1200

Carolina swan.

The Carolina Swan is a 27 ft, 20 passenger, USCG inspected Carolina Skiff that offers visitors to our beautiful Crystal Coast a unique adventure opportunity.  As a shallow draft vessel, Carolina Swan can take you to remote places that other boats can't go. Padded seats offer visitor extra comfort along the way!

Don't wait to set sail on this amazing trip. Call or book online today!

Woah! Some of the views from the Eco Tour. All aboard!

Set Sail with a private romantic trip!

Tours & Cruises

 Participants are encouraged to bring cold beverages, a snack, and to dress appropriately with sturdy shoes for getting wet and possibly muddy. 

 A portion of the proceeds from these trips benefits the North Carolina Coastal Federation and their mission  to protect and restore coastal water quality and habitats throughout the North Carolina coast. 

Eco-Adventures

Looking for an unforgettable, hands-on experience in our beautiful natural environment? Come out with us on an exciting and educational Eco-Adventure! On these trips you will explore and discover the mysteries and beauty of our local tidal marshes and sound.  This tour is a partnership between the North Carolina Coastal Federation and Lady Swan Boat Tours and educates participants on how they can protect and restore our coastal resources.

Private Cruises

Private cruises on the Carolina Swan are available seven days a week.  Suggested trips include Sunset Cruises, Girls/Guys Night Out, birthday celebrations, shelling excursions, and more!!  Morning, afternoon, and evening times are available.  

Your captain will get you to the very best places to view the local wildlife and historic areas of our local waters and will pass along stories and information to enrich your experience.  Bring your camera, sunscreen, buckets for collecting treasures, and a cooler with snacks or lunch for an outing that will be the highlight of your vacation!!  Adult beverages are allowed on private trips, also.

Online booking is available for Carolina Swan Private Sunset Cruises.  For other times, just give us a call to get something set up!

Sunset Cruise

A Sunset Cruise is a fantastic way to relax at the end of your busy day. Kick back and enjoy the ride as the sun sets slowly below the horizon and provides a glorious painted skyline for your viewing pleasure. You are welcome to bring your own food and drink to make your trip more enjoyable. Alcoholic beverages are allowed on board. 

Swan Boat rental – tickets, prices, timings, FAQs

Los Angeles runs pedal-powered swan boats in Echo Park, which lets tourists experience the park’s beauty as they glide on the lake. 

As you peddle on the rhythmic sounds of water, gaze at the vibrant lake and watch the illuminated fountains and lotus beds floating on the water. 

This activity is perfect for couples to witness a romantic sunrise and sunset.

Families with kids will also cherish riding swan boats.

The surroundings are breathtaking, with palm trees, fountains, and a stunning perspective of downtown Los Angeles.

This article covers everything you must know before booking Echo Park Swan Boat tickets. 

Top Swan Boat rental Tickets

# Swan Boat rental tickets # Swan Boat Night Ride at Echo Park Lake

# Los Angeles Pass

Table of contents

What to expect on swan boat rental tour.

Swan Boat rentals in Echo Park are the best way to embark on a romantic and fun-filled excursion in Los Angeles. 

The boats are equipped with shaded canopies to protect passengers from rain, and the seats are extremely spacious and comfortable, enabling them to peddle at ease. 

While peddling, enjoy the picturesque lake, featuring beautiful lotus beds and a  fountain, all set to regale visitors.

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Where to book Swan Boat rental tickets

Tickets to the Swan Boat rental are available online and at the attraction.

Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the venue.

When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the Swan Boat Rental’s ticket counters.

When you book early, you also get your preferred time slot.

Because some tours sell a limited number of tickets, during peak days they may sell out. Booking early helps avoid last-minute disappointments.

How do online tickets work 

Go to the  Swan Boat rental booking page , select the date and time of your visit, choose the type of ticket you want, and pay for the tickets securely online. 

Once you purchase boat tickets, they get delivered to your email address. 

There is no need to get printouts of the ticket. 

You can show the e-ticket on your smartphone when you go for boating.

Remember to bring your official IDs.

Swan Boat rental ticket prices

The Echo Park Swan Boats tickets are priced at US$12 for all adults aged 18 years and above. Children under 17 years can enjoy a discount of US$5 and pay only US$7 for entry.

Swan Boat tickets

Rent a swan pedal boat on Echo Park Lake in Los Angeles for a peaceful and romantic excursion. 

Choose from multiple start times and head to the departure point, where you will be fitted with lifejackets before setting off on the water. 

Pedal around Echo Park Lake and enjoy the scenery and skyline views. 

This private rental is perfect for couples or small groups exploring Echo Park away from the tourist trail. 

The rental includes a Swan Boat and a US Coast Guard-approved life vest. 

All boaters receive boating instructions and must wear life vests for safety. 

Ticket Prices

Adult Ticket (18+ years): US$12 Child Ticket (up to 17 years): US$7 

Swan Boat Night Ride at Echo Park Lake

With the night ride tickets, you can take your special someone on a romantic Swan Boat adventure to Echo Park Lake in Los Angeles and watch the sunset while admiring the city’s skyline. 

It’s best to choose a convenient departure time that works for you and pedal around the lake in a Swan Boat decorated with LED lights. 

You can also relax in the boat’s comfortable back seat or have a picnic on board. 

After dark, you can join the night ride to see the illuminated Swan Boats and experience the peacefulness of the water with glittering city views. 

This tour is not wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible, and infants must sit on laps.

Ticket Prices 

Save time & money! Buy Los Angeles Pass and explore 40+ attractions in LA. See the Aquarium of the Pacific, Dolby Theatre, Madame Tussauds Hollywood, and even the Los Angeles Zoo among others. Pick from a 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or a 7-day pass and prepare for an adventurous and entertaining tour of LA.

How to reach Swan Boat rental

The Swan Boat rentals in Echo Park are located northwest of Downtown LA. 

Address: 751 Echo Park Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026, United States. Get Directions . 

You can either take public transport or personal vehicle to the park.

Get on the Bus 10/48 or 10, and get off at Temple / Rampart . 

From there, it is a 25-minute walk to the park. 

If you’re traveling by car, turn on Google Maps and get started.

Don’t worry about the parking space, as there are many parking lots around the park. 

Swan Boat rental timings 

The Swan Boat rentals in Echo Park runs from 9 am to 10 pm. 

You can book your tickets for a night ride and have a romantic evening, spend a day with your friends, have games at the park, and relive your childhood. 

How long does Swan Boat rentals take

The Swan Boat rental takes about 2 hours. 

If you opt for a picnic at the park with your loved ones, you may need a few more hours. 

Best time to visit Swan Boat rentals in Echo Park

The best time to visit Swan Boat rentals in Echo Park is when the first boat tour starts at 9 am. 

In the early hours of the day, the sun is not harsh, and the atmosphere is relatively cooler, making the boating experience much more enjoyable. 

Also, since fewer boats are around, you can avoid boat congestion on the lake. 

The next best time is after 5.30 pm when the sky is painted in hues of oranges, yellows, and reds due to sunset. 

For a more enchanting experience, take the swan boat ride in Echo Park at night when the moon and stars shine over you and the boats sparkle with LED lights on.

FAQs about Swan Boat rentals in Echo Park

Here are some questions visitors usually ask before booking tickets for Swan Boat rentals.

Can you buy Swan Boat rental tickets offline at Echo Park?

There are signs with QR codes that you may scan to make an online reservation at the venue. We do, however, strongly advise making a reservation in advance online.

What is the dress code for Swan Boat rentals in Echo Park?

There is no specific dress code for the Swan Boat tour. Wear comfortable clothes and bring a sweater, as it can get chilly on the boat.

Can I exit the swan boat anytime and join later?

No, once the boat leaves the dock, you are not allowed to return, exchange, add or remove persons for whatsoever reason.  

What is the minimum age requirement to rent a Echo Park Swan Boat? 

One of the two participants needs to be at least 18 years to sign the liability rental waiver.   The Swan Pedal Boats are open to riders of all ages. Minors under 15 must travel with a parent or legal guardian who is at least 18 years old.

How many people can be seated simultaneously in LA Echo Park Swan Boat?

There are huge swan pedal boats with enough seating for five people.  The rental staff will assist you with choosing the Swan Boat that will work best for your group once you have checked in on the dock.

What is a Swan Boat’s weight limit? 

The Swan Pedal Boats can support up to 1,400 lbs (635 kg) in total weight.

What is the size of the life jackets on the Swan Boat Tour in Echo Park?

They provide life jackets in a range of sizes to fit everyone from babies to adults, with chest measurements up to 70 inches.

Are dogs allowed on the Swan Boats? 

Yes, Echo Park Swan Boats is dog friendly. You can bring your dog’s life jacket with you if you like.

Can you bring food and beverages on the Swan Boats? 

Yes, you can bring food and non-alcoholic beverages on board Swan Pedal Boats. It’s okay to get a small lap-sized cooler.  Please be aware that alcohol is not permitted onboard. All tenants must follow this regulation; otherwise, your rental will be canceled without the chance for a return.

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This article was researched & written by

Jamshed V Rajan

He is a two-faced traveler, who enjoys both the hustle-bustle of an urban holiday and the serenity of a break from the rest of the World. During some of his vacations, he is a resort hopper, and on others, he barely spends time in his hotel. He loves to try mouth-watering local cuisines, especially non-vegetarian dishes. Favourite Cities: Amsterdam, Las Vegas, Dublin, Prague, Vienna

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