the Lawn on D
4.4(2.3K)google
4.0(173)yelp
InteractiveArt InstallationFamilyKidsPhoto SpotOutdoor
Overview
The Lawn on D is an exceptionally innovative, highly energetic 2.7-acre outdoor community and experimental event space located within the bustling South Boston Waterfront district. The highly artistic park achieved massive social media fame for its 'Swing Time' installation—a spectacular collection of giant, ring-shaped glowing swings that change color from blue to purple when in motion. Featuring extensive open-air lawn games, trendy local food trucks, and live music, it represents the ultimate playful social playground.
Practical Info
Suggested DurationAbout 1.5-2 hours
Best TimeYou must visit during its seasonal opening from May to October. A Friday or Saturday evening is highly recommended, as the iconic giant circular LED 'Glow Swings' illuminate, accompanied by lawn games, outdoor bars, and live music.
Getting ThereSituated next to the BCEC in South Boston, take the MBTA Subway Red Line to South Station, transfer to the Silver Line (SL1 or SL2) to World Trade Center Station, followed by a 4-minute walk to the lawn park.
Travel Tips
- This park is seasonal, open only from May to October. Because it is frequently rented out for private corporate events, you must check the live online public schedule calendar before visiting.
- Outside food and drinks (including bottled water) are strictly prohibited. Security checks bags at the entrance; you must rely exclusively on the on-site food trucks and pavilions.
Photo Tips
Best LightThe iconic glowing circle swings carry long 30+ minute lines on weekend evenings. For crowd-free glowing photos, visit during weekday afternoons right when the lawn opens.
Reviews
Positive
- The iconic light-up circular Glow Swings possess intense visual impact; they change colors as they sway at night, making them a perfect, photo-worthy spot.
- This is a completely free, large open-air community pavilion offering interactive lawn games like giant Jenga, cornhole, and other fun activities.
- The venue features an open-air concession zone with rotating food trucks selling local craft beers, hot dogs, and snacks, making the service and party vibe excellent.
- The space is massive and lushly green, frequently hosting live local bands on weekends; it is a vibrant, modern recreation hub perfect for unwinding.
Heads up
- The lines for the famous glow swings are ridiculous; everyone takes photos for ten minutes, meaning you easily wait over half an hour just to swing for a minute.
- This site has strict seasonal limits, generally opening only from May to October and closing completely during winter and early spring, so checking dates is mandatory.
- The on-site concessions are pricey; since outside food and drinks are strictly banned (with mandatory bag checks at the gate), alcohol and fast food are heavily marked up.
- Whenever the convention center hosts major events, the entire lawn is frequently rented out for private corporate parties or weddings, leaving casual tourists locked out.