Make Way For Ducklings

Make Way For Ducklings Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Boston Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the historic Boston Public Garden, the Make Way for Ducklings sculpture is a beloved symbol of family, community, and Boston’s vibrant cultural heritage. Inspired by Robert McCloskey’s classic 1941 children’s book, this iconic bronze statue, created by artist Nancy Schön in 1987, brings to life the story of Mrs. Mallard and her eight ducklings as they journey through the heart of Boston. This guide offers a detailed overview of the sculpture’s history, visiting hours, accessibility, nearby attractions, and practical tips to ensure an enriching and memorable experience.

For the latest updates and official information, visit the Boston Public Garden official website and learn more about the story and its cultural impact on Wikipedia.

About the Make Way for Ducklings Sculpture
Location & Directions
Visiting Hours & Admission
Accessibility
Best Time to Visit
Family-Friendly Activities & Events
Nearby Attractions
Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References

About the Make Way for Ducklings Sculpture

Installed in 1987, the Make Way for Ducklings sculpture by Nancy Schön features Mrs. Mallard and her eight ducklings—Jack, Kack, Lack, Mack, Nack, Ouack, Pack, and Quack—waddling along a cobblestone path. Mrs. Mallard stands 38 inches tall, and the entire procession stretches 35 feet. The artwork captures the spirit of McCloskey’s book, which celebrates urban nature, community, and the journey of family life in Boston. The sculpture’s approachable scale and interactive design invite children and adults alike to engage, take photos, and experience a piece of Boston’s literary legacy (CityDays, Atlas Obscura).

The statue has become a touchstone for Boston’s identity, serving as a site for community gatherings, social expression, and even international diplomacy. In 1991, a replica was gifted to Moscow’s Novodevichy Park as a symbol of peace during the START Treaty summit (Massachusetts State Library Blog).

Location & Directions

Address:
Boston Public Garden, Near the intersection of Beacon Street and Charles Street, Boston, MA 02108

How to Get There:

Subway (MBTA):
- Park Street Station (Red/Green Lines): ~5-minute walk
- Arlington Station (Green Line): ~7-minute walk
- Boylston Station (Green Line): ~10-minute walk
Bus: Multiple MBTA bus routes serve the area (Friends of the Public Garden)
Driving & Parking:
- Boston Common Garage (0 Charles St) is the most convenient parking garage.
- Street parking is limited but free on Sundays (The Tourist Checklist).

Tip: The statues are near the Charles Street Gate, not directly by the lagoon or pond (Kids Travel Books).

Visiting Hours & Admission

Hours:
The Boston Public Garden is open daily from dawn until dusk (typically 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM in summer; check for seasonal changes).
Admission:
Free year-round. No tickets are required to visit the sculpture or the garden.
Special Events:
Some events, like the annual Duckling Day Parade, require advance registration and a fee (Friends of the Public Garden).

Accessibility

The area surrounding the Make Way for Ducklings sculpture and the entire Boston Public Garden is ADA accessible, with paved, level pathways suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. During Duckling Day and other special events, sensory-friendly check-in options and full accessible routes are available (Friends of the Public Garden).

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–June):
Enjoy blooming flowers and mild temperatures; the Duckling Day Parade is held in May (Mommy Poppins).
Summer (July–August):
Expect larger crowds; vibrant city activity and warm weather (Travellers Worldwide).
Autumn (September–October):
Crisp air and colorful foliage; September is especially pleasant.
Winter (November–March):
Open year-round, but pathways may be icy during snow. Dress warmly.

Time of Day:
Early mornings and late afternoons on weekdays are recommended for a quieter, more relaxed experience.

Family-Friendly Activities & Events

Duckling Day Parade:
Each Mother’s Day, families gather for a parade where children dress up as ducklings and march from Boston Common to the sculpture. The event includes music, games, and crafts. Registration is required (Friends of the Public Garden, Mommy Poppins).
Swan Boats:
Take a ride on the historic swan boats, operating seasonally in the Public Garden lagoon (The Tourist Checklist).
Self-Guided Tours:
Follow the Mallard family’s journey from the book with self-guided walking tours through Boston, connecting sites like the Charles River, Beacon Hill, and the State House (Kids Travel Books).

Nearby Attractions

Boston Common:
America’s oldest public park, ideal for picnics and play.
Charles Street:
Home to charming shops, cafes, and galleries.
Freedom Trail:
Historic walking trail passing major Boston sites.
Boston Public Library:
A short stroll away; perfect for book lovers.

Visitor Tips

What to Bring:
Camera/smartphone, picnic supplies, weather-appropriate clothing, stroller or baby carrier.
Restrooms:
Available in Boston Common and nearby visitor centers.
Food:
No vendors inside the garden, but numerous eateries are nearby on Charles Street and Boylston Street.
Safety:
The park is well-patrolled. Always supervise children, especially near water.
Pet Policy:
Leashed dogs are welcome; be considerate of crowds and children.
Sustainability:
Please help maintain the park’s beauty by disposing of trash properly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Make Way for Ducklings visiting hours?
A: The Public Garden, including the sculpture, is open daily from dawn until dusk.

Q: Is there an admission fee or ticket required?
A: No, visiting is free and unticketed.

Q: Is the site stroller/wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, paved paths make it fully accessible.

Q: Are there guided tours available?
A: While no official guided or virtual tours focus solely on the sculpture, broader tours of the Boston Public Garden and historic Boston often include it.

Q: When is the Duckling Day Parade?
A: Annually on Mother’s Day.

Q: Where can I buy Make Way for Ducklings books or souvenirs?
A: Local bookstores and shops near the garden offer themed merchandise and books (Kids Travel Books).

Conclusion

The Make Way for Ducklings sculpture is more than a whimsical work of art; it’s a living emblem of Boston’s literary, artistic, and communal spirit. With its accessible location, free admission, and proximity to historical attractions, it’s a must-see for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re joining the festivities of Duckling Day, enjoying a quiet stroll, or exploring Boston’s storied past, the statue offers a memorable experience at the heart of the city’s green oasis.

For more information, event updates, and travel tips, visit the Friends of the Public Garden and Boston USA Tourism. To enhance your visit, download the Audiala app for guided tours and follow us on social media for up-to-date announcements.