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).
