It dates from the mid-19th century, a 22-acre park connected to the mainland by both pedestrian and vehicular causeways. There’s also a “healthy heart” trail.

The 155-acre lake here has been part of Cambridge’s reservoir system since the 1850s, and has 162 wooded acres surrounding it. These acres include a 2.25-mile perimeter road for jogging, biking, walking, etc.

The roots of Nathan Tufts Park near Powder House Square and Tufts’ campus go back four centuries. Its old Powder House stone tower was originally built as a windmill by European settlers.

Take the Blue Line to Maverick Square and walk a bit, and experience Piers Park’s 600-foot pedestrian promenade, which leads to two pavilions with killer skyline views. There’s also an amphitheater, an outdoor fitness system and a large playground.

This relatively new, 5-acre park (completed in 2007) includes a pier overlooking Boston Harbor with fish-cleaning stations that, according to the city, make it a “perfect spot for some friendly fishing.” It’s about a 10-minute walk from North Station.

Bang on the Neponset River, the 65-acre park includes walking and biking trails, and allows fishing as well. Also, check out the restored salt marsh. You might learn something.

A small, lush alcove owned by Federal Express on the South Boston waterfront, along the Harbor Walk. It’s got access to what the city calls “secluded” beaches and you can also take in the cruise ships docking at Black Falcon Terminal.

The park, noted for its granite steps and banisters with cast-iron parapets, dates from the 1890s and has vus of the mouth of the Mystic River.

Take the Blue Line to the Orient Heights stop (or the bus, which stops at the Bennington Street entrance), and enjoy an open beach with lifeguards, a bathhouse (with concessions) and a big playground (and tennis courts).

This parkland offers plenty of recreation, including tennis courts and the Cassidy Playground. The adjoining reservoir has 1.6-mile loop for jogging, striding, etc.

This former marine industrial site was redeveloped into an urban wild with salt marshes, meadow grasses, walking paths, a boardwalk, sculptures, and a viewing platform overlooking Chelsea Creek. Take the Blue Line to Maverick.

Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted of Central Park fame, this 281-acre spread welcomes all comers: joggers, cyclists, walkers, loungers. However! Picnickers are only allowed the second Sunday of every May. Tick your calendar.

The park on a former landfill (recycling!) includes three soccer fields, three playgrounds and one running track.

The brightly colored Luxembourg chairs are out in full summer force on the Ivy League campus' main grassy knoll. Open to the public and surrounded by dining option to boot.

The Cochichuate Water Company tower, built in 1869, dominates the skyline of this park, which Frederick Law Olmsted designed.

The park dates from the 1850s and is famed for its big, big rocks and big, big trees. It faces a group of a rowhouses commissioned in the late 19th century by the heirs of the park's namesake.

A nice, quiet strolling option just south of Boston University.

The park, which has a playground with newish equipment, was originally built by Harvard in the 1940s and is now run by the city. Light on grass and heavy on benches, it's breezy and nearly empty most days.

Behold the Boston skyline from this former Navy airfield and shipyard. Dozens of species of wild bird also inhabit the park, if that's your thing.