There are few things more enticing than the promise of a secret garden concealed in a city. There are several of these urban oases in Boston, but one stands out from the others. Upon first setting foot in the Back Bay Fens, you’d never guess that this green space contains not one, not two, but over 500 gardens!

This is one possible 2.3-mile route that allows you to explore them. However, as you can see from the map, there are ways to lengthen or shorten a hike through the Fens to best suit your needs.
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Start by traveling through what was once the missing link of the Emerald Necklace – Justine M. Liff Park.
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Then follow the shaded trails running alongside the Muddy River.
You’re likely to have plenty of geese for company!
Flickr/Katherine Hala
Cross over the river. Just after the athletic fields and you’ll discover a hedged circle, not unlike the one described by Frances Hodgson Burnett in The Secret Garden.
Flickr/Bill Ilott
Welcome to the Kelleher Rose Garden, a stunning English-style garden that first opened in the 1930s.
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Designed by landscape architect Arthur Shurcliff, it is bursting with 1,500 roses. This seasonal garden is typically open from mid-April through October.
Stroll under trellises draped in roses...
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...or settle on a bench to absorb the sight of the water feature and the scents of the blooms.
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You may never want to leave! But, assuming you eventually do, continue parallel to Park Drive, then veer off to the next set of gardens.
The Fenway Victory Gardens are the oldest continuously operating World War II Victory Gardens in the U.S.
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These gardens were established in 1942 to help ensure a steady food supply for the nation. Now, more than 500 gardens cover 7.5 acres of space within the Fens.
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A central meadow lies at the heart of the gardens, which are maintained by around 350 individuals. The area includes an apiary for bees and a medicinal herb garden.
It’s a fascinating glimpse into a historical tradition that continues to this day.
Flickr/Ed Lyons
In addition to fruit and vegetables, visitors can also appreciate the abundant and varied flowers.
People aren’t the only ones to love it here. Birds are fans of the gardens, too!
Facebook/Fenway Victory Gardens

Have you discovered these hidden gardens yet? Share your experiences and photos from this magical place in the comments below!

If you’re a nature lover, be sure to plan a trip to Garden in the Woods in Framingham, as well.

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