🏆🏆🏆🏆🏆 America’s FIRST Public Beach — Established 1896, Revere Beach is the oldest public beach in the United States!
Revere Beach Reservation protects America’s first public beach — established in 1896. The 3-mile crescent of sand along the Atlantic was the first beach in the US set aside specifically for public use by the Metropolitan Park Commission. In its heyday (1900s–1970s), Revere Beach was one of America’s greatest amusement destinations, with roller coasters, dance halls, and the famous Cyclone roller coaster. Today the beach has been restored to its natural beauty with a wide promenade and annual sand sculpture festival.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Revere, Suffolk County, MA |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Beach | 3-mile crescent — AMERICA’S FIRST (1896)! |
| Event | Annual sand sculpture festival! |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is this beach so historically important?
In 1896, Massachusetts declared Revere Beach the first public beach in America — establishing the principle that ocean shoreline should be accessible to all citizens, not just private landowners. This groundbreaking concept influenced beach access laws nationwide.
About Revere Beach
Revere Beach Reservation is America’s first public beach — established in 1896 by the Metropolitan Park Commission. The 3-mile crescent of sand just north of Boston was once lined with amusement parks, dance halls, and hotels. Today the beach remains one of the most popular in Greater Boston, famous for its annual International Sand Sculpting Festival and proximity to the Blue Line subway.
Things to Do
Swimming and sunbathing on America’s first public beach, attending the annual Sand Sculpting Festival (July), dining at Kelly’s Roast Beef (a local institution since 1951), and walking the 3-mile boulevard. The beach is directly accessible by subway — rare for a major beach.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Constitution Beach (a short drive away) and Rumney Marsh Reservation (a short drive away).
Wildlife & Nature
Revere Beach Reservation — established in 1896 — is America’s first public beach. The beach’s 3 miles of sand and ocean support piping plovers, harbor seals (winter), and migrating shorebirds. The beach was once home to amusement parks and dance halls that drew millions.
Nearby Attractions
Revere — surrounding. Kelly’s Roast Beef — a legendary local institution since 1951. Boston — 5 miles south (Blue Line subway). Winthrop — 2 miles south.
Park Location
Top Tours & Activities Near Boston
from $550
from $45
from $70