Boston is a walking city, and its compact geography means you are rarely far from a public restroom — if you know where to look. The city has invested in comfort stations in recent years, and the park system is excellent.
The Boston Common and Public Garden
Boston Common has comfort stations at Frog Pond and near the Visitors Information Center on Tremont Street. The Public Garden has facilities near the Swan Boat dock. Both are open during park hours.
The Esplanade
The Charles River Esplanade — the linear park along the Charles River — has restroom facilities at the Hatch Shell and at several points along its length. Popular in summer for outdoor concerts and recreation.
The Freedom Trail
The National Park Service Visitor Center near State Street (at Faneuil Hall) has restrooms open to the public. Faneuil Hall Marketplace itself has facilities in the Quincy Market building.
Copley Square and Back Bay
The Copley Square area has public facilities near Trinity Church. The Massachusetts Convention Center Authority maintains restrooms in the Hynes Convention Center lobby area.
South Station and North Station
Both major train and bus stations have public restrooms accessible without a ticket. South Station in particular is centrally located for downtown visitors.
Harvard Square (Cambridge)
Cambridge City Hall and the Harvard Square area have public restrooms. The Cambridge Public Library main branch is also open to all.