A large South End athletic complex on Columbus Avenue built as a joint project between Northeastern University and the City, with turf fields, five tennis courts, and an inclusive playground with equipment for children with disabilities. It functions as the sports hub for South End and Roxbury youth leagues as much as a neighborhood park.
What to expect
Dogs
Leash required per citywide policy; not a designated off-leash space
Hours
City parks are generally open 6:00am-11:30pm daily (citywide default); athletic fields may have separate scheduling for league play
Accessibility
Playground includes equipment designed for children with disabilities
Managed by
Boston Parks and Recreation Department with Northeastern University
617-635-4505 · WebsiteWhat's here
On site
Drinking water
Water features/fountains reported on-site
Worth knowing
- The park is 6.5 acres after Northeastern combined its former surface parking 'Camden Lot' with the playground, and the university committed $108 million total ($26M construction, $82M maintenance over 30 years).
- Carter Playground was the first Boston park named for an African American (William E. Carter).
Common questions
Can I bring my dog to Carter Playground?
Leash required per citywide policy; not a designated off-leash space
Is Carter Playground wheelchair accessible?
Playground includes equipment designed for children with disabilities