Make Way for Ducklings!

See the famous ducks in Boston's Public Garden

The Make Way for Ducklings statues of Mrs. Mallard leading her famous brood attract visitors from all over the world to Victorian-era Boston Public Garden across from Beacon Hill.

Although the Make Way for Ducklings sculpture ranks as a top Boston attraction, you'll find plenty more to enjoy while you're in the Public Garden: gorgeous flowers and trees, the famous Boston Swan Boats, improptu concerts, occasional weddings, and if you're there on Mother's Day, the Duckling Day Parade.

Make Way for Ducklings statue in Boston's Public Garden

If you're wondering what to do in Boston with kids, the Make Way for Duckling sculpture appeals to everyone familiar with Robert McCloskey's classic children's book about the duck family that takes up residence in Boston's Public Garden.The sculpture is located in the Public Garden near the gate at the corner of Beacon Street and Charles Street.  You'll find it easily - just look for a crowd of excited children surrounded by parents holding cameras. 

Visiting the bronze sculpture of Mrs. Mallard and her 8 ducklings is one of the top Boston kids activities for the under-8 set - but visitors of all ages love the statues. by Nancy Schön

And don't forget about the annual Duckling Day Parade - the favorite Mother's Day event of many Boston moms.

What happens in Make Way for Ducklings?

In Robert McCloskey's 1941 beloved children's classic, Make Way for Ducklings, Mr. and Mrs. Mallard come to Boston when searching for the perfect home for their soon-to-be family.  They find the Public Garden, and decide to spend the night on the little island in the Lagoon. 

Even though this beloved children's class was written almost 70 years ago, you'll totally recognize the Public Garden of today.

Mr. and Mrs. Mallard spot what they describe as "a strange enormous bird" pushing a boat full of people who throw peanuts toward them.  Delighted by the plentiful food supply, they're about to make their home in the Public Garden when a child rushes by on a bicycle.  Mrs. Mallard declares that park is way too dangerous for ducklings!

So they fly over Beacon Hill and the Massachusetts State House, and finally find a nice spot along the edge of the Charles River.  The book's charming drawings show the Esplanade next to the river, just like today. 

After the ducklings hatch, Mrs. Mallard teaches them to swim and dive.  And finally, she brings them back to the Public Garden and the little island in the Lagoon.

Robert McCloskey, author of the 1941 book, tells us:

     "All day long they follow the swan boats and eat peanuts."

And their descendants still do today.  If you go for a swan boat ride, you'll see them following your swan, playing in the water, and napping on their island.

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Nancy Schön's "Make Way for Ducklings" sculpture

Ever since being installed in the Public Garden in 1987, Nancy Schön's magical sculpture of Mrs. Mallard and Jack, Kack, Lack, Mack, Nack, Ouack, Pack, and Quack has been one of the most popular Boston attractions for kids. 

Mrs. Mallard is 38 inches high, making her the perfect height for children (and the occasional adult) who want to sit on her and pose for the camera. 

The entire statue, installed on old Boston cobblestones, is 35 feet long.

A similar sculpture was given, in the name of American children, to the children of Moscow, Russia in 1991. 

But you can see other examples of Nancy Schön's wonderful sculptures much closer to Boston. 

Special favorites are her "Tortoise and Hare" statues in Copley Square.  She created these whimsical statues - also popular posing spots for children - as a tribute to all of the runners from around the world who participate in the Boston Marathon each spring.

Other Boston neighborhoods and Massachusetts towns where you can enjoy sculptures by Nancy Schön include Fenway, Dorchester, Newton, Wayland, and Martha's Vineyard.

But her "Make Way for Ducklings" statue remains the "must-see while in Boston" choice among visitors from all over the world, as well as local children.

Essentials: Make Way for Ducklings 

Location of Nancy Schön's sculpture:   Boston's Public Garden.  Enter through the Charles Street Gate (corner of Beacon Street and Charles Street), and follow the sidewalk that's parallel to Beacon Street.  You'll quickly see the statues on your left.
Nearest T station:  Green Line/Park Street or Arlington Street
Parking:  Boston Common Garage
Open:  24 hours, year-round
Cost:  Free