If the 32-acre expanse shooting through Back Bay feels like a grand Parisian boulevard, that’s intentional—it was designed as such in the 19th century.

Memorials and statues dot the 1.3-mile run, which ends on its eastern terminus at the Public Garden.

The leafier, lusher run of the Charles River Esplanade—from about Berkeley Street in Back Bay to Charles River Dam Road in the West End—is the best part of it for strolling.

As the name implies, the esplanade hugs the Charles River and provides nonstop downtown views and a wee briskness this time of year.

Also, it’s got some snazzy public art.

The lusher neighbor of the Common dates from the early 19th century and includes 24 acres of statuary, flowers, foliage, and assorted other plantings as well as plenty of bench seating.

It can be particularly gorgeous at the height of the leaf-changing season in late October/early November. Though, while taking in that kaleidoscope, don’t forget to keep an eye out for the garden’s less obvious gems, too.

Do the whole perimeter if you have the time, or at least down Charles Street.

America's oldest public park dates from way, way back in 1634.

Its 50 acres are particularly inviting and scenic in the cooler months, with a number of statues, markers, and monuments for perusal—some less obvious than others—well as plenty of places to sit should the stroll prove taxing.

We suggest starting across Beacon Street from the Massachusetts State House and ambling your way diagonally down toward Boylston Street.

This area of Charlestown around the Bunker Hill Monument teems with historic homes, many in the Federal style so endemic to Boston, on gently sloping streets that lead to and from the monument itself.

That alone is a rewarding walk. Feeling especially brisk? Try climbing the 221-foot obelisk.

And then check out the rest of what Charlestown has to offer.

Pick any point along the 1.5-mile, 15-acre ribbon of parkland born of the Big Dig and you’ve got a prime spot for leisurely taking in the bulk of downtown Boston.

There is also a lot to see within the Greenway itself, including memorials, monuments, and fountains.

Located in Jamaica Plain, the Arboretum is a 281-acre oasis of trees, flowers, and parkland that Harvard University owns and maintains.

As such, it teems with leaf-laden trails and paths—and quietude amid the city just beyond.

The city itself suggests that residents and visitors “perambulate” in this 485-acre expanse.

Its woodlands make for some beautiful sights during the fall—never mind a bit of quiet respite—and there’s a 72-acre zoo within its boundaries.