text:
Boston (Davao Oriental)

Boston is a town in Davao Oriental in the Philippines.

This town received its name in a most interesting manner. An American seaman over 100 years ago disembarked one day from his merchant marine ship to a small fishing village in Davao Oriental. Seeing an old man walking with a cane, the seaman asked "what is this place called?". The seaman pointed at the sand below his feet.

The old man, however, thought the seaman was pointing at his cane. Responding with a smile, the old pinoy pounded the sand with his cane and pronounced loudly "Bahstaan!" which means "cane" in Davaoenu, the dialect in the area.

The seaman smiled and said "Boston? Wonderful!" Henceforth the village was always known as Boston.

title: Boston (Davao Oriental)


text:
Boston (disambiguation)

There is more than one place called Boston:

United Kingdom

 * Boston - Lincolnshire, England.

United States of America

 * Boston - The capital of the state of Massachusetts.
 * Greater Boston - The towns and cities surrounding and including the city of Boston in Massachusetts.
 * Boston (Georgia) - A town in the state of Georgia.
 * Boston (Indiana) - A town in the state of Indiana.
 * Boston (New York) - A town in the state of New York.

Philippines

 * Boston (Davao Oriental) - A town in the state of Davao Oriental.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Boston (disambiguation)


text:
Boston (England)

Boston is a market town in Lincolnshire, England, with a population of 70,500 in 2021. Boston's most notable landmark is St Botolph's Church, which is visible from miles away across the flat lands of Lincolnshire.

Understand
The Prime Meridian passes directly though Boston.

Do

 * Water Rail Way is a long-distance trail between Lincoln and Boston along the River Witham. It's an old railway trackbed so it's level and suitable for cycling. Start from Sluice Bridge A1137 and be on the east bank of the river.

Eat
There are a number of places one can eat. Indian restaurants, Chinese, French, and even Thai.

Connect
As of Nov 2022, Boston and its approach roads have 4G from EE, O2 and Vodafone, and 5G from Three.

title: Boston (England)


text:
Boston/Allston-Brighton

Both bound closely with Boston while remaining a bit cut off, Allston/Brighton is defined by the colleges that surround it. A visit reveals a bohemian vibe in this student village writ large. Check back often, in this neighborhood of youth and energy, the one constant is change.

Understand
Ownership of this land has been kicked around over the centuries. At first a part of Watertown, it was deeded to "Newtowne" in 1634, which you might know by its modern name, Cambridge. Just a handful of settler families lived in "Little Cambridge" and tended to their farms and livestock throughout the 18th century. In 1807, after a heated bridge dispute, Brighton would split from Cambridge to become its own independent town.

After incorporating, the area continued on with its traditions. Residents used new technologies as they became available to increase production on their farms and expand the cattle industry. Railroads were built to efficiently move the slaughterhouse beef produced here to distant markets. In 1874 Brighton was officially annexed to Boston, a decision that would see its population explode.

The railroad would keep Allston/Brighton's economy growing throughout the 20th century. When the prevailing industry shifted from livestock production to automobile sales; it was all the same to the train. The Mass Pike was built along the tracks in the 60s, as car travel became increasingly popular. Today three nearby colleges BU, BC, and Harvard all continue their expansion into the neighborhood. Dorms, research facilities, and academic high rises spring from ground like seeds. As the area's most prolific builder, Harvard acquired building rights to the once powerful railroad tracks, and plans to reshape oceans of acreage in the 21st century.

Neighborhoods
Where exactly does Brighton end and Allston begin? Your guess is as good as anyone else's. As a rule of thumb, Allston encompasses the eastern part of the district and Brighton the western. While even residents may not agree on the name of their district, these are some of the areas visitors are likely to encounter.

 * Allston Village: Boston's countercultural hub, this area surrounding Harvard and Brighton Avenues is home to artists, students, and DIY musicians. Shops, restaurants, bars, clubs, music venues- you name it, it can be found in this densely-packed area. It is bordered by Union Square to the west, unmistakable with its retro neon "Twin Donuts" sign, and Packard's Corner to the east, named for a Packard dealership from the early 1900s.
 * Brighton Center: At the intersection of Cambridge Street and Market Street, Brighton Center feels more like a vibrant town square than it does the big city — and for good reason. In the 1800s, Brighton was an independent town, and this was the center of local culture. Today, some of Brighton's trendiest restaurants live here alongside St. Elizabeth's Hospital.
 * Cleveland Circle: This strip of restaurants and cafes at the terminus of the Green Line's C branch is abuzz with college students, particularly from next door Boston College. The commercial center of Brighton's residential district of Aberdeen, Cleveland Circle straddles the tripoint of Boston, Brookline, and Newton. Just a block from the train stop, visit the Chestnut Hill Reservoir for a 1.5 mile loop beloved by walkers, joggers, and cyclists.
 * Oak Square: Further outbound from Brighton Center, jutting into Newton, Oak Square may feel less like "the city" than anywhere else in Boston city limits. Many residents love this area for being both (relatively) green and (somewhat) quiet. The few shops and amenities here are of high quality, and the location provides quick and easy access to both the Mass Pike and trails along the Charles River.

By public transit
Unlike other neighborhoods, you'll find the bus and the trolley are almost equally important here. The B branch of the Green line makes a prolific number of stops in the area. Heading outbound some of the larger stops are: BU West, Pleasant Street, Packards Corner, Harvard Ave, Washington Street, Chestnut Hill Ave, and Boston College; about 10 smaller stops are in the mix as well. Trollies come fairly often, but they must wait for red lights in traffic and can be frustratingly slow. The C branch runs mostly through Brookline, only the terminus Clevland Circle serves Brighton. Consider walking to the C branch if you're close, it can be much faster. The D branch is faster still, with a dedicated right of way it really gets cranking. The D line also primarily runs through Brookline and Newton, with only one stop in Brighton near Cleveland Circle: Reservoir. Reservoir, Chestnut Hill Ave and Cleveland Circle are all within a 5—minute walk of each other, making for an easy transfer. If you’re going from downtown Boston to Brighton, it may be preferable to take the D line to Reservoir and walk to Chestnut Hill Ave to take the B line further into the neighborhood.

The #57 bus is quite popular, running alongside the B line in Allston, down Comm Ave, and often passing it. It then heads through Brighton Center and Oak Square, and into Watertown Yard. Another popular route is the #66 bus, which makes its way through Allston Village and into Harvard Square in Cambridge. If you're in Brighton Center or Cleveland Circle, the #86 takes you to Harvard as well, but much less frequently. The #64, when it runs, will get you over the river and into Central Square. The #70 cuts across Western Ave and passes through Watertown Yard, eventually arriving in Waltham. For quick service between the city center and Allston-Brighton during rush hours only, express bus #501 goes against traffic, taking to the Pike and arriving downtown and in Copley Square respectively. Finally, the Worcester commuter rail line’s Boston Landing stop serves the rapidly growing north side of the neighborhood.

By bicycle
Boston has been installing miles of bike lanes for years now, so cycling can be a good option in these neighborhoods. At least five Bluebikes stations can be found nearby to help you out. Sometimes your destination is too far to walk and the T doesn't really go there, so with a little pedaling you're only a few minutes away. Bikes are probably the most effective when moving around Lower Allston or heading into Cambridge. You'll find some great trails along the Charles with beautiful scenery and no cars to fight with.

By car
Having a car in Allston/Brighton isn't (usually) the disaster you'll find in the rest of the city. Especially with the slowness of public transit here compared to other parts of the city, it’s often preferred, particularly in the more suburban areas like Oak Square and along Western Ave. Driving is best avoided in the chaotic Allston Village area though. As for on street parking, it’s not hard to find in many of the business districts, although on the busier and denser Commonwealth Ave, you may have to wait 15-20 minutes or more for it at times, or walk longer than expected.

See
One of the best activities in Allston-Brighton is people-watching, for whatever your motivations. You'll find an exciting mix of ethnicities and age groups, from upper middle class college kids to Vietnamese immigrants to the local Russian community. Take in the sights at the White Horse Tavern or Tavern in the Square on Brighton Avenue during summertime when the floor to ceiling windows are open, or just grab a patch of stoop and watch. Allston also has a large homeless population.

Do
Things to do in Allston largely include just walking about and enjoying the area. There's a lot of little boutiques, excellent friendly coffee/tea shops, some interesting crowds, and a relatively easy-going atmosphere. It's also an excellent area for photography.
 * Brighton Branch of Boston Public Library, 40 Academy Hill Rd., 02135!! Home to the Boston Public Library office in Brighton, and aa beautiful view of Brighton-Allston neighborhoods.
 * Brighton Branch of Boston Public Library, 40 Academy Hill Rd., 02135!! Home to the Boston Public Library office in Brighton, and aa beautiful view of Brighton-Allston neighborhoods.
 * Brighton Branch of Boston Public Library, 40 Academy Hill Rd., 02135!! Home to the Boston Public Library office in Brighton, and aa beautiful view of Brighton-Allston neighborhoods.
 * Brighton Branch of Boston Public Library, 40 Academy Hill Rd., 02135!! Home to the Boston Public Library office in Brighton, and aa beautiful view of Brighton-Allston neighborhoods.
 * Brighton Branch of Boston Public Library, 40 Academy Hill Rd., 02135!! Home to the Boston Public Library office in Brighton, and aa beautiful view of Brighton-Allston neighborhoods.
 * Brighton Branch of Boston Public Library, 40 Academy Hill Rd., 02135!! Home to the Boston Public Library office in Brighton, and aa beautiful view of Brighton-Allston neighborhoods.
 * Brighton Branch of Boston Public Library, 40 Academy Hill Rd., 02135!! Home to the Boston Public Library office in Brighton, and aa beautiful view of Brighton-Allston neighborhoods.

Music venues
Another unofficial name for this area is "Allston Rock City", after the collection of concert halls that have taken root here. While you're not going to catch Kanye or Lady Gaga in any of these spaces, you will see up and comers playing alongside more established artists almost every night. Each club has a slightly different vibe and draws its own crowd.

Connect
There are three BPL branches here to offset the many coffee shops and restaurants in the area offering free wi-fi.

Go next

 * Once the B line finally shows up, hop aboard and slowly creep Downtown. Very slowly. You'll get there.
 * Walk over the Charles River via the iconic Weeks footbridge to enter Harvard Square, the center of bustling Cambridge.
 * Need a break from city life? Brookline has parks galore, including the Larz Anderson Park and Lost Pond, alongside a reservoir of their own.
 * Up for a challenge? See if you can memorize each of the thirteen villages within scenic, suburban Newton.
 * Have a car? Head west into Watertown where you can shop the Arsenal Mall.

title: Boston/Allston-Brighton


text:
Boston/Charlestown

Boston's Charlestown was the traditional home of employees at the now-decommissioned Navy Yard. It has experienced a shift in its population and industry and an increasing number of young professionals are joining the families who have lived in the area for years.

Understand
Charlestown was first settled and laid out in 1629 by engineer Thomas Graves, making it Boston's oldest neighborhood. Initially quite large, at least 10 towns have peeled away from the King's original land grant over the last 400 years. Becoming a city in 1848, Charlestown was annexed by Boston in 1874. Located on a peninsula between Boston Harbor and the Charles and Mystic Rivers, Charlestown can sometimes feel cutoff from the rest of the city.

By far the most notable event to happen here is the Battle of Bunker Hill. On June 17, 1775, British forces stormed Minuteman positions, where they had dug in atop the hill overnight. While the redcoats would raise their flag above the hill that day, the Pyrrhic victory was a sobering experience for the British. The losses incurred that day would influence the Empire to use more cautious tactics for the rest of the war. Mostly destroyed after the fight, it wasn't until 1786 that the first bridge across the Charles River was built to connect Charlestown with the rest of Boston.

The Charlestown Navy Yard was established in 1800; providing industry and jobs for many residents. During the Civil War, over 26,000 men enlisted at the Navy Yard, where many ships pivotal to the Union campaign were constructed. In 1827 it was decided a memorial was needed to commemorate the battle, and The Bunker Hill Monument you see today was completed in 1843.

Throughout the mid-1800s an influx of Irish immigrants arrived in Charlestown, many forced from their homeland during the Great Irish Potato Famine. The area long remained an Irish and Catholic stronghold similar to South Boston, Somerville, and parts of Dorchester. Since the late 1980s the neighborhood has changed dramatically due to its easy access to downtown and its colonial architecture. As in many Boston neighborhoods, gentrification has greatly influenced the area but Charlestown still retains an Irish American influence.

By foot
Walking is the way to go, because the real meat of what you want to see here is often located a bit aways from the train stations. Only a few buses serve this small neighborhood, so you'll find walking is generally the fastest way to get from A to B. Careful not to overexert yourself! There just aren't the transit options here that you will find elsewhere in the city. It's all about pacing yourself. Many residents often walk to work downtown, which could be a 5 to 25 minute trip depending where you start from.

By public transit
The Orange line stations Community College and Sullivan Square both serve Charlestown, although somewhat poorly located on the far western edge of the neighborhood. Bus routes #92 and #93 run every 50-65 minutes throughout the area as well. No late evening or Sunday service for the buses. If you are coming from Cambridge, there is no direct transit route. You'll have to travel via Somerville towards Sullivan Station, or travel via Downtown Boston towards Haymarket station; and then connect from there. The F4 water taxi runs between Long Wharf and the Charlestown Navy Yard. The Navy Yard dock is very close to the U.S.S. Constitution.

By car
Not at all recommended. Traffic is horrendous getting in and out, and the area most visitors will want to see is compact and easily walkable. If you must, you can drive in from Exit 23 (Government center/North End) and Exit 28 (Charlestown/Sullivan Square) on Route I-93, the Charlestown/Somerville Exit on Route 1 after the Tobin Bridge, Storrow Drive in Boston or Memorial Drive in Cambridge.

Get around
Most of Charlestown is accessible by walking, which usually takes less than 30 minutes from end to end of the neighborhood. If driving or biking, keep in mind many streets are very narrow and run uphill and downhill.

Itineraries

 * The Freedom Trail — A major tourist draw of significant historical sites in Boston. These 17 locations spread over two and a half miles are crucial to understanding revolutionary era America. A few are located here.

Go next

 * Walk over the Charlestown bridge which connects to the North End and visit the Old North Church.
 * Get out into Boston's neighborhoods! You could certainly do worse than Union Square in Somerville.
 * Holding tickets? TD Garden in the West End is where the Celtics and Bruins play.
 * In nicer weather take a boat to South Boston and see the Institute of Contemporary Art.
 * Prefer a little greenery? The Arnold Arboretum in Jamacia Plain is easily accessible from the nearby Orange line.

title: Boston/Charlestown


text:
Boston/Dorchester

So, you've decided to visit Dorchester. Congratulations! Boston's largest neighborhood had long been written off, dismissed as “too dangerous” by those who had never set foot here. But longtime residents — or “Dot Rats” — have always known what the rest of Boston is beginning to rediscover. An area close to downtown and the ocean, replete with beautiful parks, charming old architecture, and good public transit. An area with a diverse and inclusive population, and additionally one of the more affordable spots in Boston. When you consider these assets as a whole, it should come as no surprise that many are giving the neighborhood a second look.

Understand
Due to Dorchester's large size it can be helpful for the traveller to think of it in two halves, north and south. The northern half is more traditionally urban. Houses are packed tightly together, people walk everywhere, all accompanied by the traffic and street noise one might expect. Due to its proximity to downtown, the majority of new development is taking place here as well. A huge cineplex, mall expansion, and many new condos are under construction as of 2016. The southern half, by contrast, continues to retain a more suburban feel. City lots are a bit roomier, large condo buildings become less common while trees become more prevalent. Driving is slightly less stressful and even necessary in some areas. Stitching these two halves together is Dorchester Ave. Running from South Boston to Milton, Dot Ave is by far the neighborhood's most powerful connector of people and places. Yes, the big draw here is JFK Presidential Library, but to really experience Dorchester you should allow some time to investigate the people and places along this main street.

Neighborhoods
Again, Dorchester is huge. If it were an independent city, it would be the 4th largest in the state. Consider this a severely abridged list of just a few of the areas you may be interested in visiting. Also take these names with a pinch of salt. In a place this old, it can feel like every intersection has a special name or used to be called something else.

 * Ashmont: The general area around Ashmont station has been transformed, showcasing a rebuilt train station in 2011 and several new shops and restaurants. The residential hills to the east and west of the station have deep Irish-American roots, and boast some of the finest houses anywhere in the city. The Fitzgerald family home was in this area--Mayor John Fitzgerald and his daughter, Rose, mother of President Kennedy. Ashmont is also one of the few areas in the south Dorchester where some mid-rise buildings have been going up. It remains to be seen what type of impact they will have on the neighborhood. You might also hear this area called Ashmont Hill or Peabody Square. Another neighborhood, Adams Village, is very close by and has a similar Irish color.
 * Fields Corner: A variety of cultures meet and shop in this bustling commercial district. Conveniently clustered shops selling a vast array of goods draw shoppers from nearby African-American, Vietnamese, and Irish enclaves. During the warmer months the community park is in almost constant use with kids playing baseball, neighborhood festivals, or families barbecuing. This area could also be considered the center of the Vietnamese community in Boston. You can find many Vietnamese restaurants, places of worship, and community centers in the vicinity.
 * Lower Mills: On the shores of the Neponset River and functioning as Boston's southern gateway, Lower Mills is decidedly upmarket. Once the heart of chocolate manufacturing in the region, the picturesque factory buildings of the Baker's Chocolate works have been painstakingly restored and converted into hundreds of luxury condos. Following the arrival of new residents, new and old retailers alike have wasted no time updating their offerings in order to cater to this expanding community. Lower Mills is also a great area to get outdoors. Bike or walk along miles of trails and paved paths to check out some of the best green space Boston has to offer.
 * South Bay: Not an official neighborhood per se, but worth noting with all the construction going on in the area. This part of Dorchester is by far its largest commercial district. Anchored by big box stores like Target, Home Depot, and Best Buy among many others. Its proximity to South Boston and the South End make it a neighborhood crossroads of sorts, and developers are pouring money in. It's surprisingly easy to drive here, due to the large parking lot and interstate highway nearby.

By public transit
The T's Red Line runs frequent service to much of Dorchester. Trains run about every 8 minutes, more during rush hour and less often at night. JFK/UMass, Savin Hill, Fields Corner, Shawmut, and Ashmont stations all provide the neighborhood with convenient links to downtown Boston. Be aware that the Red Line splits into two separate branches at JFK/UMass, so make sure you board an Ashmont train for Savin Hill, Fields Corner, Shawmut, or Ashmont! JFK/UMass also provides Dorchester with its only connection to several South Shore commuter rail lines. Trains on the Greenbush, Kingston, and Middleborough/Lakeville lines stop here. On the western border with Roxbury, the Fairmount commuter rail has stations at Newmarket, Uphams Corner, Four Corners/Geneva, and Talbot Avenue. This line runs on an infrequent schedule, around once an hour, but the city planned to increase service by 2018.

Ashmont station is the terminus of the Red Line and the start of the Ashmont-Mattapan "High Speed" Line. This quaint line features 1940s era PCC (President's Conference Commission) trolley cars that locals continue to use every day as they go about their business. The trolley stops at Cedar Grove and Butler before continuing on to Milton and Mattapan. Ashmont is also the largest bus depot in Dorchester. From here the #21, #22 and #23 busses run to different points along the Orange Line. Lines #215, #217, #240, #245 are less frequent and run to Quincy and Milton, while the #27 runs to Mattapan. There are a few other bus connections from Fields Corner and JFK/UMass that also run to the Orange Line. There is even a bus (#18) that runs up and down Dorchester Ave, but good luck with that. There are no bus connections from Savin Hill or Shawmut stations.

By car
Dorchester is generally more car friendly than other neighborhoods in Boston. Many commercial areas have free parking lots close by, and parking on street is usually not a hassle. One particular challenge here can be driving on Dorchester Avenue. This thoroughfare can be crowded at all times, and for no apparent reason. If you are aren't stopping locally consider either Morrissey Boulevard, or Route 93 as alternatives. Remember the further north you go the more congestion you face, so keep that in mind when making updates to your itinerary. In the south a car can be beneficial, as some sights are further apart and away from train stations.

Museums
All museums in Dorchester are found out at the tip of Columbia Point, a location shared with UMass Boston. The star here is by far and away The JFK Museum, an outstanding presidential library most folks can do in under two hours. These sites are easily accessible, take any Red Line to JFK/UMass station, and change to the free shuttle.

Eat
The diversity of Dorchester is clearly reflected in its restaurants. Some of the best Vietnamese in the city can be found near Fields Corner. While Dorchester's western border serves dishes from Cape Verde, Jamaica and Puerto Rico, among other island nations. Scattered throughout the neighborhood, traditional Irish pubs rest comfortably alongside bistros. This area is often less expensive than the rest of Boston, and food prices reflect that.

Connect
There are few chain coffee shops in Dorchester to offer free wi-fi facilities, there are however, many BPL branches here to fill that gap.

Go next

 * Did you get on a Braintree train, instead of Ashmont? Enjoy your trip to the Adams National Historical Park in Quincy.
 * Drive or cycle south into Milton for some great hiking options in the enormous Blue Hills Reservation.
 * Ride the quaint "High Speed Line", a pre-war trolley connecting Dorchester with Mattapan and Milton.
 * Check out Franklin Park, and several colonial sites right next door in Roxbury.
 * Head for South Boston and check out all that construction going on in the Seaport.

title: Boston/Dorchester


text:
Boston/Downtown

Downtown Boston is really the heart of the city. Boston City Hall is here, and many powerful companies and agencies are headquartered in the area. Since urban planning was done here before the advent of the automobile, this area of town has secured a decidedly European flavor. Here you'll find pedestrian focused streets, large public green spaces, street performers, and historic sites all connected by an efficient public transit system. If you're looking for the adjacent Italian American neighborhood with great food, head on over to the North End. If you want the Boston Common, the State House and the tallest buildings in the city instead, start exploring Back Bay & Beacon Hill.

Understand
Boston's nickname as the "Hub" makes more sense once you visit downtown. The population balloons during the day as hundreds of thousands of office workers and tourists descend on the area. The Massachusetts State Government maintains its seat in nearby Beacon Hill, but most state employees work out of office buildings around Government Center, where City Hall is also located. Downtown is home to major shopping areas, many of Boston's most famous historic sites, and plenty of major private employers. The financial and legal industry in the city is still largely based here, although some have decamped to nicer and newer space in the Seaport.

The area now known as Downtown used to comprise most of the City of Boston, aside from the North End and Beacon Hill. Places like Charlestown and Dorchester were originally separate towns. Boston was founded in 1628 on a head of land sticking out into the harbor, connected to the mainland only by a thin strip of land which is today called Washington St. Other Boston neighborhoods were created through filling in marshland or annexing neighboring towns. Boston was a hotbed of the American Revolution, being home to now famous patriots like John Adams, Sam Adams, and John Hancock. Important pre-revolutionary events like the Boston Tea Party and Boston Massacre happened in what is now Downtown.

After the war, Boston continued to be an important seaport and trading center. Until the 1860s and 70s, Downtown was pretty much all there was to the city. During this period, it expanded dramatically and outgrew its old borders, but Downtown remained the hub. Much of Downtown burned down in the Great Fire of 1872, tragically taking some of the city's older buildings with it. This area is now the main financial district and is mostly modern skyscrapers. In the 1950s the Central Artery, an elevated highway, was built through downtown, cutting off the waterfront from the rest of downtown. At a cost of $15 billion, it was buried during the "Big Dig" in the 1990s and early 2000s and Downtown is now reunited with its waterfront.

Chinatown
Chinatown was built on a landfill, though this is no longer apparent; what now identifies this area is the truly mixed uses of land. Residential properties co-exist with family owned and operated businesses and local institutions.

Bay Village
One of the smallest neighborhoods in Boston, about 6 square blocks around Piedmont Street east of Arlington. After the original mud flats were drained in the early 1800s, many craftsmen involved in the construction of Beacon Hill's premier residences built their own modest but well-crafted houses here. Consequently, there are many architectural similarities between these two neighborhoods. It wasn't until the Prohibition years (1920s) that Bay Village got its bohemian ambiance. It has now become the center for Boston's gay community.

Leather District
Bounded by Chinatown to the west, South Station to the east, the Financial District to the north, and Kneeland Street to the south, this neighborhood was the home of leather production and sales during the 19th century. It consists of a series of buildings constructed in the Classic Revival and Romanesque styles, largely between 1880 and 1920. Visually similar to SoHo, New York, it has been used for numerous films and advertisements as a stand-in location. The Leather District is a mixed use community, home to loft apartments, ramen joints, and French bistros. The As South Station, a major bus, commuter rail, train, and subway terminal, defines its eastern boundary, it is often visited by people entering or exiting the city.

By foot
Walking is by far the preferred way to get around this area, as most everything you'd want to see is relatively packed in together. The train stations are usually only separated by a few minutes walk, and you'll find it's often faster to just walk directly to your destination without heading underground. Walking also affords the opportunity to explore the variety of urban parks, architecture, and quirky street patterns that have gracefully developed over time. Walking around downtown is in many ways what visitors come here to experience in the first place.

By public transit
Downtown is easily the best connected area in the city. Boston operates on a "hub and spoke" philosophy, and this is clearly the hub for a variety of modes of transport. Amtrak makes two stops here, the massive South Station offers connections to NYC, Chicago, and beyond. Also featuring rail connections is North Station, serving coastal points within Maine and New Hampshire. See Boston for details. These two stations are also the termini for all Commuter Rail travel within the region, see Boston for more detailed descriptions.

By subway
The Green line is perhaps the most helpful for visitors, running close to much of the Freedom Trail and the North End. Stops include North Station, Haymarket, Government Center, Park Street, and Boylston. The Orange line is a great alternative, because it closely parallels the Green line while downtown. Stations include: North Station, Haymarket, State, Downtown Crossing, Chinatown, and Tufts Medical Center. The Red line is also quite popular, if you're near it, it can be great for getting across town. Red stops include: Charles/MGH, Park Street, Downtown Crossing and South Station along the way. The Blue line is good for getting to the Aquarium, but it is primarily used by residents and not tourists. This line begins at tiny Bowdoin, then visits Government Center, State, and Aquarium stations before diving under the harbor.

Almost every station downtown serves more than one line, and transferring between them is quick and painless. Walking between the Green, Orange, and Red lines is pretty easy, an underground walkway connects Park Street and Downtown Crossing stations. Much to the displeasure of Bostonians, there is no direct connection between North and South Station. It can take 20-30 minutes to transfer between the two, so take that (along with your luggage) into account. You'll also find the Blue and Red lines are similarly disconnected, and will need to use the Orange or Green lines to transfer between them.

By bus
There are a few options for buses downtown, but the narrow and congested streets render this option "not great". The Silver line SL4 and SL5 routes are the most popular as far as buses go. Think of the Silver line as a handy way to reach downtown, but it's not great for moving around within the area. Both lines visit Tufts Medical Center and Chinatown, while the SL4 continues on to South Station and the SL5 loops around Downtown Crossing.

The routes #4, #7, and #11 all serve the area, but don't run frequently and have to compete with everyone else for what little space is available. Haymarket is the main terminal for local busses downtown. The #92, #93, and #111 routes head into Charlestown and then keep going into Somerville and Chelsea. Another handful of busses: #424, #426, #428, #434, and #450, all leave Haymarket bound for various points along the North Shore. Still more buses depart from South Station; the #448, #449, and #459 all roll towards either the Airport or other destinations along the North Shore.

By boat
There are two main wharves that provide public transport by sea to key locations around town. Long Wharf is the most popular; offering MBTA connections to the Charlestown Navy Yard, Logan Airport, Hingham and Hull, as well as a seasonal ferry to Salem. Boston Harbor Cruises offers other seasonal ferries, decamping to the Boston Harbor Islands, or heading out to Provincetown. They also provide harbor cruises, whale watch tours, and others that all depart from Long Wharf.

Rowes Wharf offers a few additional options. There is another ferry from here to Hingham, and a seasonal one to Winthrop. There are also more private boats and other pleasure craft available for rent that dock here.

Water taxis are plentiful all along the waterfront, servicing 28 different points between downtown, South Boston, East Boston, and Charlestown.

By car
You'll find a car to be more liability than boon here. Do not drive downtown unless you know exactly what you're doing, where you're going, and how you're parking. Traffic is horrendous, parking barely exists, and the streets aren't even designed for cars in the first place. There are a few garages in the area, most scattered between Government Center and the Aquarium. Garaged parking is expensive, it can be around $12-15/hour and $40-50/day (when it's available). Those figures could double or even triple in peak season or during special events.

Quincy Market

Dating from 1825, Quincy Market was built during a growing economy as a way to increase the number of shops and markets available to Bostonians. The market space available in Faneuil Hall just wasn't enough, so the small pier behind the building was filled in to create land for a larger new market. Quincy Market has been used as a marketplace for produce and foodstuffs throughout its life, and was beautifully restored in the 1970s. The original hall is today a glorified food court, while the North Market and South Market buildings hold a variety of little shops. Replete with performance artists, this is clearly the center of tourist activity in the city. Even if it's not your cup of tea, Quincy Market is still worth a visit just to soak up the history.

The central original brick and granite building contains two enormous hallways packed with food stalls, with a central atrium tying the wings together and providing two levels of seating. If you are eating here there is unfortunately little high quality fare to be found, but you do have a few options. Gourmet India is the spot to go for a quick Indian fix. Something called Mmmac N' Cheese is great if you're looking for something with a few more carbs. Also, Boston Chowda Co serves an acceptable clam chowder for a chain.

If you can splash out a little more or want to sit down, try the Japanese inspired Wagamama by the south entrance. Flagship of tourism Cheers Boston is here too, because well, where else would it be? This is the location where the interior looks like the TV show. Check out the original one on Beacon Hill for the exterior look. For something completely different visit JJ Donovan's. This old-school Irish tavern is cash only and can be an oasis of calm for those looking to escape the crowded marketplace. Family owned, they routinely refuse million dollar buy out offers. It's not fancy, it's traditional, and the owners like it that way.

For shopping, you'll move to the North and South Market buildings. Check out 1630 for gifts made by artisans using techniques known to the first European colonists. You'll also find antiques and collectables, sourced from around New England so you can own a piece of the history. For all of your Boston sports paraphernalia needs investigate Lucys League to find officially licensed clothing for your favorite team. The usual suspects found in any respectable mall are here as well, like Banana Republic, Urban Outfitters, and Yankee Candle. Popular streetwear shop Uniqlo also occupies the second floor of Quincy Market.

Itineraries

 * The Freedom Trail — A major tourist draw of significant historical sites in Boston. These 17 locations spread over 2½ miles (4 km) are crucial to understanding revolutionary era America. Many are located here.

Events

 * Lantern Festival is celebrated during the Chinese New Year, which is first day of the first month on the Chinese calendar, and lasts until the 15th day. Throughout the celebration, there are more street and food vendors than usual, fireworks and firecrackers. There are also several performances including the Lion dance and or parade, students of the local schools, and musical performances. This event takes place in the main streets of Chinatown.
 * August Moon Festival, also called the Autumn Festival, takes place during 15th day of the 8th month of the Chinese calendar. It’s the largest festival of the year. Performances, music, arts and crafts will sometimes be available. Every year varies. Also takes place in the main streets of Chinatown.

Eat
Downtown is not Boston's culinary epicenter. Truly exciting restaurants tend to be located in outlying neighborhoods due to the high costs of real estate downtown and the weird demographics (filled with office workers and tourists during the day, deserted at night). Because of this, visitors to the city who mostly stay Downtown may think that Boston is living up to the tired New England stereotype of bland cuisine. This couldn't be further from the truth, so leaving Downtown to eat is a must when visiting. While there are a lot of truly forgettable places to eat Downtown, it's not all bad. With a little research you should be able to find a quality meal at whatever price point you're seeking.

Downtown's budget restaurants tend to be geared towards the horde of office workers who descend on the city during the week so many of them are only open for weekday lunch. If you do happen to visit during a weekday, save some money and follow the be-suited crowds to a place that will have better food for much less than tourist-oriented spots.

For authentic Chinese cuisine, you can't do better than Chinatown. Also known for having a number of restaurants that stay open late on weekends (3 or 4AM). Many of these restaurants have been cutting back their late night hours, so call ahead to confirm closing times.

Splurge
Many of Boston's swankiest restaurants are located Downtown. Be sure to do some research before embarking on a Downtown fine dining adventure. There are some truly world-class restaurants here, but also a lot of overpriced places catering to tourists and expense account lunches.

Coffee
When downtown, you're probably within sight of a Dunks' or a Starbucks, if not try turning around. But you didn't come here to drink national chain coffee did you? Try one of these (sort of) local options instead. They almost always offer free Wi-Fi too, if that sweetens the deal for you.

Sleep
Go ahead and take a quick glance at the price points on offer here. Yeah. Sorry about that. Before you throw up your hands in total disgust, however, just know that a lot of these price points are only the quoted rack rates. For many of the spendier items here, try a hotel consolidator website or calling the hotel directly. You might see prices fall by 50% or more, especially if you can be flexible with your dates. Still, there's no way around the fact that you're looking at spending $300 and up for this area. To the rate you're quoted will be added roughly 20% for taxes, fees, and surcharges. Try looking into the Fenway or Allston if you need to bring costs down.

Go next

 * You're steps away from the North End, dripping with old world Italian charm.
 * Pay a visit to Charlestown and the USS Constitution, oldest commissioned warship still afloat.
 * Investigate more historic sites in Quincy at Adams National Historical Park, one time farmstead and home to two presidents.
 * Head down to the wharf and take a ferry out to the Boston Harbor Islands. It's a great way to beat the heat in summertime.
 * Storied Fenway Park is just a few stops away in Fenway. If the B's aren't playing today, try the Museum of Fine Arts instead.

title: Boston/Downtown


text:
Boston/East Boston

A lot of neighborhoods claim to be diverse, but East Boston is the real deal. "Eastie", as the locals call it, has always been a welcoming place for immigrants hoping to gain a toehold in Boston. Rapid gentrification along the waterfront has begun to take hold, and it remains to be seen what impacts that will have on this working class community.

Understand
Like much of the rest of the Boston area, East Boston was originally a series of five islands and marshy tidal bogs. Each of the islands were used either for farming or the grazing of livestock, and military fortifications were constructed when necessary. The two largest islands (Noddle's and Breed's) make up the modern commercial and residential heart of Eastie. The three smaller (Governors, Apple, and Bird) were combined with infill over the years to create Logan International Airport.

In the 1830s, the owner of the largest island, William Sumner, formed a company to direct expansion in the area. The railroad was brought in and ferries started service to try and connect East Boston to the rest of the mainland. While those ventures didn't work out so well, the urban planning that was done around this time remains. Visitors today will see one of the few areas of Boston actually laid out on a grid. This was also a prosperous period for locals involved in the Clipper ship industry, which flourished here. So renowned were the shipbuilders, Eastie would remain popular in the maritime trades long after the time of wooden ships had passed.

The ships carried more than just cargo, they also brought with them new arrivals and new ideas. A great many Canadians, Irish, Russian and European Jewish immigrants would appear throughout the 19th century. The Italians arrived at the dawn of the 20th century, and a growing population required additional housing. It's during this period when the streets first became lined with ever present three deckers, providing affordable housing for the recent immigrants. The fine Victorian mansions and sea captain's homes would remain atop Eagle Hill, of course, along with many handsome brick bow fronts in Jeffries Point.

The construction of the airport beginning in the 1920s was transformational. Also extremely close to downtown Boston, the noise and pollution from the air traffic kept housing prices affordable. This provided a landing space for the most recent influx of people hailing from South and Central America, the Caribbean, and South East Asia. Nothing stays the same forever, and today developers are moving in to capitalize on Eastie's waterfront views and adjacency to downtown.

Get in
Clearly Logan International Airport is the neighborhood's defining characteristic. There are, however, a few other ways to get here that don't involve undergoing a full body patdown.

By public transit
The easiest and most popular option is the Blue line, running trains every 5-13 minutes depending on the current time and day. It pops up above the harbor at Maverick station, before continuing on to the Airport, Wood Island, Orient Heights, and Suffolk Downs stops. It then keeps chugging right along into Revere, the next town north. The other way of getting here is on the Silver line SL1 branch. It's great for going to the airport, but not much else. The Silver line bus makes 5 stops, one at each of Logan's terminals, and does not connect you with the Blue line.

Busses run here (quite a number of them!), but none departing from Eastie can get you across the harbor and into Boston proper. A few busses do leave from Wonderland station in Revere. They drive to either Haymarket or South Station, and a couple will stop at the airport. Of busses that do run here, the #114, #116, and #117 start at Maverick station and cross the Mystic river to get you into Chelsea. The #120 and #121 run from Maverick also, but they stay within the neighborhood and in most cases the Blue line and your own two feet will be the superior option.

One other infrequently used option are the MBTA commuter boats. Take the F2H from Logan Ferry Terminal for boats to Long Wharf, Hingham, and Hull. These ferries run year round, but call ahead if it looks like extreme, icy ocean conditions could be an issue. Water taxis are also available, taking you to any dock in the city with about 10 minutes notice.

By car
Driving in East Boston isn't the best idea, but not impossible. Actually the most challenging thing is getting your car over here in the first place. Three tunnels provide access, the older Callahan and Sumner tunnels are crowded, slow and their location isn't great. The Ted Williams tunnel, built during the Big Dig, offers the fastest and easiest connection. All the tunnels are equally expensive for non-resident visitors. If you're coming from the north, congested and crumbling routes 1A and 145 will bring you in. There are a few parking garages, and most streets in town are resident parking only 24 hours a day. The city issues $40 tickets for parking in these spaces without a sticker.

Eat
East Boston is full of wonderful stores and restaurants representing its different ethnic groups. Long-time Italian restaurants stand next to Brazilian cafes.

Go next

 * Do what everyone else does and take the T under the harbor and into downtown Boston.
 * Take the Logan Ferry across the harbor to Hull, operating year round.
 * Water taxis offer more flexibility, take one over to South Boston and tie one on at Harpoon Brewery.
 * Hundreds of flights depart daily for points all around the world, a common destination could be anything from Nantucket to New York City.
 * Stay on the Blue line and ride up north to Revere Beach, in the city of Revere.

title: Boston/East Boston


text:
Boston/Fenway-Kenmore

The Fenway-Kenmore neighborhood is named after Kenmore Square, and after the Fens, both of which it encompasses. Kenmore Square is the area's dynamic urban center. This is where trains arrive and shops light up in an effort to entice passing customers. High above, the Citgo sign (now a historical landmark) keeps a watchful eye on new arrivals as they make their way through these congested crossroads.

Neighborhoods

 * Kenmore: The area is quite urban, but all the green space makes it feel much more livable than you might think. Like many other areas of Boston, Kenmore is in the middle of a building boom. The closeness of the parks and gardens help to balance the city and nature experiences.
 * The Fens: Just south and away from the square lies the hushed Fens, a study in contrasts. The Muddy River meanders through rustling reeds and shady, sloping lawns and gardens. Rustic stone bridges and benches offer a place to linger, to admire the water and all its inhabitants. The Fens also work to separate Kenmore from the sprawling medical complex, Longwood Medical Area. Turkeys have even been known call the place home. If you see one, watch out, they can be mean!
 * Longwood: An extremely dense cluster of hospitals and schools.

By public transit
In this part of town the Green line will usually be your best bet, and Kenmore is the station to know. The B, C, and D Green line branches all stop here, and a large glass bus depot hovers above. It's also the closest stop to the Fenway Park. From here the B line continues outbound to Blandford Street, BU East, and BU Central before entering Allston. The C branch serves Saint Mary’s St and the D branch passes through Fenway and Longwood before both trains enter Brookline. The E branch is great for visiting area museums, it stops at Symphony, Museum of Fine Arts, Longwood, and Brigham Circle stations.

The Orange line shares the Ruggles and Massachusetts Avenue stations with several other neighborhoods, but you won't find these stops quite as helpful. The E branch of the Green line is closer to top sights, however, the Orange line can be a good alternative if the E line is experiencing service issues. Ruggles also serves as a stop for Commuter Rail lines headed to Providence/Stoughton, Franklin, and Needham. Another Commuter Rail station (especially popular on game days) is Lansdowne, which serves the Framingham/Worcester line adjacent to Fenway Park.

By far the most popular bus route is the #57. Running from Kenmore Square down Comm Ave, into Allston and eventually ending in Watertown. Also leaving from Kenmore, the #60 and #65 run less frequently into Brookline, while the #8 and #19 take you through the Longwood area and the South End via Ruggles. The CT2 and #47 busses can be picked up in Boston University, and take you over the BU bridge into Kendall and Central squares in Cambridge. The #39 also runs constantly down Huntington Ave taking you to either inbound to Back Bay or outbound to Mission Hill. Ruggles is also a major bus hub, fanning lines out citywide.

By car
As a newer neighborhood, Fenway-Kenmore is arguably the best area of central Boston to drive in. The Kenmore Square/Fenway exit from Storrow Drive is the main access point to the neighborhood — from there, follow signs to your destination. As on street parking is fairly limited in most areas, go right for a garage. You're looking at around $15-20 an hour to park, and on game days expect to be gouged $100 or more for parking, if it's even available in the first place.

Fenway Park

Watch the Boston Red Sox play at Fenway Park, the oldest Major League Baseball stadium still in use. Built in 1912 and one of only two classic ballparks remaining, the other being Wrigley Field in Chicago. This red brick and green steel structure is one of the best places in the world to take in a baseball game. As one of the smallest ballparks in the major leagues and given Boston's loyal fan base, seeing a game here is intimate, exciting and a part of living history. Few baseball teams can claim to represent their city to the extent of the Red Sox, and Fenway Park is nothing short of a baseball landmark. Theoretically, single game tickets can be purchased directly from the Red Sox at face value. In practice single game tickets usually sell out for the entire season within hours of going on sale. If you'd like to catch a game, and didn't snag a ticket online right when they became available, you do have a few options: If you'd like to see Fenway without attending a game, try a behind the scenes tour on non-game days or show up early on game days. A must for any Red Sox fan even if you do manage to get game tickets!
 * Buy through a licensed broker, such as StubHub or ABC Tickets.
 * Try the game day window on Landsdowne Street. Line up starting five hours prior to game time. Any open seats go on sale 90 minutes before the first pitch. Tickets are sold on a first come first serve basis; if you're not one of the first 50 people or so in line, chances for a ticket are slim.
 * Patronize a scalper. Buying and selling tickets on the street is pretty common, but caveat emptor! The tickets you're buying may be fraudulent, and be aware scalping on public property is illegal in Massachusetts.

Eat
Owing to the enormous student presence here, dining out in Fenway-Kenmore doesn't have to break the bank. There are a variety of Asian spots and Irish pubs to keep your stomach happy and full. The dollar signs will start to climb as you head towards Kenmore Square, and of course watch out for overcrowding and increased prices on game days.

Go next

 * Follow the Muddy River along the Emerald Necklace and south into Jamaica Plain.
 * Smell the salt air aboard the USS Constitution, on active naval duty since 1798, and docked in nearby Charlestown.
 * See a preview of what will hang in the museums of tomorrow, and browse a few of the South End's many galleries.
 * As an alternative to Landsdowne Street, check out Allston Rock City, to the west.
 * The Back Bay is located just a few feet east, across Mass Ave, the very heart of Boston for many visitors.

title: Boston/Fenway-Kenmore


text:
Boston/Jamaica Plain-Mission Hill

Jamaica Plain and Mission Hill are two distinct neighborhoods within the City of Boston. They are grouped together here due to their shared border and transit options. Jamaica Plain—or "JP"—is one of the first streetcar suburbs in America and is surrounded by many parks. JP has undergone significant urban renewal since the turn of the century, with scores of fine shops and restaurants. North of JP, tiny Mission Hill was named quite literally, when a large church was built atop a hill. This small neighborhood is more urban feeling and has a high student population.

Understand
The neighborhoods used to be simple farming communities within Roxbury. They became part of West Roxbury during the mid-19th century for a time, before finally being annexed by Boston in 1874. Around this time a small river, or stony brook, flowed along what is today the Southwest Corridor. Taking advantage of the available hydropower, several industries sprang up along the route, most notably breweries. Residents have used Centre St and Huntington Ave for almost 200 years to commute between these factories and downtown Boston.

Possessing a wealth of green space and many transit options, Jamaica Plain is very desirable among Bostonians. The old brewery buildings have been remodeled and updated, while ever fancier shops and restaurants continue to open for business. But JP draws its real strength from the diversity of its residents. A strong character of social awareness and tolerance has mitigated gentrifications worst effects. You can still find traditional bodegas mixed in with the upscale brunch spots.

Mission Hill, previously Parker Hill, began to take the urban form it has today around 1870, after the construction of the eponymous Mission Church, which is designated as a basilica. Built and paid for by the mostly German congregation, the basilica is striking and can be seen in many views of Boston. The neighborhood is built up largely in wooden three-decker houses. Adjacent to the Longwood Medical area of hospitals and universities, Mission Hill plays host to a frequently rotating cast of young people. And the area affords some great views of the city from its high points.

Neighborhoods
These neighborhoods are listed from north to south. You'll find these larger nodes of activity to be separated by stretches of quieter, more residential areas. Think of the area like a wide slice of residential buildings sandwiched between giant parks on either side.
 * Brigham Circle: This is Mission Hill's commercial heart. Most of the neighborhood's shops and restaurants can be found in this area. Named after the nearby Brigham and Women's Hospital, this is a transitional area of the city. Head north or "inbound" to enter the Longwood Medical neighborhood in Fenway/Kenmore. Head south-east on Tremont to continue along Mission Hill, passing the Basilica and eventually entering Roxbury. If you're feeling bold, head up Calumet Street and try to bluff your way into a house party. Your youth and a little red-cup camouflage is all you'll need.
 * Hyde Square: One of Jamaica Plain's commercial districts. Consisting of a tiny rotary and a bunch of fantastic restaurants and bars nearby. Later, head east down Centre Street towards Jackson Square to experience JP's "Latin Quarter". During the 1970s and 80s this part of Jamaica Plain was a largely hispanic area. Gentrification has reduced the hispanic population but Centre Street retains a Latinex atmosphere.
 * The Monument: JP's biggest and busiest commercial zone. Heading north from the monument along Center Street affords the opportunity for great people watching and window shopping. If the weather's cooperating, head west to Jamaica Pond, or southwest to enjoy the amazing Arnold Arboretum. South will take you to Forest Hills and into Roslindale, and east will take you to Franklin Park in Roxbury.

By public transit
Taking the Orange Line and walking is the premiere way to access these neighborhoods. Roxbury Crossing serves Mission Hill, while Jackson Square, Stony Brook, and Green serve Jamaica Plain. Green is quite popular, allowing easy access to the main shopping district in one direction, and Franklin Park in the other. Use Forest Hills when visiting the Arboretum, the entrance is just across the street.

The "E" branch of the Green Line trolley is another great way into Mission Hill. Brigham Circle is the last stop along its dedicated right of way, while Fenwood Road, Mission Park, and Back of the Hill are all street level stops. Watch your step! All trolleys turn around at Heath St, the terminus of the E branch.

If you'd like to walk a little less, but wait a little more, use the #39 bus. Starting in Copley Square in the Back Bay, these big buses run constantly down Huntington Ave following the path of the E trolley. Continuing beyond Heath St and down Centre, they pass in front of every shop and restaurant in JP. Fighting traffic, they eventually make it to Forest Hills station. From Copley to Heath Street, it is arguable faster than the E branch (and a little cheaper), but they come less frequently.

By bicycle
The Southwest Corridor Park, which begins at Back Bay Station, stretches all the way to Forest Hills. It's one of the best bike paths in the city. It's also great for novice cyclists, as the path is completely separated from cars and street traffic at all times. The park runs above and alongside the Orange Line, so consider biking roughly equivalent to taking the T. There are places to lock your bike at all stations, and throughout the neighborhoods. Many locals use bikes here, so you'll never be far from a bike shop if you encounter mechanical issues.

By car
Like most other areas of Boston, driving in these neighborhoods is not a great idea. Only consider driving if you're visiting the Arboretum or Franklin Park, and strongly consider the T even then. Mission Hill borders one of the most congested areas in the city, and traffic is often snarled here at all hours. In Jamaica Plain, the main thoroughfare is called the "Jamaicaway", or Jway. This section borders the Emerald Necklace and can be particularly challenging for out of town drivers. Prepare for high speeds, narrow winding roads, and a series of busy rotaries along this four-lane undivided boulevard.

Eat
Dining here tends to be either on the low or high end, there isn't as much selection in between. The lower cost options tend to be along the stretch of Centre from Hyde to Egleston where the long time blue collar residents live. The pricier options are popping up everywhere, with some clustering near the Monument where many wealthy new residents have landed.

Sleep
Still solidly residential neighborhoods, Jamaica Plain and Mission Hill have only one place to sleep each. Check your favorite room renting application, or start making friends now!

Connect
The two libraries here offer free wi-fi, supplementing the coffeeshops you'll find throughout the neighborhoods.

Go next

 * It's a bit easier with a car, but check out the great views and some of the first cars ever built at Larz Anderson Park in Brookline.
 * Speaking of Brookline, check out Fairsted. Every city has a park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, but how many have the office (and grounds) he designed them from?
 * Touring Franklin Park will actually place you in Roxbury, but this may come as news to some locals.
 * Head north into Fenway/Kenmore to take in the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.
 * If you're not tired of all that green space yet, check out Forest Hills Cemetery, also in Roslindale.

title: Boston/Jamaica Plain-Mission Hill


text:
Boston/North End

Known as "Little Italy" for over a hundred years, the North End proudly carries the torch of Boston's Italian heritage. Its narrow, dense streets consistently draw hordes of visitors looking to experience old world culture and first class dining. The West End was a sister neighborhood, until it was almost entirely demolished during the 1950s. Today it's the site of a huge sports arena and massive amounts of new construction.

North End
The draw of the North End was evident even to the first Puritan colonists, when powerful minister Increase Mather made this neighborhood his home. This area shared fortunes with Beacon Hill, and people from all walks of life came together to live and worship. The Old North Church was put up in 1723, the oldest church in Boston still standing. As the years wore on, the English and free Blacks living here would be pushed out by a wave of Irish immigrants who arrived in great numbers. Stately mansions were converted into tenements, and living conditions deteriorated. By the mid 19th century, the North End developed something of an unsavory reputation, a red-light district along what is today North Street being chiefly responsible.

By the 1880s the Irish had decamped, and the North End became dominated by Jewish and especially Italian immigrants. These families would barter trade skills to one another, slowly repairing and replacing the area's dilapidated housing stock with what you will see here today. A poorly considered expressway project constructed in the 1950s cut this neighborhood off from the rest of Boston. Although this did have the beneficial effect of strengthening already close community connections, and family owned businesses continued to thrive.

When the ugly expressway was removed in 2007 by the Big Dig, a hulking metal barrier was replaced by a welcoming green garden, and the North End was united with the rest of the city once more. This connective parkland invites visitors from around the globe to explore the narrow brick streets, historical highlights, and unparalleled Italian dining that make the North End such a unique destination.

West End
Once simply a small bay and mill pond to early colonists, the West End is another of Boston's neighborhoods built on reclaimed land. After the American revolution, the pond had turned into something of a convenient—although increasingly stinky—garbage dump. By the dawn of the 19th century it was decided to use the earth from one of Beacon Hill's three original hills to fill the pond in.

The creation of this new neighborhood quickly relieved pressure on the town's overcrowded housing stock. Some of the areas first residents would be African American, joining friends and family living nearby on Beacon Hill's north slope. This was one of the few places in the United States where African Americans had a political voice before the Civil War. In the coming years they would be joined by immigrants arriving from across Europe, Russia, and the Middle East.

By the 1950s the once overcrowded area was in the process of "de-slumming" along with the North End. It wasn't perfect, but small shops were still in business and many families still considered it a fine place to live. A city plan to "redevelop" the area was overwhelmingly opposed by residents during a meeting in late 1957. Their pleas fell on deaf ears, however, and eviction notices were handed out a few months later. The following year, a majority of the West End would be razed to the ground.

Today a vibrancy is slowly returning to the remaining pockets of what once was. It will never again feel like a sister to the North End, but as the tall buildings of glass and steel take the place of 50s era parking lots, the West End stands ready to turn the page and write its next chapter.

By foot
The North and West End are of similar size and can be traversed in around 15-20 minutes, so walking is usually going to be your best option. The easiest way to get to the North End is to follow the Freedom Trail from downtown Boston; follow the crowd across the Greenway and you're there. For the West End, turn left as the Greenway ends and the Charlestown bridge looms.

By public transit
By far the largest station in the area is North Station. Not only is this a major stop on the Orange and Green lines, four Commuter Rail lines and the Amtrak train to Maine depart from here as well. See Boston by train for more information. While covered more in depth in the downtown article, Haymarket on the Orange and Green lines can be a very useful station for the visitor. Accessible by Green line tracks; Science Park is the station you want if you're visiting the Science Museum. If you're going to be on the Blue line anyway, Aquarium or Bowdoin stations may also prove useful to you.

By car
Here are two more neighborhoods where driving is a terrible idea. The North End in particular has streets so narrow they barely accommodate pedestrians, much less automobiles. When visitors aren't clogging up the thoroughfares in summer, the snow picks up that slack in wintertime. There are a few (expensive) parking garages in the West End and downtown if you're determined to go that route. A few businesses in this area may provide valet parking, but call ahead to ensure a spot and don't expect it to come gratis.

Itineraries

 * The Freedom Trail — A major tourist draw of significant historical sites in Boston. These 17 locations spread over two and a half miles are crucial to understanding revolutionary era America. A few are located here.

Events
Throughout the summer there rarely is a dull moment in the North End. There is seemingly a different Italian festival every weekend, often thematically based on Catholic saints.

Buy
Remember, people still live in the North End, it hasn't gone full Epcot Center just yet. You can find a few stores with tacky tourist trinkets, but their presence is refreshingly limited. This is a neighborhood where residents walk to local fruit stores, butcher shops and corner markets for their groceries.

Eat
Many visitors travel to the North End specifically for the dining experience. There are a plethora of Italian restaurants here, and almost all of them are good. If you haven't decided exactly where to eat, all you need to do is walk down Hanover Street and you'll be presented with no shortage of quality choices. In the high season just stop to eat whenever you see a short line, as many North End restaurants don't do reservations. Don't browse too long however, as around suppertime the area can become awash with hundreds of your empty stomached competitors. If you're on a budget, the ATM is your friend. Many establishments here are cash only.

Sleep
Don't go looking for bargains in these neighborhoods. The North and West Ends are some of the most touristed and developed areas in the city. Expect gut rehabs of historical buildings, excellent service, and sky high prices.

Go next

 * Walk over the Charlestown bridge which (surprise!) connects to Charlestown and pay a visit to the USS Constitution, oldest commissioned warship still afloat.
 * In nicer weather take a boat to South Boston and see the Institute of Contemporary Art.
 * A few steps south and you're Downtown, where the Old State House and Quincy Market live.
 * More in the mood for shopping? Head to the Back Bay and explore Newbury Street.
 * Prefer baseball to basketball or hockey? Try and score tickets to a game at Fenway Park in the Fenway neighborhood.

title: Boston/North End


text:
Boston/Roxbury

One of the first towns founded in Massachusetts Bay, Roxbury is located at the geographic center of Boston. Serving as the heart of Black culture in Boston, Roxbury considered seceding from Boston during the late 1980s. The idea was to create a local government, Mandela, that would not discriminate against minorities.

Understand
First settled by Europeans as an independent town in 1630, Roxbury was enormous and encompassed about half the neighborhoods in Boston today. Over time each area would incorporate and break off, until Roxbury itself was annexed to Boston in 1868. A particular type of stone, Roxbury Puddingstone, is found locally and outcroppings in the area are quite visible. Many notable buildings in town are constructed with this material. It may even be where the neighborhood gets its name, "Rocksberry".

Over the years Roxbury has absorbed waves of immigrants; after the English, the Irish arrived in the mid 1800s, followed next by Germans in the early 1900s. In the early 20th century a large Jewish population also moved into Roxbury. The most recent cultural changeover began in the 1940s and 50s, when an influx of new African American residents migrating from the south arrived alongside immigrants from the Caribbean.

Roughly, Roxbury can be divided into "upper" and "lower" halves, with Martin Luther King Boulevard serving as a dividing line. Heading south towards Franklin Park you'll notice a small change in elevation, which distinguishes the halves. Lower Roxbury was absolutely gutted during the 50s and 60s when plans for an Inner Belt highway surfaced, which would’ve gone through many high-density areas of the city (including lower Roxbury), displacing thousands of people and businesses. The white flight to the suburbs began first, and when acres of city blocks were flattened by unfair urban renewal policies, few residents remained to speak up. Upper Roxbury remained largely intact, but the entire neighborhood suffered disinvestment and neglect by the rest of the city. You could understand why the community was ready to break away during the 70s and 80s. Instead of a new government, however, those who remained channeled their energy into setting up a new strategic development plan that would work for everyone.

Neighborhoods

 * Nubian Square (until 2019, Dudley Square). This is really the heart of Roxbury. Strategic plans dreamed up in the 1980s are finally coming to fruition as the city of Boston invests millions of dollars bringing back the Bolling building and other structures in the neighborhood. Longtime residents rub elbows with fresh arrivals taking advantage of the proximity to downtown, access to amenities, and the lower cost of living. With Bartlett Yard under construction and big plans in the works for other parcels, this area of town is viscerally experiencing gentrification.
 * Egleston Square Is it part of Roxbury? Part of JP? This community at a crossroads is a great example of what Roxbury has to offer. A variety of shops and restaurants cater to the locals in the area, while many non-profits have taken root here. Investing in urban youth, here parents can find classes covering everything from baseball, to SAT prep, to creative writing and more.
 * Fort Hill Set on hilly land west of Washington Street, Fort Hill is a quiet residential community. There are many interesting architectural gems dotted throughout the one way streets and hillsides just waiting to be discovered. Sometimes called "Highland Park", this neighborhood doesn't have much in the way of shopping and restaurants, but does contain a community college and a mosque.
 * Grove Hall A mostly residential neighborhood largely made up of stately Second Empire and Victorian homes. Access to a bustling commercial district and close proximity to the enormous Franklin Park round this neighborhood out. No trains serve Grove Hall only buses, because of this fact many Bostonians don't even know this neighborhood exists!

By public transit
The Orange Line provides Roxbury with three busy stations located along the Southwest Corridor. Ruggles is by far the largest and has the most connections to local buses and the Commuter Rail. While Roxbury Crossing gets a lot of use from residents, and the nearby student population in Mission Hill. Further down the line Jackson Square is used by many residents of Egelston Square and Upper Roxbury. If you're headed to Franklin Park by train, consider staying on another stop or two to Stony Brook or Green.

Ruggles is also your stop if you're arriving from the suburbs. This is the only stop in Roxbury for the Providence, Franklin, and Needham Commuter Rail lines. It seems like almost every bus in the city winds up at Ruggles at one point or another. Popular routes include the #23 and #28 which run to Ashmont and Mattapan stations respectively. The CT2 and CT3 are part of the cities cross town loop system and will take you to either MIT or BU Medical. The #66 another helpful crosstown bus headed to Allston, can be picked up from the Roxbury Crossing station.

The beginning of the Silver Line can be found at Dudley Station in Nubian Square. This BRT route runs into downtown, to the airport and many other locations. The only other stop it makes in Roxbury is Melnea Cass Boulevard, before entering the South End. The station itself is a large bus depot, the structure salvaged from the Washington Street elevated railway on which the Orange Line ran until the 1980s. Any route you missed at Ruggles can be picked up here.

By car
Driving in Roxbury is, like everywhere else in Boston, not recommended. It's only potentially worth the hassle if you're planning on heading to Franklin Park, or really getting off the beaten path. Parking is a little less competitive here than downtown, however, traffic can still back up quickly, and unpredictable driver behavior is common. Because of the hilly and rocky topography, streets here are laid out in an even less cohesive plan than other areas. Roxbury has more than its fair share of dead end streets and roads to nowhere.

Drink
For a neighborhood of its size and population, Roxbury seems to have a dearth of drinking establishments. Don't worry, there are PLENTY more in neighboring areas.

Connect
The only coffee shop in Roxbury, true to form, offers free wi-fi facilities. These three BPL branches can also help you out in a pinch.

Go next

 * Like Franklin Park? Head west into Jamaica Plain and check out the Arnold Arboretum.
 * Hop on the Silver Line and ride north into the shopping and dining destination the South End.
 * Explore Roxbury's eastern border and try to figure out exactly where Dorchester begins and Roxbury ends.
 * Investigate some of the quieter areas of town in the Outer Neighborhoods of Mattapan and Roslindale.
 * Renowned museums like the MFA and Isabella Stewart Gardner are in Fenway/Kenmore, just across the Southwest Corridor Park.

title: Boston/Roxbury


text:
Boston/South Boston

Honor. Tradition. Loyalty. If you're familiar with South Boston as presented on the silver screen, these values might spring foremost to your mind. You wouldn't be wrong, but a lot has changed since mob boss Whitey Bulger controlled his criminal underworld from here during the 1970s. The identity of "Southie", as it's known to locals, is being reshaped.

Understand
Originally, South Boston was known as "Dorchester Neck", a small isthmus in northern Dorchester. Once all but disconnected from downtown, acres of land were created throughout the 19th century physically bringing the two towns together. This was a burgeoning area for maritime industries, and was first annexed by Boston in 1804, and then again in 1870. Southie really distinguished itself with the arrival of the Irish after the Great Famine in the mid 19th century.

The quintessential triple decker homes and their occupants of Irish decent remain. Neighbors still greet one another on the street as they go about their daily routines. But things are different now. Money abounds in this area so close to downtown Boston. Real estate developers make million dollar offers to long time residents, sight unseen. What does it matter what the insides look like when you'll be tearing the whole thing down anyway.

These trends will continue into the foreseeable future, as more of Southie has been rezoned to resemble the Seaport. In spite of these challenges, pockets of the old-time community spirit persist. Some shops and restaurants have remained popular with new residents. The St. Patrick's Day Parade continues each year. The Neighborhood character evolves as ideas from newcomers mix with the best from the old guard.

Neighborhoods

 * The Seaport: No other neighborhood in Boston (and few in America) have undergone so much change in so little time. Back in 2004, the area was nothing more than acres of windswept parking lots. By 2014 those lots had been replaced by a convention center, an art gallery, scores of office and residential towers, and a mass transit system. Over a trillion dollars (yes with a t!) of new real estate washed onto the market during that decade, and continues to do so. Debate continues about whether the redevelopment of the Seaport is succeeding in turning the area into a real community. There are no grocery stores or public schools here yet, but the area and the idea is still new. Give it time to see what Boston's newest incarnation develops.
 * Fort Point: Nuzzled in below the Seaport, think of Fort Point as its older, smaller brother. When the manufacturing industry collapsed, many beautiful brick factories along the channel were simply too big and expensive to tear down. What was bad news at the time has turned out great for today's Bostonians, as many large industrial spaces were preserved and live on today as fantastic hotels and restaurants. Just check out the cluster of interesting points around Congress and A streets.

By public transit
Red Line stations in the area are Broadway and Andrew. JFK/UMass station is in neighboring Dorchester, but is very close as well. Silver Line bus routes SL1 and SL2 run rapid transit service run between South Station and through the seaport district. The Courthouse, World Trade Center, and Silver Line Way stations are served by both routes. The SL2 route continues its loop through South Boston stopping at Harbor St, Tide St, 23 Dry Dock Ave, 88 Black Falcon Ave, and Design Center. While the SL1 branch veers off and heads away to Logan airport.

For those trying to get deeper into South Boston, you'll need to ride the bus. Routes #5, #7, #9, #10, and #11 all start near City Point and connect to Red Line stops: South Station, Broadway, and Andrew. It's hard to overstate the impact of all the construction, and the neighborhood has been welcoming scores of new residents every month for years. While the number of commuters increases, the number of busses has not been able to keep pace with the demand. Beyond normal rush hour traffic, it can be quite difficult to board busses headed downtown in the morning, and leaving the city at night. The MBTA is working on addressing this issue, but for now plan on riding late, crowded busses.

By boat
There are actually quite a few services available along the waterfront in Southie. One of the most popular and frequent are Water Taxis. These little boats run all year round and service points of interest like The Children's Museum, the ICA, World Trade Center, and more. You'll have to call ahead in less popular locations and times. Hop aboard a real ship and take the Bay State Cruise Company's Provincetown Fast Ferry, running from the pier with the Seaport Hotel during the summer months.

Additionally, over 20 cruise lines dock their mega ships at Black Falcon Pier. During the warmer months they may arrive from ports as far as Europe and the Caribbean. Local taxis know these schedules, so you should have no problem transporting yourself and your luggage to the hotel. Smaller boats can be found at the EDIC Pier and provide service to and from the Boston Harbor Islands. Keep your eyes peeled, because this pier can easily be overlooked. It's right next to the bridge, don't walk too far down towards the enormous Black Falcon area.

By car
Many parking lots have been replaced by luxury condos, so think before you drive, especially in the seaport. There is some on street parking in the remaining industrial-feeling areas towards the center of the neighborhood, but much of it isn't any more convenient than walking from a T station. Some two way roads were converted to one way during the "snowpocalypse" events of 2015, so know your GPS directions may be incorrect. Watch for cars coming to a stop in the middle of the road, as some residents feel entitled to double park wherever they please, especially on Broadway. Don't bother trying to find parking out at Castle Island during the summer, but you might luck out if you go at odd times. In wintertime you may find "space savers" placed in shoveled out parking spots. You are legally allowed to move these items and park, but by doing so you place your vehicle at risk of being vandalized. Exit 25 of Interstate 90 and Exit 16 of Interstate 93 serve the area and are found at the extreme western edge.

Itineraries

 * Boston Harborwalk — A public walkway that follows the edge of piers, wharves, beaches, and shoreline around Boston Harbor. When completed it will extend a distance of 47 miles (76 km) from East Boston to the Neponset River.

Do

Buy
Southie is not the city's premiere shopping destination. No matter what changes it has undergone, at its heart, the neighborhood exists to serve its residents. The missing tourist shops and places to find goofy t-shirts speak volumes about the character of this locale.

Eat
Due to the current state of gentrification, the amount and variety of price points in South Boston is immense. You will find the more expensive, trendier bistros in the seaport district to the north. As you get away from the T stations and further into the center of the neighborhood, prices begin to decrease.

Sleep
Get your wallet out! South Boston is a desirable location to spend the night due to its closeness to downtown and the convention center located here. If an event is in town, hotel prices will be correspondingly astronomical. The city is aware of this issue and they are trying to reduce costs by increasing supply. There are a few hotels under construction (as of Nov 2016) with more on the drawing boards, but unfortunately for you they are not available yet. The best way of mitigating the damage is to book far in advance, and to coordinate your calendar with the convention center's. You can also look at hotels in other areas of the city or try booking online with popular room-rental services.

Connect
There are several chain coffee shops in Southie that offer free wi-fi facilities, they may restrict access during peak hours however.

Go next

 * Most visitors will be able to simply walk back across the Fort Point Channel and return Downtown.
 * Stretch your legs and walk to the South End from here, but that gets a little tricky because of the interstate highway that cuts off most pedestrian access points.
 * Ride the Red Line to the People's Republic of Cambridge and explore Harvard Square.
 * Get off the tourist trail entirely and head south to Dorchester, with a comparatively more suburban feel.
 * Unless you're a great swimmer, you won't be going much further east. But boats are available to ferry you to the Boston Harbor Islands seasonally.
 * If you have 100 bucks and 90 minutes, climb aboard the fast ferry to Provincetown.
 * With a little advance planning and a love of ocean liners, you could depart for Quebec City, Montreal, or even as far as Bermuda.

title: Boston/South Boston


text:
Boston/South End

Possessing the largest Victorian row house district in the country, the South End is one of Boston's most popular places. After many homes underwent renovation in the 1960s, upscale restaurants and art galleries sprang up, and the area has attracted a diverse blend of families, young professionals, a gay and lesbian community and a thriving artistic center.

Understand
In response to the crowded conditions throughout the downtown and Beacon Hill neighborhoods, the city of Boston decided to fill in tidal marshes to the south. Beginning sometime around the 1830s, a new inner city residential neighborhood was envisioned, with a large and stable tax base to draw from. Architect Charles Bulfinch was hired, who oversaw the infill of land and created a series of residential parks. Inspired by English residential town squares, most greenspace is artfully landscaped and ringed with attractive cast iron fencing. The buildings here were designed to be uniform five-story bowfront structures. To further accentuate the visual unity of the area, Bullfinch called for a common palette of brick, slate, limestone, and cast iron elements to be used.

At first, a burgeoning middle class moved to the South End including business owners. As new housing developments opened up, however, the Back Bay and Roxbury soon became the "it" neighborhoods, and the South End would slide into a tenement district by the end of the 19th century. Close to good railroad jobs and now more affordable, the South End quickly began to attract African-American families, and became a center of black middle class Boston life and culture. Known as a "Jazz Mecca" for the first half of the 20th century, when musicians like Duke Ellington and Cab Calloway performed in a myriad of area clubs.

More and more buildings fell into disrepair, and by the 1960s absentee landlordism was rampant and the neighborhood was one of the poorest of the city. At this point, Boston's city planners once again stepped in, knocking down blocks of dilapidated structures and replacing them with housing projects and areas of light industry. It was an imperfect solution, but it mostly worked out, and set the groundwork for the beautiful and diverse community residing in the South End today.

By public transit
The Orange Line is going to be your best option for accessing most of the South End. The Back Bay and Massachusetts Ave stations bring you close to the action. While the Ruggles station is in the neighborhood, most of the attractions are further north. The Green Line roughly parallels the Orange in this area, but the stations are slightly further away. One stop on the Red Line, Broadway, is great for accessing SoWa market and all the new developments in the South End's northeastern corner.

If the suburbs and beyond are where you're leaving/arriving from, Back Bay Station is for you. On the Commuter Rail, the Providence/Stoughton, Framinghham/Worcester, Needham, and Franklin lines all stop here. This is also a main stop for Amtrak with Acela Express, Northeast Regional, and Lake Shore Limited trains all heading further afield. This station is also the first stop for the #39 bus, which takes you south past the museums and into Jamaica Plain.

Another great option is the Silver Line, a bus rapid transit service running through the center of the neighborhood. From north to south the stops are: Herald St, East Berkeley St, Union Park St, Newton St, Worcester Sq, Massachusetts Avenue, and finally Lenox St. This bus can be helpful, as it passes by all the big commercial areas in the South End.

By foot
This is really the best way to see this minute neighborhood, barely over a mile across. As a point of reference, traversing the neighborhood would take the average person less than 30 minutes on foot. Walking from the Orange Line Mass Ave station, to the I-90 I-93 overpass next to downtown.

By car
Strongly not recommended. There are no parking garages in the South End, and virtually all on street parking is resident only. You'd have to park in a different neighborhood and walk in anyway, so what's the point of driving?

See
There's not much to see in the South End in particular. The neighborhood is quite small and beautiful, so your best bet may be to just go for a stroll. The area has some of the most wonderfully restored brownstones, they really pop offset against the dramatic backdrop of Back Bay's skyscrapers. You will find scores of gardens and small parks tucked between the warren of intimate (and occasionally cobblestoned) streets. Evenings here are great for walking as well, as gas lamps flicker to life and light your path across care-worn bricks.

Galleries
This is a smattering of the galleries the South End has on offer. They can be found throughout the neighborhood, with the greatest number being concentrated in the SoWa Market area. Naturally. Its best to visit on the weekends, and better still on market days.

Buy
Due to the number of artists & galleries in the neighborhood, SoWa has become a creative epicenter, attracting a wide range of art-enthused fans, creative minds, and unique events.

Eat
The South End has spent decades committed to increasing fine dining options, and it shows. Some of the best and most interesting cuisine in the city can be found right here, along with some of its most expensive! This list isn't exhaustive, there are many excellent restaurants in the neighborhood not listed here. Consider calling ahead for reservations for most any location, especially in the summertime and especially on Sundays when the SoWa Market is in full swing. Prices are generally spendy, but don't lose hope. Try some of the fancier places earlier in the day for brunch, you may find similar fare more affordably.

Drink

Connect
There is one library here offering free wi-fi, although you'll probably pick up a few overlapping signals from all the competing cafes and shops in the area.

Go next

 * If you somehow didn't find a restaurant to your liking, check out the Back Bay, another neighborhood with outstanding cuisine.
 * Already have tickets? Catch a game at historic Fenway Park in the center of Fenway-Kenmore.
 * To try out a few new dishes, walk over the Mass Pike and into Chinatown, a part of Downtown Boston.
 * After the SoWa market wraps up head west, over Interstate 93 and walk into Southie.
 * Get off the beaten track and into Roxbury, to see some fantastic colonial sites and Boston's biggest park.

title: Boston/South End