Boston South End

The basics

From bow-front Victorian redbrick houses flanking leafy streets to bustling main thoroughfares and edgy art hubs, South End offers diverse attractions. Washington and Tremont Streets—the latter nicknamed “restaurant row”—draw food and wine lovers, the SoWa district’s art galleries beckon creative types, and the 19th-century homes and parks tucked down the side streets appeal to strollers and urban explorers.

Discover the South End alone or catch a tour to explore it informed by a guide’s historical perspective and directions. For a fun and easy overview of the district, choose a bike tour that covers the area and nearby parks and communities such as Back Bay. Gastronomes, meanwhile, can choose guided walks that uncover the district’s multi-ethnic restaurants and wine spots.

Things to know before you go

• The South End is great for urban architecture, food, art, and wine buffs.
• Most of the area is stroller and wheelchair friendly.
• Join a tour to uncover more of the district, such as food- or architecture-themed guided walks.

How to get there

Bordered by Boston’s Back Bay to the north and Lower Roxbury to the south, the South End is easy to reach by public transit from almost anywhere in the city. Catch a bus, or ride the Green or Orange subway lines to the Back Bay and Massachusetts Avenue stops. Driving isn’t recommended as traffic can be heavy and parking difficult.

When to get there

Summer is best for dipping into South End’s shops and eateries. It’s also good for exploring the SoWa district, which fills with artisan stalls, food trucks, and live music acts every Sunday from May to October.  Come December, the area’s restaurants and shops are festooned in lights, and SoWa celebrates with an annual 3-day Winter Festival of craft and food stands.

SoWa in the South End

The South End’s district of SoWa—short for South of Washington Street—draws creative types and foodies. Stretching from East Brookline Street to East Berkeley Street, this former warehouse quarter buzzes with art galleries, shops, eateries, and craft markets. Admire the innovative art, dive into the world-food restaurants, and shop at the vintage and craft stalls as you soak in the lively community vibe.