South End Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and where to eat in South End, Boston. Learn about the local culture, safety, transportation, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to South End

South End is a vibrant neighborhood in Boston, Massachusetts, known for its historical architecture, artistic community, and trendy food and drink scene. Its tree-lined streets are filled with boutiques, galleries, and cafes, making it an ideal place to explore on foot.

In this South End travel guide, we’ll show you the top attractions to visit, the best things to do, where to stay, what to buy, and much more. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family with kids, South End has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in South End

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Boston Center for the Arts - This nonprofit organization is dedicated to promoting the performing and visual arts. Check their calendar for exhibitions, performances, and workshops.
  • The Boston Athenaeum - Founded in 1807, this private library and museum features a vast collection of rare books, paintings, and sculptures.
  • The Mary Baker Eddy Library - Learn about the founder of Christian Science and the history of the movement at this museum.
  • The Cathedral of the Holy Cross - One of the largest churches in New England, this Roman Catholic cathedral offers a stunning interior and hosts regular concerts and events.

Natural Attractions of South End: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Titus Sparrow Park - This small park offers a playground for kids, a basketball court, and a fountain. It’s a great place for a picnic or a coffee break.
  • Clifford Playground - Another playground for kids, this park has a spray pool, a sandbox, and a climbing structure.
  • Peters Park - A green oasis in the middle of the city, this park has a tennis court, a dog park, and a community garden.
  • Back Bay Fens - This park connects South End with Fenway-Kenmore, and its trails are ideal for walking, jogging, or cycling.

Hiking/Biking Routes of South End

  • Southwest Corridor Park Trail - This 5.2-mile path starts at Back Bay Station and ends at Forest Hills Station. It’s a popular route for cyclists, joggers, and skaters.
  • Washington Street Bike Lane - This 1.5-mile lane goes from Herald Street to Allston Street and is a great choice for cycling enthusiasts.

Best Things to Do in South End: Activities and Tours

  • South End Food Tour - Taste your way through South End’s culinary scene with a guided food tour. Learn about the history of the neighborhood and the ingredients used in local dishes.
  • South End Art Hop - Stroll around the galleries and studios of local artists during this annual event, which takes place in September.
  • SOWA Open Market - Every Sunday from May to October, this market features food trucks, live music, and local vendors selling everything from jewelry to vintage clothing.

Week-Long Itinerary for South End

Day Activity
Monday Visit the Boston Center for the Arts and grab lunch at Toro.
Tuesday Explore the Boston Athenaeum in the morning and have a picnic at Titus Sparrow Park in the afternoon.
Wednesday Head to Peters Park for a morning workout and visit the Cathedral of the Holy Cross in the afternoon.
Thursday Rent a bike and ride along the Southwest Corridor Park Trail. Stop for lunch at Flour Bakery.
Friday Attend a performance at the Boston Center for the Arts in the evening.
Saturday Take a food tour and discover the best restaurants in South End.
Sunday Shop for souvenirs and local products at SOWA Open Market.

Food and Drink Scene of South End

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Roll - B&G Oysters is known for its delicious take on this New England classic.
  • Boston Cream Pie - This iconic dessert can be found at many local bakeries, including Flour Bakery.
  • Fried Chicken and Waffles - The Beehive serves up a tasty version of this Southern staple.
  • Buttermilk Fried Calamari - Coppa’s dish is crispy, flavorful, and perfect for sharing.

Local Beverages

  • Samuel Adams Beer - Founded in Boston in 1984, Samuel Adams is a popular craft beer brand.
  • Harpoon Brewery Beer - This brewery offers regular tours and samples of their locally brewed beer.
  • Boston Tea Party Ship Tea - Located in the nearby Boston Tea Party Museum, this tea is a blend of Indian and Chinese tea leaves, just like the tea that was dumped into Boston Harbor in 1773.

Where to Stay in South End: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Revolution Hotel - A budget-friendly hotel with a hip, industrial decor, located in the heart of South End.
  • The Ellison - A luxury hotel with 39 rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine.
  • The Encore Boston Harbor - A 5-star hotel and casino, located across the harbor from South End. It offers breathtaking views of the Boston skyline, a variety of dining options, and a spa.

What to Buy in South End: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Boston Baked Beans - A sweet and savory candy consisting of sugar-coated peanuts.
  • Boston Cannoli - A traditional Italian pastry filled with sweetened ricotta cheese and chocolate chips.
  • Local Artwork - South End is home to many galleries and studios featuring the work of local artists. Consider buying a painting, sculpture, or photograph as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of South End

  • Boston Accent - Locals in South End have a distinct Boston accent, characterized by dropping the “r” at the end of words and adding it to the end of certain words, like “idear” instead of “idea”.
  • Sports Fanatics - Bostonians are passionate about their sports teams, especially the Red Sox, the Bruins, and the Celtics. Expect to see locals wearing team apparel and discussing the latest game.
  • Historical Significance - South End has a rich history, from being a center of the abolitionist movement in the 19th century to being a hub for the LGBTQ+ community in the 20th century. Be respectful of the neighborhood’s cultural heritage.

Best Time to Visit South End

South End is a year-round destination, but the summer months (June to August) offer the warmest weather and the most outdoor activities. Fall (September to November) is a great time to visit if you want to see the changing leaves and attend the South End Art Hop. Winter (December to February) can be cold and snowy, but it also offers holiday events and cozy restaurants.

Do’s and Don’ts of South End

Do:

  • Do explore the neighborhood on foot, as many attractions are within walking distance.
  • Do try the local cuisine, including seafood, Italian food, and baked goods.
  • Do be respectful of the historical and cultural significance of South End.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage public property.
  • Don’t neglect safety precautions, especially at night.
  • Don’t ignore the city’s parking regulations, as South End has limited parking options.

Safety and Health

Safety in South End

South End is generally safe, but it’s wise to exercise caution when walking around at night or in less crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid wearing flashy jewelry or carrying expensive gadgets. Don’t leave valuable items in your car, as car theft is a common crime in Boston.

Health in South End

South End has many medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics, for those needing medical attention. Check with your physician about necessary vaccinations before visiting Boston. Be sure to pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and allergy medication, if needed.

Getting to South End: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near South End

  • Boston Logan International Airport - This is the closest airport to South End, located about 4 miles away. Several airlines operate flights to domestic and international destinations.

Bus Stations Near South End

  • South Station Bus Terminal - This bus terminal is located in the nearby Leather District and is served by several bus companies, including Greyhound and Peter Pan.

Other Options

  • Subway/Metro - The MBTA “T” has several subway stations in South End. The Orange Line stops at Mass Ave, Ruggles, and Back Bay stations, while the Green Line stops at Prudential and Copley stations.
  • Ride-sharing Services - Uber and Lyft are available in Boston and are a convenient way to get around the city.
  • Bike Rentals - Several bike rental companies are located in South End, including Boston Bikes and Bluebikes.

How to Get Around in South End

Walking is the easiest and most enjoyable way to get around South End, as many of the top attractions are within walking distance of each other. Biking is another popular option, with several bike rental companies in the area. The MBTA “T” offers subway and bus services, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available.

Where to Go Next from South End: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Boston Common - Located just a mile away from South End, Boston Common is a public park that dates back to 1634. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy nature in the city.
  • Fenway Park - Home of the Boston Red Sox baseball team, Fenway Park is a historic stadium that has been in use since 1912. Take a tour to learn about its iconic features and memorabilia.
  • Harvard Square - Located in Cambridge, just across the Charles River, Harvard Square is a bustling commercial and cultural center home to the prestigious Harvard University.

Conclusion

South End is a unique and welcoming neighborhood in Boston, with something for everyone. Its historical landmarks, outdoor spaces, and culinary delights make it a must-visit destination in the city. Be sure to explore the area on foot and try the local seafood and Italian cuisine.

Chilly and picturesque, snow settles among South End brownstones Chilly and picturesque, snow settles among South End brownstones The Silver line glides up and down Washington Street The Silver line glides up and down Washington Street Beaux Arts and cherry blossoms found along a springtime stroll Beaux Arts and cherry blossoms found along a springtime stroll Browse the varied galleries for a style that suits your discerning taste Browse the varied galleries for a style that suits your discerning taste Or relax by the fountains in scenic Blackstone and Franklin squares Or relax by the fountains in scenic Blackstone and Franklin squares The scene from Thayer and catwalk on SoWa First Fridays The scene from Thayer and catwalk on SoWa First Fridays Wally's Jazz Cafe: You can expect a crowd once the sun goes down. Wally's Jazz Cafe: You can expect a crowd once the sun goes down.