Welcome to South Boston “Southie”
Classic Boston ambiance with a historical waterfront
Shedding its tough veneer years ago, South Boston (lovingly known as “Southie”) is one of the city’s most storied neighborhoods. When you live here, you’re a part of the fabric of South Boston with its long-lasting traditions, intense love of Boston sports, and hometown pride. As South Boston has matured over the decades, new construction has started to complement traditional triple-deckers and historic single-family homes. Today, you’ll find modern condos and apartment buildings (many of them chic conversions from turn-of-the-century Victorians) with elevators and garage parking. Generally speaking, the East Side has more conventional dwelling options, while the West Side veers toward larger and more modern.
With the easy commute to downtown Boston, a traditional city neighborhood vibe, a historical waterfront park, and long stretches of beach, South Boston is a favorite of young professionals, families, and ocean lovers. Despite its housing boom, Southie retains its strong sense of character.
What to Love
- Strong sense of tradition and hometown pride
- New construction and converted historic homes
- Easy commute to downtown Boston
- Extensive ocean waterfront
Local Lifestyle
South Bostonians love a long walk down William Day Boulevard to the edge of Dorchester Bay and hanging out at the corner pub. There’s a true sense of community here, where everyone comes out to visit and to celebrate — whether it’s a Red Sox or Celtics victory, or St. Patrick’s Day when nearly everyone you know flocks to the area for the world-famous parade.
Feel the undeniable sense of old-school Boston as you gather to chat about local politics or share a pitcher while watching a Bruins game. If you’re more the outdoors type, grab a friend or two and trek to the Head Island Causeway for a fish-and-chips reward from Sullivan’s on Castle Island. This is a place where families have lived for generations and where you’ll be welcomed into the fold.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
There’s always a place to hang out, whether you’re craving a burger and a beer or a more upscale dining experience. At Lincoln Tavern, the staff draws inspiration from this hard-working, uniquely American neighborhood, providing a comfortable meeting spot for locals. Try the Lincoln Sliders with bacon aioli, Muenster, and a sunny-side-up quail egg. The Fox & the Knife is another tempting favorite, with soul-satisfying Italian dishes — save room for an “orange dreamsicle” dessert!
Sip a local brew at Trillium, grounded in the concept of a New England farmhouse brewery and using local ingredients whenever possible. Toast your new address with an IPA at Harpoon Brewery or have a cocktail and visit the oyster bar while dining on the roof deck at Legal Harborside. At Lucky’s Lounge, enjoy a sleek speakeasy vibe — there’s not even a sign out front. Indulge in American comfort food, great drinks, and more in the hot Fort Point area of South Boston.
Things to Do
With your proximity to the waterfront and the ease of the commute into downtown, South Boston boasts plenty to do, whether after a long day at work or on the weekend with friends and family. Those seeking fresh air gravitate toward Castle Island and Fort Independence Park, which inspired writer Edgar Allen Poe. At Pleasure Bay, you can envision the heroes of the Revolutionary War and the tall-masted ships that floated on the horizon. Another historic Revolutionary War site, Thomas Park is an excellent place for a sunny picnic or a walk with the dog. Head down to the water and L Street Beach, great for swimming, walking, and biking.
Whatever you do, stay in town for St. Patrick’s Day — Bostonians were the first to celebrate this holiday in North America on March 17, 1737, in a show of solidarity among the city’s new Irish immigrants. The tradition runs deep and this is a parade and day of festivities you won’t want to miss.
A couple of other South Boston gems: the Leader Bank Pavilion in the Boston Seaport, the city’s premier outdoor summer concert venue, and the Institute of Contemporary Art, a bastion for visual arts with major thematic exhibitions, surveys of leading contemporary artists, and first-ever solo museum shows by emerging talent. Whether you’re admiring art, listening to a concert while the sea breezes keep you cool, or cheering with your neighborhood friends as the St. Pat’s Day parade passes by, you’ll always feel at home in South Boston.
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