Welcome to the South End
Beautiful Brownstones in Sophisticated Surrounds
It may be this very neighborhood you envision when you imagine living in Boston. The South End has long been characterized by its ivy-clad, brick Victorian row houses and cast-iron railings and gates. Perfect little pocket parks sit at the end of quiet, cobblestone streets, where neighbors can gather for a summer evening cocktail while the children play.
This diverse community has long preserved its historic charm, but that doesn't mean that today’s residents don’t appreciate modern amenities. You’ll find trendy eateries, dive bars, vintage clothing shops, ice cream parlors, and more amidst stately homes, South End apartments, and, of course, those beautiful brownstones.
Walk to public transportation or all the way into downtown from here. You’re within range of the Prudential Center and Back Bay. Pop over to Peters Park to run the dog or play tennis. Pick up groceries at Ming’s Market or Whole Foods. Within these 300 acres, choose from Federal-style and bow-front brick row houses, condos ranging from penthouse units to full triplex homes to modern mid-rises with all the extra touches, like concierge service and garage parking. It doesn’t get much more quintessentially Boston than the South End.
What to Love
- Traditional Victorian architecture
- Proximity to downtown Boston
- Plenty of green spaces and public parks
- The abundance of locally owned eateries and shops
Local Lifestyle
It’s Saturday morning in the South End and out you go, with your partner, perhaps your young child and your dog, to the corner bakery and coffee shop for a cappuccino. Or, maybe you’re headed for a sweet treat at Blackbird Donuts or brunch at local favorite Metropolis. Runners start their days with jogs along the well-maintained South End sidewalks (accessible even if you’re pushing a stroller as you run).
Later, friends might gather at local wine bars such as Barcelona Wine Bar, or sit down for salted oysters at B & G Oyster, before browsing for antiques at Pioneer Goods Co. Relaxed, neighborly, and engaged best describes the typical South End resident — those who crave a small-town feel within a big city, where cultural institutions are near at hand and there’s always something to do.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Favorite local eateries include Toro Boston for tapas, Vejigantes Restaurant for traditional Puerto Rican favorites, KAVA neo-taverna for Greek small plates and hard-to-find Greek wines, and Myers+Chang, where the self-described “Asian-ish” cuisine such yum-worthy plates as Spicy Taiwanese Fried Chicken Thigh with Kohlrabi Slaw and Spicy Green Papaya Salad with Peanut, Mint + Red Cabbage.
Join friends for a drink at Slades Bar & Grill or Bukowski Tavern. On Sundays, look out for the popular food trucks that visit the neighborhood. Recognized as a culinary hub and location for emerging chef talent, the South End is one of the top Boston dining destinations. Many of the classic bistro-style eateries and modern-concept restaurants have taken over the ground floors of brownstones along the historic streets. After dinner, take a walk to the closest pocket park and let the kids zing around on their scooters.
Things to Do
South End dwellers love to meet and mingle with their neighbors, enjoying the characterful atmosphere of their historic setting. On a sunny day, winter or summer, head to Titus Sparrow Park or Peters Park to frolic in the snow or on the grassy lawns. Sparrow boasts a great view.
Block your Sunday afternoons for browsing the South End Open Market @SoWa. This combined farmers market-arts market-container bar-food truck complex is the place to see and be seen, to shop, and to dine between May and October. Shop for carefully curated hand-made goods by local makers, from jewelry and clothing to photography and ceramics. Fill up your reusable grocery sack with treats from local farmers and bakers — fresh produce, meats, bread, cookies, whatever you’re craving!
Looking for a little culture? Visit the Griffin Museum of Photography, which highlights emerging and well-known photographers throughout the year. If you’re wanting more art, head back to SoWa for First Fridays, when more than 200 artists, galleries, shops, and showrooms showcase their artwork with cocktails and appetizers.
Schools
The South End is home to several excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:
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McKinley South End Academy, a highly-rated private school
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Josiah Quincy Elementary School, K-5, public elementary school
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Blackstone Elementary School, K-5, public elementary school
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Benjamin Franklin Institute of Technology, private engineering, and industrial tech college
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