Boston is one of America’s most historic cities, but the city is rich in culture that extends well beyond those landmarks you visited on field trips in middle school. The New England city has also become a hub for the arts, great cuisine, and exciting nightlife, particularly in the South End neighborhood. Whether you’ve lived in Boston all your life or are just visiting for the weekend, here’s your must-see itinerary for the South End.
Get tickets for the Boston Ballet | 539 Washington Street
One of the world’s most prestigious ballet companies, the Boston Ballet has made its home at Clarendon Street in the South End for years. If you’re in the area, make sure to check out a performance by the members of the Boston Ballet at the nearby Citizens Bank Opera House on Washington Street, just off Boston Common. Whether you check out their version of The Nutcracker or visit for a performance of Giselle, you’re sure to find yourself enraptured. While you’re there, make sure to check out some of the neighborhood’s impressive architecture, like the new condos at 100 Shawmut Avenue, a 13-story building developed by Davies companies that’s scheduled to open its doors to residents next year. When it does, the 232,000-square-foot building will not only be home to 138 luxury residences, but on-site parking, a billiards room, playroom, fitness center, dog spa, and rooftop lounge.
Grab dinner at The Gallows | 1395 Washington Street
Looking to enjoy a great meal when you’re in the South End? Then look no further than The Gallows. This stylish gastropub is one of the city’s most celebrated eateries, dubbed a “down-home, artisanal-spirited” restaurant by the New York Times. While you’re there, enjoy comfort food like buffalo cauliflower, fried Babybel cheese, and Scotch eggs, or try healthier fare, like a kale and quinoa salad.
Enjoy the Boston Center for the Arts | 539 Tremont Street
If you want to add a little culture to your trip to Beantown, the Boston Center for the Arts is, without a doubt, the place to do it. From the Boston International Fine Art Show in late October to the Renegade Craft fair setting up show in early November, this exciting center is home to some of the most interesting events you’ll find in the whole of the northeast.
Check out the emerging arts scene on Harrison Avenue
If you’re looking for emerging art in the South End, you’re sure to find it on Harrison Avenue. A haven for galleries, the thoroughfare hosts the neighborhood’s South End Open Studios, during which local artists allow passersby to get an intimate look at how their works are crafted.
Hit up the SoWa Open Market for some new duds | 460 Harrison Avenue
Part craft fair, part flea market, part farmers’ market, and part food truck depot, the SoWa Open Market is an amazing way to get to know this vibrant neighborhood. Open every Sunday from May to October, this incredible market is the perfect place to find your next obsession, from heirloom tomatoes to paintings from an up-and-coming artist about to blow up.Whether you live in the area or are just visiting, there’s ample excitement to be had in Boston’s South End. From flea markets to the arts, there’s something to suit every taste, all you have to do is pack your bags.
