boston south end

Things to do in South End, Boston

At first thought, you might not associate Boston with art. History? Sure. Boston was host to some massive moments in US history. The landing of the Puritans in 1630, the Tea Party in the 1770s, and the beginning of the War of Independence soon after, are all massive moments for this county. Sports? Again, yes, just look at the worldwide fandom for the Red Sox and the Celtics. Art? Not so much. But you'd be wrong. Dead wrong. Boston has grown into an artistic metropolis, far from its harsh harbor roots. Especially in South End, which is now a haven for the arts. So answer us this question - do you like art? Are you planning a vacation in Boston, or simply a resident ignorant of the city's art underbelly? If you said yes, or murmured unintelligibly, then South End might be the perfect place for you! Find out why below, as we tell you all the best things to do in South End, Boston!

Including:

  • Art museums
  • Street art
  • SoWa Market
  • Eateries
  • Nights out
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The Art of More

We've talked the talk, so let's walk the walk. Art. What is it good for? Well, having your mind opened, emotions tugged, and world views questioned! So let's talk about South End's burgeoning art scene.

We'll kick things off with the Griffin Museum of Photography, which showcases works from established shot-takers, as well as up-and-coming snappers. For thirty years, it's been a great place to explore and become mesmerized by fantastic photos. The museum houses three galleries that are brimming with images. You'll also find a rotating list of exhibits, programs, and lectures throughout the year, so if you're looking for something specific, be sure to check online before you visit.

Looking for a little variety in your art life? Check out the Cyclorama at the Boston Center for the Arts. The magnificent hire space sees a weird and wide variety of performances throughout the year, from local shows and showcases to traveling galleries and even markets. You never quite know what you'll find when you, unless you check ahead, of course.

In fact, the Boston Center for the Arts is a great place to discover all art forms, whether it be dance, theatre, galleries, or art fairs. It houses a number of gallery spaces besides the aforementioned Cyclorama. For instance, the Mills Gallery showcases a number of contemporary exhibitions from new and exciting artists throughout the year.

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Going Underground

One of the art world's most satirical and critical forms in the modern day is street art. From hideous tags on subway carriages, to the story-high facades on many urban buildings, it's undeniable that street art is here to stay. Just look at the popularity of genre bigwigs like Banksy, and dollar signs attributed to even his smallest works.

South End has its own thriving street art scene, thanks to the small neighborhood of Ink Block. This area beneath the underpasses and bridges of the district has been transformed into Underground at Ink Block, a process that took half a decade. Gone are the run-down parking lots and abandoned areas. Now, they've been replaced with pedestrian boardwalks, dog walking spot, bike lanes, and a wealth of curated street art spaces you can peruse at your will. So go check out what's on offer, and take a look around the area while you're at it!

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Market delights

Let's switch gears to something more marketable. That sweet wordplay is an excellent segue to our next top spot in South End, the SoWa Open Market!

For over 15 years, it's been one of South End's coolest places to be. An amalgamation of local artists, craftsmen, brewers, and cooks, you'll appreciate the neighborly vibe as soon as you step foot inside. Pick up a bite to eat, grab a refreshing craft beer, and browse the myriad stalls for knickknacks, handcrafted jewelry and clothing, or just to hear some live music! It's dog-friendly too, so if your pup joins you, we're sure they'll appreciate the inevitable deluge of love and back scratches from the market's denizens.

And on the first Friday of the month, the area is transformed into an art space with First Fridays. There, you'll find hundreds of artists, gallerists, and sellers showcasing great local art. If you're in the market (yes, this is a pun, and all puns are intended, whoever says otherwise is lying) for a painting or sculpture to brighten up your dour walls, then head down there and see what's going on!

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Eats

Food now, because you're bound to get hungry after all that culture. Thankfully, South End's got you covered with some delicious choices.

Check out Boston Chops for a gentrified spin on the classic steakhouse experience. Yeah, you can get any number of steak cuts cooked in any way you want and have a great time. This is a steak house, after all. But Boston Chops offers much more than that on its thorough menu. There are a host of seafood options, as well as grilled hearts, tongues, and sweetbreads for those of you who like to try new, and potentially stomach-churning, things!

Keeping in line with the above is the aptly-named Butcher Shop. It's, well, a butcher's shop that's been transformed into a carnivorous paradise slash wine bar. Ever eaten a pig's head? No? Well, you can try one here. The Shops' interesting and diverse menu also offers the usual steak selection, along with cold meats, starters, and exotic eggs. It sounds like it shouldn't work. But it does.

Or, if you're looking for something a little less...gruesome, try Picco, a charming pizza joint that offers a signature charred crust that absolutely must be sampled by any pizza aficionado. On top of all that, they've got a dessert menu full of homemade ice cream, and a wealth of beers on tap.

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Drinks

Let's end this list with some sweet spots to pick up a drink or ten.

Wally's Cafe is a boozer slash music venue with a focus on the Boston jazz scene. Their cocktail menu is extensive, affordable, and delicious. So why not check it out, and take in some sweet jazz while you're at it?

https://thedelux.com/Delux Cafe is a great place to pick up a local craft beer at a reasonable price. It doesn't get much tourist traffic, but don't worry. The laid-back and friendly atmosphere will stop any Wild-West saloon silence scenes from occurring.

And finally, Wink & Nod is your classic cocktail bar, with a great selection of classic mixes alongside pricey 'black card' cocktails that can set you back three figures. Hey, if you've got it, flaunt it!

And that about rounds out our list of the best things to do in South End, Boston!

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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Boston Summer
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Boston 4th of July Weekend - 10+ Fun Things to Do in July

Going to be in Boston for the 4th of July weekend? Check out these fun activities, events, and more to celebrate our nation’s birthday in the historic city of Boston. If you’re looking for Boston 4th of July Weekend ideas, check out these local activities and fun things do in Boston in July, including... Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular Boston Harborfest Walking tour of The Freedom Trail A Fenway Park Tour and more... Save on Admission to Popular Attractions Regular admission to a number of these attractions are included on the Go Boston pass. Choose as you go from dozens of Boston attractions & activities and save up to 55% off combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes and Boston attractions – Learn more. Please note, some of these special July and 4th of July weekend events may be separately ticketed and not included on the Go Boston pass. Summer in the City - Boston Harbor Hotel Tuesdays - Fridays This free festival hosted at the Boston Harbor Hotel lasts all summer long and features a top-notch selection of music and movies the whole family can enjoy. Every Friday they will show music ranging from soul to blues to jazz and more, and classic movies. This 4th of July, you'll get to choose from a movie on the day of, or opt to see one the Friday before. Enjoy live waterfront entertainment and al fresco dining at one of the most beautiful hotels in the entire city. Getting In: Summer in the City film viewings are free to attend Outdoor Activities There are also plenty of festive Boston attractions and things to do during July 4th weekend celebrations. Since July in Boston will be quite warm, you’ll enjoy spending much of your day outdoors. Check out a Boston bike rental and cruise along the Charles River bike path to watch the firemen and celebration officials set up the fireworks. You’ve probably seen the famous duck boats on television or in a movie but never had the chance to see them in person. You can remedy that problem and have a quacking good time by going on a Boston Duck Tour. The tour will take you by some of the top sites in the city including Faneuil Hall/Quincy Market, Bunker Hill, Battery Wharf and of course, the Charles River. Getting In: Boston Bike Rentals are included with the Go Boston pass. Boston Duck Tour tickets are available as a premium attraction option on the 3-, 5-, and 7-Day Go Boston passes. Shakespeare on the Common Love to get in some quality theater, but don't always have the budget for tickets? Take advantage of one of Boston's most popular free summer activities on the Boston Common - Shakespeare on the Common. This free performance by local actors is a delight each year, and residents flock to the Common with picnics and blankets to enjoy the show. If you want a spot near the stage, you'll have to arrive early. This year's performance is Cymbeline. The play is on Tuesday-Saturday at 8:00 pm and Sundays at 7:00 pm. Getting In: Shakespeare on the Common performances are free to attend. Remember to Save on Attraction Admission There you go - plenty of fun ideas for things to do in Boston in July to help you plan your 4th of July weekend itinerary. Remember, the Boston pass provides entry to many of these amazing Boston attractions. You can save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. We really hope you consider adding a few of these popular options to your upcoming plans. Enjoy!
Katie Sagal
Blog

Boston Memorial Day Weekend - 10+ Fun Things to Do in May

Memorial Day Weekend is the perfect opportunity to get away and log some family time in a brand new city. To celebrate this year, pay a visit to one of the most historic cities in America - Boston! Packed with activities and events, Boston is perfect for a family-friendly weekend away. If you’re looking for Boston Memorial Day Weekend ideas, check out some of these local activities and fun things do in Boston in May, including... Walk the Freedom Trail Visit iconic Fenway Park Picnic in the Boston Common Take a Trolley Tour around town and more... Save on Attraction Admission Regular admission to a number of these attractions are included on the Go Boston pass. Choose as you go from dozens of Boston attractions & activities and save up to 55% off combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes and Boston attractions – learn more. Please note, some of these special May and Memorial Day weekend events may be separately ticketed and not included on the Go Boston pass. The Freedom Trail & Other Historical Attractions Check out the Art Scene Tour the City on a Trolley Tour Iconic Fenway Park Get Out on the Water Soak up some sun this Memorial Day and discover Boston's most beloved landmarks on the Charles Riverboat Cruise -- after all, you’re in the Bay State! A scenic sail along this popular Boston waterway will escort you past top sites, as well as local sailboats, rowers, and paddleboaters. Another fun option is the USS Constitution Cruise, a delightful cruise that showcases the famed 'Old Ironsides'. This 45-minute cruise also includes informative narration of the inner harbor and a survey of popular historical and contemporary landmarks visible from the water. If you'd rather enjoy the waterfront from land, there are tons of places to catch awesome views of the ocean. Rowe's Wharf is a great place to take in the salty air and is centrally located near downtown. Embark on a Whale Watch Stroll the Boston Common Take a Bike Ride Take a Brewery Tour There are few things that say the start of summer more than a good cold beer. Tour some of the area's best local breweries for a chance to sample the new seasonal brews. Some of our favorites include Sam Adams, Harpoon, Trillium and Night Shift. If you're more into cider, you'll be pleased to find out that Downeast Cider is opening an outdoor bar in Dewey Square, near South Station. The bar opens in late May through October and will be serving up cider, beer and wine every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and of course at the weekend. Insider Tip: If you want a free glass with your brewery tour at Sam Adams, use your Go Boston pass! Please note that the tour itself is free. Getting In: Sam Adams Brewery glassware is included with the Go Boston pass. Shop the Sales Don't forget about the shopping! Memorial Day is a time for some of the best sales of the year and Boston has no shortage of great places to shop. Head to Newbury Street, the Prudential Center, or Cambridgeside Galleria for the best shopping in town. Don't forget about all of the small businesses across the city, either! Memorial Day Parade The Somerville Veterans Memorial Parade is usually on Memorial day in May. The parade begins at Somerville City Hall and continues down Highland Ave. through Davis Sq. with the conclusion at the intersection of Holland and Broadway in Teele Sq. Getting In: This Memorial Day Parade is free and open to the public. Boston Calling Music Festival One of the most popular local music festivals falls on Memorial Day - Boston Calling. Some of the most acclaimed artists in contemporary music will come to the Harvard Athletic Complex (in Cambridge) to play to the adoring masses. It's a favorite event with locals, so tickets can sometimes go fast. For more information about line-ups and to purchase tickets, visit the event website. Getting In: Boston Calling is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go Boston pass. Remember to Save on Attraction Admission There you go - plenty of fun ideas for things to do in Boston in May to help you plan your Memorial Day weekend itinerary. Remember, many of these great ideas are included on the Go Boston pass, where you can save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. We really hope you consider adding a few of these popular options to your upcoming plans. Enjoy!
Katie Sagal
Fenway Park
Blog

10+ Things to Do Near Fenway Park and Back Bay During Your Trip to Boston

Even if you aren’t a fan of baseball, you’ve probably heard of iconic Fenway Park. But did you know that this neighborhood has much more than just a baseball stadium to explore? From world-famous museums to boutique shopping to top restaurants and bars, there’s something to fit every vacation style near Boston's Fenway and Back Bay neighborhoods. Check out our list of the best local activities and attractions, including... Museum of Fine Arts Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum Skywalk Observatory Swan Boats of Boston And more! Museum of Fine Arts The Museum of Fine Arts is the place in Boston for your art fix. It's one of the best museums in the country according to a recent TripAdvisor poll, With an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, prints, photographs, and decorative arts, you can spend all day in this lovely institution. They also host special exhibits on world-renowned artists, compelling subjects, and beloved topics. The exhibitions may come at a small additional cost.  Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum The Gardner Museum is another top option for art lovers. So much more than just a museum, it combines the appeal of a fascinating historic home with luxurious gardens alongside an impressive collection of artwork. With more than 2,500 works of art from masters like Titian, Rembrandt, Manet, Degas, Sargent, and more, you’re bound to find a favorite here.  Panopticon Gallery If you prefer photographs to painting, then perhaps a visit to the Panopticon Gallery is for you. One of the earliest fine art photograph galleries in the entire country, it houses a great collection of beautiful works of art that you can purchase or simply walk through and enjoy. A visit here is a nice complement to the MFA or the Gardner. Kenmore Square The home of a nearby T stop, Kenmore Square is also the heart of a lively community filled with students, restaurants, bars, and shops. Here you’ll find everything from the renowned Eastern Standard to local favorite Cornwall’s pub. There’s also a bookstore, a few boutique shops, and plenty of chain restaurants for those looking to save money for souvenirs.  Boston Symphony Orchestra Classical music lovers should not pass up the chance to hear a performance from one of the country’s best orchestras, the Boston Symphony Orchestra. With a variety of performances put on in a majestic hall, you’ll love the entire experience. For a more affordable ticket, try attending an open rehearsal. A performance by the BSO is a top cultural thing to do near Fenway.  Things to Do in the Back Bay Skywalk Observatory Located on the 50th floor of the Prudential Center, this famed observatory showcases the Boston cityscape like nothing else. Although it may not be as high as some observation towers around the globe, the amazing view is more than enough to keep Boston visitors happy. After you snap a few photos, stop for a cocktail and a snack at the Top of the Hub Restaurant. It's not inexpensive, but the view is worth the bump in price. Swan Boats of Boston Take a ride aboard one of Boston’s best beloved historic treasures – the Swan Boats of Boston. First invented in the 1870s by innovator Robert Paget, these ingenious vessels are propelled by your own pedaling feet. Their recognizable swan shape has also inspired great children’s literature like Make Way for Ducklings. So, the swan boats are an important cultural artifact as well! Mary Baker Eddy Library & Mapparium A unique attraction nestled in Back Bay Boston, the Mary Baker Eddy Library and Mapparium is a fascinating place for kids and adults alike. Mary Baker Eddy was a significant person in early Boston’s history, working as a teacher, businesswoman, publisher, and religious leader, and the institution today reflects her wide-ranging vision for human knowledge. Do not miss a visit to the Mapparium itself, a massive painted glass globe that visitors can actually walk through!  Freedom Trail of Boston Spend some time walking the famed Freedom Trail of Boston, marked by a thin red line that winds through the city past major points of historical and cultural interest. While you can certainly walk the line yourself, a guided tour is the best way to learn about each stop and its significance to Boston’s history.  Boston Public Library Although you can certainly feel free to sign up for a library card if you’re a local, it’s also worth it as a visitor just to step inside the Boston Public Library for a glimpse of their beautiful, legendary reading rooms. Then, you can step back outside and marvel at the BPL’s distinctive architecture. Be sure to get a photo of yourself on the library steps – it’s a Boston tradition and one of the top things to do near Back Bay.  Emerald Necklace Parks If you love nothing more than a good walk outdoors, then the Emerald Necklace is the place for you. This chain-like system of 1,100 acres of parkland in the Fenway/Kenmore area is perfect for photos, bird-watching, leaf-peeping, and much more.  Save up to 50% on Boston attractions Discover our full line-up of Boston attractions from Fenton Park tours to the Salem Witch Museum. If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you. If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option.
Katie Sagal

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