Boston Neighborhoods

From the chic new Seaport to the romantic cobblestone streets of the North End, Boston’s neighborhoods are full of surprises. No two areas are the same, making for interesting exploration and a diverse selection of things to experience. Many of the districts are walkable and close together, so travelers can see several at once. Head to the Aquarium down by the waterfront, or have some authentic Asian cuisine in Chinatown. People into Boston’s colonial history can simply stroll the freedom trail to hit several neighborhood at once and admire some landmarks such as the Old State House in the Financial District or the Bunker Hill monument in Charlestown.

The neighborhoods of Boston each boast a distinct personality, often dating back centuries. Much of the city has grown forth from landfill project along the Charles River and converted much of the shipping seaport into a hotspot of dining and shopping. Areas like the Downtown Crossing continue to thrive, and other places like Fort Point are being marked as up and coming districts for innovators and startups. But with all this change, Boston still hold true to its roots. Neighborhoods like Beacon Hill and Back Bay have beautifully preserved iconic brick row houses that are coveted today by the city’s most affluent residents.

Take a look at the history, highlights and exciting events taking place in each of Boston’s diverse neighborhood to discover what best suits your interests. You’ll find from Cambridge to downtown Boston proper that this city, though smaller in comparison to other major metropolises, packs a big punch. Indulge in premier dining, unique accommodations, endless entertainment and more during your stay in Boston.

Neighborhood Map

Theater District

A cozy and intimate area of Boston with several historic venues to experience performances of dance, art, musicals, plays, concerts and comedy.

Downtown Crossing

A transformation from early residential dwellings into a brand name shopping center, Downtown Crossing is a haven for nearby working professionals and tourists alike.

Waterfront

A classic part of the city tucked behind Faneuil Hall on the harbor front, with a highlight of the popular Boston Aquarium.

Seaport District

This is one of the newly developed parts of Boston, with countless dinging options and luxury condos being built along converted marinas and docks.

West End

Sometimes overlooked for its industrial environment, the West End still offers a few hidden gems for sightseeing and history.

Charlestown

North of downtown and full of life, this area was once mostly industrial and is now a sought after neighborhood to live in along the harbor.

Beacon Hill

One of Boston’s most affluent and scenic neighborhoods, boasting beautiful brick row houses and plenty of revolutionary history to boot.

Back Bay

A pretty Boston district that seamlessly blends together modern style and classic elegance, from old churches to glass pained high rises.

North End

As Boston’s Little Italy, this flavorful area of the city has locals and tourist flocking to sample cannoli, fresh pastas and more along narrow cobblestone streets.

Fenway/Kenmore

Arguably the heart of the Boston sports culture, Fenway’s young college crowd, laid back bar scene and Red Sox games make it the perfect neighborhood for summer travel.

South End

Full of artistic endeavors, brick row houses and tree-lined streets, this quiet and affluent community offers safe haven in the busy city.

Fort Point

Boston’s known neighborhood for artists and creative startup businesses, surrounded by the harbor and featuring lots of large lofted space.

South Boston

This area has exploded with residential growth in recent years, welcoming new and trendy restaurants, a reinvented beachfront and a thriving environment.

Financial District

High rise business buildings and bustling commuter traffic make this district a busy and interesting place to explore for innovation.

Leather District

A small and significant area in downtown Boston with many original brick buildings that once held budding industrial pursuits.

Chinatown

As one of the country’s largest Chinatowns, Boston’s prominent Asian population has transformed this part of the city into a culinary, shopping and cultural event space oasis.

Harvard Square, Cambridge

A large outdoor community space surrounded by trendy restaurants and book co-ops make this an intellectual and young neighborhood to explore.

East Cambridge

MIT students live, work and play in this part of Cambridge that caters to a co-ed crowd with cheap eats and galleries.