Boston Neighborhood Guide
Dorchester
Dorchester is Boston’s largest neighborhood and also its oldest, founded a few months before the city itself. The neighborhood’s historical diversity is exhibited in its architecture, from the old Victorian homes of wealthy Bostonians to the multi-family dwellings of later groups of immigrants. Today, Dorchester retains its diversity. Its main thoroughfare, Dorchester Avenue, connects many close-knit neighborhoods and thriving commercial districts of all kinds. Dorchester is also home to the University of Massachusetts at Boston and the John F. Kennedy Library.
South Boston
Once a predominantly Irish Catholic community, in recent years South Boston has become increasingly desirable among young professionals and families who are attracted to the neighborhood's strong sense of community and quick access to downtown and public transportation. People from all over the city enjoy taking a stroll around Castle Island, a Revolutionary War-era fort and 22-acre park that is connected to the mainland. "Southie Pride" is on full display in March when city residents flock to the neighborhood to enjoy the annual South Boston St. Patrick's Day Parade. Today the breathtaking South Boston Waterfront is emerging as Boston's newest neighborhood. Already home to the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, planned development for the Waterfront includes residential, office, retail, and hotel use. The Institute for Contemporary Art, slated to open in September, stands as an iconic symbol of the South Boston Waterfront's unlimited potential.
Beacon Hill (Downtown)
The beacon on this hill that used to warn settlers about foreign invasions is long gone, and today Beacon Hill is a close-knit community in a downtown location. The neighborhood's cobblestone streets and brick rowhouses directly border the Boston Common and Public Garden, America's first botanical garden. The gold leaf of the State House rotunda adorns the hill and shines across the Common. A great place for families, this historic neighborhood is a blend of classic Boston architecture and expansive green space.
Back Bay (Downtown)
The Back Bay, once a stagnant pool of water behind the Public Garden, now holds some of the most exclusive real estate in Boston. A stroll down Newbury Street will take you from high fashion to hip ice cream parlors, and a walk back up Commonwealth Avenue will let you take in some of the most elegant townhouses in the city. With its rows of historic homes and a vibrant commercial district to boot, Back Bay is an exciting place to live.
Cambridge
Cambridge is a unique community with a strong mix of cultural and social diversity, intellectual vitality, and technological innovation. College students from around the world study at Harvard, Radcliffe, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and Lesley University. In addition to the universities, Cambridge boasts the famous cultural and shopping center of Harvard Square.
Somerville
The city of Somerville is a small business and residential haven of approximately 4 square miles. It is ideally located adjacent to Boston, 1.5 miles from the city's financial and commercial districts. Somerville can aptly be described as a gateway to eastern Massachusetts. Immediate access is available to routes 1, 2, 16, 28, 38, 90 and 128, and to Interstates 93 and 95. Somerville is also just 3.5 miles from Boston's Logan International Airport. The T.F. Green Airport in Providence is less than an hour away. Somerville is extremely accessible to public transportation. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority subway service is easily available throughout the city and offers access to Boston and other communities. In addition, 14 different bus lines travel through the city
Quincy
Just across the bay from campus, Quincy's impressive past remains vibrant today as the city lays claim to an exciting future. Fascinating historic sites abound, while miles of coastline capture the imagination. Culture and commerce blend to create an impressive array of things to see and do year round. Stroll the boardwalk at picturesque Marina Bay, the largest marina in the Northeast, and enjoy the incredible view of the Boston skyline.
Braintree
Braintree is a suburb of Boston located just next to Quincy. With easy access to the MBTA (red line and commuter rail) and highways, Braintree is host to many students and young professionals seeking more affordable housing options.
