South Boston
South Boston (Southie to the natives) is not one of the diminutive Boston neighborhoods; it covers over 1,700 acres and includes the sub-neighborhoods of Fort Point, Andrew Square, City Point, Seaport, and Telegraph Hill. Enjoy being close to the water! Boston Harbor is to the north and east of South Boston. It also has American Revolutionary War history; with strategically placed canons, George Washington “convinced” British troops to leave. Evacuation Day is still celebrated as a holiday on March 17th. When you consider the demand for housing, the outdoor events, the parks, the interesting stores, and the great restaurants, South Boston is booming!
With all that water, you are probably wondering about beaches. South Boston will not disappoint. Carson Beach is the largest beach and offers restrooms, tables, a snack bar, and exhibit space. Castle Island Park is open all year and has nature trails and beach access. Pleasure Bay is an enclosed lagoon and if you are on the Castle Island side, you have access to the Harry McDonough Sailing Center, restrooms, and a playground. City Point/Kelly’s Landing Beach is very small but is still attractive to beach goers.
In addition to Evacuation Day, South Boston has one of the most popular parades in the United States: The Saint Patrick’s Day Parade on March 14th. People come from all over the country to watch and participate in the festivities. Another event is The L Street Brownies New Year’s Day Plunge that is not for the faint of heart. The waters of Boston Harbor are freezing! Since 1904, this has been a Southie tradition. Polar bear clubs have been around for a while, but the L Street Brownies were the first.
All these fun activities can work up an appetite and South Boston has plenty of restaurant choices. There are numerous places for pizza, sandwiches, and other casual fare: Lincoln Tavern & Restaurant, Seaport, My Diner, Sal’s Ristorante & Pizzeria, McGoo’s Pizzeria, Sidewalk Café…
