West End, Boston guide

Boston loves its sports teams — and nowhere is that truer than in the West End. Home to the Bruins and Celtics, the neighbourhood can feel like a party zone on game days. But there’s more here than hockey and hoops. From must-see museums and historic walking trails to some of the prettiest riverside real estate in New England, our guide to Boston’s West End puts you in the winner’s circle.

West End highlights

Bone up on history

The Boston Women’s Heritage Trail is a series of paths dedicated to local women of history. Get some exercise while you learn about the people who shaped the neighbourhood on the self-guided West End Tour. Notable sights include the Federal-style Old West Church and the street where Senda Berenson, the first woman inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame, once lived.

Catch a game

Sports are something of a religion in Boston. Watch the Boston Celtics — one of the most successful teams in NBA history — and the Boston Bruins professional hockey team play at TD Garden. Whether you’re here for a game or just soaking up the atmosphere, you can walk in the footsteps of heroes at The Sports Museum and Boston Bruins Heritage Hall.

Walk along the river

Connecting the West End with the Boston University Bridge, the Charles River Esplanade is a stretch of scenic riverfront parks and recreation areas. Stroll beneath trees, picnic on grassy lawns and enjoy views of Cambridge at Lederman Park. Nearby, you’ll find Nashua Street Park, a public space with granite sculptures and a curving pathway that’s ideal for cyclists and inline skaters.

Things to do in West End

Family-friendly things to do

Spend an afternoon with the family at Charlesbank Playground, where the kids can have fun on swings and slides. The adjacent Alfond Memorial Spray Deck is ideal for cooling off on warmer days. For an exciting alternative, cross the Charles River via the Gridley Locks Footpath. Watch the locks in motion and play music on the ‘Charleston Bells’, an interactive sculpture by Paul Matisse.

Museums and culture

Local history and science inform some of the best museums in Boston’s West End. Witness the neighbourhood’s changes from farmland to dynamic immigrant enclave at The West End Museum. Explore Earth, human life and the animal kingdom through interactive exhibits at the Museum of Science. While you’re there, check out the Charles Hayden Planetarium for an immersive journey through the solar system.

Restaurants

From authentic Asian flavours to hearty burgers and healthy shakes, eating out here is a culinary adventure. You’ll find many of the best restaurants in Boston’s West End between Causeway Street and North Washington Street. Stop by Momosan Ramen Boston for steaming bowls of Japanese noodles by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto. It’s just one of 18 dining and drinking options at the Hub Hall food court.

Nightlife

Only a small fraction of Boston’s rabid fans make it into the arena to watch their favourite teams play. Everyone else posts up at one of the lively sports bars in the neighbourhood. Up for a blend of exquisite wines, Mediterranean small plates and music? Head to City Winery Boston for intimate dinner and concert evenings with world-class performers.

Shopping

The Hub on Causeway has got you covered for sporting apparel and groceries. Come to browse the latest Bruins and Celtics merchandise or to purchase autographed memorabilia. If you prefer a mix of boutique wares and brand-name fashion, the historic Faneuil Hall Marketplace is not far away in neighbouring Downtown Boston.

Events

In addition to hosting NBA and NHL games, TD Garden welcomes top acts in country, rock and pop to its stage. There’s more of the same year-round at the Big Night Live concert venue. Don’t forget to check out The West End Museum for regular trivia nights and walking tours.

FAQs about West End holidays

October to April are the best months to visit if you want to attend games during the NBA and NHL regular seasons. But be warned: The weather can be frigid. If warm weather and sunshine are important to you, book your West End holiday between early June and October.
Most of the West End’s lodging is within walking distance of TD Garden. Here, you’ll find a selection of mid-range and upscale hotels. For even more options, see what’s available in neighbouring Beacon Hill and Downtown Boston.
Famous as a hub for professional sporting events, this riverfront neighbourhood also has scenic parks and great restaurants. Don’t miss the West End’s Museum of Science and performances by top international artists either.