In honor of St. Patrick’s Day tomorrow, we’re celebrating Boston’s first and most Irish neighborhood. Way back when in the 1700’s Irish immigrants predominately settled in South Boston and Charleston, even commemorating St. Patrick’s Day with the first-ever North American parade in 1737!
There is no time like this weekend to explore Southie, but any time of the year it is just as fun and beautiful.
1. Groove out at the annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade
The South Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parade is an annual tradition lasting 284 years! Catch the parade in full force on Sunday, March 19, 2023 starting at the Broadway Red line station. The parade route is about 1 mile and finishes in Andrews Square.
2. Go for a swim or windsurf at Carson Beach
It’s no Bora Bora, but Boston is still pretty blessed to have a beach, an actual saltwater beach, within walking distance, public transit, and bike access of downtown! Carson is a beautiful place to walk, run and in the warmer months swim, boat and windsurf! The sport has recently become a favorite among Carson Beach-goers due to the winds around the neighboring bay.
3. Try a new restaurant on Broadway Street
Pooling with up-and-coming restaurants, Broadway Street and surrounding areas offer an eclectic dining scene. Try out chicken and waffles at Backyard Betty’s or their sister restaurant Publico for a delicious and satiating brunch. If you want pancakes head to Lincoln South Boston.
You can also visit Fox and the Knife for innovative creations from a women-owned restaurant, Six West for dining with incredible rooftop views, or Sullivan’s for fast casual Irish food.
4. Watch the sunset from Castle Island
Speaking of Sullivan’s, it sits right at the foot of Castle Island. Here you can go for the classic fish n’ chips or opt for a burger. Head up the trail to the castle and catch some of the most beautiful waterfront sunsets. The castle itself open on weekends starting in June and offers Twilight skyline viewing 7:00pm to dusk starting on Thursdays in June!
5. Explore the JFK Presidential Library and Museum
The iconic attraction is still somewhat of a hidden gem due to its location, but it’s well worth the trip if you live on the other end of the city or even in the suburbs. It’s an architectural wonder of Boston inside and out, and you might recognize the super stark and interesting exterior or glass interior overlooking the ocean. Admission is usually $18 for adults but you can get in for just $3 by owning a public library card.