Boston’s seaport district is a testament to how a city can transform a neighborhood from a less than desirable place to a hotspot for living, shopping, dining, and entertaining. Just a few decades ago, the seaport district was full of vacant industrial buildings, dirty water, and nothing to attract visitors except for a landmark restaurant on Pier 4 that had been a staple for family events since the 1970s. Then this little project called The Big Dig happened; this project was a massive undertaking that went well beyond the initial planning timeline and budget. For almost a decade, this project and the Harbor Cleanup project caused major disruptions within the city, including Back Bay real estate. Today, the seaport district is thankful for these projects as they laid the groundwork for the development of the beautiful, modern neighborhood it now is.
Initial planning of the district included a new courthouse and convention center that would soon be a mecca for art and culture with the addition of The Institute of Contemporary Art. Development continued to explode with innovative designs in architecture and landscaping. Large swaths of land were created as green spaces connecting the seaport district to other areas within the city, ensuring it would not become isolated. Today, Back Bay condos for sale give you tremendous access to many amenities directly out your front door while still maintaining a connection to the rest of the city.
The Boston Harborwalk will connect you to the city and beyond
Almost forty-three miles of an innovative and functional trail will give you plenty to explore from your neighborhood. Some areas allow both bicycles and pedestrians, but for much of the walk it is specific for pedestrians, giving you plenty of opportunities to take in the sites without the concern of watching for a passing bicycle. The Harborwalk will take you through industrial zones, parks, museums, and restaurants. You can stay on the main path or branch off into paths leading offshore, such as the Freedom Trail. While it is a bit of a trek, walking from your home in the seaport district to a delicious Italian dinner in the north end would make for a fantastic summer day. Along the way, you will find many stops for a quick snack or a cocktail while resting your feet before you set off again. High-end luxury shopping is not far off the trail, and pop-up shops create fresh and new opportunities on a rotating basis.
You will have access to amazing seafood
Boston is historically known as a fishing town, amongst many other interesting facts. Commercial fishing has changed quite a bit, but there are a few commercial ships still working within the seaport district, and the Harborwalk will give you access to watch how the fish come onto shore and are processed. It is also the perfect place to pick up dinner; your fish could not be any fresher. There are several fish markets located in the area where you could purchase a wide selection of fish coming in from the commercial ships. Shops like Wulf’s Fish provide sustainably-caught fish and know their fish from the simple branzino to delectable caviar, giving shoppers a delightful treat.
If you are not into cooking your own fish at home, do not worry, the Boston restaurant market has you covered. Famously known for its New England clam chowder (there is no such thing as Manhattan clam chowder in Boston) and lobster rolls, you will find seafood on almost every restaurant menu. Legal Sea Foods is a historic flagship restaurant that has been operating since 1968. They continue to treat residents and visitors with superb clam chowder and fresh seafood. Their clam chowder is even sold at Fenway Park during the Boston Red Sox games, warming you up during those early April opening games. There are plenty of options for those who do not like seafood, from fantastic steakhouses to a wide variety of ethnic options.
Summer will be amazing, but there is plenty to do all year
Winter in Boston can be challenging, but the other three seasons make up for the challenge. Although, there is something fun about bundling up and racing between warm places that makes winter enjoyable. The commodity of fighting through a Nor’easter or enjoying a random warm day in January. Frigid breezes off the water during winter create opportunities to cozy up inside and enjoy local music, museums, or art. Hockey is also immensely popular. The Boston Bruins will not let you down during the winter months.
The warmer months will delight you with beautiful scenery, local outdoor events, and happy people. Back Bay real estate gives you great access to the Boston Commons, where you could enjoy a Shakespearean play or live concert. Stroll through the Boston Gardens and take in the local swans or have a picnic under a shady tree. Walk the city streets and marvel at the historic brownstones or the modern luxurious condos. The waterfront will be buzzing with tourists and locals watching both people and boats making their way through the harbor area.
Yachts and sailboats are commonplace in the neighborhood
You will see a combination of boats in the harbor of Boston, including a floating museum that captures the details of the Boston Tea Party. Commercial fishing boats will come in and out of the fishing piers, and in the harbor marinas, you will have the privilege of watching boats of all sizes and shapes navigating to the docks. Private yachts and sailing vessels create a whimsical feel to a warm summer day. There are plenty of opportunities to dock your own boat or charter a boat for a day trip or longer excursion, perhaps to Maine or Florida. Cape Cod is not far away for a short weekend getaway, and a ferry to Provincetown will save you hours of drive time.
Want a waterfront condo in the Seaport District?
Boston is a city that continues to transform and create a home for millions of people. A place full of history, culture, stunning scenery, and entertainment that makes living here a great deal of fun. There is a constant buzz of activity to keep you going, even through the winter months. If you’re ready to start looking at homes in the area, reach out to trusted Back Bay real estate agent Dylan Costello for guidance.
