The South End’s 6 must-visit sites

The South End is one of Boston’s most distinguished neighborhoods, earning a spot on the National Register of Historic Places for its Victorian rowhouses in particular. Here then are the six must-visit sites in the very visit-worthy enclave—all easily doable via mass transit or on foot in a relatively short amount of time.

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Boston Center for the Arts

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Open to the public since 1970, this epicenter of creative events has several venues.

First, there’s the Cyclorama, which is also on the National Register of Historic Places. It boasts a stunning domed copper ceiling named the Cyclo. It hosts events such as the annual Art Book Fair.

Second, the Mills Gallery is a flexible gallery space for contemporary visual and performance art.

If you’re into theatre, head to the Calderwood Pavilion. And if you’re into underground theatre, then visit the Plaza Theatre and Plaza Black Box Theatre underneath the Cyclorama.

Harriet Tubman Park

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For a quiet moment of reflection, head to this site that honors abolitionist Harriet Tubman. It’s also known as Harriet Tubman Square, but don’t let the name fool you—it’s a triangular patch of land. (Blame history: The area was previously called Columbus Square.)

In addition to the Harriet Tubman Memorial, there is a second monument named Emancipation that marked the 50th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation. While you’re there, take a look at the bronze pavers, which memorialize secret messages of the Underground Railroad.

This is also an excellent stop on a self-guided tour of Boston abolitionist sites.

The Cathedral of the Holy Cross

For those who are into holy architecture of the Gothic Revival style, then this place is especially a must-see. It’s also the largest Roman Catholic church in New England.

The namesake of a relic, it is believed by the church to hold a small fragment of the cross from Jesus’ crucifixion. After the relic was stolen (and later returned), it’s now only on display for special occasions.

And, like many buildings in Boston, it’s wonderfully old. The groundbreaking dates back to 1866. More than 150 years later, in 2018, a two-year, $26 million renovation began to repair and restore the cathedral with modern features such as sprinklers and air-conditioning.

Underground at Ink Block

Photo by Lane Turner/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

This relatively new repurposed space was transformed from a highway underpass between the South End and South Boston to an 8-acre urban park that’s replete with programming for retail, street art, food, and classes.

It’s also got the practical amenities, like a dog park, a bike-storage facility, 24-hour security, and 175 commercial parking spots.

SoWa

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To delve deeply into your creative side, head over to South of Washington (SoWa), which spans from East Brookline Street to East Berkeley Street and from Shawmut Avenue to Albany Street.

You can meet artists in their galleries through their vibrant roster of events, like First Fridays. While in this South End enclave, you can also enjoy yourself by indulging in some combination of browsing, buying, or imbibing.

Titus Sparrow Park

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Need to take a walk? This oft-overlooked 1.5-acre park is the place to hit your stride. Besides boasting community gardens, a playground, and basketball and tennis courts, it also has space for your sled in the winter. It’s a favorite for dogs and their humans, too.