Chinatown/Leather District

The only historically Chinese area in New England, Chinatown, Boston is located in downtown Boston, Massachusetts. Centered on Beach Street, the neighborhood borders Boston Common, Downtown Crossing, the South End, and the Southeast Expressway/Massachusetts Turnpike.

Boston's Chinatown is the third largest Chinese neighborhood in the country. Located between the city's Financial District and Theater Disctrict, Chinatown is one of the most densely populated neighborhoods in Boston. Locals and tourists alike are drawn to the area’s large selection of Asian restaurants and bakeries, where they can sample everything from dim sum to almond cookies. During the popular August Moon Festival, children carry brightly colored lanterns and revelers eat sweet cakes known as Moon Cakes, each containing a secret message. The Boston Chinatown Neighborhood Center, which opened in 2005, is a tremendous resource for the community, providing residents with English-language classes, childcare, and social and recreational opportunities.

Located between Chinatown, Downtown and South Station, in recent years the Leather District has emerged as a distinct Boston neighborhood. Made up of old leather factories transformed into residential and commercial uses, the Leather District boasts a historic appeal while offering 21-century amenities. Residents cherish the “loft living” options that characterize this community. Locals do not have to travel far to sample some great restaurants, cafés and shopping destinations. The Leather District will also experience the splendor of the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway as this innovative project nears completion.