Bow Market Boston
A vibrant marketplace in Somerville featuring local artisans, diverse food vendors, and unique boutiques around a central courtyard.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere
Bow Market Boston
Best Time
Vibrant atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant marketplace in Somerville featuring local artisans, diverse food vendors, and unique boutiques around a central courtyard.
"Absolutely love this place—there’s something for everyone. From unique local food vendors to fun shops!"
🎯 Explore All Levels
Don't forget the second floor! It's packed with more shops and often overlooked.
🍺 Common Liquor License
Enjoy drinks from any vendor throughout the market, thanks to a shared liquor license.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Culinary Delights
Various Food Stalls
Explore a diverse range of local eateries offering everything from raw bar to tacos and sweet treats. A true foodie paradise!
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Artisan Boutiques
Independent Shops
Discover unique crafts, art, books, and more from over 30 independent local vendors. Perfect for finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Central Courtyard
Main Courtyard
The heart of Bow Market, this pentagonal space offers seating, seasonal decor, and a lively atmosphere for mingling.

Book Fair Events
Various Event Spaces
Catch special events like the Bow Market Book Fair, celebrating local authors and the literary community.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Market Vibe
Union Square Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Explore All Levels
Don't forget the second floor! It's packed with more shops and often overlooked.
🍺 Common Liquor License
Enjoy drinks from any vendor throughout the market, thanks to a shared liquor license.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Patio
Bring your furry friends along to enjoy the outdoor seating areas.
📅 Check Vendor Hours
Some food vendors have limited hours; check online before you visit to avoid disappointment.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Explore All Levels
Don't forget the second floor! It's packed with more shops and often overlooked.
🍺 Common Liquor License
Enjoy drinks from any vendor throughout the market, thanks to a shared liquor license.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Patio
Bring your furry friends along to enjoy the outdoor seating areas.
📅 Check Vendor Hours
Some food vendors have limited hours; check online before you visit to avoid disappointment.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Street parking is available but can be tricky. Consider ride-sharing or public transit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bow Market is widely praised as a vibrant and unique gem in Somerville, offering a fantastic array of local food vendors, artisan shops, and a lively community atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the diverse culinary options, the opportunity to discover handcrafted goods, and the communal vibe fostered by its shared liquor license and pet-friendly spaces. While parking can be a challenge, the overall experience is consistently described as delightful and a must-visit for anyone exploring the Boston area.
"BOW Market is such a gem!
Absolutely love this place—there’s something for everyone. From unique local food vendors to fun shops, craft beer, wine, and cocktails, the variety is amazing. It’s such a vibrant space with a great community vibe.
There’s outdoor seating, which is perfect for enjoying a sunny day (bonus points for being pet-friendly!).
Whether you’re here to eat, drink, shop, or just hang out—BOW Market is a must-visit in Boston!"
Trish S
"Lovely open air marketplace in Somerville's Union Square that is a hub for local artisans, food vendors, and entertainers. It's a lively community space to sit down and eat or to visit boutique shops. Lots of retail shops, culinary delights in this
unique two story pentagonal design surrounding with a central courtyard. Some of tge outdoor seating areas adorned with sun umbrellas during summer and fire places during winter. Felt like a Christmas holiday market vibe."
Sampath D
"Trendy little spot in Union Square, Somerville, featuring a variety of food shops, evening activities (includes a pinball game stop!), and local hangout. There is street parking but you don't need to pay after 7."
Mike Fallon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bow Market is located in Somerville's Union Square. You can reach it via public transportation, with several MBTA bus routes serving the area. If driving, be prepared for metered street parking, which can be competitive. Some visitors suggest using ride-sharing services for convenience.
Parking around Bow Market is primarily metered street parking. It can be challenging to find a spot, especially on weekends. Some visitors recommend dropping off companions and circling the block, or exploring parking apps like SpotHero, though its effectiveness in this specific area varies.
Yes, there is an entrance that leads behind Remnant Brewery, offering access to the market from the rear. This can be helpful for navigating Union Square and accessing the market more easily.
Bow Market is well-served by public transport. Several MBTA bus lines stop in Union Square, making it a convenient destination for those using public transit in the greater Boston area.
From downtown Boston, you can take the MBTA subway to a connecting bus route that serves Union Square, Somerville. Alternatively, ride-sharing services offer a direct route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to Bow Market is free. You can wander through the shops and courtyard without purchasing a ticket.
Bow Market generally operates with shops opening around 11 AM and closing in the evening. However, individual vendor hours can vary, especially for food stalls. It's best to check the Bow Market website or individual vendor social media for the most up-to-date hours.
There are no entrance fees to explore Bow Market. You only pay for any food, drinks, or merchandise you choose to purchase from the vendors.
Yes, Bow Market is open year-round. While it offers a vibrant outdoor atmosphere in warmer months, it also provides a cozy, festive vibe in the winter, with some outdoor seating featuring fireplaces.
Bow Market frequently hosts special events, including the popular Bow Market Book Fair and seasonal markets. These events often draw larger crowds and offer unique experiences.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Bow Market boasts a diverse culinary scene with over 30 independent food vendors. You can find everything from raw bar and tacos to sweet treats and international cuisine.
Absolutely! Bow Market is home to over 30 independent boutiques selling everything from artisan crafts and art to books and unique gifts. It's a great place to find one-of-a-kind items.
Yes, Bow Market has a common liquor license, meaning you can purchase beer, wine, and cocktails from various vendors and enjoy them throughout the market space.
Bow Market is often recommended for dates due to its lively atmosphere, diverse food and drink options, and unique shops. The courtyard provides a charming setting for conversation.
Popular vendors include Blue Fin Raw Bar, Taquisimo, and Nibble Kitchen, offering a variety of delicious options. The specific vendors can change, so exploring is part of the fun!
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, Bow Market offers many photogenic spots, from its unique pentagonal architecture and central courtyard to the colorful displays in its shops and food stalls. The vibrant atmosphere also makes for great candid shots.
For fewer crowds and softer lighting, consider visiting on a weekday afternoon or early evening. Weekend afternoons can be busy but offer a lively backdrop.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is welcome. However, for professional shoots or commercial use, it's always best to inquire with Bow Market management beforehand.
Bow Market is ideal for street photography, food photography, lifestyle shots, and capturing the vibrant community atmosphere. The diverse vendors and architecture provide endless subjects.
It's polite to ask vendors before taking close-up photos of their products or their stalls. Most are happy to oblige, especially if you plan to share and tag them.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💸 Budget Travelers
📚 Book Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bow Market Experience: A Community Hub
One of the most appreciated aspects of Bow Market is its shared liquor license, allowing patrons to enjoy beverages from any vendor throughout the entire market. This fosters a relaxed and communal feel, encouraging visitors to explore and linger. The market also prides itself on being pet-friendly, with outdoor seating areas perfect for enjoying a sunny day with your furry companions. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch, a unique shopping experience, or just a place to soak in the local atmosphere, Bow Market offers a welcoming environment.
Bow Market is also committed to community engagement through various events. The Bow Market Book Fair, for instance, celebrates local authors and the literary community, drawing in book lovers and fostering a sense of shared passion. This focus on community, combined with its unique offerings, solidifies Bow Market's reputation as a must-visit destination that truly embodies the spirit of local entrepreneurship and connection.
Navigating Bow Market: Practical Tips for Visitors
When it comes to dining, Bow Market offers a wide array of food vendors, but it's wise to check their operating hours, especially if you're visiting during off-peak times or weekdays. Some vendors may have limited hours, and you wouldn't want to miss out on a specific culinary delight. The market's common liquor license is a significant perk, allowing you to purchase drinks from various stalls and enjoy them anywhere within the market, which is a great way to sample different offerings.
For those arriving by car, parking can be a challenge. Metered street parking is the primary option around Union Square, and it can fill up quickly. Many visitors suggest using ride-sharing services or public transportation as more convenient alternatives. If you do drive, be prepared to potentially circle the block or use parking apps, though their effectiveness can vary. Overall, Bow Market is a rewarding destination, and a little planning can ensure a seamless and enjoyable visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit