Bow Market, Boston - Paddy's
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Bow Market Boston

4.6
·949 reviews·Somerville, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekend Afternoons

Vibrant atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Bow Market, Boston - Paddy's

Bow Market Boston

Best Time

Weekend Afternoons

Vibrant atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.6
(949 reviews)

"Absolutely love this place—there’s something for everyone. From unique local food vendors to fun shops!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Culinary Delights

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!

Artisan Boutiques

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

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

Book Fair Events

Various Event Spaces

Catch special events like the Bow Market Book Fair, celebrating local authors and the literary community.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Market Vibe

Bow Market is a vibrant hub of local artisans, food vendors, and unique shops. It's a great spot for a casual outing, but be aware that some food vendors may have limited hours, especially outside of peak season. Check their schedules before you go to make the most of your visit. TikTok

Union Square Access

Located in Somerville's Union Square, Bow Market is easily accessible. While street parking is available, it can be metered and competitive. Consider public transport or ride-sharing for a more relaxed experience, especially during busy weekend hours. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekend Afternoons
Why
Vibrant atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Evenings
Why
Less crowded, relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
During Special Events
Why
Unique experiences
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

SOWA OPEN MARKET IN BOSTON #fyp #foryou #boston #bostonfoodies #bostonma #bostonrestaurant #bostontiktok #bostonrestaurant #SOWA #sowaboston @SoWa Boston
@twotastebuddiez
22.1K likes • 288.1K views

🎯 Explore All Levels

Don't forget the second floor! It's packed with more shops and often overlooked. Reddit

🍺 Common Liquor License

Enjoy drinks from any vendor throughout the market, thanks to a shared liquor license. Reddit

YOUR PERFECT SUNDAY ITINERARY ⬇️ 📍@SoWa Boston Open Market: one of the largest open-air farmer and artist markets in Boston. With a variety of regional and local vendors, plus food + beverage trucks, nestled among artist studios, galleries, and retail shops every Sunday until October 26th from 11AM - 5PM. 📍@More Than Words: a nonprofit social enterprise that empowers system-involved youth to take ...
@madibeumee
13.1K likes • 106.4K views
Bow Market 📍1 Bow Mkt Wy, Somerville, MA 02143 By far one of my favourite discoveries of the greater Boston Area is the Bow market! You can eat all kinds of food and visit cute curated stores all year round!!!! ( 30+ independent stores) 🦪🌮🍗🥐🍣🌭🍪 #sommerville #bluefinrawbar #boston #bostonfood #bowmarket #bowmarketsomerville #sommervillefood #taquisimo #nibblekitchensomerville #nibblekitchen #...
bostoncalories
206 likes • 10.8K views

🐶 Pet-Friendly Patio

Bring your furry friends along to enjoy the outdoor seating areas. TikTok

📅 Check Vendor Hours

Some food vendors have limited hours; check online before you visit to avoid disappointment. TikTok

Feeling inspired by the Boston book community at the Bow Market Book Fair. 🤩 Thank you to @allshewrotebooks, @sidequestbooks, @readmylipsboston, and @tinyturnspaperie for hosting a space for people to support local books, authors, libraries, and more. Loved seeing @narrativebookshop, @somervillelibrary, @indestructiblefood and all the other vendors! The "Writing is Resistance" panel with @makana...
writerkatherine
123 likes • 2.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Explore All Levels

Don't forget the second floor! It's packed with more shops and often overlooked. Reddit

🍺 Common Liquor License

Enjoy drinks from any vendor throughout the market, thanks to a shared liquor license. Reddit

🐶 Pet-Friendly Patio

Bring your furry friends along to enjoy the outdoor seating areas. TikTok

📅 Check Vendor Hours

Some food vendors have limited hours; check online before you visit to avoid disappointment. TikTok

🚗 Parking Strategy

Street parking is available but can be tricky. Consider ride-sharing or public transit. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(949 reviews)

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

Diverse food options
Unique artisan shops
Vibrant community vibe

What People Dislike

Limited parking availability

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general admission to Bow Market is free. You can wander through the shops and courtyard without purchasing a ticket. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

🍽️ 🛍️ 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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! Instagram

📸 📸 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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bow Market can be a fun outing for families, offering a variety of treats and interesting shops to explore. The open courtyard provides space for kids to move around, and the pet-friendly policy means you can bring well-behaved dogs along. TikTok While there aren't dedicated play areas, the novelty of different food stalls and unique crafts can keep younger visitors engaged. Consider visiting during less crowded times to make the experience more relaxed for everyone. Reddit

💸 Budget Travelers

Bow Market offers budget-friendly options if you're mindful of your spending. While some artisan goods can be pricey, you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and diverse food scene without breaking the bank. Opt for food trucks or smaller eateries, and take advantage of the free entry to simply browse and soak in the ambiance. TikTok The common liquor license also allows you to enjoy a drink without being tied to a specific restaurant. Reddit

📚 Book Lovers

For bibliophiles, Bow Market is a must-visit, especially during its renowned Book Fair events. Instagram You can discover unique finds from local booksellers and support independent authors. Even outside of these events, you'll often find charming bookstores and stalls selling a variety of literary treasures. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Bow Market Experience: A Community Hub

Bow Market is more than just a collection of shops and eateries; it's a thriving community space in Somerville's Union Square. Its unique pentagonal design surrounds a central courtyard, creating an intimate and lively atmosphere. Visitors often describe it as a 'gem' and a 'vibrant space with a great community vibe.' Reddit The market is known for its diverse mix of local artisans, food vendors, and entertainment, making it a dynamic destination for locals and tourists alike. Instagram

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. Reddit The market also prides itself on being pet-friendly, with outdoor seating areas perfect for enjoying a sunny day with your furry companions. TikTok 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. Reddit

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. Instagram 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. Reddit

Navigating Bow Market: Practical Tips for Visitors

Planning your visit to Bow Market can be made smoother with a few practical tips. While the market is a fantastic destination, understanding its layout and amenities can enhance your experience. For instance, many visitors recommend exploring both levels of the market, as the second floor is home to numerous shops that are easily missed if you only focus on the ground floor. Reddit

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. TikTok 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. Reddit

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. Reddit If you do drive, be prepared to potentially circle the block or use parking apps, though their effectiveness can vary. Reddit Overall, Bow Market is a rewarding destination, and a little planning can ensure a seamless and enjoyable visit.

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