Davis Square, Boston - Ols & New
1 / 10

Davis Square Boston

4.6
·491k reviews·Somerville, United States

A lively Somerville hub with indie bookstores, great food, and the scenic Community Path. Easily accessible via the Red Line.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Davis Square, Boston - Ols & New

Davis Square Boston

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A lively Somerville hub with indie bookstores, great food, and the scenic Community Path. Easily accessible via the Red Line.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Davis Square offers a vibrant mix of culture, cuisine, and community, making it a must-visit in Somerville."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Neighborhood

Davis Square is very walkable! Explore shops and eateries easily on foot.

🚲 Bike the Community Path

Enjoy the Somerville Community Path for a scenic ride. Be mindful of pedestrian traffic.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Porter Square Books

Porter Square Books

Porter Square

A beloved independent bookstore with a vast selection and cozy atmosphere. Perfect for browsing and discovering new reads.

Somerville Community Path

Somerville Community Path

Connects Davis and Porter Squares

A scenic path ideal for walking, running, or biking, featuring art installations and gardens.

Davis Square Theatre

Davis Square Theatre

Davis Square

Catch a film or a live performance at this historic and charming local theater.

Boston Burger Company

Boston Burger Company

Davis Square

Indulge in creative and delicious burgers with unique toppings. A must-try for burger enthusiasts.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Navigating Davis Square's Charm

Davis Square is a vibrant hub in Somerville, easily accessible via the MBTA Red Line. It's a walkable neighborhood, perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. Be prepared for a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends.

Embrace the Local Vibe

Davis Square offers a unique blend of independent bookstores, eclectic shops, and diverse dining options. Consider checking out local events or live music for an authentic experience. It's a great spot for a casual afternoon or evening out.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, dining and entertainment
Crowd
High
When
Summer mornings
Why
Pleasant for walking and exploring
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

if you’re looking for a fun & affordable activity in boston, try the art vending machine at porter square books in the seaport! 💖 #massachusetts #boston #portersquarebooks #seaport #artvendingmachine #thingstodoinboston #bostontravel
@jamiesprintclub
14.4K likes • 181K views

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Neighborhood

Davis Square is very walkable! Explore shops and eateries easily on foot. Reddit

🚲 Bike the Community Path

Enjoy the Somerville Community Path for a scenic ride. Be mindful of pedestrian traffic. Reddit

Rooftop vintage market this Sunday, Sept 14th at 325 Main St, Cambridge, MA 12-5PM #boston #bostontiktok #cambridgema #somervillema
@sam.clovers
9.6K likes • 92.7K views
You can use the subway system (the T) to easily get around too. #thingstodoinboston #bostontiktok #bostonma #bostonitinerary #boston #whattodoinboston #bostontrip #bostontravel #visitboston #meetboston
@periodicadventures
9.2K likes • 204.8K views

📚 Independent Bookstores

Discover unique finds at Porter Square Books and Narrative. Reddit+1

🍔 Burger Bliss

Don't miss Boston Burger Company for inventive and tasty burgers. Reddit

reddit.com

what to do around davis/porter square?

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walkable Neighborhood

Davis Square is very walkable! Explore shops and eateries easily on foot. Reddit

🚲 Bike the Community Path

Enjoy the Somerville Community Path for a scenic ride. Be mindful of pedestrian traffic. Reddit

📚 Independent Bookstores

Discover unique finds at Porter Square Books and Narrative. Reddit+1

🍔 Burger Bliss

Don't miss Boston Burger Company for inventive and tasty burgers. Reddit

🎭 Local Arts & Culture

Check out the Somerville Theatre for movies or performances. Reddit

🎨 Art Installations

Keep an eye out for cool art along the Community Path. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Davis Square is praised for its vibrant atmosphere, excellent independent bookstores, and diverse dining options, particularly Boston Burger Company. The Somerville Community Path is a major highlight for recreation. Some visitors find navigating the square by bike challenging, and parking can be difficult.

What People Like

Independent bookstores
Boston Burger Company
Community Path

What People Dislike

Bike navigation
Limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Davis Square is easily accessible via the MBTA Red Line. The Davis Square station is a central hub for the neighborhood. You can also reach it by bus or car, though parking can be challenging. TikTok

Yes, Davis Square and its surrounding areas are very walkable. Many shops, restaurants, and attractions are within easy strolling distance of each other. Reddit

You can bike to Davis Square, especially via the Somerville Community Path. However, navigating through the square itself can be tricky for cyclists, and some areas require walking your bike. Reddit+1

Walking is the most convenient way to explore Davis Square. For longer distances or to connect to other parts of Boston, the MBTA Red Line is highly recommended. TikTok

Parking in Davis Square can be limited and metered. It's often easier to use public transportation or ride-sharing services if you're not familiar with the area. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Most attractions in Davis Square, like shops and parks, do not require tickets. However, for specific events at the Somerville Theatre or other venues, booking in advance is recommended. Reddit

Shop hours in Davis Square can vary. Independent bookstores like Porter Square Books and Narrative often have extended hours, while restaurants typically stay open late. It's best to check individual business websites. Reddit+1

Absolutely! Walking the Somerville Community Path, exploring the shops, and enjoying the public art installations are all free activities. Reddit

Yes, Porter Square Books is a welcoming independent bookstore where you can browse freely without any obligation to purchase. Reddit

No, the Somerville Community Path is a public park and is free to access for walking, running, and biking. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Davis Square boasts a diverse culinary scene. Boston Burger Company is famous for its creative burgers. Other popular spots include Redbones BBQ and The Painted Burro for Mexican cuisine. Reddit

Diesel Cafe is a popular spot for coffee and a relaxed atmosphere, often with Wi-Fi available. You'll also find various cafes and eateries offering coffee throughout the square. Reddit

Many restaurants in Davis Square offer vegetarian and vegan options. Boston Burger Company, for example, has veggie burger choices. It's always a good idea to check menus online or ask your server. Reddit

For a casual lunch, consider Dave's Fresh Pastry for delicious baked goods and sandwiches, or grab a quick bite at one of the many delis and cafes scattered throughout the square. Reddit

Yes, Davis Square offers a range of international flavors. The Painted Burro serves Mexican dishes, and you can find other global options depending on your preference. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Somerville Community Path offers scenic views and art installations perfect for photos. The architecture of the Davis Square Theatre and the vibrant street life also make for great shots. Reddit

Look for the art installations along the Community Path, like those in Elfland. The eclectic mix of shops and the lively atmosphere of the square itself provide many unique photo opportunities. Reddit

Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for photography in Davis Square. Weekday afternoons provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. TikTok

Generally, you can take photos inside Porter Square Books for personal use, but it's always polite to be discreet and avoid disrupting other patrons. Reddit

There are no general restrictions on photography in public areas of Davis Square. However, always be mindful of private property and individuals' privacy. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting Davis Square will find it to be a welcoming and engaging area. The Somerville Community Path is a fantastic spot for kids to run around, bike, or scooter in a relatively safe environment. Keep an eye out for the fun art installations along the way! Reddit

For a bite to eat, Boston Burger Company is a hit with kids due to its fun and flavorful burger creations. Many of the cafes also offer kid-friendly snacks and pastries. Exploring the independent bookstores like Porter Square Books can also be an enjoyable, quiet activity for children who love to read. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Davis Square is quite budget-friendly, especially if you utilize public transportation. The MBTA Red Line makes it easy and affordable to reach from other parts of Boston. TikTok Many of the best experiences here are free, such as walking the Somerville Community Path and browsing the unique shops. Reddit

For dining, look for casual eateries and delis, or consider grabbing a delicious pastry from Dave's Fresh Pastry for a more economical meal. While Boston Burger Company can be a bit pricier, it's a worthwhile splurge for the experience. Reddit

📚 Book Lovers

If you're a bibliophile, Davis Square is your paradise. Porter Square Books is a must-visit, renowned for its extensive collection and inviting atmosphere. Reddit+1 Don't miss Narrative in Davis Square itself for another dose of literary charm. Reddit

These independent bookstores offer a chance to discover hidden gems and support local businesses. They are perfect for spending a leisurely afternoon browsing shelves and perhaps finding your next favorite read. Reddit+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Somerville Community Path

The Somerville Community Path is a fantastic urban trail that stretches through Somerville, connecting Davis Square to other neighborhoods and eventually to Boston. It's a multi-use path, popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists alike. Travelers often praise it as an 'amazing piece of infrastructure' that significantly enhances connectivity. Reddit

Along the path, you'll discover art installations and community gardens, adding visual interest to your stroll or ride. It's a great way to experience the local greenery and public art scene. Redditors mention specific art spots like 'Elfland' as highlights. Reddit

Navigating the path can sometimes present challenges, particularly around Davis Square itself, where it merges with public plazas. Cyclists are advised to be aware of pedestrian traffic and follow designated routes, which may involve walking the bike for short stretches. Reddit+1 Despite these minor complexities, the path is widely regarded as a valuable asset for recreation and transportation. Reddit

Davis Square's Independent Bookstore Scene

Davis Square and its neighboring Porter Square are havens for book lovers, boasting excellent independent bookstores. Porter Square Books is a standout, frequently lauded for its 'wide selection' and status as an 'excellent independent bookstore.' It's a place where you can easily spend hours browsing. Reddit+1

Beyond Porter Square Books, Narrative in Davis Square offers another unique literary experience. For those willing to venture a bit further, All She Wrote Books in East Somerville and Sidequest Books and Games in Bow Market are also recommended for their specialized collections. Reddit

These bookstores are more than just places to buy books; they are community hubs that often host author events, readings, and other literary gatherings. They offer a welcome respite from the digital world and a chance to connect with fellow bibliophiles. Reddit+1

Culinary Delights in Davis Square

Davis Square is a culinary hotspot with something to satisfy every palate. Boston Burger Company is a major draw, celebrated for its 'creative and delicious burgers' with inventive toppings. It's a must-visit for anyone craving a hearty and unique meal. Reddit

For other dining experiences, Redbones offers a popular barbecue option, while The Painted Burro provides a vibrant atmosphere and tasty Mexican cuisine. The neighborhood also features numerous cafes and delis, such as Dave's Fresh Pastry, perfect for a casual lunch or a sweet treat. Reddit

Many establishments in Davis Square are conscious of dietary needs, offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus online or inquire with staff about specific choices. The diverse food scene makes Davis Square a great destination for foodies. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2