At a Glance

Located just southwest of Downtown Boston, Bay Village is a small, historic neighborhood. It was first constructed on a landfill in the 1820s and had been called the Church Street District, South Cove, and Kerry Village before acquiring its current name. The architecture in Bay Village often resemble the homes located in Beacon Hill. The individuals who helped build the Beacon Hill residences lived in Bay Village and built their homes in a smaller, similar style. In the early 20th century, Bay Village was the home of Boston's film industry, and a number of art deco former warehouses and studios still stand. 

Bay Village's narrow streets, historic facades, brick sidewalks, and gas street lamps create an appealing and quiet pedestrian environment in a primarily residential neighborhood. Residents enjoy easy walking access to the surrounding parks, shops, restaurants, and theaters of Downtown, Back Bay, and the South End. 

Want to learn about and share your ideas on planning and development in your neighborhood? Email our Community Engagement team at PlanningEngagement@boston.gov to learn about upcoming engagement opportunities. For information about planning context, zoning, or Planning Department processes, please contact [email protected].