Just south of the Boston Common and towards the West end of the Financial District is the Downtown Crossing area, one of the city’s main shopping areas. Here you can find stores like Macy’s, Saks, and Filenes Department Store, along with various bookstores, jewelers, and street vendors.
The area once known as the “combat zone” or “red light district” is no more. However, the area can still be a little rough around the edges, so it’s best to be alert when you are visiting.
In the area known as Chinatown, you will find more than 200 restaurants. Many of these establishments are open late at night: perfect for a quick and inexpensive bite after a night at the theater or a local club.
Lower on Washington you can find the refurbished Opera House. Other theaters include theShubert, the Colonial, and the Wang Center for the Performing Arts. Be sure to visit St. Pauls Cathedral and the block-long Mass State Transportation building, which has earned several architectural awards.
The Leather District is an area bounded by Kneeland Street to the south, Essex Street to the north, Atlantic Avenue to the east and Lincoln Street to the west. The Leather District adjoins Boston’s Chinatown to the west and the Financial District to the north.
