Broadway - Chelsea, MA Area Guide

Since 1739 when Chelsea established itself as a part of Boston, the area has played major roles in the history of Massachusetts and even the nation. The Battle of Chelsea Creek was fought in Chelsea, where American forces caught one of the British ships. In the 1900s, Chelsea experienced two fires that left thousands homeless. At this time, many immigrants decided to move to the community, while past residents moved further away from the area.

The Broadway neighborhood and its surroundings were once the most crime-ridden and poorest in Massachusetts. Since the turn of the century, however, Chelsea has set its focus on improving the community and has quickly become a sought-after location to live for those longing to be near Boston. Museums and attractions can tell more of the community’s historical significance. Check out the Old Pratt House and The Fitz Public Library to expand your knowledge further.

Chelsea isn’t big on throwing cultural events or festivals, but just south in Boston, you’ll find many. The Apollinaire Theatre Company on Winnisimmet Street puts on many popular shows, many of which make for a great evening with the family. The fun, vibrant theatre showcases the works of several artists and shows remain in constant rotation.

An abundance of restaurants and pubs exist within Chelsea. The Broadway area happens to have some of the best places to dine in the city. Many of the eateries in the neighborhood consist of brand-name places such as Dunkin Donuts and Chili’s, but several hidden gems also exist within the borders.

Locals often frequent the Volare Restaurant and Bar, an Italian eatery on Broadway. The Italian cuisine remains favorable among Broadway neighborhood residents. The modern dining room, full bar and late-night menu make this a great place to hang with friends. The menu features an array of amazing options, from breaded veal to pastas and confit chicken to fried seafood. With nearly 30 wines on the list and over 20 craft cocktails, you’re sure to find a favorite adult beverage to enjoy every time you come back.

The Brown Jug on Revere Beach Parkway allows residents to catch the game while enjoying typical sports bar menu items. Gourmet menu items include pizzas, calzones, salads and wings. You can grab an appetizer for around $4, while a specialty pizza costs around $15. The sports bar features several flat screens, tall red booths, sports memorabilia on the walls, and red and white checkered linens. The laid-back environment makes this a great place to bring the kids for some pizza and wings.

On Washington Street, The Chelsea City Café serves coffee, tea, bakery items and breakfast at reasonable prices. While inside the coffeehouse, enjoy artworks from local artists showcased on the walls. Try the Mexican omelet, served with toast and your choice of potatoes or rice, and add an espresso shot to start your morning right.

You'll find most of the neighborhood's pubs along Broadway and Revere Beach Parkway. While nights tend to be rather quiet within the area, local bars and lounges let you grab a beer or glass of wine after a long day. American sports bars and Mexican lounges provide common ground for those who reside in Broadway.

With Route 1, the Revere Beach Parkway, Eastern and Washington Avenues and Broadway, getting anywhere with a private vehicle becomes efficient and simple in Broadway. Most residents have their own vehicles or walk, while some choose to jump on the 111 bus line to get to Boston in about 34 minutes. Uber also provides UberX rides from Broadway to Boston for about $12.

Within the small community of Chelsea, over 30 parks and playgrounds exist. The river and other beautiful landscapes surrounding the area provide great views for Broadway residents. Most of the small parks provide grassy areas and athletic fields for adults, children and pets to enjoy.

Paul A. Dever Park on the corner of Stockton Street and Gillooly Road has basketball courts, benches and a playground. The quarter-acre provides plenty of space to relax and roam for a quick break in natural settings. Highland Park on Willow Street provides the community with several athletic fields, plenty of seating, and over 1.5 acres of land.

With a cost of living lower than that of Boston and a convenient location, this neighborhood has become a favorite for Bostonians.The average one-bedroom apartment rents for around $1,550 per month, about a $500 lower than a similar apartment in Boston.

Gas rates run about 1 percent higher than the national average, while calling a cab for a ride to Boston will run about $20 one-way. When yearning for a cold pint of beer, expect to pay about $3 to $4 at the pub.

While numerous stores surround this area, the neighborhood has no defined center of commerce, and the majority of shopping can be characterized as high-value in nature. Most of the grocery stores line up along Broadway just south of the neighborhood, while other shops situate themselves throughout the community.

Robin Ruth Boston provides apparel, accessories and other such necessities for men and women. From licensed Boston Celtics apparel to an array of handbags, women especially love this shop, located on Eastern Avenue. Show your pride for the Boston area by donning any of the reasonably priced clothing items available. Inventory constantly changes, so be sure to check in often.

Visit the Boston Bat Company for personalized laser-engraved sports gifts. Nearly any team or league logo can be engraved along with players' names and stats — even real signatures. Consider wedding day bats and mini-hockey sticks or baby bats stating the newborn's vitals such as name, height and weight. Custom Picture Frames, sports keychains and car decals are also popular items here.

Cross over into downtown Boston, Charleston or East Boston to find many farmers markets, but brand name grocery stores such as Save-A-Lot provide you with your only other food options. For seasonal finds, the Everett Farmers Market, which sits just a few miles west of Broadway, sells fresh produce, bakery, crafts, art, flowers and more.