10 Best Markets in Boston

Quincy Market is one of Boston’s most prominent historic landmarks, located steps away from the waterfront. The markets that make up Fanueil Hall Marketplace are usually known collectively as “Quincy Market,” although the name historically applies to just one of the markets. Faneuil Hall dates back to 1742, with the first market established in the 1820s, so you’ll be strolling through history when you browse at the various stands and artisan pushcarts.

You could easily spend all day at the marketplace, with a pause to enjoy a snack or meal at one of more than 50 eateries and food kiosks. You can also enjoy entertainment by musicians and street performers, and frequent festivals and special events.

The Boston Public Market is a year-round indoor market that nurtures and showcases many of New England’s finest food and drink producers. Within its walls, you’ll find more than 30 vendors selling fresh produce, fish and seafood, gourmet treats, specialty items, and handmade chocolates. If you’re feeling hungry and you’d like a prepared meal, there are delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner options available. Everything you see on sale at the market is produced or originates in New England.

The Boston Public Market is located in downtown Boston, adjacent to the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway. There’s also a small outpost at Boston’s Logan Airport for last-minute gifts and souvenirs.

“SoWa” stands for “South of Washington Street,” and the SoWa Open Market takes place in the South End of Boston, in a district that’s lined with artist studios, galleries, and boutiques. The market is one of the largest open-air gatherings of designers, craftspeople, artisans, and local farmers, and it’s a fabulous place to find handmade, high-quality products with a unique touch.

Shop at the SoWa Open Market for hand-thrown ceramics, custom-made jewelry, and designer furniture. Visit the food stalls to find exciting dishes prepared by innovative chefs, accompanied by inventive beverages. Or simply find a space to sit and soak up the vibrant, creative atmosphere of SoWa.

The idea behind the creation of the Time Out Market was to gather together the highest-rated and best-loved chefs, restaurants, and bars under one roof. The result is a carefully curated dining area where you’re sure to find some of Boston’s tastiest delicacies. Sample various creative takes on local and international dishes like lobster rolls, gourmet tacos, and spicy cauliflower burgers. There’s also a demo kitchen where you can attend cooking workshops, cocktail-making classes, and other culinary activities.

The Time Out Market is a short walk from the stadium at Fenway Park. Its location makes it a great stop for a special meal before or after a game, concert, or event.

Boston’s Haymarket is one of the oldest open-air markets in the USA, with a centuries-old tradition of selling fruit, vegetables, seafood, and other fresh produce. The lively hustle and bustle of the market is a cultural experience in itself, and you’ll find some amazing bargains on offer, especially if you’re happy to haggle with the enthusiastic vendors. Don’t miss the great cheese, cold cuts, and tasty olives. Arrive early or late if you want to beat the crowds.

Haymarket is in the heart of historic downtown Boston, next to the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway, and close to Government Center and the North End.

If you enjoy trawling for treasure among vintage items and antiques, then you’ll love the Cambridge Antique Market. Near to the university campuses of Harvard and M.I.T., the Cambridge Antique Market offers 4 floors crammed with fascinating items for collectors and bargain-hunters. Spend time searching through vintage vinyl, used books, military clothing and memorabilia, jewelry, antique furniture, and much more.

You can reach the Cambridge Antique Market by crossing the Charles River to Cambridge. Parking is available, and the nearest T stop is Lechmere on the Green Line. When you arrive, look up to see the spectacular mural by artist Be Sargent.

When you amble around the Somerville Flea, you’ll encounter an amazing selection of vintage items, quality used clothing, upcycled accessories, and fresh local produce. This cozy and charming market is a wonderful way to spend a laid-back Sunday. Treat yourself to a warming drink and some baked goods – try a cider donut or a melt-in-your-mouth pastry. There’s a great atmosphere at the market, with live music to entertain you.

The Somerville flea is close to Davis Square in Cambridge, easily reached via the Somerville Community Park and a short walk from Davis on the Red Line of the T.

Red’s Best Fish Market is the home of local seafood. From its headquarters at the historic Boston Fish Pier, Red’s Best has been working with nearby coastal communities since 2008, helping to sustain both the fisheries and the livelihoods of fishers.

Much of the freshly caught seafood is sold at Red’s Best Fish Market, housed within the Boston Public Market. You can also find delicious prepared eats, like rich crab cakes, flavorful clam chowder, and tasty fish tacos. Or try the mouth-watering fried oysters with tartar sauce and a squeeze of lemon, or a succulent lobster roll. Red’s Best Fish Market is an essential stop for an authentic taste of New England.

The M.I.T. Flea is a great place to find electronic and mechanical parts of all types, as well as vintage items and educational toys. Enjoy rummaging through all kinds of cables and connectors, components, tools, batteries, and audio equipment. You’ll find knowledgeable vendors who can give helpful advice, as well as technically minded fellow shoppers you can chat to in the market’s sociable environment. This is a great place to search for the components you need to build your own radio, computer, or unique invention.

Find the M.I.T. Flea a short walk from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology campus. The nearest T stop is Kendall/MIT on the Red Line, just across the Longfellow Bridge from Charles/MGH.

In the friendly neighborhood of Roslindale, the summer and winter markets are popular with residents and visitors alike. As well as local produce, homemade goods, and delicious hot food, the Roslindale Summer Farmers Market offers a free entertainment program, with live performances, wellness events, and children’s activities.

Local businesses and nonprofit groups are encouraged to participate, giving the market a wonderful community feel. The Roslindale Winter Farmers Market offers fresh produce throughout the coldest months, as well as specialty foods and craft products. The Roslindale Farmers Markets take place in the suburb of Roslindale, about 9 miles from downtown Boston.