Allston–Brighton facts for kids
Allston–Brighton is a special part of Boston, Massachusetts. It's actually two neighborhoods, Allston and Brighton, that fit together. Even though they are part of Boston, they have their own unique feel.
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Where is Allston–Brighton?
Allston and Brighton share a border. This border runs along Everett Street, then Gordon Street, and ends at the Brookline town line near Kelton Street. Allston is generally to the east of this line, and Brighton is to the west.
Each neighborhood also has its own postal code. Allston's zip code is 02134. Brighton's zip code is 02135. Allston is usually seen as the northeast part of the area. Brighton is the larger southwestern part. It includes Brighton Center. This area is less crowded than Allston.
Allston–Brighton connects to the rest of Boston by a small strip of land. This strip contains Boston University and runs along the Charles River. To the south and southeast is Brookline. To the north is Cambridge. To the west is Newton. This location helps Allston–Brighton keep its own special identity.
Many people think Allston–Brighton is a separate city. This is because nearby places like Cambridge and Somerville are independent cities. But Allston–Brighton is truly part of Boston. The Massachusetts Turnpike, also known as Interstate 90, divides the area. It splits it into a main southern part and a smaller northern part. The Charles River separates the northern part from Cambridge.
A Look at Allston–Brighton's Past
Allston–Brighton was once a farming area. People called it Little Cambridge. Later, it became part of the city of Boston. It was one of the first places to get a streetcar line. This made it one of the nation's first "streetcar suburbs." These were neighborhoods built along streetcar lines. Moderately wealthy people from Boston lived here.
Who Lives in Allston–Brighton Today?
Today, Allston–Brighton is a busy urban area. Many middle-class families live here. You will find lots of homes and small businesses. The headquarters for New Balance is located here. Also, the WGBH Educational Foundation is in Allston–Brighton. WGBH operates radio and television stations like WGBH, WGBH-TV, and WGBX-TV. They create many popular shows for public broadcasting across the country.
Many students from Boston's universities live in Allston–Brighton. Boston University’s campus is in Allston. Boston College’s campus is on the border of Brighton and Newton. Brighton Avenue, in the heart of Allston, is a popular spot. It has many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.
Sports in the Neighborhood
Allston–Brighton has its own youth hockey team. It is called "Allston–Brighton Youth Hockey." Most of their practices happen at the Reilly Memorial Rink. This rink is in Cleveland Circle.