Davis Square was named for Person Davis, a 19th century grain dealer who chose a location near the intersection of Morrison, Elm and Grove streets as the site of his estate. At the center of the square lies a complex intersection where Highland Avenue, College Avenue, Day Street, Holland Street, Elm Street and Dover Street meet. Today, the square is home to a thriving district offering a thriving collection of restaurants, entertainment venues, retailers and commercial enterprises.
The neighborhood surrounding Davis Square contains some of the most sought-after housing in Somerville. As such, real estate prices are not the lowest that can be found in the greater Boston area. (The first condo in Davis Square to break the $1 million selling price was sold in 2005.) The demand for housing in Davis Square has been influenced by a variety of factors, including location, a thriving arts culture and easy access to transportation.
Davis Square is located just two miles from the center of Cambridge's Harvard Square and four miles away from the center of downtown Boston. Both destinations are served by the MBTA Red Line from the Davis Square Station, which is beautifully decorated artwork and incorporates tiles produced by children at local schools. The Davis Square neighborhood is adjacent to Powder House Square and in close proximity to Tufts University.
Davis Square hosts a variety of events and festivals annually, such as the ArtBeat festival sponsored by the Somerville Arts Council and free folk dances in the summer. The Somerville Theatre presents live performances as well as movies.
The Davis Square neighborhood offers a combination of upscale apartments and condos, an active nightlife, various cultural activities and outstanding shopping. Whether the goal is to be near Tufts University, Cambridge or downtown Boston, Davis Square offers an easy commute, while the variety of shops, restaurants and activities make it just as easy to stay close to home.