The expansion of Boston in the 1800s went beyond the Back Bay and the South End. As the working population of the Downtown district swelled and public transportation grew, outlying suburbs started to become part of the city proper. Today, most of these neighborhoods are technically in the city of Boston, yet have managed to keep their own distinct personalities and charms.
Among the streetcar suburbs are Jamaica Plain (now part of Boston proper) and Brookline—rural retreats barely more than a century ago that are now popular and mostly densely settled neighborhoods. Jamaica Plain is a hip, young neighborhood with a strong lesbian and ecofriendly population; brunch and a wander through the neighborhood's quirky stores or through the Arnold Arboretum make for a relaxing weekend excursion. Jamaica Plain also borders Franklin Park, an Olmsted creation of more than 500 acres, noted for its zoo. Farther west, Brookline is composed of a mixture of the affluent and students.
