Plan your visit to Beacon Hill, Boston
Lose yourself in the charming streetscapes, historic buildings and village-like atmosphere of Boston’s oldest and wealthiest suburbs.
Historic Beacon Hill is one of Boston’s smallest suburbs, but it sure packs in a lot of charm. Streets are lined with cobblestone sidewalks and flickering gas lamps. Federal-style row houses are dressed with pretty flower boxes and wrought iron fences.
The Beacon Hill area was settled in 1625. Most homes were built in the 18th and 19th centuries and are lovingly preserved. They range from narrow row houses to grand family residences. Look for polished brass door knockers, which have become the unofficial symbol of the suburb. Don’t be content just to browse the exteriors of Beacon Hill’s stately homes pay a visit to the Nichols House Museum. Built in 1804, this four-story town house showcases the original furnishings, crafts and day-to-day objects of the early 1900s.
Delve deeper into Beacon Hill’s history and join one of the many paid or free walking tours offered by local tourist agencies. You can even take an online tour before going. The suburb is also a wonderful place to discover on your own. Pick up a coffee from one of many cafés and wander the cobblestone streets at your leisure. Acorn Street is one of the area’s most picturesque and frequently photographed streets. Additionally, look out for Mount Vernon Street and Louisburg Square, two of the most exclusive addresses in Boston.
Pick up that perfect Boston memento from one of the many antique and craft shops on Charles Street, Beacon Hill’s main thoroughfare. Pull up a bar stool in Cheers Beacon Hill, the pub that provided the inspiration for the hit 1980s TV show “Cheers.” Bibliophiles will want to check out the Boston Athenaeum, an exquisitely decorated and furnished private library that overlooks the Granary Burying Grounds. Just across Beacon Street is the domed State House, the home of Massachusetts state politics.
Christmas is considered one of the loveliest times to visit Beacon Hill. Just when you think the neighborhood can’t get any prettier, a thick blanket of snow covers the cobblestones and adds another layer of magic.
The Beacon Hill area is located just north of Boston Common and the Boston Public Garden. You can get there by subway, bus or car.
Boston Common - The oldest public park in the United States has been the stage for centuries of drama. These days it’s the perfect place to unwind.
Boston Public Garden - In this horticultural wonder, ride an iconic swan boat, pay respects to North America’s very first tulip bed or simply lie back and watch as the world floats past.
Charles Street - You can enjoy retail therapy at Charles Street during your trip to Boston. Visit the shops in this walkable area, or simply enjoy its restaurants.
Massachusetts State House - Delve into history or watch government in action at this bold, elegant monument to the political values of this proudly historical state.
Park Street Church - Walk Boston’s famous history trail to pass this elegant and storied church, which has been a place of worship and inspiration for social justice since 1809.
Louisburg Square - After visiting Louisburg Square, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Boston. Discover the fascinating museums and notable monuments in this vibrant area.
George Washington Statue - Find out about the history of Boston when you spend time at George Washington Statue. Discover the fascinating museums and notable monuments in this vibrant area.
Brewer Fountain - After visiting Brewer Fountain, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Boston. Experience the fascinating museums or attend a sporting event in this vibrant area.
Boston CityPASS®: Admission to Top 4 Attractions - Boston CityPASS® Experience 4 top attractions and save up to 45 percent with Boston CityPASS® tickets. One simple purchase removes the stress of planning, so you can relax and enjoy your memories in the making.
Tour of Historic Fenway Park, America's Most Beloved Ballpark - Visit the most historic and oldest ballpark in MLB. Fenway Park, also known as “America's Most Beloved Ballpark” is uniquely nestled in the city of Boston. Fenway Park is a place where dreams are made, traditions are celebrated and baseball is forever.
Harvard University Campus Guided Walking Tour - What better way to see Harvard than through the eyes of a student? Join us for an unforgettable 75-minute student-led walking tour of Harvard University, where history and tradition come alive! Stretching about a mile, this engaging journey will take you through Harvard's campus while our enthusiastic student guides provide entertaining stories of Harvard's fascinating past as well as their own experiences.
City Cruises Boston: Historic Sightseeing Cruise - As you cruise along the Inner Harbor and out into the greater Boston Harbor, take in the city skyline and closer views of both historic and modern structures. Hear tales of the Revolutionary War and anecdotes about the buildings you pass during your 60-minute cruise.
LEGO Discovery Center Boston Admission Ticket - A PLACE WHERE IMAGINATIONS RUN WILD! Welcome to the new LEGO® Discovery Center in Assembly Row in Somerville, MA. It's the home of LEGO play, where you and your family can create your own adventures with over two million bricks.
Museum of Ice Cream Boston Admission Ticket - Welcome to Museum of Ice Cream - Boston—a space where imagination, play and connection come together! Dive into unlimited ice cream and explore interactive installations that are perfect for friends and family.
City Cruises Boston: Premier Elegant Dinner Cruise - Create extraordinary memories on the water while enjoying a 3-course dinner on the Boston Odyssey. The dusk and moon-lit views of the harbor islands and the Charlestown Navy Yard are exquisite. Experience a unique and relaxing dinner while cruising the historic Boston Harbor.
City Cruises Boston: Signature Dinner Cruise - Climb aboard for a unique mixture of dining, entertainment, and scenic views. City Cruises year-round from Boston's historic Seaport District and offers up-close views of “Old Ironsides,” Castle Island, and the Harbor Islands.