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.
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.
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.
Louisburg Square - Explore the great outdoors at Louisburg Square, a lovely green space in Boston. Experience the acclaimed theater scene and fascinating museums in this vibrant area.
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.
King's Chapel - Boston’s first Anglican church is an 18th-century architectural gem walking distance from the Boston Common. Listen for the sound of its bell crafted by Paul Revere.
George Washington Statue - Find out about the history of Boston when you spend time at George Washington Statue. Discover the acclaimed theater scene and notable monuments in this vibrant area.
Boston: Guided Walking Tour of the Freedom Trail - See all 16 of Boston's iconic Freedom Trail sites in a single tour with an experienced guide. Learn about famous Americans like Paul Revere and John Hancock, along with lesser-known stories of women, African Americans, and immigrant patriots and pioneers.
Boston's Best Freedom Trail Tour - The Tour of The Freedom Trail by the Histrionic Academy is the best way to see and learn about Boston's inspiring history. Following the Freedom Trail past several historic sites, guests will be amazed by the stories of America's Founding Fathers, the American Revolution and New England's Colonial History.
Freedom Trail: Small Group Walking Tour of Revolutionary Boston - Boston's principal role in launching the American Revolution is linked by the brick-lined Freedom Trail. This world-famous pedestrian path is best experienced on foot, in a small group, with a knowledgeable local guide! Your 2.
Haunted Boston Ghost Tours - Haunted Boston Ghost Tours, LLC is the oldest ghost walking tour in Boston. Owner, Hillary Kidd, started the company in 2005 as the only tour guide and the company quickly expanded with over 8 tour guides.
Guided Freedom Trail Walking Tour - The Tour of The Freedom Trail by the Histrionic Academy is the best way to see Boston. Depending on your chosen timeslot, guests will either meet at 139 Tremont Street (the Boston Common Visitor Center) or in front of 120 Tremont Street.
Freedom Trail & Salem Witch: Self-Guided Walking Tour Bundle - This self-guided audio tour explores the Salem Witch Trials and Boston's Freedom Trail, following Revolutionary War heroes. Learn about Paul Revere's Midnight Ride, the American Revolution, and more. Return to Boston and Salem to follow Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, and the unjustly accused.
Walk the Historic Freedom Trail - Walk the historic Freedom Trail with us and see 11 of 16 sights, the perfect length to keep you absorbed and entertained while learning at the same time. Follow along with us and enjoy the stroll without worrying about directions or getting lost on your own.
Boston: Movie Mile Walking Tour - Bring your favorite films to life on this interactive walking tour of the Boston Movie Mile. Home to a plethora of movie blockbusters and TV shows, this is an informative and fun tour of some of the most exclusive locations in Boston.