Beacon Hill is one of the most affluent, historic and picturesque neighborhoods in the whole of Boston. You should not miss exploring and strolling around the neighborhood when you are in the capital city of Massachusetts. The neighborhood is lined with brownstone streets and is home to most of the popular landmarks and places of interest in Boston. Beacon Hill is also located right at the heart of Boston, so you get to explore more of the city easily when you are there. If you are planning to explore this amazing neighborhood in Boston, then you should follow our comprehensive guide to Beacon Hill.
1. Things to do / highlights
Relax at Boston Common
Boston Common is among the most popular destinations in the city for both tourists and locals. Known to be the oldest park in United States, Boston Common is a 50-acre (0.5 hectare) land that is home to Frog Pond, a popular skating place during the winter season, and Brewer Fountain Plaza.
Shop along Charles Street
Charles Street is known to be one of the best shopping places in Boston, especially if you prefer small, laidback boutiques than international brands. Some of the nice clothing stores you can visit are Ouimille, Holiday, and December Thieves. For kids, you might want to try The Red Wagon and Follain store for your skincare routine.
2. What to eat
75 Chestnut
75 Chestnut is everyone’s favorite go-to place for family gatherings, luncheons, and dinners. The restaurant features a classic bar, dark wood tables in the dining room, and a very classy red-brick entryway on its facade. Dining at the 75 Chestnut will just let you feel the elegant side of Boston. They serve traditional American food like steaks, salads, and filet mignon.
The Paramount
The Paramount is also one of the most favorite breakfast and dining places in the whole of Boston. The restaurant serves classic diner dishes like Belgian Waffles, bacon and eggs, and caramel and banana French toast, in an authentic diner setting and ambiance.
3. Things to buy
Second-hand luxury items
Known for its affluent neighborhoods and residents, Beacon Hill is also a haven for luxury items. However, if you cannot really afford to buy one, then you might want to settle for a second-hand luxury items. The best place to buy second-hand luxury items is at Second Time Around. They are always well-stocked with the best luxury items that are way more expensive when bought from fancy malls and department stores.
Paper products
A paper might seem just ordinary for many but not in this store in Beacon Hill. From wrapping papers, envelopes, invitations, and stationeries, you can find it all at Rugg Road Paper. You can have custom invitations made from them, or have some stationaries made according to your preferences.
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4. Travelers tips
Don't get intimidated by the affluent neighborhoods
Places like Louisburg Square and Acorn Street are lined up with luxurious and historic homes where the rich and famous reside. It might be a bit intimidating for the ordinary. But you should just feel fine when you visit these places. Or better yet, join tours that will tell you more about the history and the importance of these neighborhoods.
Walking is fun
Boston as a whole, including Beacon Hill, is a very walkable city where everything is just close to each other, so you will surely enjoy walking around its beautiful and historic streets. While Boston is a very safe city in general, it is still advised not to wander at night, especially around Boston Common and the suburbs on the east and south sides of the city.
5. How to get there
Taxi and Uber
Taxis and Ubers are widely available at any point in Boston, including Beacon Hill. However, the traffic might be heavy especially during peak hours, so you might want to plan out your itinerary first before you decide on taking a cab or an Uber.
Bus
Buses are also widely available around the city. If you want to go to Beacon Hill from any point in Boston, make sure to ride the buses which ply the routes 55 and 554.
Train and Subway
These are the most efficient ways to travel around Boston. To go to Beacon Hill, take the Fitchburg, and Framingham/Worcester train line or the subway green line B, C, and D.
6. Take a unique photo walk around Beacon Hill (from USD 45.0)
Beacon Hill is known to be a picturesque district within Boston, and the best way to explore it is to join a tour while you take a lot of photos of the neighborhood. This tour will allow you to follow a friendly and approachable guide who will take you through Beacon Hill while teaching you how to take the best shots in two hours. Get to know more about the history and the story behind the buildings in Beacon Hill as you walk through the alleyways and take the best photos.
Beacon Hill History + Scenic Photo Walking Tour (Small Group)
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Beacon Hill Information
Beacon Hill
Address: Boston, MA, USA
Official website: Beacon Hill
Department of Tourism: Visiting Boston
History
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