Faneuil Hall Marketplace isn't just one of the top attractions in Boston - it's one of the top attractions in America. Featuring a cobblestone promenade and multiple historic market buildings that date from the early days of the nation, Faneuil Hall played a large role in the American Revolution. Today, it's still a vibrant cultural center where you can taste, see, hear, and feel the authentic spirit of the city. Discover why this legendary marketplace is one of the most famous Boston attractions.
Is It Faneuil Hall, Faneuil Marketplace, or Quincy Market?
It's all of the above. Wrapping your head around Faneuil Hall Marketplace can be a bit confusing for visitors, because it goes by a few different names. It can be called Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Faneuil Hall, or Faneuil Marketplace. Many people also refer to it as Quincy Market; however Quincy Market is actually just one location in the larger market complex. No matter what you call it, you'll be going to the same location in Boston: about a mile northeast of our hotel, on the other side of Boston Common. Located on the Freedom Trail, Faneuil Hall Marketplace is close to the city's waterfront along with the Old State House, the New England Aquarium, and the Rose Kennedy Greenway. If you're taking public transportation, the closest MTBA stop is at Government Center.
Faneuil Hall History: The Cradle of Liberty
Faneuil Hall Marketplace is almost 300 years old. It was originally built in 1742 as a gift to the city by its richest merchant, Peter Faneuil. Soon it was buzzing with business as local vendors sold fish, meats, produce, and all sorts of products. But more importantly, Faneuil Hall was the soapbox for impassioned speakers and colonists who wanted a revolution. Remember the idea of "no taxation without representation" from grade school? It started right here in 1764. Faneuil Hall Marketplace is also where Samuel Adams rallied the colonists to fight for their independence - and it's where George Washington celebrated the new country on its first birthday, July 4, 1777. Head upstairs to Faneuil Hall's second-floor assembly room to experience where these legendary events in American history took place. There are also free tours offered by National Park Service rangers.
Shop, Sip, and Eat at Faneuil Marketplace
The market looks very different today than it did three centuries ago - but it's heart and soul of commerce and community remains. Still Boston's central gathering place, Faneuil Hall has evolved and expanded through the centuries into an incomparable urban marketplace. You'll find 150 different places to shop and eat, including restaurants, pubs, pushcarts, and eateries in the Colonnade. It's fun to simply wander around and soak it all in - but if you're wondering what not to miss, these are some of our favorite Faneuil Hall treasures:
- Quincy Market Colonnade - Most of the eateries at Faneuil Hall Marketplace can be found here in the Colonnade. With more than three dozen restaurants, it's the largest food hall in New England. Try international eats along with local favorites like Boston pizza, Italian cannoli, and fresh New England seafood.
- Cheers - While not the original bar from the hit TV show (that one is on Beacon Hill), this Cheers location is a perfect replica and a landmark in its own right.
- Salty Dog - Get your seafood fix at this casual hangout with a three-season patio, including fried oysters, lobster dinners, and crab cakes.
- Boston Strong - For Boston-themed apparel and gifts, you've come to the right place. Find unique local souvenirs at shops like Local Charm, 1630 Boston, Best of Boston, and Boston Campus Gear.
- Market Pushcarts - You can't miss the 44 pushcarts at Faneuil Hall Marketplace, which harken back to the market's colonial days and sell everything from Boston souvenirs to artisan-made crafts.
- Ned Divine's - Cozy and casual during the day, this classic Irish pub and restaurant turns into a high-energy party on weekend nights.
- North & South Markets - If you're looking for new outfits and national brands like Ann Taylor, Nine West, and Coach, head to the North Market and South Market Buildings. You'll find most of the market shopping here.
A Hotbed of Street Performers, Magicians, and Musicians
Faneuil Hall Marketplace is also world-renowned for its street performers and musicians, who arrived in the 1970s to entertain construction workers that were renovating the market. The performers never left, and today they're one of the top attractions. You'll find them outdoors on the cobblestone streets, including acrobats, magicians, fire-eaters, unicyclists, comedians, contortionists, daredevils, jugglers, knife-throwers, mimes, clowns, actors, dancers, and many other types of free-spirited types. Street performers entertain the crowds every day from Memorial Day through Labor Day, along with major holiday weekends throughout the year.
Bold Boutique Style: Revere Hotel Boston Common
Fusing fresh modern design with the city's historic legacy, Revere Hotel is uniquely Boston - from the locally inspired decor to our rebellious personality. All of the best Boston attractions are at your doorstep from our prime location just steps from Boston Common and the Theatre District. Relax in an upscale room or suite that evokes a sense of discovery, with extras like stunning skyline views, houndstooth chaise lounges, and C.O. Bigelow bath products. Enjoy craft cuisine at Rebel's Guild and dine like a local. Make Boston yours at Revere Hotel.