A Neighborhood Guide to Beacon Hill, Boston
Beacon Hill is one of the oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods in Boston. In addition to a rich history, it has beautiful architecture and lots of fun things to do. Since a visit to Boston simply isn’t complete without exploring this gem of a neighborhood, here are a few suggestions for what to do while you’re there.
7 Must-Visit Instagram Spots in Boston, MA
1. stroll through historic cobblestone streets
Beacon Hill is known for its narrow cobblestone streets lined with gas street lamps. Wandering through them it feels like you’ve suddenly traveled back in time to the days before the American Revolution. Make sure to check out Acorn Street, one of the most photographed streets in America, and Louisburg Square, home to one of the most expensive houses in the city.
2. rouvalis flowers
A visit to Beacon Hill is not complete without a quick stop at Rouvalis Flowers, a family-owned flower shop that’s located on the corner of Pinckney and West Cedar streets. The shop has a large selection of floral arrangements, house plants, and garden accessories. The best thing about this place, though, is the beautiful storefront display that the owners change seasonally. You’ve probably seen it on Instagram many times already!
3. brunch at 75 chestnut
75 Chestnut has a historic look and feel with its dark wooden walls and large windows overlooking one of Beacon Hill’s charming streets. This place is perfect for a weekend brunch with friends or family in Beacon Hill, Boston.
4. boston athenaeum
The Boston Athenaeum is one of the oldest libraries in the United States. Founded in 1807 to serve a culture-starved city, the Athenaeum is now a members-only library with a book collection that contains over 600,000 titles. The first floor of the building is still open to the public, and there you’ll find books, paintings, sculptures, and fascinating rotating exhibits. You can also take a guided tour through the entire building, including the Reading Room on the fifth floor.
5. the shops on charles street
Take a stroll down Charles Street and check out its numerous one-of-a-kind boutiques, as well as consignment and vintage shops where you can find unique souvenirs and gifts.
6. the nichols house museum
The Nichols House Museum, which once belonged to the family of landscape gardener and social activist Rose Standish Nichols, now offers a glimpse into life on Beacon Hill from the mid-19th to the mid-20th centuries. If you’ve always wanted to peek inside one of Boston’s historic homes, you can do so on one of the museum’s guided tours, which start every hour.
