Here are the top 10 must-see attractions in this iconic neighborhood:
1
Practice Your Photography
From the cobblestone streets to the historic brick row houses, you can walk slowly along and marvel and its architectural beauty. Acorn Street, which we visit on our Boston Chocolate Tour, is known as the most photographed street in America. Things to do in Beacon Hill abound! The Charles River Esplanade is also very closeby – snap a photo of the Charles River with MIT Sailing Team or Hatch Shell or Citgo sign in the background!
2
Indulge in the Boston Chocolate Tour
Experience the neighborhood in a new way as we stop at a variety of small, independently owned businesses such as female owned Beacon Hill Chocolate and A Sanctuary Cafe. Sample exquisite chocolates while learning about the neighborhood’s rich history. Sip chocolate tea with us like Martha Washington used to do, and hear fascinating stories from our entertaining guides. We can’t wait to meet you on a tour this weekend! The best walking tour Boston :)
Check our Tour Calendar For Booking Availability This Week!
3
Boston Common and Make Way For Ducklings
Did you know that the Make Way For Ducklings statues are dressed up to match the holidays? These statues never get old! America’s oldest public park provides a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. In winter, enjoy ice skating at Frog Pond; in summer, relax by the fountains. On our tour we visit the Embrace Statue.
4
Shop On Charles Street
Whether you’re looking for a unique outfit at a boutique, interesting antique, greeting card, or Boston souveneir, you’ll find it along Charles Street which has many small shops that are fun to browse and support. There’s also Beacon Hill Hotel if you’d like to stay longer.
5
Relax in Louisburg Square
Admire the elegant townhouses surrounding this private park, home to some of Boston’s most prestigious addresses. Not far away is the Massachusetts State House.
6
Look for Lavender Purple Windows
Did you know that the purple windows in these Boston Brownstones are known as “Lavenders” and are typically found in buildings from 1818-1824? They were purple by mistake! When the glass for the windows was imported from Europe, it was clear. But when they were installed, the exposure to sunlight gave them a purple tint. We discovered it was due to excess manganese oxide in the glass. Manganese oxide is a chemical compound used to remove greenish tint common in old-school glass like vintage Coca Cola bottles. Since purple is a royal color, it actually became a status symbol! If you want, you can snap a photo!
7
Explore Vilna Shul: One of The Oldest Synagogues
Boston’s Jewish community is strong and active. The Vilna Shul of Beacon Hill is an interesting historical building at 18 Phillips Street. The building itself has undergone extensive renovation, and it is over 100 years old. They host a variety of cultural and arts events that are open to all.
8
Relax in A Cat Cafe
While we don’t make reservations to hang with the cats, you can do so at the neighborhood’s favorite cat cafe, A Sanctuary Cafe. Owner Brittany worked diligently for two years to open the cafe. The cafe provides living wages to its employees, partners with local community initiatives, and features: friendly resident cats, locally sourced drinks and baked goods, and a micro-bookstore which they curate so nicely. We love visiting here on our Boston Chocolate Tour!
9
Marvel at The Liberty Hotel Former Jail
Did you know that every Wednesday at 2pm you can take a tour of the historic Liberty Hotel which was once the Charles Street Jail? The tour is a half hour and concludes with champagne! You must make a reservation for the tour. We also recommend relaxing in their outdoor patio or dining or simply enjoying a drink in their lobby as you imagine yester-year.
10
Afternoon Tea at Beacon Hill Bookstore
Check out our list of Afternoon Tea spots in Boston for the full enchilada, but one of our favorites is at Beacon Hill Bookstore. The tea is prix-fixe on Sundays, but they also serve delicious cafe items the rest of the week.
Conclusion: Take Our Boston Chocolate Tour!
Those who enjoy Beacon Hill enjoy a nice stroll. So we have crafted the perfect experience for you on our Boston Chocolate Tour, from Beacon Hill to Boston Public Market. Locals will marvel as the neighborhood with eyes anew. Tourists will also love the sights and tastes.
Let’s do this.
Lizzie and Sam
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