Raise your glass! Boston is filled to the brim with historic taverns, authentic Irish pubs, and one-of-a-kind watering holes. Embark on a heady adventure to the most iconic bars in the city, from revolutionary hotspots to our haute rooftop lounge.
Whether you’re thirsty for a foam-topped Guinness, a local microbrew, or a cutting-edge cocktail – you’ll find plenty of watering holes in Boston to choose from. Explore iconic landmarks and world-famous pubs, from renowned historic taverns to our rooftop lounge. Hope you’re thirsty for our quick tour of the best Boston bars.
The Bell in Hand Tavern isn’t just the oldest continuously operating bar in Boston – it’s the oldest continuously operating bar in the entire country! The bar served its first beer in 1795 and soon became the most famous alehouse in the city. Back then, the bar was a gathering place for sailors, merchants, printers, and politicians. Every beer was served in two mugs – one for the beer, and another for the head. Now that’s thick! The historic tavern has been at its current location since the mid-1800s. Today it still retains that old-Boston vibe (especially early in the day) and serves elevated comfort food like lobster mac and cheese and crispy oyster rolls.
Boston’s unique history is a crucial element to its charm – and the Green Dragon played a quintessential role in the birth of America. It was the site of secret meetings of revolutionaries like the Sons of Liberty. Citizens gathered here to embark on secret spy missions against the British. This was where the Boston Tea Party was planned and where Paul Revere set out on his famous midnight ride. While the original North End building was demolished in 1854, it was reborn in a new location on Marshall Street where you can walk through the steps of American history.
For the real deal, head to this Charleston legend. Sit under the low, wooden beams by the giant fireplace and travel back in time. Built in the 1780s after the British burned everything in the area at the Battle of Bunker Hill, this legendary tavern is still in its original location. George Washington sat under the exact same ceiling beams that you can sit under today. It was also one of Paul Revere’s favorite watering holes.
Be sure to wear your Red Sox regalia to this small but busy bar, which boasts the perfect location for sports fans. It’s right under the bleachers of Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox. On game days you’ll have a fantastic view of center field through a giant garage window. It’s a unique, only-in-Boston experience – and it’s a popular one, so get there early on game days. The bar is open on non-game days too, and it’s still a great time all around.
…and they’re always glad you came. Situated on Beacon Hill, this Boston landmark was the inspiration for one of the biggest TV shows of the 1980s: Cheers. Originally opened in 1969 as the Bull & Finch Pub, the bar features an instantly recognizable façade that’s an absolute must for selfie lovers. Soak in the nostalgia in a fun, casual atmosphere where families are welcome and the food is pub grub. Have a cold pint and dig into crowd-pleasing cuisine like mozzarella sticks, bacon blue cheeseburgers, and meatballs and linguini.
In a city brimming with Irish pubs, J.J. Foley’s is perhaps the most authentic. Breathe deep the aroma of Guinness and find a new friend to chat with. Family-owned since 1909, the bar and café is a Boston staple – and it was opened long before the proliferation of Irish-themed bars you see today (in the city and around the world). Belly-up to the standing-only bar and feel like a true local.
Overlooking the Back Bay from a prime perch above the city, our hotel’s seasonal rooftop lounge is one of the most coveted bars in Boston. Grab a seat on a comfy couch or a chilled-out cabana – with 16,000 square feet of space, there’s plenty of room to stretch out and relax. People rave about the “great craft cocktails” and the “fantastic views” – and you’ll also find an extensive selection of local craft beers. Hungry? Nibble or feast on genuine New England cuisine like smoked bluefish, lobster bites, and Boston barbecue. Quench your thirst alongside intrepid travelers and like-minded adventurers at one of the best bars in Boston: Rooftop@Revere.
Make Boston yours. Get under the skin of the city and connect with its independent local spirit at our one-of-a-kind boutique hotel. Rooftop@Revere is just the beginning of the meticulously crafted travel experience that we offer. Indulge in mouthwatering Boston cuisine at Rebel’s Guild and meet friends before a show at the Lobby Bar. Enjoy stunning views of the city from our unique rooms and suites, which feature locally-inspired art and epic creature comforts. And with a prime location by Boston Common and the Theatre District, it’s easy to check out all the best Boston bars – and discover which one is your favorite. Are you ready for a new adventure? Join us for an unscripted Boston experience today!