Beacon Hill, Boston's elegant neighbourhood

Beacon Hill, or the Lantern Quarter, is one of the most typical parts of Boston and brings a British touch to the heart of the city. In fact, this elegant area aligns its red brick houses around steep cobbled streets lit by gas lamps... The unity and architectural quality of this part of the city led to it being declared a "Historic District" in 1955. Encircling a hill, Beacon Hill has two aspects. The sunny south-facing slope is the most chic and remains a real landmark for luxury homes. To the north was the poorer part of the city. There are several sites of interest in this district, including the Massachusetts State Capitol and the Black Heritage Trail.

La rue Acorn, quartier de Beacon Hills à Boston

- © Sean Pavone / Shutterstock
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Beacon Hill, a festival of photogenic streets

Depending on the time of day and the season, the district's alleyways offer radically different atmospheres, but the urban poetry of this privileged area is palpable at all times. The cobbled cul-de-sacs, gardens and red-brick colonial houses rival each other in beauty!

Acorn Street is often considered one of the most beautiful streets in Boston. It is entirely paved with cobblestones and takes us back to an authentic 19th-century Boston. On one side of this little street are neatly lined brick houses. On the other side, you'll find imposing wrought-iron gates and welcome greenery.

Boston's Beacon Hill alley

- © CK Foto / Shutterstock

Among the other iconic streets in the area, don't miss :

  • Mount Vernon Street is a collection of fine homes. It is also home to the only mansion open to the public. See below.

  • Charles Street is Beacon Hill's busiest street. Here you'll find one shop after another. There are antique shops, bookshops, galleries, restaurants and cafés.

  • Chestnut Street is home to many remarkable residences. The architectural styles are very varied for a street of this size.

  • Revere Street is the centre of a number of dead-end streets. These cul-de-sacs were used by craftsmen. The street leads us to the former historic centre of Boston's black community.

As well as its picturesque streets and alleys, the district is also home to the Common Garden. Here you can stroll among the trees and gardens, discovering a radically different space depending on the time of year. In winter, the frozen lake is perfect for ice skating. In all, the park covers some twenty hectares.

Front of a house in Beacon Hills Boston

- © haveseen / Shutterstock

Visit a Victorian house

If you want to take in the sights, head for Nicols House Museum. This historic mansion houses an interior that has retained the atmosphere of the 1800s. The exhibitions cover a wide range of subjects. These include women's history, the decorative arts and everyday life in the 19th century.

Practical info

📍 Location: 55 Mount Vernon Street

Times: Thursday to Sunday at 10am, 11am and 12pm.

👛 Price:

  • Adults: $16
  • Seniors (over 65): 13 dollars
  • Students: 8 dollars
  • Children (under 12): free

To the west of the museum, continuing along Mount Vernon Street, you reach Louisburg Square. This square is certainly the noblest part of the city. Built in 1830, it has retained much the same atmosphere ever since!

The capitol of the State House Massachusetts

- © Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

Where to sleep nearby?

⭐ The Whitney Hotel Boston

The Whitney Hotel Boston is very close to this privileged area of the city. The target clientele for this 5* establishment is also affluent. So the rates offered by the hotel remain in line with the surrounding standing! The spacious rooms are comfortable and equipped with the latest technology. The Whitney Hotel Boston also has a bar-restaurant and a gym. The hotel features a 24-hour reception, room service and free Wi-Fi. Private parking is available at an additional cost.

The Whitney Hotel Boston Boston
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The Whitney Hotel Boston

5* hotel in the centre of Boston offering a garden, restaurant and some accommodation with a splendid view of the city
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Practical info

👉 When to come to Boston's Beacon Hill neighbourhood?

You can come to this touristy corner of the city at any time of year.

🚌 How do I get to Beacon Hill in Boston?

There are several ways to get to this part of the city, by metro, bus or taxi.

As far as the metro is concerned, the most convenient station is Park Street. It's at the junction of the Red Line and Green Line.

Public transport (metro, bus, ferry) is managed by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority.

Whenever possible, use public transport to get to Beacon Hill. However, there are several private car parks close to the area. Please note that parking charges are high, with a minimum charge of $25 per day.

by Editorial Team
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