Wicked Good Guides / Boston for Visitors / What to see

Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market

This is one of the "stops" on the Freedom Trail, but is today better known as a large "festival market." Faneuil (generally pronounced "Fan-yule," but some residents do call it "Fannel") Hall is the squarish building with the grasshopper weathervane on top.

You go to the marketplace because, well, that's just what you do as a tourist in Boston. To be sure, it's a fun place, with street comedians and musicians, a gazillion types of food to try and the like. At night, it's one of Boston's key locations for serious drinking - pubs and bars abound (it's also home to the Comedy Connection, Boston's largest comedy venue). But many of the unique local stores have been driven out by national chains.

Less than a block away from Quincy Market is Haymarket. This unique outdoor food market, open every Friday and Saturday from roughly dawn to dusk, is as much street theater as a place to get fresh vegetables, fruit and fish.

You can get to Quincy Market from the State Street stop on the Blue and Orange lines; the Haymarket stop on the Green and Orange lines and the Government Center stop on the Green and Blue lines.

Comments

Parking at local garage was advertised at eight dollars with stamped card. Cost was an unexpected 25 dollars. " We do not accept any discounts". Had a bad time in boston this weekend and will not return soon.

Tom Stein on February 15, 2004 07:16 PM.

I was wondering how I could obtain a street performing permit, i am juggler interested in performing at Faneul Hall and mabey Quincy Market.

vinny ricciardi on May 28, 2004 12:23 PM.

I was taking my class on a trip to Historical Boston and we went to Faneuil hall and Quincy Market and had a great time. The students weren't bored, it was so much fun, and extremely informational. We also got to try some delicious foods! I suggest a trip enthusiastically!

C.Hallett on October 2, 2005 08:42 PM.

how do you get a performers permit for quincy market?

chelsea on September 22, 2007 11:12 PM.

I am searching for a restaurant that can hold a private party - wedding rehearsal dinner - for about 100-120 people May 23, 2009. something interesting or an interesting location is our goal. please respond with any suggestions. priced moderately.

Norman

Norman Margolies on June 13, 2008 06:04 PM.

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