this is a page for

Daily Archives: July 14, 2023

Faneuil Hall, A Little Touristy, and A Lot Fun!

Faneuil Hall, Boston
Photo by Brett Wharton on Unsplash

Faneuil Hall & Quincy Market

Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market is a well-known mixed-used marketplace in Downtown Boston. There are over 80 businesses located inside the marketplace and they range from unique, local businesses to nationally recognized shops. During my recent trip to Boston, Faneuil Hall was on my “must-do” list and I’m so glad I got to experience it!

A Brief Boston History Lesson…

Quoted directly from the Faneuil Hall website…

“In 1742, Peter Faneuil, one of Boston’s wealthiest merchants, built Faneuil Hall as a gift to the city. The building would serve as a meeting hall and a permanent central marketplace. The building was home to merchants, fishermen, and meat and produce sellers, and provided a platform for the country’s most famous orators. It became home to the town government and served as a public hall for concerts, banquets, and ceremonies.”

I really valued how the Faneuil Hall website included the following statement:

“The building was named in Faneuil’s honor but a significant portion of his wealth came directly as well as indirectly from human enslavement.”

Kudos to the folks at Faneuil Hall for including the dark history of the marketplace along with the vibrant present!

Faneuil Hall, 1826 – 1976

In 1826, Faneuil Hall expanded to include Quincy Market when Boston’s rapid growth required a larger marketplace. Quincy Market was named after Josiah Quincy, who organized the construction of the Market without any tax or debt. The South and North Market buildings were completed in 1827.

By 1976, Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market were in bad shape and slated for demolition. A group of Bostonians stepped in and revitalized the buildings into what we know and love today!

Present Day

Today, Faneuil Hall is at the top of the list of places to visit in Boston. It is a very “touristy” destination but it’s also a fun, one-of-a-kind experience. Adding in the rich (and at times dark) history of the place makes it a must-see for any trip to Downtown Boston!

Chowda!

Quincy Market is essentially a giant food hall. They offer American, Asian, Breakfast, Italian, Mexican, Salads, Seafood, Sandwiches, and Dessert. There is truly something for every palate at Quincy Market!

Chowda!
A delicious cup of Chowda from Boston Chowda Co!

My favorite dish at Quincy Market was definitely the clam “chowda” from Boston Chowda Company! It was everything I expected my first taste of authentic clam chowder to be. The clam chowder was creamy, salty (in the best possible way), and full of clams in every bite!

Thanks!

Thanks for experiencing Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market with me! I’ll have more Boston posts coming soon, so do stay tuned. As always, I love hearing from you all so be sure to leave me a comment about your summer trips!

Faneuil Hall Market