Thing to do
Freedom Trail
A 2.5-mile marked walking route linking 16 official historic sites, from Boston Common through downtown and the North End to Bunker Hill Monument in Charlestown.
Boston Public Market
An indoor, year-round market on Hanover Street where more than 30 New England farmers, artisans and food producers sell groceries, prepared food and drinks.
At a glance
- Type
- Indoor food market
- Area
- Downtown, Boston, United States
- Opening
- Open daily
- Official site
- bostonpublicmarket.org
Good to know
- 30+ New England producers
- Open daily
- Grocery and prepared food
- Event space
Why we recommend it
Boston Public Market is an indoor market at 100 Hanover Street dedicated to food and goods from New England. More than 30 local artisans and food producers have stalls here, and everything is grouped into things to eat, drink, shop for and take home as groceries. It is a good place to see what the region grows and makes.
Vendors change over time, and the mix spans prepared food, drinks, gifts and groceries. It is a good place to put together a picnic for the Rose Kennedy Greenway or Boston Common, to try local specialities in small portions, or to buy edible gifts that will survive the journey home. George Howell Coffee, the Boston roaster, has a counter here among the stalls.
The market is open from 8am to 6pm Sunday to Tuesday and from 8am to 8pm Wednesday to Saturday, although some vendors keep their own hours. The later closing time from Wednesday to Saturday is useful for an early dinner after sightseeing. The market also hosts private events and seasonal celebrations, such as a harvest party and a fibre festival, so check its website for what is on during your stay. A second Boston Public Market outlet operates in Terminal C at Logan Airport.
As a general tip, weekday mornings are quieter than lunchtime, and if you want to talk to producers about what they sell, the calmer hours are the best time. Allow 45 minutes to an hour to browse and eat. The market suits food lovers, families looking for an easy lunch where everyone can choose, and self-catering travellers stocking up for an apartment.
Bring a reusable bag if you plan to buy groceries, and ask vendors about how well their products travel if you are taking food home. Because stalls are run by independent producers, the selection is best explored with a little time to chat and sample, rather than in a rush.
The market is a few minutes' walk from Faneuil Hall Marketplace, so it is easy to fit into a day on the Freedom Trail. Combine it with a visit to Faneuil Hall in the morning and an afternoon in the North End, or use it as a lunch stop before crossing to Charlestown.
Boston Public Market FAQs
When is Boston Public Market open?
8am to 6pm Sunday to Tuesday and 8am to 8pm Wednesday to Saturday; some vendors' hours vary.
What can you buy there?
Food and goods from more than 30 New England artisans and producers, from groceries to prepared food and drinks.
Is it indoors?
Yes. It is an indoor, year-round market.
Is it good for lunch?
Yes. Vendors include prepared food as well as groceries.
Is there coffee?
Yes. George Howell Coffee has a counter at the market.
Is there a branch at the airport?
Yes. A Boston Public Market outlet operates in Terminal C at Logan Airport.
How long should you allow?
About 45 minutes to an hour.
What is nearby?
Faneuil Hall Marketplace is a few minutes' walk away.