Bell in Hand Tavern

The Bell in Hand Tavern traces its history to 1795, when, by tradition, it was founded by James "Jimmy" Wilson, a Boston town crier. The name comes from the hand-held bell Wilson carried on his rounds while calling out the news. The tavern is widely believed to be the oldest continuously operating bar in the United States, although it did stop trading during Prohibition, so the claim comes with an asterisk.

The bar has moved several times over its long history, from a spot near Boston City Hall to Williams Court, known as Pi Alley, then to Devonshire Street and finally to its current home on Union Street. Today it is a bar on Union Street, a few doors along from Union Oyster House at number 41, and it is a natural stop for anyone exploring the historic blocks around Faneuil Hall.

As with most downtown bars, expect it to be at its busiest in the evenings and at weekends. It suits groups of friends, visitors on the Freedom Trail who want a drink with a story behind it, and anyone looking for a casual night out near Faneuil Hall Marketplace. As a general tip, afternoons and early evenings are the easiest time to find a seat and to take in the building, while later at night the focus shifts to a busier bar crowd. Bring ID, as bars in Boston routinely check it.

Because the tavern is close to the Freedom Trail, it pairs naturally with an afternoon of sightseeing. Union Oyster House, a few doors away, is the obvious choice for a historic dinner before or after a drink, and Faneuil Hall Marketplace is a few minutes' walk away for a casual meal. The North End's restaurants and cafés are also within walking distance for a later dinner or dessert.

Current opening hours and any entertainment schedule are best checked directly with the tavern before you go. If you are visiting with a group on a weekend evening, consider arriving early, as popular downtown bars can fill quickly and queues are common later at night. Prices are typical of a downtown Boston pub.