Frequently Asked Questions about Beacon Hill

With many thanks to www.beaconhillonline.com and www.cityofboston.gov for help with these answers.

		Where is Beacon Hill?
		Beacon Hill is located in downtown Boston just north of the Boston Common and the Boston Public Garden. Its most prominent feature is the Massachusetts State House, which sits on the top of the Hill. The neighborhood is bordered on the north by Cambridge Street, on the west by the Charles River, on the south by Beacon Street, and on the east by Bowdoin Street. [DETAILED MAP OF BEACON HILL]

		Where can I park when I visit Beacon Hill?
		The Business Association recommends taking public transportation to get to Beacon Hill. The rumors about driving in Boston are not entirely false. It can be difficult, especially if you are not used to it. The rising price of gas makes public transportation a particularly attractive option. Plus, your kids will love it - how often do they get to ride on a train? Beacon Hill is easily accessible by commuter rail and subway (the T), and there are many "park and ride" options available for those visitors coming from longer distances. See our suggestions for getting to Beacon Hill by public transportation. If you do decide to drive, see our detailed map and parking options.

		What is Beacon Hill known for?
		Beacon Hill is probably most famous for its history and architecture. Beacon Hill is also known for its unique shopping in one-of-a-kind stores, often owned by Hill residents, offering goods you won't find anywhere else. You'll find antiques shops, gourmet groceries, gift shops, home decorating shops, fashion boutiques and restaurants - all within a few minutes walk. Browse our shops and business directory. Beacon Hill is also known for three important events that draw visitors from all over the world. Visit our event calendar to see what's coming up.

		Who lives on Beacon Hill?
		Approximately 10,000 people live on the Hill. Some are indeed wealthy, as the tour bus drivers like to point out. But among our residents are also students, young professionals, shopkeepers, retirees, tradesmen, dog owners and the greatest percentage of children in any downtown Boston neighborhood. Beacon Hill's attraction lies not only in its architecture, but in its rich community life, which makes it seem like a typical New England village - the antithesis of the anonymity and isolation that many people expect of city living. With neighbors knowing neighbors and residents and shop keepers knowing one another well, visitors find Beacon Hill more welcoming and friendlier than other typical urban destinations.

		Where can I shop on Beacon Hill?
		Beacon Hill merchants offer what you can't get anywhere else - one-of-a-kind shops, unaffiliated with major chains, carrying merchandise that reflects the owners' tastes, talent and special resources. You'll find antiques, clothing, home decorating items, hardware, gifts, pharmaceuticals, works of art, jewelry and everything else in our shops. We are so well supplied that most Beacon Hill residents rarely leave 'The Hill' to find what they need.

		Where can I eat and be entertained?
		Let's start with the answer to the most asked question on Beacon Hill: Where is Cheers? The Boston pub that inspired the setting for the hit TV show is at 84 Beacon Street across from The Boston Public Garden. Stop in and try Sam's Starters, eNORMous burgers and finish up with Diane's Desserts. The youngsters will want to ask for the kid's menu and the whole family will want to visit the Cheers gift shop!. Other Beacon Hill restaurants offer everything from pizza to Persian and casual to elegant. Discover our neighborhood's tasty offerings.

		Where can I stay?
		Did we say unique yet? How's this for unique? The Liberty Hotel is a luxury four-star hotel carved out of a granite jail building, circa 1852. Sacco & Vanzetti and James Michael Curley (former mayor of Boston) once enjoyed the "hospitality" of the Charles Street jail and now you can too, although most of the rooms no longer have bars on the windows. The hotel's bar, Alibi, and a restaurant, Clink, will help you get into the captivating mood. You can find a totally different take on luxury at The Charles Street Inn, Boston's premier luxury bed and breakfast. Its Victorian suites feature working fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, antique furniture and original art. It's like stepping back in time. The Holiday Inn Boston at Beacon Hill offers fine accommodations at the edge of Beacon Hill. Check out their meeting rooms, where the view is terrific! For modern amenities in an intimate setting, reserve a room at The Beacon Hill Hotel and Bistro. A decidedly American/International flavor during the day changes to a decidedly French Accent in the evening. There are great options for staying overnight on Beacon Hill. We have luxury hotels and inns, and some great economic options. Discover the accommodations that suit you best in our business directory.

		What else?
		Browse through our business directory. We have whatever you need - experienced lawyers and real estate brokers, top-notch medical professionals and facilities, and every other service you can think of.