Constructed in Georgian style and donated to the city of Boston in 1742, Faneuil Hall is a historic building located adjacent to the Quincy Market building in downtown Boston, Massachusetts and is also known referred to as Quincy Market. Faneuil Hall is named after its French builder Peter Faneuil. In the 19th century, because of the massive growth of the city, Faneuil Hall underwent an expansion and was significantly enlarged and remodeled in 1806. The buildings width was doubled and a third floor was added. In the 1970's the building went through remodeling again, this time on the interior.
The first floor of Boston Faneuil Hall continues to operate as a market place since its doors first opened in the 18th century and remains an integral part of the city. The second floor is called the Great Hall and was where town meetings were once held. Now its used by the U.S. National Park Service and Faneuil Hall history lectures are given every half hour by Rangers. Housed on the third floor of Boston Faneuil Hall is the Armory and Museum of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts.
Boston Faneuil Hall remains one of the country’s most famous dining and shopping areas and attracts thousands of visitors to the over 100 shops and old-style carts. Many local artisans hawk their unique wares at the market and can be found mainly at the Quincy Market section Boston Faneuil Hall has played an elemental role in the lives of Boston residents for over 250 years and many residents visit and shop there often. The North and South markets at Boston Faneuil Hall are home to eateries and specialty shops. Some of the best drinks and eats can be found here and the area is a lot less crowded than the central market where there’s a huge selection of food and confections.
Faneuil Hall Marketplace is almost always crowded! Visitors should arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the burgeoning crowds. When visiting Faneuil Hall Marketplace Quincy Market is a good one to check out first before mealtime mania hits. One thing to note is the Quincy Market food court is not air conditioned and can be unbearably hot during the summer months. Visit Faneuil Hall Marketplace on a clear day when the outdoor vendors and performers will be out in full force. For a blast from the past stop in at the original ‘Cheers’ bar “where everybody knows your name, and you’re always glad you came”! Follow the Freedom Trail and you’ll find it.
Faneuil Hall Market is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 9pm, on Sundays from noon to 6pm and admission is free to all. Most restaurants and bars close later than the shops. Many of the shop hours at Quincy Market vary by store. At Faneuil Hall Market there are also over 35 street performers that are split into two categories, musical acts and variety acts encompassing fun and exciting entertainment for the entire family. At Faneuil Hall Market its almost impossible to be struck by boredom. This is a place where people keep going back for more. There’s so much going on from day to day and shops and vendors try to mix things up and keep things fresh. Faneuil Hall Market is definitely worth a visit and easy way to spend an afternoon or an entire day.
