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Quincy Market

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Quincy Market
Photograph: Sarah BentivegnaQuincy Market
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Time Out says

4 out of 5 stars

Everything you need to know about visiting Quincy Market

Built in the mid 1820s, when Boston’s population was rapidly outgrowing the smaller marketplace in Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market was originally right on the harbor. (The shoreline has changed over time.) Today, the neoclassical Colonnade building is lined with food stands. On either side of the central hall, rows of carts loaded with souvenirs and crafts lure tourists to part with still more dollars, as do the street performers who set up shop outside, year-round. Flanking the Colonnade are the North and South Market buildings, which are likewise filled with shops, mostly national chains.

What to expect at Quincy Market

A variety of visitors from near and far come to Quincy Market throughout the year; expect capacity crowds during major holidays and on summer weekends. With few destination-worthy dining options and a lack of parking, locals mostly stay away, unless they have a need to visit retailers such as Banana Republic or The Gap. Still, the people-watching opportunities make it worthy of a stop, or at least a walk-through when heading towards an event at TD Garden or a night out in the North End.

When to go to Quincy Market

This area is one of the busiest and most touristic in all of Boston. International visitors and tour groups fill the historic environs on a near-constant basis. Depending on the timing of your visit, you may find it tough to find an open bench or place to sit with your take-out treats; fortunately, lovely public spaces such as Christopher Columbus Waterfront Park and Long Wharf are only a short stroll away. The market occasionally hosts seasonal and promotional events; one annual highlight is Blink!, a free and festive sound and light show offered every December.

Where to eat and drink at Quincy Market

There are dozens of food and drink options—just about something for every mood—in area. Fortunately, we have a handy list of the best restaurants in Quincy Market. Big groups and indecisive types are best suited to the Colonnade, where there are myriad take-away options, from lobster rolls and clam chowder to Boston Cream Pie cupcakes. First-timers shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit Durgin Park, one of the country’s most famous Yankee restaurants, where you can try baked beans, Indian pudding, and just about any other old-time treat you can think of.

Written by
Eric Grossman

Details

Address:
15 State St
Boston
02111
Cross street:
Congress St
Transport:
Green or Blue line to Government Center, Blue Line to Aquarium
Opening hours:
Mon-Sat 10am-9pm (10am-7pm winter); Sun 11am-7pm (12-6pm winter)
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