Bell in Hand Tavern
Step into America's oldest tavern at Bell in Hand, where 1795 alehouse vibes meet live music, craft brews, and historic haunts near Boston's Freedom Trail.
America's oldest continuously operating tavern since 1795, the Bell in Hand Tavern on Boston's Union Street blends rich colonial history with lively modern pub vibes. Founded by town crier Jimmy Wilson, it draws crowds for craft beers, hearty American fare like clam chowder and burgers, and weekend live music in a bustling, historic setting near Faneuil Hall.
A brief summary to Bell in Hand
- 45 Union St, Boston, Government Center, Massachusetts, 02108, US
- Click to display
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- Duration: 0.75 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-2 am
- Tuesday 11 am-2 am
- Wednesday 11 am-2 am
- Thursday 11 am-2 am
- Friday 11 am-2 am
- Saturday 11 am-2 am
- Sunday 11 am-2 am
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bell in Hand.
- Visit on weekends for live music and DJs that amp up the historic pub energy without a cover charge.
- Try the clam chowder or pretzels—local favorites praised for flavor in this iconic setting.
- Arrive early evenings to snag prime bar seating amid peak tourist crowds near Faneuil Hall.
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Getting There
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Walking
5-10 min walk from Faneuil Hall or Haymarket T station; free, flat terrain in bustling North End.
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Public Transit
Haymarket (Orange/Green Line) or Government Center (Blue/Green/Orange); $2.40-$4.40 one-way, 2-5 min walk.
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Rideshare
Uber/Lyft from downtown: 5-10 min, $8-15 peak; drop-off at Union St amid traffic.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
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Restrooms
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Food Options
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Drink Options
Discover more about Bell in Hand
History and Legacy
Established in 1795 by Boston's legendary town crier Jimmy "Jimmy" Wilson, the Bell in Hand Tavern earned its name from the hand-bell Wilson rang to announce news across the city, from the Boston Tea Party to the nation's birth. Retiring after 50 years, Wilson opened this alehouse, serving only thick ale in two mugs—one for liquid, one for froth—eschewing whiskey and rum popular elsewhere. It became Boston's premier gathering spot for printers, politicians, sailors, students, and luminaries like Daniel Webster, fostering lively debates and gossip amid colonial intrigue.Locations Through Time
Originally near City Hall on Elm Street, the tavern shifted to Williams Court, Pi Alley, 81 Devonshire Street, and finally 45 Union Street in Boston's vibrant North End, steps from Faneuil Hall and the Freedom Trail. Though it paused during Prohibition, it claims the title of America's oldest tavern, its iconic sign—a pictorial bell evoking 18th-century literacy rates—still welcoming patrons today.Atmosphere and Entertainment
Inside, exposed brick and wooden beams evoke 18th-century charm, while the second floor pulses as a modern nightclub. Open daily from 11 AM to 2 AM, it buzzes with live music and DJs on weekends, drawing tourists, locals, and history buffs. The vibe mixes historic reverence with energetic camaraderie, perfect for raw oysters, lobster rolls, fish and chips, or burgers paired with local drafts.Culinary Highlights
The menu showcases New England classics: creamy clam chowder hailed as town-best, soft pretzels with cheese dip, buffalo mac and cheese, sliders, and fresh seafood. Beer lovers appreciate craft selections and the tavern's legacy as the site of America's first chilled draft pour. Portions satisfy, though prices reflect prime location and fame.Modern Touches and Events
Eco-friendly upgrades like no-touch hand dryers keep restrooms spotless amid high traffic. Ideal for groups and private parties, it offers customized experiences in its 300-person main bar or 200-capacity upstairs space. Whether tracing revolutionary footsteps or toasting contemporaries, the Bell in Hand endures as a timeless Boston staple.Explore the best of what Bell in Hand has to offer
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