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Bell in Hand Tavern photo courtesy of Todd Kulesza on Flickr
Boston’s long history as the unofficial base for Irish-Americans means there’s no shortage of pubs and great taverns in the city. Coupled with the recent explosion of classic cocktail bars, it’s fast become a mecca for travelers looking for the ultimate pub crawl.
Here are a few of our favorite drinks spots in downtown Beantown:
The Oldest Bar in the City: Bell in Hand Tavern
While not technically the oldest bar in the U.S. (that honor goes to nearby White Horse Tavern in Newport, RI), Bell in Hand Tavern has been in near-continuous operation since 1795 which is nothing to sneeze at. Having only closed once during government-mandated Prohibition in its centuries-long history, it continues to serve downtown patrons much as it did in the days of the country’s Founding Fathers. Although, today you’re more likely to see scores of yuppies and white collar workers gathered around the taps.
The Coldest Bar in the City: Boston’s Frost Ice Bar
Ice bars are all the rage these days, with incarnations cropping up from Sweden to Quebec to your nearest cruise ship. But Faneuil Hall’s Frost Ice Bar is the only one of its kind in New England. As it’s kept at a constant 21 degree temperature, guests are provided warm ponchos and gloves to ensure year-round enjoyment. Virtually everything here is made from ice, including the many sculptures, furniture, chandelier and even the cocktail glasses.
Best All-Around Bar: The Harp
Having earned its keep for more than twenty years, The Harp is practically a Boston institution and always a great place to grab a beer and some pub grub. Its location across the street from Boston Garden and the North Station T-stop inspire more of a sports bar atmosphere. But the crowd is always laid back, diverse and ready for a good time. More often than not, you’ll find a live band, local DJ or semi-well known act playing the back room where there’s also plenty of room to dance.
(Almost) Any Irish Pub
Any discussion that involves deciding the best Irish pub in Boston is likely to end in a fist fight. The important part as an outsider is that you visit at least one Irish pub while in the city. No matter which one you choose, you’re virtually guaranteed a good time. For starters, we recommend Doyle’s Cafe, The Black Rose, Landsdown Pub or pick one at random from the city’s very, very long list of pubs.
Beantown Pub Crawl: 4 Essential Stops for the Boston Traveler from Boston Things to Do
