It’s nicknamed “The Cradle of Liberty” for good reason: this magnificent building is where colonists first insisted “no taxation without representation” (1764) and where President George Washington celebrated the country’s 1-year anniversary (1777).
Today, Faneuil Hall serves as the anchor to Quincy Market, housing a Visitor Center in a bustling city hub with dozens of vendors, shops, and stands surrounding it.
Inside Faneuil Hall you’ll find:
- Visitor Center (1st Floor)
- Great Hall (2nd Floor)
- The Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company Museum
Faneuil Hall is owned by the City of Boston and operated by the National Park Service. A variety of films, activities, and programs can be enjoyed here year-round!
Are Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market the same thing?
Many people ask if Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market are the same thing. Although they’re part of the same marketplace destination (named Faneuil Hall Marketplace), technically and historically speaking, Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market are different buildings with different purposes.
Important tidbits in the timeline:
- Faneuil Hall was built in 1743
- Faneuil Hall Market was built in In 1826 outside of Faneuil Hall
- Faneuil Hall Market consists of 3 buildings: the central “Faneuil Hall Market” and separate “North Market” and “South Market” buildings.
- The public began calling the trio of buildings “Quincy Market” after Mayor Josiah Quincy, who led the project, despite his insistence that it continue to honor Peter Faneuil rather than himself.
- In 1976, The Rouse Company redeveloped and marketed the 4 properties (Faneuil Hall, Faneuil Hall Market, North Market, South Market) as Faneuil Hall Marketplace.
- In 1989, the central “Faneuil Hall Market” building was officially designated as “Quincy Market”, although the general public still refers to the markets together as “Quincy Market”.
- The original “Faneuil Hall” building now serves as the Faneuil Hall Visitor Center.
Whether you call them (or miscall them) Faneuil Hall, Faneuil Hall Market, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, or Quincy Market, make sure you walk through all 4 buildings to properly appreciate their history and everything they have to offer!