Cheers
4.4(10K)google
3.5(1.4K)yelp
tv-filmHistoric BuildingfoodNight-FriendlyMust-See
Overview
Cheers, originally founded in 1969 as the Bull & Finch Pub in Boston's historic Beacon Hill neighborhood, achieved immortal international fame as the exterior inspiration for the legendary, multi-award-winning 1980s television sitcom 'Cheers.' Stepping down into the cozy, brick-walled basement tavern allows travelers to immerse themselves directly in classic Americana pop-culture history. Visitors can sit at the world-famous square bar, photograph rare show memorabilia, and enjoy a hearty 'Cheers Burger' alongside local craft beer.
Practical Info
Suggested DurationAbout 45-60 minutes
Best TimeThe best time to drop by is late afternoon between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM. This historic pub served as the exterior for the iconic TV show 'Cheers'; visiting between lunch and dinner gives you ample space to snap a photo with the historic sign and enjoy a pint.
Getting TherePerfectly nestled at 84 Beacon St directly across from the Public Garden, take the MBTA Subway Green Line to Arlington Station. From there, enjoy a brief 3-minute walk north to the ivy-clad historic brick facade and subterranean entrance.
Travel Tips
- Avoid the wrong branch! The authentic historic exterior from the TV show is 'Cheers Beacon Hill' at 84 Beacon Street. The Faneuil Hall location is merely a replica storefront. Focus your trip on Beacon Hill.
- The historic pub is nestled in a tight semi-basement with steep, cramped stairs, making it completely inaccessible to wheelchairs and large strollers. Take street-level photos of the awning instead.
- Dinner hours on Friday through Sunday guarantee massive tourist queues. Beat the crowds by arriving right at 11:00 AM opening for early lunch to secure iconic bar stools and gift shop access with zero wait.
Reviews
Positive
- As the filming site for the classic sitcom Cheers, the iconic red-brick exterior sign lives up to its fame, instantly immersing you in the classic theme song.
- The interior displays genuine show props, autographed photos, and a replica bar layout, offering rich cultural sentiment and nostalgia for longtime fans.
- The burgers, fish and chips, and giant pints of local craft beer are fresh and delicious, backed by a witty staff that inherits the show's warm neighborhood charm.
- The location is fantastic, anchored directly across from the gorgeous Boston Public Garden; it is just a short walk across the street from the T station.
Heads up
- Due to its immense fame, the overall menu prices are noticeably higher than standard neighborhood pubs, carrying a tourist premium that misses value for non-fans.
- The basement pub interior is relatively cramped and dimly lit, tables are packed tightly, and retrofitted accessibility is limited, making strollers tough.
- It has evolved into a heavily commercialized international tourist destination; the massive merchandise retail shop takes up too much floor space, erasing any raw peace.
- During summer peak and weekend evenings, long queues choke the entrance; the interior gets insanely rowdy, making a quiet, reflective drink impossible.