When we talk about the most popular cities in the United States, one that constantly crops up is the city of Boston, Massachusetts – a city that has long been at the center of America’s colonial history.

However, one thing that Boston is also known for is alcohol production – especially its distillation of whiskey, of which there are numerous functional distilleries operating in the city to this day.

About The City

Boston is the capital city of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Known officially as the ‘City of Boston’, it is the largest city in the state, and one that acts as the biggest draw for tourists coming to the area known as New England.

Named by English puritanical leader Isaac Johnson in 1630, after his hometown of Boston, Lincolnshire, the city became an important settlement within the earlier days of European colonization.

Acting as the hub for the American Revolution over a century later – with key figures like Samuel Adams, Paul Revere, and others conducting several notable undertakings such as the Boston Tea Party – the city developed an infamous reputation, social personality, and distinct history for which it is still known today.

Widespread immigration to the city during the 19th century – particularly from Ireland – saw the city develop a very unique identity, which has come to characterize the city both within the fabric of the United States, and within the world as a whole.

Local Distilleries

With this widespread immigration to the city, and heavy Irish influence on the formation of Boston’s identity, it is perhaps no surprise that the city has a strong legacy in the production of alcohol of all kinds – with whiskey taking the rightful center stage.

1. Boston Harbor Distillery

Capturing the ‘spirit of Boston’, the Boston Harbor Distillery is located right by the Neponset River, and has been producing some of Boston’s finest liquor since 2012.

Based in a historic factory building, which was once home to Civil War horse nail producers, and WW2-era shipbuilders, the distillery prides itself on contributing to this industrial history of Boston – producing fine products that perfectly capture this can-do spirit.

Address: 12 Ericsson St, Boston, MA 02122

2. GrandTen Distilling

Famous for their gin, rum, and South Boston Irish whiskey, GrandTen Distilling are based in an old iron foundry, and pride themselves on delivering something both distinctly traditional, and effortlessly modern at the same time.

With one of the largest operations in the city, this distillery represents a labor of love that has been many years in the making.

Address: 383 Dorchester Ave, Boston, MA 02127

3. Bully Boy Distillers

Growing up on a generational working farm, the owners of Bully Boy know a thing or two about hard work and sacrifice. And this is exactly what they have done – dedicating their lives to a cause they all believe in, good whiskey and spirits.

With facilities in Roxbury, this distillery is Boston through and through, and the proof is in their product.

Address: 35 Cedric St, Roxbury, MA 02119

4. Chattermark Distillers

Founded in one of Boston’s oldest neighborhoods, Chattermark Distillers channels something historic and traditional that just isn’t seen too often in the world of alcohol production.

With a mantra of community, family, and dedication, Chattermark Distillers represents a distinctly Bostonian point of view, and one that produces some of the best whiskeys in the city.

Address: 200 Terminal St, Boston, MA 02129

Accessibility

One thing that is positive about the city is the level of accessibility that the city has in all areas – be it access to public transportation, safe walkways, and amenities for the disabled.

Boston has some of the best transport links in the world, with taxis, buses, ferries, trolley rides, and guided tours.

All of its historical monuments, and sporting venues have great accessibility for wheelchair users, and those with mobility issues, and in many ways the city set the expected social benchmark for the modern Northeastern coast.

Things To See/Monuments

As you might imagine, a city with as long and storied a history as Boston certainly has its fair share of sites and attractions to check out.

Massachusetts State House

The Massachusetts state house is the seat of the government in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts – characterized by its grand exterior, and the bronze dome sitting on the top, which is known for shining in the sun during the day.

Address: 24 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02133

The Bunker Hill Monument

Representing the Battle of Bunker Hill (June 17th 1777), wherein the colonial troops defended the city of Boston against the attacking British forces, The Bunker Hill Monument is a large stone obelisk reminiscent of the Washington Monument in Washington D.C.

Also containing a military museum, this monument is a place of pride for many Bostonians, who see it as a beacon of their rebellion against the crown.

Address: Monument Sq, Boston, MA 02129

The Boston Tea Party Museum

One of the best, and most popular museums in the city, the Boston Tea Party Museum is a living representation of the Tea Party itself, which saw revolutionaries rebel against the British government’s tea tax by throwing it into the harbor.

Address: 306 Congress St, Boston, MA 02210

The Freedom Trail

The Freedom Trail is one of the best things to do in the city – taking you on a free walking tour of the main historical sites, and allowing you to fully immerse yourself in colonial history.

Address: 139 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02111

Boston Common

Boston Common is one of the many green spaces within the city, and is one of the best places to kick back, relax, and enjoy some peace and quiet.

Address: 139 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02111

USS Constitution

Known as ‘Old Ironsides’, this relic from the Revolutionary War is a popular site for many – delivering interesting maritime history about one of the most important American vessels.

Address: Charlestown Navy Yard, Boston, MA 02129

Faneuil Hall

This once popular meeting place holds distinct significance in the early politics of the city of Boston, and is a great example of living history that you can see and experience in real time.

The area now sits within a marketplace with shopping, eateries, and entertainment.

Address: 4 South Market Building, Boston, MA 02109

The Culture Of Boston

As you might imagine, the city of Boston also has a thriving nighttime culture – littered with countless places for food, beverages, and live entertainment.

Entertainment

Boston is somewhat famous for its sports, music, and its stand-up comedy scenes, and there are numerous venues for people to check out both.

Some notable venues include the Wilbur Theater, Fenway Park Baseball Stadium, the Royale nightclub and venue, as well as several comedy clubs – including LAUGH Boston, Nick’s Comedy Stop, and The Comedy Studio.

Food

Boston is also a great place to find a bite to eat, thanks in part to the melting pot of cultures that came together to make the city what it is.

The Irish, British, and Jewish influences in particular have led to some great eateries popping up throughout the city, where you can sample some of the best food in the country – all of which is soaked in history and tradition.

Nightlife

Boston is also a great place for pubs, bars, and clubs – with numerous places that are perfect to sit down, kick back, and enjoy a drink with friends.

A major draw for many are the number of Irish pubs in the city – of which there are countless – as well as some of the oldest bars and pubs in the country, some of which have been serving fine ales and spirits for centuries.

Final Thoughts

It is certainly true that Boston has a rich history – with its hands in many different industries that have helped to not only shape America, but the wider world also.

But if you want to find the best distilleries in the country, then as this article shows, Boston might just do it a little bit better than the rest.

So if you are interested in heading to Boston, then be sure to refer to this handy guide!

Frequently Asked Questions

Now that we know a little more about the city of Boston, and the things that it has to offer both tourists and locals alike, it is now time to answer some frequently asked questions that you might be interested in.

Is Boston Expensive?

Unfortunately for those looking to live in Boston, Massachusetts, the city is renowned for being one of the most expensive cities in not only the United States, but throughout the world.

Generally speaking, the city is considered to rank number 16 out of the 229 most expensive cities worldwide.

Why Is Boston So Popular?

As you can see, Boston has much to offer people of all walks of life – encompassing American history, Irish-American culture, sports, food, music, and alcohol production.