4 Best Bars in Beacon Hill and Boston Common, Boston

Although it's named for the amendment that ended Prohibition, this long-standing, convivial bar is no speakeasy. Its location right across the street from the State House draws a mixed crowd of legislators and locals, but not too many tourists since it's a bit off the beaten path. Beer, burgers, steak tips, and fish-and-chips are on the menu. Check out the JFK booth in the back, a favorite spot where the former president used to meet colleagues. Anyone looking for a no-frills bar where you can loosen the tie or fit in with jeans, this is your place.

Venture down Beacon Street past the Massachusetts State House and Boston Common and you'll cross paths with this cocktail bar and restaurant that channels romantic notions of a 1920s speakeasy. Jazz music, a checkerboard floor, antique photo gallery, art deco lighting, and dark leather set the tone. Famous for its Sunday Drag Brunch, an interactive drag show with cocktail specials and a buffet brunch—reserve a ticket online.

Whether you call it Cheers or its original name, Bull & Finch Pub, this local hangout turned tourist hot spot celebrates Sam Malone's watering hole from the now-classic hit 1980s NBC television show, Cheers. But why? This pub, which was dismantled in England, shipped to Boston, and reassembled, served as the inspiration for the TV bar and its cast of characters, Diane, Frasier, Norm, Cliff, et al. Today, enjoy typical pub grub and burgers alongside a beer, Cheers' award-winning Bloody Mary, or Sam's own Screaming Viking. Children are not allowed after 10 pm.

Cocktails are the star of the show here, and not classic ones at that, but there's also a great selection of local draft beers and a few wines by the glass. There are also a handful of snacks to counteract the alcohol. This place is popular, so reservations are strongly recommended.