Raise a glass at the Bull and Finch Pub, the setting of the Cheers Bar, Boston

Grab a beer at the Cheers Bar, Boston and raise a glass where everybody knows your name.

Even kids who missed Cheers know of it in the 2020s. It’s a testament to its writers, actors, and uncanny ability to capture a moment in time so perfectly that has made Cheers such an iconic series ( and budget-conscious networks that have rehashed annually since the mid-80s). And while you won’t find Ted Danson behind the Cheers bar Boston, a visit to the Bull and Finch Pub, the original setting at Beacon Hill, just across the street from the Boston Common is worthwhile for fans.

Before the disaster that was the 2020 pandemic, there were two Cheers Bars in Boston. The one in Quincy Market has since closed. It was a real tourist trap, lacking any level of authenticity. The Bull and Finch Pub is at least legitimate in that it’s what people think about when they imagine the Cheers pub. It’s the iconic exterior that is seen in the old world engravings in the opening sequence of the classic series. All interior shots, however, were filmed on the other side of the country.

The Cheers Bar Boston is in the basement of historic Hampshire House (now a wedding venue), which was built in 1895. In the 1960s it was known as the Bull and Finch Pub and was spotted by the show’s writers in the early 80s and chosen for its perfect, homely corner bar vibe.

In reality, it’s nothing like the Hollywood set. There are two spaces to accommodate tourist groups. Upstairs is more of the stained glass and wood grain vibe, but downstairs is a darker dive bar vibe.

There are plenty of photo opportunities to be had inside, with a larger-than-life shot of the team to pose in front of and old wood-paneled bars to sit. But you won’t find characters like the much-loved Diane and Sam here. The bar staff and clientele are young and while nice enough, can’t match the charisma of Kelsey Grammar, Ted Danson, Shelley Long, George Wendt, Woody Harrelson, and Rhea Perlman, who all became household names after the success of the long-standing comedy series.

In terms of pubs, the Cheers Bar Boston lacks the atmosphere and vibe of other local Boston bars, but then again, this is one of those tourist places that accommodates fans and tragics’ desires to connect with one of the most popular comedies in television history.

So, put aside your expectations of making the Bull and Finch Pub your “local.” If you want to feel more in tune with the moment, we enjoyed the quiet anonymity of the downstairs bar, where we quickly discovered the whole “where everybody knows your name” thing is a total fallacy. Luckily they deliver a decent chili and the beers are served in giant mugs that can easily take the place of weights as you bicep curl that frosty Sam Adams up to your thirsty, burnt-by-chili lips.

With its pivotal role in American history, its melting pot of Irish and Italian flavors, and warm, humble population, Boston is an essential stop when traveling the east coast of the United States. Explore more great ideas to make the most of a Boston stay.

WHAT?

The inspiration for the original Cheers bar which is now a tourist attraction.

WHERE?

84 Beacon St. Beacon Hill, Boston

HOW?

Hours: