For more than 350 years, this lively city location has been a gathering place for Bostonians and tourists seeking food, entertainment and social activities. Originally built as a meeting center and market in 1742, Faneuil Hall’s early history included rousing gatherings, featuring speeches by John Adams and other patriots calling for independence from England.

The original building was partially destroyed by a fire, and was restored and enlarged several times since. When British troops occupied the building in the 1770s, it was used as a theater for officers and their wives.

The hall’s second floor still serves as a popular site for meetings and TV debates when political candidates campaign for local, state and national office. According to reports, more than 18 million people visit Faneuil Hall each year.

Today, there are 100 retail shops, including restaurants, food stands and other commercial activities. There’s frequent entertainment in the balcony area above the shops, including the Boston Classical Orchestra. Outside on the cobblestone walkway visitors enjoy free daily shows by magicians, jugglers, clowns, singers and musicians.

There’s a lively restaurant and bar scene nightly, including Black Rose, Cheers, Coogan’s Bluff, Bell in Hand and Ames Plow Tavern. faneuilhallmarketplace.com