80. Beacon Hill Books & Cafe
Location:
Beacon Hill Books & Cafe is located on the pedestrian-filled Charles St between a ton of eclectic shops and traditional eateries all with the quintessential Boston brick exterior. The cafe is located on the ground floor, while you climb a short staircase to get directly to the bookshop.
Experience:
It’s hard to put this in the same category of “bookstore” like other traditional or even extremely eclectic ones. You will be greeted immediately by ornate moldings and detailing that resembles a Victorian home more than a typical shop. It’s truly breathtaking to see all of the spaces come together in an approachable and comfortable way through the use of decor and dim lights which compliment the natural lighting peaking in from the outside.
Favorite Aspect:
All of the small detailing along the way provides an unforgettable experience: the sprawling staircase, the train going around the top of the kids bookshelves; the mini doors with little lion knockers; the mini art vending machine. We were perpetually in awe of how thoughtful the design was in a space that would be hard to imagine books for sale. Check out their mascot “Paige” the squirrel whose plushies are available to purchase as a memento and who even has a children’s book dedicated to her called Paige of Beacon Hill by Sarah S. Brannen.
71 Charles St, Boston, MA 02114 - Website
