Welcome to the Travel Like a Local: MA “Tuesday Top 5”!
Each Tuesday I choose a different neighborhood in the Boston area and highlight my top five favorite things to do in each.

Today we’re showcasing Charlestown. Located just over the bridge from the North End, Charlestown is a charming neighborhood with a lot of history. Walk along the Freedom Trail to check out attractions like the USS Constitution and the Bunker Hill Monument. And then stay a while to grab a drink, have a bite, enjoy the city views, do a little shopping or relax with a yoga class. Read on for my Top 5 things to do when visiting Charlestown!

The Warren Tavern in Charlestown.

Bar area at the Warren Tavern.

Lobster roll at the Warren Tavern.

Charlestown: Drink a Pint at The Warren Tavern

The oldest tavern in Massachusetts, and one of the most historic taverns in America, The Warren Tavern is one of my favorite spots to grab a pint. Dating to 1780, famous patrons included George Washington and Paul Revere. And while it’s history may cause some to write it off as being touristy, The Warren Tavern is a neighborhood staple where you’ll likely find more locals than visitors. Offering classic pub fare, the beers are always cold, and their clam chowder is some of the best (and thickest) in the city. I’m also a big fan of their lobster roll (served with a side of coleslaw and sweet potato fries). Stop in, grab a pint and enjoy a drink where our founding fathers once did.

The USS Constitution in the Charlestown Navy Yard.

Rose and views from Pier 6 in Charlestown.

City views from Pier 6 in the Charlestown Navy Yard.

Charlestown: Stroll Through The Navy Yard

Home to the USS Constitution, the Charlestown Navy Yard offers some of the best city skyline views in all of Boston. Walk along the Harborwalk and Constitution Wharf (home to the Castle Island Beer Garden in the summer) to get to the Navy Yard and take in the scenery. You’ll walk by the area where the USS Constitution and USS Cassin Young are docked (a great spot for photos). Continue on to Pier 6 for a cocktail, or stop by the Navy Yard Bistro for dinner.

Place & Gather boutique in the Charlestown Training Field.

Shelves of local gifts at Place & Gather.

Junebug Charlestown.

Charlestown: Shop Local at Place & Gather and Junebug

While Charlestown has not historically been known as one of Boston’s retail hotspots, shop owner Amanda Mitchell is changing that. If you’re visiting the Bunker Hill Monument, stop by Place & Gather, located in the Training Field just steps away. Filled with home decor, hostess gifts and fun accessories, it’s a great place to pick up locally-made products like Jill Rosenwald ceramics or McCrea’s caramels. You’ll also find items that pay homage to its Charlestown location – including notecards, cocktail napkins, hand towels, wine glasses, pillows and more.

If you continue down to Main Street, pop into Junebug, Place & Gather’s sister store. In addition to florals, Amanda offers fun jewelry, candles, gifts and more in a cheery location. While you’re at it, support the neighborhood’s local coffee shop by grabbing some refreshments at Zume’s Coffee House, located next door to Junebug.

Avocado Toast at Monument Tavern.

Cinnamon Toast Brunch Cocktail.

Bacon Benedict at Monument Tavern.

Charlestown: Enjoy Brunch at Monument Tavern

If you’re visiting Charlestown on a weekend, be sure to stop into Monument Tavern for brunch. I love their avocado toast, and my husband almost always gets the Bacon Benedict with rosemary hollandaise. Their lemon and poppyseed pancakes are fluffy, and the breakfast pizza has tater tots on top (yup!). They also make a mean Bloody Mary. And the “Cinnamon Toast Brunch” cocktail is a must, with vodka, Kahlua, cereal milk and a sprinkling of the beloved Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal on top.

Studio space at ASANA Charlestown / Image courtesy of ASANA

Pilates Sweat class at ASANA Charlestown / Image courtesy of ASANA

Reception area at ASANA Charlestown / Image courtesy of ASANA

Charlestown: Take a Yoga Class at ASANA

Featuring what I believe is one of the most beautiful yoga studios in Boston, treat yourself to a yoga, barre or pilates class – or even a guided meditation – at ASANA. With two studios and lots of great classes, it’s a peaceful sanctuary to take some time out from the hustle and bustle of the city. All levels are welcome at the studio, so it’s a great spot to try even if you’ve never taken yoga before. ASANA offers a new member special for two weeks, as well as single drop-in passes. Students and members of the Military also qualify for special discounted rates.

What are your favorite things to do in Charlestown? Let us know in the comments below!