With the official onset of summer just hours away, it’s time to start planning where to soak up some afternoon sun or relax under the stars when the sun goes down. We have rounded up five of the best rooftop bars to check out this summer. From waterfront views in the Seaport District to soaring city sights in Back Bay, here’s a look at the top spots where you will want to be seen.
Lookout Rooftop & Bar
Photo Credit: Lookout Rooftop & Bar
One of the coolest rooftop bars to arrive in the Seaport District came in 2015 when The Envoy Hotel opened its doors for the first time. Since then, this haute spot has created quite the buzz on the eighth floor for its expansive views of the city and Boston Harbor found at Lookout Rooftop & Bar. There are fire pits to warm up by on chilly nights, cozy tables to have a private conversation, a railing bar to hang out at and scope out the scene, and couches to relax on. In the cooler months, there are even heated igloos (yes, you read that right) so the outdoor party can continue year round. The dress code here is casual yet classy, so leave the Sox hats and sweatpants at home.
70 Sleeper Street, Boston, MA 02210; Website
Rooftop@Revere
Photo Credit: Rooftop@Revere
Tucked seven stories above the stylish Revere Hotel Boston Common, Rooftop@Revere is one of the most coveted spots for outdoor lounging. You might not expect to find a tranquil refuge from the hustle and bustle of Back Bay, but that’s just what this open-air space delivers. We recommend arriving at the newly renovated hotel early, even at night when the gorgeous space turns lively. Belly up to the bar and snack on a lobster roll served on a buttery brioche roll while sipping on one of their signature cocktails like the Boston Common Cucumba or Lady on the Charles. Did we also mention there is an indoor pool to cool off in just steps away?
200 Stuart Street, Boston, MA 02116; Website
The Rooftop Pool At The Colonnade Hotel
Photo Credit: The Colonnade Hotel
One of the most stunning daytime scenes and sexy nightlife settings can be found high atop The Colonnade Hotel. Picture cozy private cabanas, fruity frozen cocktails and a menu of light fare for snacking poolside. The rooftop pool or RTP (as it is known to locals) is a Back Bay favorite not just for its sophisticated setting, but also for its selection of snacks like the Caribbean chicken and Mediterranean mezze paired up with a mango Mamacita that will take you on a culinary trip far from Boston. The lobster roll, beef hot dog and pizza from Boston’s beloved North End Pizzeria Regina will return you to Back Bay right where you belong.
120 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02116; Website
Legal Harborside
Photo Credit: Legal Harborside
There is no better place to dine on some fresh seafood while taking in a gorgeous view of Boston Harbor. This Seaport District three-story seafood mecca is the flagship restaurant of Legal Sea Foods. There is an indoor/outdoor lounge on the top floor complete with retractable roof so you can sit up here year round and enjoy some incredible waterfront views. The third floor promenade deck’s glass walled space is so special it even has its own menu. Here, you can order up a glass of wine from more than 27 selections available or a pitcher of spiked punch while snacking on raw bar favorites and specialty maki, nigiri and sashimi. Not sure what to order? Try the 124-piece sushi boat, the ultimate summer indulgence.
270 Northern Avenue, Boston, MA 02210; Website
Sky Lounge
Photo Credit: YOTEL Boston
Located on the 12th floor of YOTEL Boston, the latest newcomer to the rooftop scene delivers at this haute open-air space. There is indoor seating along with terrace lounging, not to mention a DJ and a calendar of live entertainment to keep things lively at night (be sure to check the website for details). The Sky Lounge runs the length of the building so there is plenty of room to relax, take in a panoramic view of the Fort Point area or sip on one of their signature cocktails like a Cabin Cooler or a local craft beer on tap.
65 Seaport Boulevard, Boston, MA 02210; Website
