The Colonnade Hotel’s Rooftop Playground
Photo Courtesy of The Colonnade Hotel
When summer rolls around in Boston, locals and visitors alike make the most of it, spending every possible minute outside enjoying the warm weather. Sometimes the perfect way to while away a lazy afternoon is poolside, but not all watering holes are created equal. The ones we like most go to great depths to offer something extra, be it fantastic views, innovative programs, top-notch food or creative cocktails.
The Colonnade Hotel
The rooftop pool — the only one in Boston — at The Colonnade tops the list for location and style. Sunning yourself while sipping on the hotel’s signature sangria 12 stories up is about as decadent and fun as it gets. A popular yoga class on Tuesdays and Thursdays is offered, and if you choose to make a splash after doing your seated twists, that’s completely up to you.
Several cabanas can be rented, but we advise booking in advance, since they are quite popular. Changing rooms and showers are also available. After 5 p.m., there’s a minimum cover change but watching the sun set from the roof is worth every penny.
Four Seasons Hotel Boston, Photo Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotels Limited
One thing to remember, though: the pool is limited to hotel guests on the weekends.
Four Seasons Hotel Boston
For sheer iconic views, the indoor pool at this Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star beauty presents an embarrassment of riches. From its 8th-floor location, the indoor pool (and whirlpool) overlooks the Public Garden and the State House. Wisely, the hotel has floor-to-ceiling windows and offers room service delivery for guests who want to dine poolside, or just have coffee in the morning and take in the scene outside. Fresh fruit and flavored water are always available, too. And should you forget to pack a bathing suit, no worries, the perpetually thinking property has those for purchase as well.
Revere Hotel Boston Common
Rooftop at Revere has one of the most amazing rooftop lounges. It’s a space with to-die-for views and a that-sounds-great lineup of programs that range from oyster happy hours to exercise classes. Best of all, you don’t have to be a hotel guest to enjoy it. Day passes are available to purchase from noon to 5 p.m. After five, it’s free to visit.
A new full-service rooftop bar was launched this season, featuring seasonal cocktails, local beer and a variety of wines. The Boston Common Cucumba with Wireworks Gin, St. Germaine, cucumber-thyme syrup and fresh lemon is an ideal summer sip while menu options include lobster rolls, mezze dips and raw bar items.
The Verb Hotel, Photo Courtesy of The Verb Hotel
To be clear, the pool is actually inside, just adjacent to the deck. But it’s easy to wander back and forth from the water to your own cabana or lounge chair.
The Verb Hotel
The Verb is a cool throwback to the days of the 1950’s motor lodge, but make no mistake, every modern luxury is in its proper place. The vibe is pure rock and roll, with hallways painted black to evoke a nightclub and spaces dotted with every sort of music paraphernalia, from record players in the rooms to a jukebox in the lobby. Of course, the hotel is paying homage to its location, close to Boston’s club scene where acts like The Ramones and Blondie have played over the years. The address is also within striking distance of Fenway Park (hence the earplugs in the room, in case a game goes late).
Just dipping your toes in the courtyard pool is cool. Whether you choose to enhance the morning or afternoon with a yoga class (open to the public) or a sake cocktail from Hojoko, the hotel’s funky Asian restaurant that opens onto the courtyard, you’ll feel like a rock star either way.
