23-07-2025
5 Hot Boston Rooftop Bars
Toast Massachusetts' capital from new heights at these amazing alfresco spots. iStock-Sean Pavone
Escape the steamy bustling streets of Boston in the summer by heading to one of the city's sleek rooftop bars to cool off and take in the sunset and the sparkling night skyline.
As more roof deck bars pop up, there's a style and a vibe for everyone, from lively and fun venues to cozy and romantic settings. Here are five taking the outdoor experience to new heights.
The Long Bar & Terrace is a 17th-floor stunner. Raffles Boston
Luxury hotel brand Raffles chose Boston for its first foray in North America, and the Back Bay hotel is simply a stunner. It gives several dining and drinking options, but the unique 17th-floor Long Bar & Terrace provides unparalleled city views alongside impeccable service, bespoke cocktails and elevated snacks.
Sip on a signature Boston Sling, a riff on the original Singapore Sling created at the first Raffles, made with Blind Duck gin, Pama liqueur, Drambuie, Amaro Nonino, cranberry compote and housemade apple shrub, or try a refreshing spritz or mocktail. Appetizers include whipped ricotta and smoked bluefish pâté. Comfortable couches and chairs invite you to stay awhile.
At Beacon Hill Hotel, you can sip while taking in the sights. Beacon Hill Hotel
Ideal for people-watching, the somewhat-hidden rooftop terrace at the boutique Beacon Hill Hotel is a lovely spot for a drink or a meal. A few floors above upscale Charles Street, the terrace welcomes hotel guests and anyone else in search of a bite with a vista.
Order a dozen oysters or the burrata flight with a glass of bubbles, sit back and enjoy the breeze. Of course, you could make a night or even a weekend of it at the charming European-style property.
The Butterfly Effect is one of the Revere Hotel's fun cocktails. Revere Hotel Revere Hotel
In the vibrant Theater District, the Rooftop at Revere Hotel is one of the largest scenic rooftop lounges in the city. Whimsical drinks — the Butterfly Effect is a particularly fun concoction with a seasonal popsicle plunged into a mix of Suntory Roku Gin, limoncello, Aperol and butterfly pea flower — are refreshing on a hot summer's night.
Batch cocktails, such as the Blush Hour (Whispering Angel Rosé, Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto, St-Germain, yuzu and grapefruit), are perfect for sharing. Delicious flatbreads, topped with everything from wild mushrooms and pesto to fig and prosciutto, are wonderfully paired with sides like grilled street corn and dips. And if you're looking for an exclusive experience, book a private cabana for you and your companions. Envoy Hotel
The Rooftop at the Envoy is one of the Seaport District's hot spots, with gorgeous harbor views and a chic clientele. The seventh-floor bar is known for its creative craft cocktail menu and sophisticated small plates. Try a Lycheé Froseé, a frozen blend of Absolut Vodka, lychee puree, rosé and Aperol. Or, if you're a group of four, order the Papaya Party, with Espolon Tequila, papaya puree, pineapple and prosecco. Then add on the tempting truffle Parmesan fries, fried chicken sliders or Buffalo cauliflower bites.
The venue offers reservations for special spots, including couches and fire-pit seating. And the rooftop is open year-round, so even in winter, you can comfortably enjoy the view from seasonal igloos or wherever else you've reserved a seat.
Enjoy drinks from the top of the Prudential Center. View Boston View Boston
If you want the best and highest views of any roof deck in the city, Stratus, the signature bar at View Boston, is the answer. The three-floor observatory, on floors 50 to 52 at the top of the Prudential Center, hosts a variety of exhibits, a bistro and the Stratus bar. Situated on the observation deck's 51st floor, the 360-degree, open-air space allows you to watch the sun set with a glass of wine or a Wicked Passionate (Flecha Azul Blanco, Cointreau, passionfruit puree, pineapple juice, lime juice, coconut water and agave).
Take photos on a clear night, when you can see everything from Fenway Park to the Charles River from a bird's-eye perspective. A variety of tickets is available, but the Sips & Sights Experience offers access to the decks and exhibits, along with a beverage of your choice. MORE FROM FORBES Forbes 27 Hotels With Luxury Car Collaborations By Melinda Sheckells Forbes Forbes Travel Guide's Best Hotel Bars For 2025 By Jennifer Kester Forbes 18 Undiscovered Beach Getaways By Forbes Travel Guide Forbes 6 Breathtaking New York City Rooftop Bars By Spencer Whaley
