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For many people, the beach beckons. For others, the siren call of the pool is even stronger. And when you’re living in the city (or just spending time here), then there’s an even higher calling: the rooftop. Or its posh partner, the well-appointed patio.
The city right now is alive with al fresco spaces that are new or freshly redone.
Here’s a look at five and how to get the most out of each.
What: The RTP
Where: The shimmering pool, 12 floors up at The Colonnade Hotel, 120 Huntington Ave., Boston, 617-424-7000, colonnade hotel.com.
Why: The posh new cabanas are calling your name.
What to bring: A good read—you’re gonna wanna stay the whole day. But don’t worry about the towel or sunscreen; they’re included.
What to wear: Your favorite bikini, of course.
What to order: The shrimp ceviche with avocado and tortilla is divine.
When: Open to the public (and available on a first come, first served basis) Monday-Wednesday. 8 a.m.-10 p.m. with a $60 entry fee. Then it’s open to hotel guests for free Monday-Wednesday. 8 a.m.; Tuesday 9 a.m.-10 p.m.; Thursday-Saturday 8 a.m.-10p.m.; Sunday 8 a.m.-8p.m.
What: W Urban Oasis
Where: The W Hotel, 100 Stuart St., Boston, 617-261-8700, marriott.com.
Why: For the lush and whimsical summer garden vibe—smack dab in the middle of the Theater District. Including the option to curate your own “cocktail experience” with edible flowers.
What to bring: Your camera; photo ops abound.
What to wear: A flower-power frock.
What to order: The spiked raspberry lemonade popsicles (with Raspberry Stoli, Fresh Raspberry Syrup, and Lemon juice) are rad.
When: Sunday-Thursday, noon-1:30 p.m. for lunch and 5 p.m.- 9:30 p.m. for dinner; Friday-Saturday, noon – 1:30 p.m. for lunch and 5 p.m.-10:30 p.m. for dinner. Guests are served on a first come, first serve basis; VIP section seating reservations are available by calling 617-261-8700.
What: Top of the Revere
Where: The Revere Hotel, 200 Stuart St., Boston, 617-482-1800, reverehotel.com.
Why: With its sparkly full renovation, the space is stocked with new furniture and an expanded indoor-outdoor lounge area.
What to bring: Designer SPF (see: Chanel’s UV ESSENTIEL)
What to wear: Your snazziest shades.
What to order: An aperol spritz and the new menu’s CT-style lobster roll.
When: Monday-Thursday, 5 p.m.-10 p.m.; Friday noon-11 p.m.; Saturday noon-11 p.m.;
Sunday noon-10 p.m.
What: Yappy Hour
Where: In The Liberty Hotel Courtyard, 215 Charles St., Boston,
Why: The city’s most pet-friendly hotel hosts a party for the pups.
What to bring: Your pooch! (Or borrow one; it’s that fun.)
What to wear: Something that disguises pup fur.
What to order: A martini and a bowl of water.
When: Every Monday and Wednesday, 5:30-8.p.m.
What: Summer in the City
Where: On The Boston Harbor Hotel Patio, 70 Rowes Wharf, 617-439-7000, bostonharborhotel.com.
Why: The hotel’s welcoming back its beloved tradition to the waterfront. Live, complimentary music on the Boston Harbor, with Adirondack chairs replacing the Harborwalk Terrace’s bustling al fresco dining patio.
What to bring/wear: A sun hat with a wide brim.
What to order: Rowes Wharf Sea Grille’s patio’s seafood tower.
When: Evenings Tuesday through Thursday.