The 14 Best Outdoor Bars in Boston

On the inside, Lolita Fort Point is a gothic masterpiece—and on the outside, it’s a bright and airy waterfront paradise perfect for throwing back margaritas. The patio of this tequila cantina runs right alongside the channel, giving guests a front row seat to the Seaport as they sip sangria and watch the different circles of fellow bar-goers. An added benefit to Lolita’s dockish deck: The refreshing breeze coming off the water really keeps you alert between cocktails. 

This Dorchester tavern has a killer cocktail program and an even better patio. Take a seat outside this Lower Mills destination and order one of the dozens of rotating drafts. For the harder stuff, check out its extensive list of whiskeys (to be sipped neat), as well as its craft cocktails mixed with house-made juices and syrups. The kitchen cranks out incredible, hearty plates of modern comfort food, and the entire patio is covered with a misting system for those hot New England summers.

When it comes to the Harvard Square scene, Daedalus’s rooftop terrace is the most elevated of outdoor drinking. The patio features lush flower boxes and is outfitted with both heat lamps and fans, so you can be comfortable no matter how fickle our weather may be. Amongst the extensive list of beer, wine, and cocktails, you'll find that summertime fan favorite: the cairpirinha.

Enjoy drinks, family friendly games and vast harbor views at The Anchor, located in Charlestown‘s historic Navy Yard. This open-air beer garden occupies one of the Yard's pre-existing, brick mezzanine structures, providing a communal space for guests of all ages. The drink booth offers a wide array of local and international beers, wines and more, while regular events and live music keep all members of the public entertained. 

Open from spring through late fall, this seasonal fully outdoor bar always draws a big crowd, thanks to its spectacular spot right on Long Wharf. This patio is a great place for groups to congregate—beers are served by the bucket, while its signature fish bowl cocktails require more than one drinker. As you and the crew go to work on these large-format drinks, just don't forget to order a few snacks to keep up your strength. 

Devlin’s massive patio, open in the warmer months, is a prime place to enjoy some open-air drinking and dining. There's even a flatscreen at the outdoor bar, so you don't have to miss the Sox game during your outside escapades. Tables are plentiful, so settle in and try a few of the rotating drafts. There's a regular roster of musicians, including the live music that plays during Sunday brunch.

Located in Cambridge Crossing (or CX, for those in the know), The Lexington is a popular destination for al fresco socializing under the sun. The cocktail bar and restaurant boasts a huge rooftop terrace (one of the area’s only) that overlooks the lush Common. Its open greenhouse layout is perfect for enjoying spectacular seasonal outdoor sips and dining.

If you're looking for an outdoor space with a thoughtfully chosen wine list, Alcove is your place. It's fabulous patio offers stunning views of Boston Harbor and the Zakim Bridge, so you can pair that glass of mineral-forward pinot gris with some salty aired ambience. Fortunately, there's plenty of tables outside, so you'll likely still be able to score a seat during the after-work rush.

Located within the old Charles Street Jail and the now Liberty Hotel, this ultra-trendy bar consistently has one of the most packed patios in town. On the inside, Alibi stays on brand with nods to the building’s criminal past, like its brick walls and cell doors. But on the outside, this place is a prison break dream come true, with tall, green hedged walls that shelter tables from the buzzing streets of Beacon Hill and create a garden oasis. If warm nights are predicted, so are lines to get in, so plan ahead.

In the summer, Tia’s is the place to be—for tourists and townies alike. Since the ’80s, this waterfront bar and its patio have been packed, with crowds throwing back pricey vodka sodas and BudLights in exchange for prime people-watching and that cool breeze coming off of Boston Harbor. It may not be the most sophisticated of establishments—and you’ll certainly be paying top dollar for well liquor in a clear plastic cup—but the experience is always priceless.

Patio season in Boston wouldn’t be complete without snagging a seaside seat at this iconic summertime hangout located on the city’s historic Fort Point Channel. The Barking Crab gives off a serious coastal vibe with its striped tent complete with hanging twinkling lights... and the occasional lobster trap. Grab a place at one of the picnic tables on the open-air patio so you can admire the harbor while dining on heaping lobster rolls and a few shandys.

Located on the historic harbor as part of the elegant Boston Harbor Hotel, this spot boasts a 25-foot-long outdoor bar and table seating for sips and snacks overlooking the marina. Bar bites (think raw selections, lobster rolls, coastal clam chowder and an untraditional take on a turkey club), signature cocktails and local craft beers are highlighted on the menu, and the people- and boat-watching can’t be beat.

Nestled in a courtyard in Roslindale Village, Sophia's Grotto is feels like a quaint little Italian trattoria. Its warm, glowing decor inside is nicely complemented by its shared brick patio outfitted with heat lamps (weather dictated, of course), greenery and twinkling lights. The wood-fired pizza is a hit, as well as the other delectable Mediterranean classics at this family-owned spot that has been around for ages.