The warm season may be short in Boston, but it is sweet. Any sunny afternoon can turn into the best night ever as long as someone has a good idea. Whether that’s trying a new outdoor bar, booking a table on a restaurant patio or spending a day at the beach, this time of year in New England is special, so make the most of it and try something new. And in this case, rediscover something that has always been there, but it was just hiding in plain sight.
The Beacon Hill Hotel has been around since 2000, but recently underwent a multi-year refurbishment and feels fresh while maintaining the charm of the side-by-side 19th-century townhouses it occupies on Boston’s historic Charles Street on Beacon Hill. The hotel has always been distinctly European, and the recent renovation has brought the best out of the property.
If you have stayed at the hotel in past years, you’ll notice a fresh look and feel in the guest rooms, a few subtle pops of color or pattern, some beautiful textures and lots of little details throughout. The bar downstairs has been expanded tremendously, which it always deserved given the crowd of regulars who frequent each night. The Beacon Hill Hotel has always been a neighborhood hangout filled with the well-heeled and well-dressed locals.
But the best part is that there is a new menu coming to the roof deck and I know it is about to become the insider spot of the summer. I last dined on the roof deck in 2017 when someone at the hotel specifically offered to bring our lunch upstairs. And to be honest I haven’t given it much thought since, but after a recent visit I realized what a true hidden gem it is.
Perched over Charles Street, but just two stories about street level you get the fun of people watching, without the hassle of cars whizzing past every two seconds, as well as a nice little breeze and it is the perfect level of quiet where you feel a part of the action, but you don’t have to shout to your dinner companion. The patio is open to both hotel guests and the public so definitely bank this as a great date night spot, place to catch up with friends or even a place to grab a solitary coffee or glass of wine when you want a moment to yourself.
And if you need more ideas on fun things to do in Boston this summer check out our complete guide to the best things to do in Boston and the best restaurants in Boston.