Soak Up Summer At These Chic New England Rooftop Pools

17.08.2023 - 14:47 / forbes.com / New England

There’s something magical about a rooftop pool - swimming with a bird’s eye view of the surrounding landscape feels very exclusive, and slightly surreal. After all, even a small pool holds a heck of a lot of water, suspended several stories in the air.

For years, the Colonnade in Boston reigned solo among New England rooftop swim spots. The pool debuted with the hotel in 1971, and from the start attracted a who’s who of guests with its chic retro-modern vibe. But over time, other properties have added this delightful amenity. Here’s a peek at spots where you can mark the tail end of summer from an elevated perspective.

Colonnade Boston: Still the only rooftop hotel pool in Boston, the Colonnade offers abundant lounge chairs, as well as tables and high-tops. The full bar and light bites menu mean that once you secure your seat, you will never have to leave. And that’s a good thing because the popular - and compact -space is first-come, first-served with no reservations. Unless you want to spring for a cabana, that is- $250 for hotel guests or starting at $350 plus a food minimum for the general public -it includes two lounge chairs, a table, TV, mini fridge stocked with water, and some swag. Sitting on the 12th floor, the deck is surrounded by buildings that give a delightful urban vibe, especially as night falls. All ages are welcome, and hotel guest access is included in the daily amenity fee. If there’s space, the general public can visit for $50 per person per day. The pool is smallish, but that’s fine, because most of the guests are more interested in lounging than taking a dip.

West Street Hotel, Bar Harbor, Me.: Arrive early to score one of the shaded loungers at this peaceful spot with swoon-worthy views of Acadia National Park and Frenchman's Bay. While this fifth-story rooftop is adults only (18+), kids are welcome across the street in the pool at the well-appointed West Street Club. Plan to spend the day — light food and drink service is available after 11 a.m.

The Lincoln Hotel, Biddeford, Me.: Gaping at the sprawling mill complex that surrounds this industrial-chic hotel is a big part of the fun from this unique rooftop locale overlooking the Saco River. Bring your own snacks and drinks (no alcohol permitted) as there is no food or beverage service. Kids are welcome, and the rooftop is large, but the pool is small — and shared with residents of the adjoining apartment building.

The Beauport, Gloucester, Mass.: The Birdseye Rooftop pool and bar, named for the frozen food plant that once stood on the site of this beachside resort, is strictly reserved for hotel guests who are 21-plus, so kids have to content themselves with playing at Pavilion Beach below. The view from the shallow heated