Barrier-breaking, forward-thinking Boston blends history, modernity, and culture beautifully. Boston isn’t exactly known as a pool town, given that three seasons aren’t ideal for outdoor swimming. However, the best hotel pools in Boston have gotten creative with their indoor-outdoor pool concepts. While some feature floor-to-ceiling windows with views, others have retractable roofs for different climates. What’s more, you have all kinds of hotels with pools in Boston. On the one hand, you’ll find one with a seen-and-been vibe a la Los Angeles, while others with rooftop pools will make you feel like you’re in New York City. So, whether you’re looking for indoor and intimate pools or outdoor and flamboyant ones, Boston is replete with choices.
Additionally, there’s a lot to explore in this ‘Shining City Upon A Hill.’ It’s home to the famed Freedom Trail, a route filled with historic museums and sites outlining Boston’s amazing history. Also, the city is brimming with green parks and spaces, which makes walking around a real pleasure. What’s more, Boston houses the Faneuil Hall Marketplace, which features among the top tourist attractions in the USA.
So, after exploring all that Boston has to offer, we’d say you’ve earned a dip in the pool. To that end, here are the 11 best hotel pools in Boston. If you’re exploring other cities in the region, then you could also check out the best hotels in Lowell, Massachusetts, which lies just 30 minutes north of Boston.
Table of contents
- Hotel Revere Boston Common
- Boston Harbor Hotel
- Sheraton Boston Hotel
- The Royal Sonesta Hotel
- RTP at The Colonnade Hotel
- Hotel Wyndham Beacon Hill
- Four Seasons Boston
- Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Back Bay/Fenway
- Boston Marriott Copley Place
- The Seaport Hotel
- Harmony Medical Suites on Canal
- Our Verdict!
- Where to Stay in Boston
- Recommended Restaurants / Bars in Boston:
- Recommended Activities In Boston:
Hotel Revere Boston Common
11
Best pool package. The rooftop pool at Rooftop@Revere, along with the outdoor lounge, is one of the best hotel pools in Boston, and for a good reason. While the pool is technically indoors, it’s open around the year, and the massive poolside lounge is open-air, lending it an outdoor feel. The pool is lined with heavenly couches and cabanas, which start at a $200 Food and Beverage (FnB) minimum on weekdays between June and August. These include water, fruit, towels, and four-day passes. On Saturdays during peak season (May to September), it’s an FnB minimum of $300 plus a $100 fee for a small cabana. On Sundays, it almost doubles. Even then, it’s one of the most popular and best Boston hotel pools.
The best part is that the pool is open throughout the year and is open to non-guests too. In fact, you can get day passes even during peak seasons for as less as $30 and $20 between June and August. Furthermore, there’s no charge for anyone after 5 p.m. What’s more, the pool has an age limit of 21 years post 8 p.m., so it keeps out the rowdy and younger crowd like children. Its list of stipulations is long, but that’s what makes the pool space exclusive. It’s also what makes this hotel one of the best hotels in Boston, MA.
This designed boutique hotel also has a 24-hour fitness center, excellent food, and modern rooms with state-of-the-art amenities.
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Boston Harbor Hotel
10
Best for non-guests. It’s hard to imagine one of the city’s largest swimming pools being indoors and beneath the ground, but it’s true for the pool at the Boston Harbor Hotel. The hotel’s subterranean spa and fitness center space is also home to a gigantic heated pool and an equally massive hot tub. The 60-foot-long, 3-lanes-wide swimming pool will satisfy even the most serious of swimmers. Moreover, the pool is open throughout the year and is free to those staying at the hotel. Additionally, it even offers day passes to non-guests for $25. The presence of a shallow end and free beach towels makes this perfect for lounging.
The complex that the pool is home to also features a gym, where you can work up a sweat before cooling off in the pool. It also has a full-service spa, a sauna, and a steam room. After a swim, the next natural thing is to head to the spa and get a relaxing massage or body treatment. It’s no surprise then that this hotel is one of the most romantic hotels in Boston. Rounding up the offerings are a superb on-site restaurant, gift shop, concierge desk, and snazzy rooms with minibars and luxe bathrooms.
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Sheraton Boston Hotel
9
Best value for money. If you’re looking for a gorgeous heated indoor pool, then look no further than the one at Sheraton Boston Hotel. It’s one of the best hotel pools in Boston for more reasons than one.
Firstly, it happens to be the largest indoor/outdoor heated saltwater lap pool in the city. If that’s a lot of information, then we’ll break it down for you. Firstly, it has a retractable roof, which means it becomes an outdoor pool during summer and an indoor one during other colder seasons. Since it’s a saltwater pool, the water is non-chlorinated and doesn’t harm the skin. Plus, it’s a lap pool, which means you can more than just enjoy a dip; you can swim laps! The lovely sundeck peppered with comfy daybeds is the cherry on top. Plus, the pool is open only to hotel guests, which makes it one of the best Boston hotel pools.
The rest of the Sheraton is equally impressive. There’s a fitness center, a sensational restaurant, and even a Starbucks and a gift shop. Moreover, the rooms are modern spaces with large windows and a slew of mod-cons.
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The Royal Sonesta Hotel
8
Best indoor pool. The swanky Royal Sonesta Hotel has one of the most beautiful indoor pools around. Its breathtaking atrium-style saltwater pool sits on the hotel’s rooftop and is covered by floor-to-ceiling glass. So, no matter when you enjoy a swim here, you’ll be treated to scenic vistas of the city. What’s more, a retractable roof makes this indoor pool an outdoor one when the sun hits Boston in the summertime. The best part is that the pool has three lap lanes, so you can enjoy more than just a dip here. Additionally, there’s even a general swim section where you can simply lounge or practice your dives. After a dip, relax on the lovely sundeck that overlooks the Charles River.
The Sonesta Hotel offers stunning views of the Charles River, as well as a fitness center, a gourmet restaurant, a coffee shop, and an extensive modern art collection. Luxurious accommodations and proximity to Boston attractions complete the picture.
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RTP at The Colonnade Hotel
7
Best rooftop pool. One of the best hotel pools in Boston is also its only rooftop outdoor pool – the RTP on the 12th floor of The Colonnade Hotel. This is ‘the’ place to cool down on a hot day with picturesque views of the city. The gorgeous cyan-colored pool is ideal for a dip, after which you can relax on the daybeds. If you don’t mind splurging, then rent a cabana. The weekday rent is $250 plus a $200 FnB minimum, which goes up to $350 and $300 on weekends. On Sundays, the costs are double that of weekdays. The best part is that hotel guests can use the pool anytime, while others need to pay $45 during weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Although that charge drops to $10 after 5 p.m., it’s open to only 21-year-olds and above. However, it’s reserved for guests on weekends.
What’s more, this place is also a destination of sorts for summertime rooftop cocktails and light bites in Boston. Think Hibiscus Julep and Vodka Lemonade with pizza, Caesar salad, and California turkey wraps. Furthermore, the place also hosts lots of rooftop events, including yoga, cooking, and more. The rest of the hotel is similarly impressive, with a fitness center, state-of-the-art amenities in rooms, and a restaurant and bar on-site.
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Hotel Wyndham Beacon Hill
6
The pool at the Hotel Wyndham Beacon Hill is unique. Firstly, it’s not on a rooftop, but it’s still a seasonal outdoor one. What’s more, the pool is open only to those staying at the hotel. It’s sprinkled with not just daybeds but also chairs and tables. So, after a relaxing dip, you can even enjoy a drink or a light bite by the poolside. Plus, the pool area offers gorgeous views of the Charles River. Even on hot days, the cool waters of the pool and the umbrellas make it a very pleasant place to relax. That’s what makes it one of the best Boston hotel pools.
You’ll also like the rest of the hotel, which features business facilities, a 24-hour fitness center, and a fabulous restaurant, bar, and café. Moreover, the rooms are modern, savvy, and equipped with a bevy of mod-cons. Plus, the city center hotel is within walking distance of many of Boston’s attractions.
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Four Seasons Boston
5
The eighth-floor pool at Four Seasons is one of the best hotel pools in Boston. The 44-foot indoor stunner features floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook Beacon Hill and Boston Public Garden. After a refreshing dip in the pool, slip into the adjacent hot tub for a luxurious soak. What’s more, you can stay hydrated right at your comfy perch by ordering ice-cold bottled water, fresh fruit, and even some light meals. So, you can end up spending the entire day here, making for a nice break from a hectic holiday. In fact, relaxing here will get you the best views of the Boston Public Garden.
There’s a lot more to the Four Seasons than the spectacular indoor pool, including the decadent spa and fitness center. If you’re visiting with your family, then the hotel even offers a slew of activities like cookie-making classes. The on-site bistro and bar is the perfect place to enjoy a meal, even an evening aperitive, or a nightcap. The accommodations are equally impressive, complete with a bevy of state-of-the-art mod-cons, plush beds, and lavish bathrooms.
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Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Back Bay/Fenway
4
The indoor pool space of the Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Back Bay/Fenway is as calming as it is homely. The indoor pool is heated, so you can enjoy it throughout the year. Swim some laps or enjoy a relaxing dip before stretching out on the sundeck. You can also order drinks and light meals right in the comfort of your chaise lounge. What’s more, the presence of a shallow end makes it easy for you to even enjoy with your family here, especially young children. After a swim or a soak, you can also hit the huge gym or enjoy an outdoor massage.
The Residence Inn also offers free daily breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and even a restaurant with a dining area and a bar. Moreover, the accommodations are plush with flatscreen TVs, sofa beds, and even work desks. Lavish bathrooms complete the picture of perfection that the rooms here are.
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Boston Marriott Copley Place
3
The Boston Marriott Copley Place indoor pool is one of the best hotel pools in Boston. The indoor pool has wonderful views of Boston, with its location in the heart of the historic Back Bay. Loved by adults and kids alike, the pool is the perfect place to relax after a busy day of exploring the town. What’s more, the swimming pool is also long and deep enough for you to swim laps. Plus, since it’s heated, you can use the pool no matter the season.
The Marriott is ideal for all kinds of vacations – romantic, shopping, and family-oriented ones. In addition, all its rooms come with modern creature comforts like coffeemakers, flat-screen TVs, and more. Moreover, the hotel also has a spa where you can enjoy a soothing massage or work out in the state-of-the-art gym.
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The Seaport Hotel
2
The indoor heated pool is perhaps the highlight of the equally gorgeous Seaport Hotel. Sitting on the stunning waterfront of Boston, the 50-foot heated lap pool is perfect for swimming laps while feasting on striking panoramas of the city. The floor-to-ceiling windows let in lashings of sunlight, which is perfect, especially during Boston’s warm, sun-kissed summers. After a swim or dip, you can lounge on the pretty white chairs where you can also order cocktails and even light bites. The presence of the potted foliage adds a fair bit of color to the all-white space, accented only by the blue of the pool.
The waterfront hotel also boasts a fitness center and an extensive spa, apart from hosting group exercise classes as well. It also has an excellent restaurant and bar to satiate all food and drink cravings and pangs. Plus, it even rents bicycles and arranges tours for you to explore Boston. Finally, accommodations are slick with all high-tech mod-cons and large windows with city or water views.
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Harmony Medical Suites on Canal
1
The seasonal outdoor swimming pool at the Harmony Medical Suites on Canal is hands down one of the best hotel pools in Boston. Firstly, despite being a seasonal pool that’s not exactly on the rooftop, it’s one of the few truly outdoor pools in the city. What’s more, it’s open only to those staying at the hotel, so you won’t have to deal with outsiders and can enjoy the lovely wooden deck area all to yourselves. The area is sprinkled with cushy sun loungers where you can relax after a dip in the pool. Plus, the deck is fringed by lovely greenery that lends a tranquil and serene look to the place.
In spite of being an all-suite accommodation, Harmony Medical offers free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour front desk, and a fitness center on the property. What’s more, all units feature a bevy of amenities, along with a lot of space and a kitchen. The best part? The apartments also offer terraces.
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Our Verdict!
While we love all of Boston’s pool hotels, and we’re sure you do too, we’ve compiled a more specialized list with particular attributes that’ll appeal to some travelers:
- Best pool package: Hotel Revere Boston Common
- Best for non-guests: Boston Harbor Hotel
- Best rooftop pool: RTP at The Colonnade Hotel
- Best value for money: Sheraton Boston Hotel
- Best indoor pool: The Royal Sonesta Hotel
Where to Stay in Boston
With its community, sports, food, and history, Boston is much like a big small town. Plus, the profusion of college students lends the city permanent youthful energy. But what’s the best neighborhood to stay in? A great way to choose is by looking up the Top Things To Do In Boston and seeing what you’re interested in the most.
To begin with, Copley/Back Bay is considered an overall favorite by many travelers. This upscale and beautiful neighborhood is home to some of the city’s most historic attractions, farmers’ markets, and homes. Downtown is the financial and commercial heart of the city, as well as the oldest parts of town. Besides a host of hip restaurants and cocktail bars, you’ll also find a huge chunk of the Freedom Trail here. Student-central Allston and Brighton are really “cool” neighborhoods with cheaper drinking and dining options.
If you’re a history buff, then we’d recommend you stay in the North End, Boston’s “Little Italy” and its oldest district. This cobblestoned waterfront community also has many churches and the oldest set of ringing bells in North America. Finally, we have Fenway, where lies the famous Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox. Moreover, it’s also a cultural and academic district and is also home to some of the city’s best nightlife.
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- Boston’s North End Secret Food Tour: This classic tour lets you explore the vibrant culinary scene of Boston’s North End. Walk along a trail that dates back to the American Revolution and see and experience almost 400 years of history as you tuck into delicious food. You get to dig into some of the most appetizing dishes ever, including cannoli, pizza, a unique Italian sandwich, locally roasted nuts, and even a secret dish!
- Boston Underground Donut Tour: Who doesn’t love donuts? Celebrate the donut in all its glory on this downtown Boston underground tour. Your tour begins in the Financial District, takes you to the waterfront Boston Public Market, and ends in Little Italy. All along, you get to drink apple cider and coffee while sampling some of the best donuts in the city. Whether it’s Kane’s Donuts or smaller vendors in Boston’s oldest neighborhoods, these uniquely Boston treats are a treat indeed!
- James Hook & Co. – This 1925-established institution has been feeding lobster to Bostonians for a long time. So, you’ll find an essentials-only menu of clam chowders, whole-cooked lobsters, crab cakes, shrimp cocktails, and lobster rolls.
Recommended Activities In Boston:
- Boston Old Town Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour – This is the most thrilling and exciting way to discover the delights of one of America’s most historic cities. Hop on to the Old Town Trolley and enjoy “conductors” telling you all about Boston’s mystery, history, and culture. You get to visit more than 100 points of interest in Boston, all at your own pace. Hence, you get to enjoy the freedom of hopping on or off throughout the day and get to discover sights such as the Charlestown Navy Yard, Liberty Wharf, and the Boston State House.
- Boston, New England Harbor Cruise – One of the best panoramas of Boston is from its gorgeous harbor. Feast your eyes on a different side of Boston aboard a 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise. Spectacle Island, Boston’s Seaport District, Fort Independence, the USS Constitution, USS Cassin young, Bunker Hill Monument, and the Old North Church are some of the best sights you’ll see on this cruise.