We Could See Spectacular Northern Lights In Massachusetts This Month
I was scrolling through my emails and came upon an article about Northern Lights in the Patch (Massachusetts). Needless to say, I was super excited to read that there is…
KIRUNA, SWEDEN – MARCH 7: Northern Lights, are seen in the sky on March 7, 2024
(Photo by Leon Neal/Getty Images)I was scrolling through my emails and came upon an article about Northern Lights in the Patch (Massachusetts). Needless to say, I was super excited to read that there is a chance we could see the spectacular northern lights in Massachusetts this month. Forecasters are predicting March would be the best month in nearly 20 years to "see the curtains of mostly green but also pink, purple and red" skies, according to the write-up.
Apparently, the chances of seeing such an event are highly unlikely. However, because of "holes in Earth’s magnetic field" northern lights are likely to be more frequent and could reach as far south as Massachusetts.
Northern lights are also called aurora borealis are generally found in areas closer to Earth’s North Pole. With the right atmospheric conditions, the Patch reports, this ethereal spectacle might be see from as far south as Florida. They cite Business Insider in the article for this information. Experts believe this could happen because of solar activity. The sun plays an important part in the appearance of northern lights. And it all gets superpowered around the seasonal equinoxes. And the next one is coming on Tuesday, March 19...the first day of Spring.
How Do Northern Lights Happen?
I've never had the opportunity to see the aurora borealis (which translates to "the dawn), have you? Maybe you were privy to it last year. The Patch article pointed out that 2023's largest aurora event happened last March, "when a series of solar activities triggered auroras powerful enough to be seen in places along the country’s southern border."
How does all even happen? According to space.com, as heavenly beautiful as it appears in the sky to us, it's actually a violent event. Here's how it occurs:
"The northern lights are created when energized particles from the sun slam into Earth's upper atmosphere at speeds of up to 45 million mph (72 million kph), but our planet's magnetic field protects us from the onslaught. As Earth's magnetic field redirects the particles toward the pole, the dramatic process transforms into a cinematic atmospheric phenomenon that dazzles and fascinates scientists and sky-watchers alike." Okay, sign me up. Let's all look to the skies for a glimpse next week. In the meantime, you can travel to see a better view. Travel + Leisure has it covered, below.
Hey, if you don't get to see the northern lights, you can at least soak up a beautiful view of Boston and a fun drink at these spots:
It's summer which means we're all looking for some rooftop bars in Boston with the most breathtaking views and delicious cocktails. The good news is, there are several to choose from. Whether it's the rooftop of a hotel, a restaurant or whether it has a pool, there are so many different types of rooftop bars depending on which type of vibe you want. There are also several different areas you can find a great rooftop bar. From the North End to the Seaport to Southie, there really is a great rooftop bar for every walk of life.
Why do we love rooftop bars? Many of us love being outside, especially where we can see gorgeous views of the city. In the summer, being outside helps us relieve stress and reduce tension after a long day or week of work. It beats being inside which we do all year round. Summertime means being outside and drinking your favorite sangria, martinis, margaritas etc. Now the only drawback to rooftop bars is, there is only so much room. This means, you could be waiting for a long time just to get into your favorite spot. So the bottom line is, whatever your plan is, just be patient and plan for a long night.
For the most part, these bars are open during the summer months, although there some that may stay open year round and transform into the ultimate winter hot spot complete with igloos. Regardless, we'll make sure we mention days and hours each bar is open so you can make your decision of when you'd want to visit.
These bars aren't ranked in any way. They're just mentioned based on reviews and choices you have in Boston for a beautiful summer night on the town. Enjoy!
Deck 12 Yotel in the Seaport
Located on the 12th floor of the YOTEL Boston. It has floor to ceiling windows and an amazing brunch scene on Saturday and Sunday starting at 10am.
Hours
Monday–Thursday
Dinner 5pm–10:30pm
Friday
Dinner 5pm–11:30pm
Saturday
Brunch 10am–3pm / Dinner–5pm 11:30pm
Sunday
Brunch 10am–3pm / Dinner–5pm 10:30pm
The Colonnade Boston’s Roof Top Pool
This hotel in the Back Bay has been renovated a lot over the years. It is a 12th-floor pool deck and if you're a non-hotel guest, there is a $45 per guest fee, plus a $20 minimum on food and drink.
Contessa
Contessa indulges your senses with a nod to the city’s Italian-American heritage from our Ken Fulk designed, modern glass terrace that offers sweeping views of the Back Bay.
HOURS
Breakfast | Monday to Friday | 7:30am to 11am
Lunch | Monday to Friday | 11:30am to 2:30pm
Brunch | Saturday & Sunday | 7:30am to 2:30pm
Dinner | Sunday to Wednesday | 5pm to 10pm, cocktails served until 12am | Thursday to Saturday | 5pm to 11pm, cocktails served until 1am
Legal Harborside
One of the bars that is open year round due to its retractable roof.
Opening hours:Sun-Thu 11am-11pm; Fri-Sat 11am–12am
Dorchester Brewing Co.
Enjoy drafts and flights and food from its on-site restaurant M&M. Tours are held from 1-4pm on Saturdays.
Opening hours:Tue-Sat 11:30am-11pm; Sun-Mon 11:30am-9pm
Blue Owl Rooftop
Located at 907 Main Street Cambridge, Blue Owl is the brain child of executive chef Justin Urso. Enjoy delicious cocktails and street food from all over the world.
Opening hours:Wed—Sat 4—11pm
Rooftop @ Revere Hotel
On top of the Revere Hotel where the Theater District meets the Back Bay, this bar boasts a beautiful pool and a 270-degree vantage point.
Opening hours:Daily 11am–midnight
Lookout Rooftop and Bar
On top of the Envoy hotel in the Seaport, you can sip on trendy cocktails and small bites.
Daedalus
This roofdeck is made from a former greenhouse. It's right on the outskirts of Harvard Square. You can go right after work or if you want, they have a delicious brunch weekends.
The Sinclair
Also in Harvard Square, Cambridge, this rooftop bar offers signature cocktails with a gorgeous view of the city. Enjoy live music downstairs as well.
Sam Adams Boston Taproom
15,000 square feet of deliciousness. Views aren't the best but the variety of beers on top is.
Opening Hours
| Monday: | 11.30 - 21.00 |
|---|---|
| Tuesday: | 11.30 - 21.00 |
| Wednesday: | 11.30 - 21.00 |
| Thursday: | 11.30 - 21.00 |
| Friday: | 11.30 - 22.00 |
| Saturday: | 11.30 - 22.00 |
| Sunday: | 11.30 - 21.00 |
https://www.samadamsbostontaproom.com/
Felipe’s Taqueria
A casual Mexican spot in Harvard Square, this restaurant has some of the most stunning views.
The Lexington
Complete with retractable windows, The Lexington is in Cambridge Crossing. There is a full service eatery and amazing cocktails.
Pier 6
Have some drinks overlooking the historic Charlestown Navy Yard and the USS Constitution on the roof deck. You'll have panoramic views of the Boston skyline.
