Believe it or not, there are very few places that I have actually sat outside and had a glass of anything.  This is partially, because, it’s typically illegal, but also, there are very few places in Massachusetts that actually have outside licensed property.

About a week ago, I took a short drive out to Bolton, Massachusetts, home to Nashoba Valley Winery.

Nashoba is an amazing hill-side orchard, winery and brewery that allows customers to enjoy an extensive selection of wine and beer indoors or outdoors.  Customers can either try a wine tasting, where you purchase five tokens to use towards sampling types of wine/beer OR you can use all five tokens towards one full pour.  In either scenario, you get a large wine glass to take home as a souvenir.

TIP: The cheaper option (if you just want to sit outside and drink some wine without having to take home a souvenir glass) would be to simply purchase a full size wine bottle in their gift shop (room-temperature or refrigerated) and get a free solo cup at the register.  Right outside the gift shop, they have a corkscrew that allows customers to uncork and enjoy right on the premises!  However, if you really want to keep the glass, the best option would be to simply buy a tasting.

Another amazing place I found to lounge outside with a glass is Buzzards Bay Brewing, located in Westport, MA.  This brewing company in located in a barn in the middle of a huge rolling-farm field – it is really a scenic location with plenty of room to bring a picnic and have a few brews.

Another close recommendation is Rapscallion Brewery, located in Sturbridge, MA. Rapscallion is also located in a quaint barn, surround by acres of farmland.  It is a wonderful place to get away for the day and try some beers in Western, Massachusetts.  Also, they have an outdoor stage for live music and an 18-hole disc-golf course (players typically throw a disc-like object at a target).

Also, if your looking for a city-type environment to socialize and drink outside – I would recommend Night Shift Brewing located in Everett, MA or Cambridge Brewing Company located in Cambridge, MA – they have both have quite the selection of beers – but be prepared to wait in line!

My final recommendation on the North Shore of Massachusetts is Far From the Tree Cider, located in Salem, MA.  They typically only serve hard-cider beverages, but they are delicious and they have a new outdoor patio that perfect for lounging outside.

In reality, anywhere is probably a good place to raise a glass, just make it appropriate and make it count 😉

Do you have a favorite place to go for a drink?
Feel free to comment below with suggestions –>>