The weather in New England is ever changing and for the short amount of time I can enjoy the weather, I love finding spots where you can sit outside and enjoy a cocktail or two. I have been scouring Lowell, Massachusetts for some great spots with outdoor seating that are serving up some unique drinks. And as we head into the unofficial “last weekend of summer” here is what I found:

Ward Eight
280 Central St Lowell, MA 01852

Lowell Massachusetts bar with outdoor seating

Formerly “The Courtyard” this prohibition-era style bar has quickly become one of my favorite outdoor spots. If you are a fan of micro brews, they have a great selection on hand.  I haven’t tapped into their beer selection quite yet though, because I am captivated by the old fashioned mixed drinks. My drink selection for Ward Eight is something that I am categorizing as “The Old Time Favorite”, The Moscow Mule.

Ward Eight Lowell Massachusetts

The Moscow Mule made with Russian Standard Vodka, topped with Ginger Beer and lime juice is a refreshing summer drink.

Fuse Bistro
45 Palmer Street Lowell, MA 01852

I have been a fan of fuse since they opened. Formerly “Caffe Paradiso”, this renovated fire station is dishing out some great food.  Not only is the food fantastic but so are the cocktails that are being formulated. For the category of “The Game Changer” I am giving it to Fuse’s The Naked Grape.

Though my summer time drink choice doesn’t include any of their house-infused vodkas, it is still one that I enjoy while sitting outside on their patio area.

Garcia Brogans
131 Middlesex Street Lowell, MA 01852

This Mexican/Irish inspired bar has a little bit of everything. From trivia to live bands to “Rock n’ Roll Bingo”, if you are ever looking for something to do, more than likely Garcia Brogan’s will have something to please you. Their outdoor seating area is a great place to kick back and enjoy what I am calling “The Straightforward” Strawberry Margarita.

There is nothing fancy about this drink, it is just made well and tastes great. Not every drink needs to be complicated, right?

If you and a fellow friend can’t decide on a drink, I also recommend the Cactus Bowl. This is a big ol’ bowl of deliciousness is filled with different rums, tequila, and juices. Yum!

Lowell Beer Works
203 Cabot Street Lowell, MA 01852

And to wrap things up is my favorite place to enjoy my favorite summer time beer. Lowell Beer Works offers 12-16 hand crafted beers on tap daily. I am not a huge beer drinker but I do make sure I make my way over when they have what I deem “The Master Brewers” Watermelon Ale.

Watermelon is my absolute favorite fruit. When I first discovered this beer a few years back I didn’t believe it could exist.  It is a light beer that is served up with a slice of watermelon. I know the saying “don’t fruit your beer” but I can’t help it when it tastes this delicious. This is only served up for a limited time so kick back on their patio area and enjoy it while it lasts!