Summer’s in Session: 4 Ways to Soak Up (or Escape) the Heat at The Pru

Prudential Center is a Boston staple. But beyond its status as a skyline mainstay, the Boylston Street shopping center is also rife with indoor and outdoor opportunities .

Need an escape from the summer heat? The Pru has an indoor retail row of luxury brands like Saks Fifth Avenue, Bonobos, and Oliver Peoples—no need to step outside. Craving fresh air instead? Keep the whole family entertained with a movie night in the garden, or opt for one of Boston’s famous Duck Tours.

There are so many pathways to a perfect summer day at the Pru.

1. Indulge in Diverse Dining Options

You’ve finally escaped the hot summer air. What better way to keep it cool than with ice cream from Cold Stone Creamery or a refreshing smoothie from Pressed Cafe.

If you’re not bothered by a little heat, al fresco dining will have you catching rays while chowing down.

Find yourself at Earl’s Kitchen + Bar, martini in hand, dining on sticky Korean ribs, ahi tuna tataki, or savory truffle tortellini. Looking for a perfectly cooked steak? Del Frisco’s grillmasters have you covered from medium to rare. Slice into a ribeye or New York strip, and toss on enhancements from a lobster tail to truffle butter.

And while Earl’s and Del Frisco’s make for immersive fine-dining experiences, those looking for a cocktail and a view would be hard pressed to beat the offerings at Stratus, Boston’s highest rooftop bar.

For an instant picnic, Descendent Pizza has pies made to order. It’s an easy crowd pleaser, enjoyable in Boston Public Garden or right at the Pru for the Summer Flicks series.

2. Enjoy Family-Friendly Events out on the Garden

Most of the Pru lends itself to an indoorsy escape from the hot summer air and the noise of Boston’s downtown, but for many it’s impossible to resist the allure of a picturesque mid-July evening. With the Pru’s slate of events, those seeking an outdoor alternative to shopping or dining inside will have options for the whole family.

The Center’s Summer Flicks series has a wide array of classics and blockbusters for audiences of all ages. Free to attend, the movies start at dusk with preceding music entertainment at 6:30 p.m. This summer, the films showing on the Pru’s South Garden range from Sandra Bullock’s action comedy Miss Congeniality to one of Disney Pixar’s animated hits, Finding Nemo.

Keep the kids entertained for hours on a classic Duck Tour of the city. Tours run seven days a week, depart every hour starting at 10 a.m. until an hour before sunset, and last about 80 minutes. There’s no better way to see everything Boston has to offer than by land and by sea.

3. Shop Around for Your Next Summer Look

The Pru’s lineup of stores is a wayward shopper’s best friend. Find the linen set you’ve been looking for at Club Monaco. Accessory shopping? Warby Parker and Ray-Ban have stylish sunglasses that’ll pair with anything, and if those two don’t have the shades you’re looking for then Sunglass Hut is right around the corner. But if you’re searching for a showstopping summer outfit, Johnny Was, Marine Layer, Alo, and Aritzia have everything from beachside button-ups to flowing sundresses.

The choices don’t stop at clothing. L’Occitante has all the makeup products, skincare, and fragrances your vanity table needs. And if you want to make a statement at your workplace’s summer outing, grab a shiny new watch at Shinola.

4. Check Out Unbeatable View of Boston’s Cityscape

There are few better ways to unwind after a long day of shopping than sitting back, relaxing, and taking in a beautiful view. View Boston, the Pru’s own sightseeing experience, offers up breathtaking shots of the city’s skyline. Standard packages are available, but if you’re looking to upgrade, there are optional cocktail and food add-ons.

VIP guests can learn about the city’s best-kept secrets while sipping on a signature beverage and indulging in dishes like lobster mac & cheese or braised short ribs from The Beacon Bistro, located at the top of View Boston.

Alternatively, for a view from the garden level with a mix of fitness, try Fit on the Garden, a series of outdoor workout classes in the South Garden held by Life Time Prudential Center performers.

Your Summer Escape Starts Here

It’s nearly impossible for citygoers to miss the Pru. Its towering presence high above Boston’s skyline endears it as a crown jewel.

But what the average Bostonian may not realize is that within its steel structure is a slate of shops, restaurants, and family-friendly opportunities that offer breezy respite from the hot summer air. It’s a walkable and diverse alternative to the city’s more crowded destinations.

Whether you’ve got an unchecked piece of clothing on that summer wishlist or you’re desiring a decadent family meal, Prudential Center has all that and more.