Drinking on rooftop bars in NYC is one of the best parts of the weather warming up and staying in the city during the Summer.
It is time to shed your winter coats and get to the nearest rooftop bar and get a cocktail with a Manhattan Skyline backdrop thanks to our handy list of our favorite rooftop bars.
Aretsky’s Patroon
This is one of the best rooftops next to Grand Central Station and while the roof is only on the fourth floor, the space is great. The space is a full floor on 46th which is great for the rooftop feel without being a tourist trap like some of the other rooftops that are close to Grand Central.
The venue is only open Monday to Friday to the public and while they have been open for the last 20 years this is definitely a local happy hour spot. The rooftop is known as a finance happy hour but don’t believe the hype, they have a new cocktail program that caters to those that want more then the vodka soda or scotch on the rocks.
60 East 46th St. New York, NY 10017The Attic
If you want a Downtown vibe but happen to be in Hell’s Kitchen, then The Attic is just the spot. The massive bi-level 5,000 square foot space was designed to evoke the Hollywood Hills and is brought to you from the DL and Dinner team from the LES.
Order specialty cocktails because you drinks are good: the menu was created by Rael Petit from The Mulberry Project. The lively spot has a great sound system with rotating DJs, so is great if you’re out for a clubby dance spot with a view.
251 West 48th St New York, NY 10036Bar Sixty Five at Rainbow Room
Located on the roof of Rockefeller Center opposite the infamous Rainbow Room, this new bar features both indoor and outdoor space that makes it one of the best midtown rooftop bars for everything from ‘Happy Hour’ to dinner. We recommend making reservations to ensure that they have space!
30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112Boom Boom Room
The ultimate NYC rooftop party spot, Boom Boom Room caters to the chicest crowds with amazing views and pricey cocktails. If you are lucky enough to get past the velvet ropes.
In addition to being a great room inside they also share the roof of the Standard with Le Bain with what we think are better views of Chelsea than you get when partying at Le Bain.
Great for: people watching; trendy; sceney
Music: Top 40, Hip-Hop, Electronic
Best Days: Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday.
Brass Monkey
Want a chill spot to drink cocktails outdoors? Head to Brass Monkey, one the the best “hidden” gems in the overwrought Meatpacking District. Sure, you will have to face some crowds, but it will be way more low-key than the other sceney spots in the ‘hood.
Get there early to snag one of the coveted outdoor tables and leave before 10pm unless you like the bridge-and-tunnel crowd. Side note, they are a great place to watch European football and rugby games.
Great for: After work, Happy Hour, day drinking, groups
55 Little West 12th, New York, NY 10004Cantina Rooftop
Located atop Stage 48, on 48th street. They have an inside and outdoor bar. They serve food and cocktails on the patio with a retractable roof. They have a great view of midtown and if you are looking for a rooftop with Mexican food then this is your spot.
Just make sure that you come dressed up since there are ropes and a doorman. (We are not sure how strict their door is.)
605 W 48th St, New York, NYCloud Social
Cloud Social is located in K-Town on 32nd between 5th and 6th in the New York Manhattan Hotel, featuring views of the Empire State building and One World Trade Center.
The rooftop is open year round with indoor and heated outdoor seating. With a capacity of 120 people the rooftop offers happy hour specials from 3-7pm.
6 West 32nd Street, New York, NYThe Empire Room The La Quinta Inn and Suites
Just steps away from some of Manhattan’s most iconic landmarks and attractions like Penn Station and Madison Square Garden, The Empire Room at The La Quinta Inn and Suites Manhattan is a one-of-a-kind space in NYC.
The guest room offers contemporary décor, and boasts an expansive private and furnished terrace overlooking The Empire State Building with seamless cityscape views.
17 W 32nd St. New York, NYGallow Green
Perched atop The McKittrick Hotel, a rooftop hangout with charming decor like exposed railroad tracks, lush vegetation and a railway car that serves as a private hangout spot.
The rooftop garden serves up delicious drinks including alcoholic punch an cocktails inspired by the hit show. Going with a group? Make a reservation to make sure you have a place to hang.
Great for: Happy Hour, Groups, Bar Bites
542 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001Gansevoort Park Rooftop
Gansevoort Park Avenue is set twenty stories above Manhattan. offers a communal environment for both locals and hotel guests alike. The updated tri-level penthouse brings new meaning to work-life balance, creating a 24-hour escape that lets visitors work hard and play hard.
Daytime dwellers can take full advantage of this workplace with an Empire State view that includes complimentary WiFi and cold brew coffee menu by Panther Coffee before kicking off happy hour with an organic, cold-pressed juice cocktail made with Juice Press’ signature blends. Nighttime revelers can still expect the staple nightlife experience once the sun goes down at New York’s first heated indoor-outdoor rooftop.
420 Park Avenue South at 29th Street, New York, NYHaven Rooftop
This Midtown gem is the perfect place for after work cocktails. Located on the top floor of the Sanctuary Hotel, Haven Rooftop has two separate areas for guests to hang out.
The menu is French-inspired food including Tuna Tower and Crab and Avocado Palette which can be washed down with wine or cocktails, including Mojitos, Margaritas and Red Sangria served by the pitcher.
Great for: After work, Happy Hour, People Watching, Bar Bites
132 West 47th Street, New York, NY 10036Hotel Chantelle
Hotel Chantelle is a multi-level restaurant and late night hotspot located on New York City’s Lower East Side. Widely popular for its year-round retractable rooftop, fun French fare and an underground dance den.
This dining-meets-nightlife venue has invigorated New York dining for years to come. With Executive Chef Seth Levine at the helm, known for his whimsical presentations and inventive food pairings, Hotel Chantelle has attracted a loyal clientele of celebrities, tastemakers, and international influencers looking for a delicious meal and high-energy late night soiree.
92 Ludlow Street, New York, NY 10002The Jade Hotel
Guests at The Jade Hotel in Greenwich Village will feel like they have their own pied-à-terre in this classic Manhattan neighborhood. But unlike the apartments of most New Yorkers, these rooms come with coveted outdoor space ideal for the warm summer months.
Although most of the 113 rooms offer unobstructed views of New York’s architectural treasures, the Greenwich Suite’s on the 17th and 18th floors and the Hudson Queen Deluxe rooms on the 2nd floor give guests the unique opportunity to have their own private outdoor space in the heart of the City. The Greenwich Suites feature large wraparound terraces that offer spectacular panoramas of the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building and the Hudson River.
Guests seeking a residential feel will love the landscaped garden patios attached to the Hudson Queen Deluxe rooms.
52 West 13th Street, New York, NYThe Jane Rooftop
The Jane Rooftop will once again open its doors to the public this summer for “Sunsets at The Jane,” where guests can take in the unparalleled views over the Hudson River.
The rooftop is designed by Sean MacPherson and has the same faded bohemian splendor as the rest of The Jane with hand-chipped paint, exquisitely cracked walls, and stools dripping with fringe.
The venue features an outdoor terrace and octagonal bar managed by Carlos Quirarte and Matt Kliegman of The Smile and The Jane Ballroom. Sip on a signature cocktail and people watch amongst the fashion elite.
113 Jane Street, New York, NYThe Kimberly
Upstairs at The Kimberly: Thirty stories above Midtown Manhattan in the stylish Kimberly Hotel, Upstairs is an elegant indoor/outdoor penthouse bar with great views of the Chrysler Building.
Upstairs’ chic dark leather furniture is softened by dainty tea-lights to set the vibe for you to enjoy signature cocktails and a delightful wine list. A nice little tip … try their brunch with a side of mimosas.
145 E. 50th Street, New York, NY 10222The Ludlow Hotel
This Lower East Side hotel is elegant and comfortable while capturing the vivid history and gritty, urban charm of the iconic neighborhood. While each of the 184 guestrooms enjoys a sweeping view of some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the Studio Queen and Loft King with terrace appease guests with their very own private outdoor space.
Peer on to the scuffed-up street art and boisterous happenings below while being removed from the action. Full disclosure: you’re wafting distance from Katz’s Deli.
180 Ludlow Street, New York, NYLa Piscine
If swimming pools and daybeds are your thing, then La Piscine at the Hotel Americano is just the place for ya. Head up the glass elevator to the 10th floor to take in amazing views of the High Line while sipping delicious specialty cocktails.
You can come early to try to snag a spot at the small lap pool, but La Piscine is perfect to watch the sunset over the Hudson while enjoying some rose. The vibe is a bit swanky, so dress accordingly.
518 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001
Mr. Purple at Indigo Hotel
Mr. Purple, is both a rooftop bar and restaurant located on the 15th floor of Hotel Indigo Lower East Side. The space is suppose to resemble the artist-loft ambiance with indoor and outdoor areas.
The space in total is about 9,000 square feet with a eastern terrace that is the smallest at 750 square feet, their indoor bar and restaurant of 3,000 square feet and the larger terrace located on the West side of 5,000 square feet with downtown New York as a backdrop. The bar features a collection of small-batch spirits, regionally brewed craft beers, universal wine offerings and a rotating specialty cocktail menu.
They also serve fresh cold-pressed juices and handcrafted coffee from Liquiteria and Irving Farm Coffee Roasters.
18 Ninth Avenue at 13th Street, New York, NYPHD Rooftop Lounge at Dream Downtown
PHD Rooftop Lounge is located at the top of the Dream Downtown. The Lounge has some of the best views of the Hudson river and the Empire State building that can all be taken from the outdoor garden.
PHD is open seven days a week starting at 5:00 pm. If you are looking for a happy hour with a view with made-to-order cocktails and small bites prepared by Chef Mike Armstrong.
355 W 16th St, New York, NY 10011
PHD Terrace at Dream Midtown
PHD Terrace at Dream Midtown is located on the 15th and 16th floor of the hotel, this bi-level rooftop boasts is 1,500+ square-feet of outdoor space and is open seven days a week starting at 5:00pm Sunday through Tuesday, and 4:00PM Wednesday through Saturday.
The cocktails Summer beverage selections range from refreshing cocktails to large format pitchers and small bites, perfect for small groups and summer entertaining, or a quick happy hour after work.
210 W 55th St, New York, NY 10019Plunge Rooftop Bar + Lounge
A perennial favorite, the rooftop at Gansevoort Meatpacking is the original in the neighborhood and offers stunning 360-degree views of the Hudson River, World Trade Center and Manhattan skyline, with distinctive spaces like the indoor/outdoor terrace with retractable glass roof, seasonal garden, and wrap-around balconies.
The indoor Loft boasts soaring 20-foot ceilings, communal seating, and a roaring fireplace, making it the ideal venue to gather with friends for a signature cocktail and a truly cosmopolitan experience.
18 Ninth Avenue at 13th Street, New York, NYPod 39 Rooftop
Perched 17 floors high, the top of the Pod 39 Hotel reveals a seasonal rooftop oasis. With crawling ivy, potted plants, and panoramic views of the city from the river to the East, the Freedom Tower to the South, the Empire State Building to the West and the Chrysler Building to the North, this two-story open roof space is the ultimate gathering place for after-work or evening out.
Framed with original brick arches and surrounded by terra cotta columns, the buzzing bar scene features tequila-inspired cocktails by mixologist Sam Anderson from Ken Friedman and April Bloomfield’s Salvation Taco.
145 East 39th Street, New York, NYPod 51 Rooftop Deck
Pod 51’s Rooftop Deck offers sun-bathers and star-gazers a more-relaxed alternative to NYC buzzing rooftop scene. Adorned with oversized lounge benches, colorful Adirondack chairs and a 12-foot long picnic table with awning – the perfect spot to gather for a DIY picnic.
Visitors can bring up their own wine and beer from the ground-floor café and nestle amongst the skyscrapers.
230 East 51st Street, New York, NYRefinery Rooftop
Refinery Rooftop is 3,500 square feet with unobstructed, unparalleled views of the Empire State Building just blocks away. The rooftop features three distinct sections that transition seamlessly from a cozy interior space complete with fireplace, water feature, and wooden ceilings constructed out of wood salvaged from the original building’s water tank; to an expansive indoor/outdoor space capped by a retractable glass roof; to an outdoor terrace with playful porch swings and an Empire view second to none.
Refinery Hotel is a former hat factory turned luxury hotel in New York City’s Garment District transformed a 1912 Neo-Gothic building into an industrial-chic hotel with refined public spaces in the lobby area, and a more industrial and raw elegance in the guestrooms and the rooftop bar.
63 West 38th Street, New York, NYThe Roof at Viceroy
The Gerber Group has been behind some of the most swankiest venues in NYC for over 20 years and their Viceroy Hotel top floor bar, The Roof, certainly does not disappoint. Inspired by luxury airliners, The Roof’s décor is heavy on wood with imagery of the sky and clouds to evoke an above the clouds experience with breathtaking views of Central Park.
Located in Midtown West, the bar offerings are well curated with small-batch spirits, regional craft brews and an ever-changing selection of seasonal cocktails.
124 West 57th Street, New York, NY 10019Salon De Ning
Arriving at Salon De Ning on the rooftop of the Peninsula Hotel, you are immediately seduced by sultry Asian glamour. The East meets West décor adds an exotic flair to the stunning city views above Fifth Avenue.
Enjoy the cool breeze while sipping signature cocktails like The Ning Sling with Stoli Orange, mint, Lychee, and Passion Fruit Juices or Ningroni with Farmers Organic Gin, Aperol and Carpano. There is even a cigar menu for the aficianados to enjoy. The vibe at Salon De Ning feels like a spontaneous tango might break out at any moment, but note, fedora not included.
700 5th Avenue, 23rd Floor, New York, NY 10019Spyglass Rooftop at the Archer Hotel
One of favorite new rooftops this summer comes to us from hospitality pros at the Charlie Palmer. Spyglass is located on the 22nd floor of the Archer Hotel and the decor is inspired by old school New York elegance fused with a little James Bond. The cocktails are created by Amanda Streibel.
The space is small and they encourage a more upscale, well-dressed crowd. Although Spyglass is swanky, the hospitality experience is incredible with a well-trained, friendly staff. This is a great date spot to enjoy a few well-crafted drinks and food to match with an up-close and personal view of the Empire State Building. This is a great place for a post theater cocktail.
47 West 38th Street, New York, NY 10018Seaside at Sabbia
Looking to drink beer and eat delicious Italian specialties under the stars just steps from Madison Square Park? Of course you are.
Then head to La Birreria, perched atop Mario Batali’s Eataly, where guests can enjoy a selection of brews from Dogfish Head, Empire Brewing Co., Victory Brewing among others, with a view of the Empire State Building.
Great For: Day Drinking, After Work, Happy Hour, Groups, Bar Bites
200 5th Ave, New York, NY 10010Studio Cafe at the Whitney Meatpacking
The Studio Cafe at the Whitney is managed by the team from Untitled from Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group. The cafe serves up toasts, salads, and other light fares for museum-goers. The space is floor to ceiling windows with views of the Manhattan skyline.
The Cafe is located on the eight floor and outdoor seating is available during the warmer months. The Cafe is open late on Friday and Saturdays for dinner and cocktails.
99 Gansevoort Street, New York, NY, 10014VU46
Perched high upon The Hotel @ Times Square, VU46 is one of the newest rooftop venues in midtown Manhattan. The year-round location, which opened in November 2014, features an outdoor terrace with views of The Empire State Building and Chrysler building.
The inside space is sheltered by a glass atrium and includes a bar with additional seating. Providing a more intimate atmosphere, the location accommodates a smaller crowd of approximately 70 people. The rooftop venue offers happy hour specials from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. everyday, including select $4 to $6 beer, wine and shot specials.
59 West 46th Street, New York, NYZ Roof
Let’s face it … if you want very best city views, you gotta leave the “city”. Take the short trip over the Queensboro Bridge to the boutique Z Hotel in Long Island City, take the elevator to the posh Z Rooftop Hotel Bar and score spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline.
The massive 5,000 square foot open-air bar is a perfect spot to sip seasonal signature cocktails while enjoying the rapidly blossoming Queens LIC neighborhood. Z Rooftop Bar is a great excuse to get to know Queens with a drink in hand and sunset views.
210 West 55th Street, New York, NY
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