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All of the elements are finally aligning! The weather is getting warmer, the sun is starting to peak its head, and the sun is starting to set after 7 pm. You know what that means…it’s nearly rooftop season! Whether this is your first spring/summer in NYC or your hundredth, you know there’s very few satisfying feelings that match up with a rooftop cocktail and a view. As the spring fever hits and the thoughts of summer begin to creep in, we’ve put together a list of great rooftop bars in NYC to check off your list. From Midtown mainstays to brand new spots, here are some of the best spots go grab a drink! Cheers!
Midtown
The Skylark
Located 30-stories high, The Skylark is an upscale lounge boasting views of nearly every iconic NYC landmark from the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, One Vanderbilt, Hudson Yards, to the Time Square New Year’s Eve Ball. Get cozy in one of their private nooks and enjoy floor-to-ceiling sliding windows. Make sure to head out to the rooftop terrace to catch a gorgeous sunset while you sip one of their refreshing cocktails!
Where: 200 W 39th St
Refinery Rooftop
Get an up-close view of the Empire State Building at this terrace atop the Refinery Hotel. They have fun handcrafted cocktails, along with light bites like sliders, cacio e pepe tater tots or a chocolate cookie skillet to indulge your sweet tooth!
Where: 63 W 38th St
Sushi Lab Rooftop
Have a fine dining rooftop experience at Sushi Lab Rooftop, atop the gorgeous midtown Sanctuary Hotel. The fairly new rooftop restaurant features Japanese small plates along with creative sushi, plus an incredible omakase experience, utilizing only the freshest ingredients. The space features seats at the chef’s counter and additional outdoor tables.
Where: 132 W 47th St
Elsie Rooftop
Check out this rooftop located right near Bryant Park and 25 stories up. This upscale rooftop will have you feeling giddy with its gorgeous views and not just from their cocktails! Try their Cold Poached Lobster Sliders or their Truffle Grilled Cheese along with a Sunset cocktail made with Tanqueray, strawberry, lemon, sugar, and soda. Learn more here.
Where: 1412 Broadway
Magic Hour Rooftop
This gorgeous rooftop bar serves over-the-top exclusive cocktails, breath-taking Empire State Building skyline views, and tons of photo-worthy food too. While you’re there, be sure to try out this season’s current speciality, the “Sliving in 2065” (Frozen margarita with 818 Blanco tequila agave, lime, peaflower luster, and crushed ice). Plus, they also currently have a speakeasy-type lounge called “The Hidden Gem” that’s decked out in disco balls and plants and is perfect for your next Instagram post!
Where: 485 Seventh Ave
Monarch Rooftop
The Monarch Rooftop takes over 5,000 square feet and maintains a clubby atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating. Soak in the sun hundreds of feet above street level with a drink in hand. Enjoy their cozy couches and choose from an extensive menu with refreshing light bites and top-notch cocktails.
Where: 71 W 35th St
Cloud Social
From hand-crafted cocktails to your favorite bar food snacks, Cloud Social offers a friendly atmosphere with hip decor and a beautiful indoor to outdoor transitional space. Order a Juicy Watermelon made with rum, peach schnapps, watermelon, lime juice, watermelon juice and rose syrup for summertime in a cocktail!
Where: 6 W 32nd St
Daintree
Catch some of the best views the city has to offer at Daintree Rooftop & Lounge. Pair one of their craft cocktails with 1/2 dozen beau soleil oysters and you’re in paradise! See more here.
Where: 25 W 38th St, 29th Floor
Ophelia (Midtown East)
This dazzling rooftop is the perfect haven in the sky. From astounding river views to classy cocktails, you can’t go wrong spending an evening at Ophelia!
Where: 3 Mitchell Pl, Floor 26
Haven Rooftop
Situated atop the Sanctuary Hotel in Midtown is Haven Rooftop, a glassed-in bar that serves views, cocktails, French fare, and more. It’s just steps away from both the world-class Theater District and the heart of Time Square, so it’s right in the middle of everything! We suggest stopping here before a Broadway show, or having casual drinks after work. Whatever fits your fancy.
Where: 132 W 47th St
East Side
Roof at Park South, Kips Bay
Pair your spicy marg with some delicious oysters at this luxe rooftop located in Rose Hill. The expansive cocktail bar offers four unique spaces: Umbrella Lounge, Floral Area, Fireside Lounge, and Private Garden. So whether it’s a rainy day or warm and sunny, it’s always a good time to hang at this spot.
Where: 125 E 27th St
The Ready Rooftop, East Village
Located at the Moxy East Village, The Ready Rooftop is ready to bring all the spring/summer vibes you’ve been looking for. The space “evokes a coveted New York City backyard” that stays open all year long, thanks to their retractable glass roof. With colorful seating and a hand-painted mural, the space gives of beer garden vibes while paying homage to the East Village neighborhood. There’s even a beer pong table that serves as a communal table!
Where: 112 E 11th St
Make Believe, Lower East Side
This rooftop oasis feels like a tropical paradise 7 floors above Manhattan. Lounge on their plush pink couches while you dance to the energetic DJ set and sip on cocktails until the sun has long set. Try their Falcon Punch for a refreshing drink on a sunny day. Learn more on their website.
Where: 190 Allen St
Mr. Purple, Lower East Side
Though known for their luxurious winter chalet theme, don’t forget that Mr. Purple is the rooftop to be on all year-round. On top of Hotel Indigo’s 15th floor, this vibrant spot is just what’d you’d expect to find in the funky Lower East Side neighborhood. Not feeling like drinking but still want the view? No worries, they serve cold pressed juices and coffee that are just as tasty!
Where: 180 Orchard St, Floor 15
cloudM, Lower East Side
Have a toast in the clouds! Take in the best view of the Lower East Side from 20 stories high at CloudM. This dreamy rooftop bar is located within citizenM New York Bowery Hotel and fits up to 200 people when its outdoor deck is open.
Where: 189 Bowery
West Side
Cantina Rooftop, Hell’s Kitchen
Cantina Rooftop on 48th Street has been open since 2014 and offers a “modern Mexican menu” as well as specialty tequila and mezcal cocktails. But the main attraction? It boasts a climate-controlled retractable glass rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Manhattan, that can be enjoyed no matter the season—or the weather. Right now it’s decked out with brightly colored umbrellas, making a gorgeous photo op.
And while you’re there, don’t forget about their gigantic 12-pound taco!
Where: 605 W 48th St
The Press Lounge, Hell’s Kitchen
Did somebody say rooftop pool?! Find this swanky spot atop the Ink48 Hotel and though you can’t go for a splash, the pool sure adds to the ambiance. Stay warm on chilly nights by their elegant fireplaces and cheers your friends with some seasonal cocktails and local wines.
Where: 653 11th Ave
Sandbar Rooftop,, Chelsea
If you want to channel summer vibes, and if you don’t get out to the Hamptons as much as you might want to, the Sandbar Rooftop in Chelsea is ready for you! They have a retractable roof and those swing seats we adore!.
Where: 152 W 26th St
Somewhere Nowhere, Chelsea
This two-level nightclub & lounge located on the 38th & 39th floor of the Renaissance NY Chelsea Hotel is also the tallest hotel rooftop with a pool in the city! It’s secret garden theme and enchanting decor will transport you to a mystical wonderland. Enjoy live DJs, pool parties, and immersive dinners all summer long at this go-to spot. See more information here.
Where: 112 W 25th St
Gallow Green, Chelsea
This secret garden rooftop is the ultimate oasis to escape the city and drink some delicious cocktails while you’re at it. Voted time and time again as one of NYC’s best rooftops, it’s definitely a spot you’ll want to check out. And for chillier nights, guests can still enjoy the fresh air by staying warm by their outdoor fire pit. Read more here.
Where: 542 W 27th St
The Fleur Room, Chelsea
This glass enclosed lounge is a rooftop staple in the New York nightlife scene. Cozy into this dimly lit spot and drink cocktails while you’re surrounded by rich floral fabrics and infinite plants and botany. It’s located in the Moxy Chelsea on the 35th floor, which means 360-degree views of the Manhattan skyline and incredible photo ops. Drop by after work to experience their “Hanging Gardens” and cocktail hour featuring floral-inspired drinks and bites set to the backdrop of thousands of hanging flowers!
Where: 105 W 28th St
Lower Manhattan
JIMMY, SoHo
The iconic JIMMY rooftop atop the new Modernhaus SoHo Hotel turns 11 this year. Enjoy creative cocktails like the Blushing Lady and Legal in Vermont along with global bar fare. Make sure to check out the outdoor pool deck and unobstructed panoramic view of the city.
Where: 15 Thompson St
Ampia Rooftop, FiDi
Ampia Rooftop, which comes from the owners of the popular Gnoccheria, has charming plastic mini greenhouses adorning their terrace. Located in FiDi, the rooftop has greenhouses for tables of two that diners can cuddle up in for light bites and drinks. Oh and another positive–a little rain won’t bother you! Last year, they were totally decked-out with florals, so we can’t wait to see what they come up with this year.
Where: 100 Broad St
Overstory, FiDi
Head up 64-stories and enjoy tasty drinks and unparalleled views of New York City (and beyond) at this sky-high bar. See more here.
Where: 70 Pine St, Floor 64
The Crown NYC, Chinatown
This go-to NYC rooftop at Hotel 50 Bowery in downtown Manhattan is ready for patio season! Enjoy incredible views plus a rotating selection of Gerber Group’s classic and seasonal cocktails alongside an expansive collection of small-batch spirits, regionally brewed craft beers, and universal wine offerings.
Where: 50 Bowery
Mondrian Terrace, NoMad
This NYC hotel has a beautiful terrace on the 15th floor, overlooking the city. Tables are fit with comfortable booth seating and surrounding plants, you’ll feel like you’ve been whisked away to a peaceful garden oasis. An oasis with an incredible cocktail menu, that is! The craft cocktails available on the rooftop are light, bright and perfect for summer.
Where: 444 Park Ave S
Glass Ceiling, NoMad
Named after its retractable glass ceiling, this rooftop botanical-themed bar has the perfect ambiance with a marble bar and luxurious seating (both indoor and outdoor). Catch the perfect view of the Empire State building while you order tasty cocktails like the Frozen Rosé or the Cucumber Champagne Mojito.
Where: 1204 Broadway, 5th Floor
Nubeluz, NoMad
This swanky spot in the sky comes from award-winning Chef José Andrés. Nubeluz indulges guests with 270° views of the cityscape and two outdoor terraces, for a night of glitz and glam. Enjoy American-Spanish fare, inventive cocktails, and a luxurious atmosphere 50 floors up. Find out more here.
Where: 25 W 28th St (The Top of The Ritz-Carlton, NoMad)
Apotheke, NoMad
The sister location of Chinatown’s acclaimed speakeasy, Apotheke, opened in NoMad earlier this year and is launching their penthouse lounge and rooftop terrace on Wednesday, oct. 12th. The space will serve as a skyline herb-garden, growing plants and botanicals that will be used in their seasonal menu. With spectacular views of the Empire State Building and Madison square Park, it’s designed to be enjoyed year-round as a retractable roof will be added later this year. Read more here.
Where: 9 W 26th St
Eataly, Flatiron
One of the city’s favorite rooftops, SERRA by Birreria, will soon transform into their eagerly awaited spring/summer theme. Last year’s was inspired by “a greenhouse with flower buds, greenery, and plants, inspired by nature’s own flowering transformation.” Whatever this year’s may be, it’s sure to transport you to the Italian countryside with a bright, fun ambiance. Learn more here.
Where: 200 Fifth Ave
230 Fifth Rooftop, Flatiron
You simply can’t beat the view of the Empire State Building from 230 Fifth Rooftop. You can rent your own private igloo or choose to dine completely outdoors. With comfortable seating, tropical palm trees, and frozen drinks you’ve got all you need for a good time! Make your reservation on their website.
Where: 230 5th Ave
Brooklyn
Ainslie, Williamsburg
Enjoy mouthwatering wood-fired pizzas, pastas, Wood Fired Rosemary Wings and more, along with an extensive beer, wine & cocktail menu. Plus their All You Can Drink Brunch is from 11am – 4pm on the weekends. Learn more here.
Where: 76 Ainslie St, Brooklyn
Night of Joy, Williamsburg
This rooftop patio only opens up seasonally, but when it does it’s a must-visit spot for those summer days when you’re in need of a frozen margarita. More here.
Where: 667 Lorimer St, Brooklyn
Westlight NYC, Williamsburg
On top of The William Vale hotel in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, this 22nd floor rooftop bar comes from Chef Andrew Carmellini. Enjoy sweeping views of the city while you sip on one of their original or classic cocktails.
Where: 111 N 12th St, Brooklyn
Berry Park, Williamsburg
Berry Park‘s rooftop is open all year round, but there’s something extra special about it when summertime hits. Admire sweeping skyline sights and catch a game inside on their big projection screen.
Where: 4 Berry St, Brooklyn
Slate Rooftop, Williamsburg
A Chelsea favorite has opened a new spot over in Brooklyn atop The Pod Brooklyn Hotel. Enjoy Slate’s signature larger-than-life games, but this time paired with gorgeous city views. Find out more here.
Where: 247 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn
LoHi, East Williamsburg
Head over to this Brooklyn rooftop for trivia night and exciting DJ sets! LoHi is the perfect spot for gathering with a large group of friends, and as they hashtag, #boozewithaview!
Where: 314 Scholes St, Brooklyn
Harriet’s Rooftop & Lounge, Brooklyn Heights
After their popular Polar Lounge, keep enjoying Harriet Rooftop’s unmatched views of the Brooklyn Bridge as the weather continues to warm up! Located on the 10th floor of 1 Hotel Brooklyn you’ll find the perfect escape. Whether its brunch or dinner, the menu features incredible dishes from Chilaquiles to Steak & Fries…not to mention delicious cocktails!
Where: 60 Furman St, Brooklyn Heights
Elsewhere, Bushwick
Though Elsewhere is better known as one of Brooklyn’s favorite music venues, their open-air rooftop is the perfect place to enjoy a drink while catching some incredible live music. Order a frozen cocktail and dance the night away while the sunset and skyline make the most striking backdrop. The rooftop will officially reopen on May 26th, 2022. View their summer lineup on their website here.
Where: 599 Johnson Ave, Brooklyn
Rooftop Reds, Brooklyn Navy Yard
Head out—or shall we say up—to a vineyard right here in NYC. Taste a variety of wines from the Brooklyn vines growing at this unique urban vineyard. Rooftop Reds‘ custom urban planter system covers the 14,800 square-foot rooftop to bring New Yorkers distinctive wines with a city view.
Where: 299 Sands St, Building 275, Brooklyn
Kimoto Rooftop Restaurant & Garden Lounge, Downtown Brooklyn
This minimalist-chic rooftop lounge serves up Asian-inspired bar eats, cocktails and beer, city views, and great times. Their 5,000+ square foot space atop the Sheraton & Aloft Hotels makes for one that we highly suggest grabbing food at. Their fusion cuisine is curated with care, and their Asian beers and cocktails make for an elevated rooftop experience! This place also comes alive at night!
Where: 228 Duffield St, Brooklyn
Queens
Vista Sky Lounge, LIC
Wow your date with stunning views when you take them to this candlelit rooftop. Stretching 3,000 sq. feet of terrace, get a drink at Vista Sky Lounge‘s 30 foot bar and watch Manhattan glitter from across the river.
Where: 27-05 39th Avenue, Top Floor, Long Island City
TWA Hotel Pool Bar, Jamaica
On top of being home to a retro runway roller rink, twister room, and cocktail lounge inside a 1950’s plane, TWA Hotel also has a jaw-dropping rooftop pool bar that looks out onto on of the biggest runways at JFK. It’s open year-round and has definitely one of the most extraordinary views out of this entire list.
Where: TWA Hotel One Idlewild Drive JFK Airport, Jamaica
Moonbar Rooftop, Flushing
This Flushing gem offers panoramic sights of NYC. Find it on the 9th floor and rooftop of The One Hotel. More here.
Where: 137-72 Northern Blvd, Flushing
Roosevelt Island
Panorama Room, Roosevelt Island
Take in never-before-seen views from Roosevelt Island’s new rooftop bar! Seating 168 guests atop the Graduate Roosevelt Island hotel, the theme is classic with a twist. Featuring a wide selection of martinis including lychee, apple and a draft espresso martini, the drinks are absolutely delicious. For food, enjoy elevated bites from Executive Chef Megan Brown (of Red Rooster Harlem, The Standard and Ace Hotel). It’s sure to be worth the trip! Find out more here.
Where: 22 North Loop Road, RI
Written by Claire Leaden and Justine Golata