What are you doing this weekend? If you answered anything other than “drinking a cocktail on a rooftop,” then you’re doing summer wrong. Fortunately, we tracked down the best rooftop bars NYC has to offer, whether you’re up for evening cocktails with your riends or a romantic dinner with your partner. From lush garden oases to chic cocktail lounges, here’s where to find boozy ice pops, glittering pools and breathtaking views.
1. ART SoHo
Offering sweeping views of the city skyline and the Hudson River, this cocktail lounge located on the rooftop of the Arlo SoHo celebrates the pulse of the city with live DJs, cocktails, frozen drinks, beer, wine, and a menu of light bites. With a newly revamped indoor/outdoor space, new artworks line the walls alongside a new food and beverage menu and weekly programming with extended hours that are sure to be the cherry on top of your perfect summer evening.
231 Hudson St., Fl. 11; arlohotels.com
Visit this Times Square rooftop atop M Social Hotel Times Square New York for Beast & Butterflies, a private oasis perched above the city center. The 7,500-square-foot wraparound terrace is adjacent to an indoor glass perch, meaning you can get all the feels of Times Square with none of the touristy crowds. Enjoy specialty cocktails, light bites, shared bites and sweets as you take in the lights of the city.
226 West 52nd Street; millenniumhotels.com
3. The Terrace And Outdoor Gardens At The Times Square EDITION
Escape the bustling streets of Times Square to The Terrace and Outdoor Gardens with a lush decor inspired by the iconic L’Orangerie at Jardin des Tuileries in Paris. Enjoy a “French Brasserie and American chophouse with a modern spin” culinary experience by Michelin-starred chef Jon Fraser. Think elegant-yet-simple house-made pastas, steaks and chops, and a variety of vegetable dishes like mushroom carpaccio, vegan carrot bolognese, and a vibrant broccoli cacio e pepe. P.S.: They’re also known for their exclusively New World wine list that’s focused on sustainability—you know, if you’re into that.
701 7th Ave 9th floor; editionhotels.com
After opening its alluring cellar speakeasy in July last year, Apotheke NoMad, the sister of the beloved Chinatown original, launched a stunning rooftop terrace and penthouse lounge this past October that you simply have to see for yourself. Located on the 11th floor, the terrace and penthouse are framed by a wall of breathtaking stained-glass windows with plants and botanicals abound—the highlight being a lush herb garden, where garnishes and ingredients for the seasonally changing menu are grown. An atrium, with a retractable roof and windows, will be installed later this year, bringing a greenhouse-like feel, while letting guests enjoy the terrace and its views of the Empire State Building and Madison Square Park year-round.
9 W 26th St.; apothekemixology.com
Take the elevator up to the 21st floor of the AC Hotel New York Times Square and you’ll arrive at this gorgeous rooftop. The name (Castell) comes from the Catalan word for castle as well as the aptly named Catalonian tradition in which teams work together to build towers of people standing on each other's shoulders—called castells—stacking nearly 40 feet-high. Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Broadway theaters and Madison Square Garden, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the city lights while sipping martinis next to the fireplace lounge and luxe granite bar.
AC Hotel, 260 W 40th Street; castellnyc.com
Looking for modern, authentic Mexican food with jaw-dropping views of NYC? This is just the ticket. This hotspot for al-fresco dining is one of the best locales in the city to score a 360-degree view of the skyline—and it’s known to be an energetic late-night party destination with local and international DJs from around the world. Alongside your mezcal-rita or margarita, you’ll love bites like the monstrous “El Super Taco” (only available on Taco Tuesdays), truffle fries, and cantina lava cake.
605 W 48th St; cantinarooftop.com
7. Le Jardin At Baccarat Hotel New York
This rooftop is a garden party. Recently opened last June, Le Jardin is an intimate, floral filled garden terrace in the heart of Midtown that features the largest Champagne list in the country. They also offer afternoon tea weekend brunch by the two Michelin-starred culinary director Gabriel Kreuther. All seating is first-come, first-serve.
23 W 53rd Street; baccarathotels.com
8. PHD Terrace at Dream Midtown
If you like roses, this is the spot for you. PHD Terrace at Dream Midtown features a stunning Insta-worthy “Rose Garden” pop-up, containing 10,000 red roses, twinkling lights, and tasty themed cakes and cocktails as well as a variety of other dips and bites. It’s open year-round and has incredible views of Times Square and Greater New York City. Want to make it a party? Choose from one of their six sunset packages of drink specials.
210 W 55th Street; taogroup.com
9. Chez Zou
Located just a few floors up from Zou Zou’s, Chez Zou’s terrace is full of printed, upholstered lounge-style seating, dimly lit with lantern and string lights, and lush greenery all around. The menu consists of an expanded list of inventive and playful cocktails including fun, large format beverages such as Game, Set, Matcha(tequila, fino sherry, matcha, cucumber and yuzu) and Island Boys (Guatemalan rum, raspberry, cucumber, ginger, lime), and several bites from Zou Zou’s chef Juliana Latif, like oysters and crudites. The oasis is open seven days a week from 5 p.m. to 12 a.m. (1 a.m. Tuesday through Saturday), so what are you waiting for?
385 9th Ave.; chezzou.com
10. Terrace On 7 At The Dominick
This poolside rooftop in SoHo — the tallest building in the neighborhood, at that — boasts spacious cabanas with views of the city at recently opened El Ta'koy, a poolside indoor-outdoor poolside bar where you can tuck into Asian-Hawaiian seafood-forward items like tuna and caviar taquitos, and braised short rib alongside a tropical cocktail list.
246 Spring St; thedominickhotel.com
Located on the 16th floor of Conrad New York Downtown, score views of the Statue of Liberty, Jersey City and New York Harbor while slurping boozy ice pops (“poptails”) in Prosecco or “rosecco” on tap. Loopy Doopy also serves seasonal light bites and does not take reservations.
102 North End Ave; hilton.com
12. Slate Rooftop
This hidden outdoor oasis in Williamsburg is located above The POD Brooklyn Hotel with open air views, an expansive menu of shareable bites, craft beers, tasty frozen drinks, and more. Enjoy finger foods and full entrees alike from Executive Chef Darryl Harmon and play the night away with signature games including sub soccer and giant Jenga. In addition to the tasty food and drinks, there’s always plenty of couch seating so you and your squad can spread out comfortably.
247 Metropolitan Ave., Brooklyn; slate-ny.com
13. LiFE Rooftop
LiFE Rooftop at the Le Meridien Hotel in Midtown has stunning views of Central Park and greater NYC. Enjoy specialty cocktails inspired by local monuments and moments alike, plus rotating bites, from brussels sprouts to wagyu gyoza. (Psst: It was formerly the rooftop at the Viceroy, known as one of the city’s best rooftops and frequented by the likes of George and Amal Clooney.)
124 West 57th Street; sbe.com/nightlife/life-rooftop
14. Fornino
Open since 2004, this spot at Pier 6 in Brooklyn Bridge Park is great for taking in summer sunsets from their rooftop while indulging in wood-fired pizzas, salads and sandwiches. This is also our favorite pick for a family gathering, with a menu filled with non-alcoholic beverages, shared plates and ice cream treats. While they aren’t rooftops, check out their other two locations in Greenpoint and Dumbo.
Pier 6, Brooklyn Bridge Park; fornino.com
Newly redone, Gansevoort Meatpacking’s iconic Gansevoort Rooftop has 360 views of Manhattan’s skyline, plus a 45-foot heated rooftop pool. No, you’re not dreaming! Grab a drink and lounge in the plush seating and enjoy the chic neon art alongside an intimate omakase experience of curated, seasonal, high-quality Japanese bites.
18 Ninth Avenue; gansevoorthotelgroup.com
16. Rooftop At Royalton Park Avenue
Thanks to the spacious roof terrace and stunning sights, this venue is ideal for almost any event, from a girls' night out to a birthday gathering. Expect a wide variety of cocktails and drinks, and be sure to stop by for happy hour every weekday from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. for $10 martinis and wine, $7 beer and half price shared plates. Looking for live music? The attached Ivy Room now hosts a brand new piano lounge experience with NYC-based pianists and an exclusive menu Tuesday through Saturday evenings.
420 Park Ave S; royaltonparkavenue.com
17. Haven Rooftop
Perched above the Sanctuary Hotel in Midtown, Haven offers a menu of sliders, tuna tartare, Buffalo wings, branzino and steak au poivre. Pair that with a Cloudtini or summer sangria and we’re in summertime heaven! We’re also huge fans of their weekend brunch (with bottomless mimosas, of course).
132 W. 47th Street; havenrooftop.com
18. Jimmy SoHo Rooftop Lounge and Bar
One of New York City’s most popular rooftops, JIMMY is a SoHo destination with an indoor lounge and pool deck. Michelin-starred chef George Mendes serves up bar bites with a Portuguese twist and partner/mixologist Johnny Swet whips up cocktails like the Mexican Honey Bee, Sazerac Tonic, Smoked Peach Margarita and Grilled Pineapple Mojito. Plus, there’s a pool if you’re looking to take a dip this summer!
15 Thompson Street; jimmysoho.com
We’re back at The Sanctuary Hotel in Midtown but this time for our favorite food group: sushi. This must-see, flower-filled spot offers guests a creative spin on traditional sushi from executive chef Frankie Chen in a gorgeous canopied rooftop setting. Order all the nigiri, sashimi, hand rolls and maki sushi your heart desires, or opt for one of two decadent omakase experiences.
132 W. 47th Street; sushilab.com
20. Ainslie
The Williamsburg-based establishment (that recently opened a new location in the Bowery) is a restaurant, wine bar, beer garden and rooftop. Led by executive chef John DeLucie and lead pizzaiolo Erasmo ‘Mino’ Lassandro, the 26-seat rooftop offers a tasty menu of wood-fired pizzas, pastas, free-range chicken, New York Strip Steak, Atlantic Salmon, wood-fired wings and much, much more. Stop by during happy hour from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 4 to 7 p.m. on Fridays.
76 Ainslie Street; ainsliebk.com
21. The Sentry Penthouse Lounge and Bar
The Sentry crowns the iconic Hotel Henri in Manhattan’s Flatiron neighborhood. Come for the experimental cocktails, tasty bites, and lavish decor—and stay for the exquisite views. The spacious private 18th floor rooftop overlooks Madison Square Park with great views of the Empire State Building, with a capacity for over 200 guests and is also available for private events.
37 West 24th Street; thesentrynyc.com/sentry-flatiron
22. Bar Marseille
Awash in beachy white furniture is Bar Marseille, an airy outdoor patio and rooftop deck designed in collaboration with Studio Mapos. This spot is influenced by the French Riviera with an American flare, serving dishes like steak frites, honey-roasted half chicken, steak sandwich au jus, ahi tuna burger, nicoise salad, and more.
190 Beach 69th Street, Queens; barmarseille.getbento.com
A gorgeous, seasonally rotating rooftop atop the famous Eataly Flatiron is an Instagram favorite. Snap away in this rooftop greenhouse with flower buds, greenery and plants while enjoying seasonal pastas, grilled skewers, and bountiful salads. Imbibe with Italian IPAs, cocktails with unique spins, natural wines and warm-weather mocktails for those looking for a non-alcoholic sip.
200 5th Ave; eataly.com
Perched atop this Brooklyn brewery is the industrial chic rooftop, where you can enjoy craft beer, delicious food and dreamy views of the neighborhood. The roof also features a green stained glass water tower, designed by Brooklyn-based artist Tom Fruin. Keep your eyes on their Instagram for one of their renowned BBQ events, and make sure to take a few cans home for later.
1150 Manhattan Ave; greenpointbeer.com
25. Time Out Market
Along with an impressive food lineup (which includes vendors like Wayla and Sugar Hill Creamery), the city mag’s food hall boasts a pretty stellar rooftop atop Dumbo’s Empire Stores building. Load up with your eats of choice, then head upstairs and order a specialty cocktail and enjoy your haul alongside sweeping East River views.
55 Water St., Brooklyn; timeoutmarket.com
26. Dumbo House
First things first: Yes, you’ll need a membership (or a member friend to bring you) to access this spot, just like its SoHo counterpart. But once you’re in, you’ll have access to a gorgeous pool with insane views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the rest of the city’s downtown; an expansive seating area with plenty of wicker furniture and umbrellas; and a tasty selection of drinks and bites. Sounds totally worth it to us.
55 Water St., Brooklyn; dumbohouse.com
Psst: The best views of the city aren’t in the city at all—they’re across the Hudson in Jersey. Yes, really! Cozy up next to the outdoor fire pit (!) while sipping an uber-refreshing Chilltown (Tito’s Vodka, aperol, pineapple juice, lime), nibbling on bites like sliders or bruschetta, and Instagramming to your heart’s content. Trust us, the city can wait.
1 Exchange Pl., Jersey City; rooftopxp.com
28. Broken Shaker
The chic hotel behind one of our favorite indoor hangouts has an 18-floor oasis, complete with a stunning interior (designed by Roman and Williams), a wraparound terrace, Caribbean-Middle Eastern eats and an intriguing cocktail menu—the Taste You Can See is essentially breakfast in beverage form but better (think: Cinnamon Toast Crunch infused Wild Turkey Bourbon, Redemption Rye, demerara, tiki bitters and Angostura).
23 Lexington Ave.; freehandhotels.com
29. Mondrian Terrace
Consider the Mondrian Park Avenue’s 15th-floor wraparound terrace the LBD of rooftop bars: It simply works for any and every occasion. It boasts plenty of seating, a refreshingly low-key vibe, drinks like a Tequila Stinger (tequila, pineapple and lime) and shareable bites like burrata with pistachio and fig balsamic. Pro tip: Head over just before sunset for a life-changing experience. Really, what’s not to like?
444 Park Ave South; morganshotelgroup.com
Located on the 21st floor of the CitizenM Hotel, this upscale bar certainly lives up to its tagline, "out of the crowds, into the clouds." Thanks to the spacious terrace, you can expect a breathtaking view of the Lower East Side, plus a wide selection of unique cocktails. The centrally-located Bowery location only accepts reservation sizes of up to six people, so plan accordingly.
189 Bowery; citizenm.com
31. Ophelia Lounge
This rooftop may be of the mostly enclosed variety, but it’s too gorgeous not to include. Perched atop the historic Beekman Tower, the space takes many of its design cues from its Art Deco past—and the snug terrace has some of the loveliest views out there, of the East River specifically. Enjoy seafood-forward bites, dishes and sweets in a cozy banquette, and if you’re lucky, you’ll even catch a live jazz performance.
3 Mitchel Pl., 26th Fl.; opheliany.com
32. Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge
This pick is actually the largest indoor and outdoor all-season rooftop in NYC—so it doesn’t have to be warm out for you to enjoy the breathtaking views. Moxy Times Square's iconic Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge has transformed into an all-pink rooftop Rose Garden, complete with over 10,000 roses, over-the-top pink themed cocktails, small plates and sweet treats. Reservations are recommended for seated service, but walk-ins are welcome.
485 Seventh Ave.; moxytimessquare.com
33. Llama Inn
Until we can move into a place with our own private terrace, this cozy Williamsburg rooftop will tide us over and keep us happy with charred octopus ceviche and refreshing drinks like the Llama Del Rey (pisco, rum, red wine, chicha morada, lime, grilled pineapple, pink peppercorn). Stop by for dinner or weekend brunch at this Michelin Bib Gourmand—meaning it offers refined cuisine at a more affordable price.
50 Withers St., Brooklyn; llamainn.com
Giving a bar as straightforward a name as “The Roof” is a bold move—but when said bar comes with breathtaking (unobstructed) views of Midtown’s cityscape, it works. We’ll take our views of the Chrysler Building with a frozen margarita and a side of shrimp fried wontons, thanks. Wander around unique spaces like the Umbrella Lounge and the Flower Area for a creative photo op, and catch a unique event throughout the spring and summer months.
125 E. 27th St.; roofatparksouth.com
Upstairs at the Kimberly truly feels like you’ve stepped into another country (or planet), with ivy lining the walls, and an air of refinement in every detail. For a more sophisticated vibe on your next night out, head to this elegant penthouse for sweet or savory bites—like steak tartare, tuna carpaccio and chocolate molten cake—plus, divine martinis, wines, low-alcohol cocktails, and more. (P.S. We’re not kidding about it being civilized—no sneakers or flip-flops allowed.)
145 E. 50th St.; upstairsnyc.com
36. Le Bain
If you haven’t already heard of this popular spot, this rooftop bar will appeal to anyone who's down for a booze-filled night of dancing (and maybe even swimming, too). Expect breathtaking views as you sit atop the High Line, cozy seating, meeting visitors and locals alike, and great music from world-renowned DJs. It’s definitely one of our favorite nightlife spots, if that’s what you’re into.
444 West 13th St; lebainnewyork.com
37. Daintree
Located on the 29th floor of the Hendricks Hotel, this charming, under-the-radar spot is one of the most stunning penthouse lounges in the city. Get a clear view of the Empire State Building, and you can count on especially good rotating eats, like their exceptional whipped ricotta with pistachio chili crisp and herbed focaccia. Did we mention they have two happy hours per day?
25 W 38th Street, Fl 29; daintreenyc.com
38. ART NoMad
The Arlo team have another summer winner at its NoMad location—and you’ll want to stop by ASAP. The rooftop bar sits 31 stories in the sky atop Arlo NoMad, and offers inventive cocktails and Middle Eastern small bites including skordalia, tahini, labneh and housemade pickles. The infamous "skywalk" glass floor installation is a must-see, offering a birdseye view of the New York streets dozens of stories below.
11 E. 31st St.; arlohotels.com/nomad
39. Gallow Green
We never would have thought “overgrown Victorian train station” would be such a lovely aesthetic, but now that we know, we can’t get enough. And if we can sip a lilac-hued cocktail and eat fresh oysters while soaking up the secret garden’s ambience, even better. Gallow Green is a part of McKittrick Hotel, also home to immersive sensation, Sleep No More, dazzling Speakeasy Magick, live concerts, and other unique events.
547 W. 27th St.; mckittrickhotel.com/gallow-green
Couldn’t swing that trip to Cuba this year? Just head to this SoHo perch for Old Havana vibes, passion-fruit mojitos and 360-degree Lower Manhattan views. While the cocktail menu—with an emphasis on tequila, of course—is the star, you can also try some tacos, sliders and other light bites to satisfy your appetite.
525 Greenwich St.; azulrooftop.com
41. Mr. Purple
Cozy couches, string lights, espresso martinis and even a pool: It’s like we manifested this place out of our greatest dreams! Located on the 15th floor of the Hotel Indigo LES, Mr. Purple is known for its small-batch spirits, regionally brewed craft beers, universal wine offerings and a rotating selection of classic and modern cocktails that highlight market-fresh ingredients. (It’s even seen the likes of NYC Mayor Eric Adams as of late.)
180 Orchard St.; mrpurplenyc.com
42. Bar 54
Enjoy some fine wine and stunning views of Lower Manhattan from the 54th floor of Hyatt Centric, which includes an intimate indoor space and chic outdoor terrace that’s currently being redone and is set to open soon. Soak up the city lights as you sip on specialty cocktails, and make sure you make a reservation before you head up, as they’re required.
135 West 45th Street; hyatt.com
If you head to the 40th and 41st floors of the Aliz Hotel in Times Square, you’ll be met with magical views of the Manhattan skyline with a unique vibe—specifically “James Bond and Art Deco time travel themes.” And in addition to their impressive food and beverage menus chock full of inventive dishes and cocktails sure to wow any visitors (and probably yourself, too), Dear Irving offers hands-on cocktail classes. Sounds like a win-win.
310 West 40th Street; dearirving.com
44. The Crown
No, we’re not talking about the Netflix drama. Self-described as a place “where art and music defy conventional standards,” The Crown features chic, modern decor and the best views of both the Manhattan and Brooklyn skylines. Great for private events, this chic spot offers small bites and plenty of drink options, from Dirty Martinis to Sauvignon Blanc. You might also get to see your favorite DJ if you plan your night right.
50 Bowery, New York; thecrownnyc.com
45. 230 Fifth
If you're looking for a rooftop lounge that you can visit year-round, allow us to introduce 230 Fifth. The 30,000-square-foot space is made up of two floors, but the rooftop (the 21st floor) features heated igloos and cabins that can be used during the colder months. The menu includes a good variety of food and drinks, from shareable appetizers and sweets to salads and burgers. Check out their website to snag tickets to an upcoming DJ set.
230 5th Ave.; 230-fifth.com
46. Harriet's Rooftop
With a rooftop pool that's open daily, visitors can dine poolside and enjoy unobstructed views of the city skyline from this stellar Brooklyn Heights hotel bar with arguably one of the best views in all five boroughs. Plus, Harriet's menu is just as impressive, with specialty cocktails, wines, appetizers, sushi, a raw bar, sake, and more.
60 Furman Street, Brooklyn; 1hotels.com
47. The Skylark
If you think Times Square is impressive, just wait until you see it from 30 stories up. Visitors can take in the Empire State Building, the Hudson River and the Chrysler Building at the Skylark, but aside from awe-inspiring views, they also offer delicious appetizers and classic cocktails made with fresh ingredients. Plus, because it’s located indoors in a plush lounge (with floor-to-ceiling sliding windows, might we add), it’s open year-round.
200 W 39th St., 30th Floor; theskylarknyc.com
48. Tribeca Rooftop
This ultra-cool venue is ideal for any occasion, whether you have a relative who’s throwing a summer engagement party or you’re celebrating a milestone birthday. (And yes, we did name it one of the most stunning wedding venues in NYC.) Amenities include seasonal menus, in-house lounge furniture, a cozy VIP suite, and some of the most incredible views of the Hudson River in the city. Don’t believe us? Take a virtual tour here.
2 Desbrosses St.; tribecarooftopnyc.com
49. Refinery Rooftop
Rooftop is one of our go-to spots for a casual brunch or a couple of drinks with our besties, with an all-day menu, a brunch menu and a drinks menu (we like the Frozen Strawberry Piña Colada and Espresso Martini alongside the ramen-spiced shishito peppers and crispy calamari, in case you were curious.) It also boasts a dynamic space and a clear view of the Manhattan skyline, including the Empire State Building.
63 W 38th St.; refineryhotelnewyork.com
50. Elsie Rooftop
Sophistication and glamor abound in this upscale rooftop space, which features stunning Victorian decor. Named after the famous decorator, Elsie de Wolfe, the bar offers an impressive menu with appetizers, cocktails, wine and beer. We recommend stopping by for their scrumptious weekend brunch, offering a $45 90-minute bottomless choice of bellinis, mimosas, or sangrias.
1412 Broadway; elsierooftop.com
51. Panorama Room
Planning an elegant party or a romantic dinner? Try the Panorama Room. It hasn’t been around for too long, but it's already garnered a reputation for its beautiful atmosphere as the first and only hotel on Roosevelt Island—meaning never-before-seen views of the city. The catch? There’s a dress code to follow (“elevated chic attire”), so leave the flip flops and cargo shorts at home when you visit.
22 N Loop Road, Roosevelt Island; panoramaroomnyc.com
Aptly self-described as “an escape from the New York daily grind,” we couldn’t agree more about this charming spot atop the Moxy East Village. Launched in 2021, this vibrant rooftop bar boasts colorful and cozy decor, complete with a gorgeous garden and a retractable glass roof. We’re big fans of the drinks menu too, with options like Spice Spice Baby and BlueBerry Mezcalrita on offer.
112 East 11th St.; moxyeastvillage.com
53. The Press Lounge
This rooftop venue will make you feel like you’ve stepped into paradise, with its chic decor and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. Although the food portion of the menu is rather limited, it’s the ideal spot for date night or a fun outing with friends year-round, as its 360-degree views can be enjoyed from the comfort of the cozy lounge. Note that they don’t take reservations and there’s an “elegant casual” dress code.
653 11th Ave, 16th Fl.; thepresslounge.com
54. Electric Lemon
If you’re familiar with the Equinox Hotel in Hudson Yards, then you might want to check out their Pinterest-worthy rooftop restaurant and bar. Located on the 24th floor, the sleek venue includes a Jaume Plensa sculpture and cozy, private dining areas for the ideal get-together with your lover or BFFs. With an extensive food menu focused on seasonal veggies and crudo, plus an eclectic drinks menu, you really can’t go wrong.
33 Hudson Yards, 24th Fl.; electriclemonnyc.com
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