As the best rooftop bars in NYC (New York City) are quick to underscore, the town provides an unbelievable backdrop to dining and, of course, drinking. What better way unwind after a long day than from atop a building and to experience New York City than from up above, with a cocktail in hand? Happily, in a metropolis with a killer skyline and some stellar rooftops to take in, you’ll find no shortage of great bars that offer some seriously extraordinary views. For a true local experience, check out some of the best rooftop bars in NYC with help from our inside guide below:
| Name | Location | Description |
| Le Bain | 848 Washington St | This two-level rooftop bar on the top of The Standard Hotel offers an enclosed, discotheque-vibe (complete with a usable hot tub and decorative disco ball), as well as an open-air lounge area above. Both levels afford unparalleled views of the city, and are frequented by a cool-kid European crowd. |
| The Delancey | 168 Delancey St | The Delancey’s rooftop in the Lower East Side mixes the low-key vibe of the neighborhood with a luxuriously beachy aesthetic. White lounge chairs and palm trees decorate the all-weather rooftop, and visitors can enjoy the other two levels for dancing and music. If you’re planning a celebration, take advantage of their free group reservation policy. |
| Westlight | 111 N 12th St | To truly enjoy Manhattan, sometimes you need to leave the island. You can do just that at Westlight, the rooftop bar at The William Vale, a new boutique Williamsburg hotel that provides picture-perfect views of Manhattan. Head there after work for drinks, a brilliant sunset and gourmet bites, including eggplant dumplings and potato skins topped with caviar. |
| Gallow Green | 542 W 27th St | The McKittrick Hotel hosts the famous, interactive theater piece “Sleep No More,” a breakthrough hit in experiential theater. The hotel’s rooftop bar, Gallow Green, is just as magical as the play. Greenery—especially ferns—seem to pulse with the energy of the room (in fact, it’s just some great lighting), and the décor changes by season. |
| Pod 39 | 145 E 39th St | The rooms at Pod 39 hotel in Murray Hill are compact and budget-friendly. Somehow, this IKEA-esque hotel produced one of the coolest rooftop spaces in Manhattan, with red brick décor and fun outdoor lighting. They specialize in Latin-American drinks, so grab a drink and relax while you enjoy views of the Empire State and Chrysler buildings. |
| Penthouse 808 | 8-08 Queens Plaza S | Sometimes, you want great ways to quench your thirst, a stellar view and a full meal, which is just what you’ll get at Penthouse 808. This Long Island City lounge operates as a restaurant and a lively cocktail bar, and you’ll enjoy views of the water, the Queensboro Bridge, and Manhattan across the way, too. |
| Jimmy | 15 Thompson St | The rooftop bar at The James Hotel is a calm oasis (really—there’s even a pool!) in the concrete jungle of Manhattan. Patrons can lounge inside or out, and drink by the pool during the summer months, while the winter months bring cozy drink options and a fireplace. The vibe is trendy and you can often find a seat year-round. |
| Cantina Rooftop | 605 W. 48th St. | This Hell’s Kitchen bar is also a Mexican restaurant, which is something no other rooftop in the city can claim. Although Cantina is a bit more modest than most sky-high NYC bars (it’s situated on the fourth floor), the views are still nice, the setting lovely, and the atmosphere relaxed. |
| Mr. Purple | 180 Orchard St | It’s a LES crowd-pleaser, so get here early to avoid the long lines and enjoy the beautiful 16th floor of Hotel Indigo. The aesthetic is modern, and you can lounge inside or out and enjoy food, a variety of cocktails, and a trendy pool area. |
| The Heights | 11 E 31st St | Nomad’s Arlo Hotel is a great place to enjoy some summer cocktails with a view. Unlike a lot of stuffy rooftop bars, The Heights has a more low-key atmosphere and generally friendly staff. And even better, they serve pizza, which is always a great dining option after a couple of beers. |
CHEAT SHEET:
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Freelance writer Lauren Paley is an avid writer and traveler. She has lived in Morocco, France, Tel Aviv and Prague, and has traveled to over 25 countries. Her interests include banh mi sandwiches, Boo the dog, trying (and failing) at languages, and outdoor movie theaters.
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