The Best Rooftop Bars In NYC To Drink At This Summer (2024)

Summer is almost here and the weather is amazing, which means it’s time to get outside and enjoy a rooftop drink! If there’s one thing about New Yorkers, it’s that we love a good drink…and a view! From Midtown mainstays to brand new spots, here are some of the best rooftop bars in NYC go grab a drink! Cheers!

Midtown

Home to many locals, tourists, and foot traffic alike, it’s no surprise Midtown Manhattan boasts some of the best rooftop bars! Check out the best ones below!

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 co*cktails!

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 co*cktails, 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 co*cktails! Try their Cold Poached Lobster Sliders or their Truffle Grilled Cheese along with a Sunset co*cktail made with Tanqueray, strawberry, lemon, sugar, and soda.

Where:1412 Broadway

Magic Hour Rooftop

This gorgeous rooftop bar serves over-the-top exclusive co*cktails, 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 Frozen Marg” (Volcan Blanco Tequila, Lime, and Agave). We recommend going during happy hour (Monday – Friday, 3 – 6:30 pm) when they serve $4 Fries, $6 Beers, $8 Wine, and $10 Mixed Drinks.

Where: 485 7th 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 co*cktails.

Where: 71 W 35th St

Cloud Social

From hand-crafted co*cktails 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 co*cktail!

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 co*cktails 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 co*cktails, 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, co*cktails, 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

The Lookup, Midtown West

The Lookup is located on Kixby’s rooftop, and they serve all sorts of smart bar bites and creative co*cktails! Guests will be welcomed to gorgeous views of the Empire State Building as well as their spacious outdoor area which is perfect to hang out in. Plus, they have plenty of summer programming happening, including live music sessions, dance classes, and a brand new “Bubbles & Sights” Happy Hour!

Where:45 W 35th St

Upstairs at The Kimberly

Grab 31st floor views of the Chrysler Building and Midtown Manhattan at Upstairs at The Kimberly, where the rooftop lounge is the perfect hang. Sip co*cktails at the bar or couches while the sun from the retractable glass rooftop hits your face. Executive Chef Cristian Flores curates an American-French fusion menu, the co*cktails are perfected for every season, and they even have live DJs Wednesdays – Saturdays.

Where: 145 E 50th St

Bar Cima

Perched on the rooftop of Grayson Hotel with direct views of the Empire State Building, Freedom Tower, and both the East and Hudson Rivers, Bar Cima is a sophisticated and seductive destination tequileria. The indoor co*cktail lounge offers exquisite craft co*cktails and your choice of 200 agave spirits while the outdoor patio serves frozen margaritas and tiki co*cktails for more relaxed, al fresco vibes.

Where: 30 W 39th 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 co*cktail 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, the Roof at Park South is always a good place to hang.

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 co*cktails 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, Bowery

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. Learn more about CloudM here!

Where: 189 Bowery

THE ROOF at Public Hotel, Lower East Side

This rooftop features a glassed-in bar and outdoor terrace that provide gorgeous views of Manhattan. It sits on top of the PUBLIC Hotel on the Lower East Side, and is one of our favorite places to grab a drink. You can snag a co*cktail as the sun sets, or stick around at night when it turns into a buzzy party spot with top-tier DJs. We love it as a perfect rooftop/going out spot.

Where: 215 Chrystie St

The Highlight Room

This fairly new rooftop (Fall 2022) is ready for its first summer, where it sits 16 floors above the intersection of Broome and Bowery in the Lower East Side. The glamorous rooftop bar feels extremely fancy, thanks to their 19th-century pleasure garden, a majestic tree spreading its branches across the room, and the outdoor terrace. Cozy onto one of their red velvet couches and prepare to get mesmerized by their luscious greenery and chandeliers, while you sip delicious co*cktails of course!

Where: 145 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 co*cktails. 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 co*cktails and local wines.

Where: 653 11th Ave

Starchild Rooftop, Hell’s Kitchen

Situated atop the CIVILIAN Hotel in the Theater District is Starchild Rooftop, an elevated lounge experience just steps away from the world of Broadway. You can ascend to the 27th floor and enjoy skyline and Hudson River views that are truly unmatched! Plus, they also have a climatized retractable rooftop, yummy bar snacks, and inventive co*cktails.

Where: 305 W 48th St

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 co*cktails 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 co*cktails 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 co*cktail hour featuring floral-inspired drinks and bites set to the backdrop of thousands of hanging flowers!

Where: 105 W 28th St

Lower Manhattan

Highwater, FiDi

This under-the-radar rooftop in FiDi offers some of the most incredible photo-ops of the iconic Delmonico’s building. 25 stories high, the rooftop is home to numerous levels and outdoor areas to enjoy the sweeping views of Lower Manhattan.

Where: 120 Water St

JIMMY, SoHo

The iconic JIMMY rooftop atop the new Modernhaus SoHo Hotel turns 11 this year. Enjoy creative co*cktails 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

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 co*cktails 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 co*cktail menu, that is! The craft co*cktails available on the rooftop are light, bright and perfect for summer.

Where: 444 Park Ave S

Glass Ceiling, NoMad

Named after its 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 co*cktails 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 co*cktails, 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 last year and their penthouse lounge and rooftop terrace is something to behold. The space serves as a skyline herb-garden, complete with grown plants and botanicals that are 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, since it has a retractable roof. 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 totransport 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 & co*cktail 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, 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 co*cktails.

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

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 co*cktails!

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 co*cktail and dance the night away while the sunset and skyline make the most striking backdrop. The rooftop will officially reopen on May 9, 2024. View their rooftop 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, co*cktails 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 co*cktails 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 co*cktail 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

The Rockaway Hotel + Spa, Rockaway

Looking for a beach-y rooftop escape? Check out the rooftop at The Rockaway Hotel, which is located on the hotel’s 6th floor! The indoor/outdoor space offers guests unprecedented sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline, Jamaica Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean. The indoor bar area is haloed by a large skylight with leafy greenery, private outdoor space on the Southern rooftop, and the ocean terrace offers uninterrupted views of the Atlantic Ocean above the coastal bungalows below. They of course have great co*cktails, a rotating live music lineup, plus more.

Where: 108-10 Rockaway Beach Dr, Queens

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 Chef John Cullen. 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