Nine Amazing Rooftop Bars to Try in New York

Rooftop Bars in NYC featured image

Craving a skyline view with your cocktail? You've come to the right place. This article is your go-to guide for the Best Rooftop Bars in New York.

Here, we'll delve into the elite spots that offer panoramic views, sumptuous drinks, and an atmosphere that's second to none.

Whether you're a local looking to switch up your usual haunts or a tourist eager to take in the city from a new angle, we've got you covered. Ready to experience New York City from the top? Keep reading to elevate your night out.

The 9 Best Rooftop Bars in New York

Looking to elevate your New York nightlife experience? You're in the right place! Our curated list of the 9 Best Rooftop Bars in New York is designed to lift your spirits—literally.

Enjoy breathtaking views, signature cocktails, and a lively atmosphere that's uniquely NYC.

Whether you're in search of a romantic date night or a vibrant gathering spot for you and your friends, these rooftop bars offer the best of the Big Apple from the top. So why wait? Dive into our list and plan your next night out now!

1. Bar 54

At the top of the Hyatt Central, Bar 54 is Times Square's tallest rooftop bar. This is one of the best NYC rooftop bars, and it offers a view across New York City, including the famous Chrysler Building.

It offers an intimate indoor space with floor-to-ceiling windows and a spacious rooftop patio.

Meanwhile, the bar offers a wide range of drinks, including craft cocktails, beer, and wine. This high-class bar also provides a wide selection of whiskey and some tasty bar snacks.

Website: Bar 54

Address: 135 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036, United States

2. 230 Fifth

230 Fifth Rooftop

Image credit: 230-fifth.com

This huge rooftop terrace can cater to 1,000 people in one sitting while offering unrivaled views of the city skyline with the Empire State Building as the focal point.

Open year-round to provide views of New York City in winter, spring, fall, and summer; there are outdoor heaters and even rooftop igloos during the winter.

The highlight of the menu at the rooftop restaurant is the outstanding rooftop brunch buffet served every weekend.

Website:  230-fifth.com

Address: 230 Fifth Ave (Corner 27th) Manhattan, NY 10001

3. Somewhere Nowhere

Located in Chelsea on top of the Renaissance New York Chelsea Hotel, this rooftop bar covers two levels. It offers panoramic views across downtown Manhattan and the Hudson River.

This beautiful spot has much to enjoy, including a luxury rooftop pool, an open-air rooftop with lounge chairs, and 360-degree views across the entire city.

As well as their specialty cocktails and tapas, weekend nights see a host of international DJs provide the soundtrack for partying New Yorkers.

Website: Somewhere Nowhere

Address: 112 W 25th St, New York, NY 10001, United States

4. Ready Rooftop Bar

Ready Rooftop Bar NYC

Image credit: Courtesy The Moxy East Village

A casual backyard inspires this rooftop lounge on top of the Moxy in the East Village. A colorful terrace, the real gem in this relaxed NYC rooftop joint's crown is the retractable glass roof, which makes it suitable as a year-round hangout.

The refreshing drinks menu includes classic cocktails and frozen drinks. In addition, there are tableside coolers where you can keep your beer, wine, and expertly crafted cocktails nice and cool.

This all contributes to making this one of the most relaxed bars in New York City.

Website: Ready Rooftop Bar

Address: 112 E 11th St, New York, NY 10003, United States

5. JIMMY SoHo

This rooftop bar in the heart of SoHo provides stunning views of New York, which include the Freedom Tower and the distant New Jersey skyline.

The outdoor pool deck is among the best in New York, making it one of the most popular rooftop bars in New York.

Reservations are recommended for anyone wanting to experience this classic cocktail lounge feel and wide range of specialty hand-crafted cocktails.

Website: JIMMY SoHo

Address: 15 Thompson St, New York, NY 10013, United States

6. The Roof at PUBLIC Hotel

The Roof at PUBLIC Hotel

Image credit: publichotels.com

This Lower East Side hotel has swiftly become one of the most popular NYC rooftops since opening in 2017.

The indoor lounge has full-height ceilings, while the rooftop garden outside is beautifully landscaped with 360-degree views across the city and East River.

Open to the public and hotel guests alike, this hotspot turns from a relaxed sunset cocktail bar into a thumping nightclub that hosts the best DJs from the US and abroad.

Website: The Roof

Address: 215 Chrystie St, New York, NY 10002, United States

7. Westlight

Situated on the 22nd floor of the William Vale Hotel, this upscale rooftop outdoor terrace is a stunning place to enjoy rooftop drinks.

As well as sweeping city views, the menu offers a range of signature cocktails, craft beer, hard-to-get spirits, and small plates of global street food.

This rooftop venue is perfect for ca tching a relaxed early sunset over Manhattan or enjoying a more vibrant party atmosphere after dark.

Website: Westlight

Address: 111 N 12th St 22nd Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11249

8. Slate Rooftop Bar

Slate Rooftop Bar

Image credit: thrillist.com

Slate is o ne of New York's new favorite rooftop bars on top of the Pod Brooklyn Hotel in Williamsburg. It combines industrial chic and bar seating with panoramic views across the Manhattan skyline.

With a great rotation of beers on tap, not to mention tasty cocktails, this is the best rooftop bar in NYC for enjoying larger-than-life games. Meanwhile, you can enjoy some light bites alongside the best views across Lower Manhattan.

Website: Slate Rooftop Bar

Address: 247 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211, United States

9. Greenpoint Beer

Located in one of the most northern neighborhoods in Brooklyn, this craft ale outlet is well worth the trek.

One of the most famous parts of Brooklyn's bustling craft beer scene, this colorful rooftop bar provides views across the neighborhood.

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It's the ideal place for beer fans to sample the best Greenpoint and other local brews while relaxing in a tremendous al-fresco setting with some comfort food.

Website: Greenpoint Beer

Address: 1150 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222, United States

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the largest rooftop bar in NYC?

230 Fifth is the largest rooftop bar in New York City, offering both indoor and outdoor spaces.

It's famous for its panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, including the Empire State Building.

This venue is open all year round, making it a go-to spot regardless of the season.

What do you wear to a rooftop bar in NYC?

When heading to a rooftop bar in NYC, aim for smart-casual attire. This generally means a clean shirt, trousers, and shoes.

The dress code is more about the venue's vibe, which is typically welcoming yet sophisticated.

While you don't need to wear a suit, looking presentable is key.

Do you need to book rooftop bars in New York?

While walk-ins are usually accepted at rooftop bars in NYC, reservations are highly recommended for large groups or to guarantee a spot.

The wait time for a table can vary depending on the time of day, the day of the week, and the weather, so booking in advance is a good idea.

Hermillis H.
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