The Best Rooftop Bars In New York City
New York City is known for its vibrant nightlife, and there's nothing quite like sipping a cocktail while taking in the iconic skyline from a rooftop bar.
With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which rooftop bars to visit. To make things easier for you, we've compiled a list of the best rooftop bars in New York City.
1. Westlight
Westlight is a rooftop bar located in the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York City.
It is situated on the 22nd floor of the William Vale hotel, offering panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River.
The bar has a modern and chic atmosphere, with floor-to-ceiling windows and a large outdoor terrace.
The interior is decorated with sleek furnishings and a minimalist design, allowing the stunning views to take center stage.
Westlight is known for its creative cocktails, which are expertly crafted by the skilled bartenders.
The menu features a variety of unique drinks, including the "Brooklyn Hemingway" made with rum, grapefruit, lime, and maraschino liqueur, and the "Lost in Translation" made with Japanese whiskey, green tea, and ginger.
In addition to cocktails, Westlight also serves a selection of small plates and snacks. The menu features dishes such as oysters, charcuterie, and Korean fried chicken.
One of the highlights of Westlight is its outdoor terrace, which is one of the largest rooftop spaces in Brooklyn.
It offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River, and is the perfect spot to watch the sunset or enjoy a warm summer evening.
Overall, Westlight is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique rooftop bar experience in New York City.
Its breathtaking views, creative cocktails, and chic atmosphere make it one of the best rooftop bars in the city.
2. The Ides
The Ides is a popular rooftop bar located in the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York City.
Situated on the sixth floor of the Wythe Hotel, it offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, the East River, and the surrounding neighborhood.
The bar has an industrial-chic decor, with exposed brick walls, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a large outdoor terrace. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
The Ides is known for its carefully crafted cocktails, which are made with high-quality ingredients and served by skilled bartenders.
The menu features a variety of classic cocktails, as well as unique drinks such as the "Wythe Ave Sour" made with bourbon, honey, and lemon, and the "Hot and Bothered" made with tequila, jalapeño, and cucumber.
In addition to cocktails, The Ides also offers a selection of small plates and snacks. The menu features dishes such as cheese and charcuterie boards, oysters, and sliders.
One of the highlights of The Ides is its outdoor terrace, which offers stunning views of the city and the East River. The terrace is heated during colder months, making it a popular spot year-round.
Overall, The Ides is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique rooftop bar experience in New York City.
Its stunning views, carefully crafted cocktails, and relaxed atmosphere make it one of the best rooftop bars in the city.
3. The Rooftop at The Standard, High Line
The Rooftop at The Standard, High Line is a premier rooftop bar located in the Meatpacking District of Manhattan, New York City.
Perched atop the iconic Standard hotel, this bar offers breathtaking views of the city skyline, the Hudson River, and the High Line park.
The bar has a chic and stylish atmosphere, with a spacious outdoor terrace, plush seating, and a bar area. The decor is modern and minimalist, with sleek furnishings and a neutral color palette.
The Rooftop at The Standard, High Line is known for its creative cocktails, which are made with fresh and high-quality ingredients.
The menu features a variety of unique drinks, such as the "Soy Division" made with vodka, sake, yuzu, and ginger, and the "Naked and Famous" made with mezcal, Aperol, lime, and agave.
In addition to cocktails, the bar also serves a selection of small plates and snacks, such as charcuterie and cheese boards, oysters, and sliders.
One of the highlights of The Rooftop at The Standard, High Line is its stunning views. The bar offers unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline, the Hudson River, and the surrounding neighborhood. It's the perfect spot to watch the sunset or enjoy a warm summer evening.
Overall, The Rooftop at The Standard, High Line is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique rooftop bar experience in New York City.
Its stunning views, creative cocktails, and chic atmosphere make it one of the best rooftop bars in the city.
4.The Press Lounge
The Press Lounge is an upscale rooftop bar located in the Hell's Kitchen neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City.
Situated on the 16th floor of the Ink48 hotel, this bar offers stunning views of the city skyline and the Hudson River.
The bar has a sophisticated and elegant atmosphere, with a sleek and modern design, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, contemporary furniture, and a large outdoor terrace.
The decor is minimalistic and tasteful, allowing the breathtaking views to take center stage.
The Press Lounge is known for its creative and well-crafted cocktails, which are made with premium ingredients and served by skilled mixologists.
The menu features a variety of unique drinks, such as the "Green Beast" made with absinthe, cucumber, lime, and sparkling wine, and the "Smoky & The Bandit" made with mezcal, pineapple, jalapeño, and lime.
In addition to cocktails, The Press Lounge also serves a variety of small plates and snacks. The menu features dishes such as tuna tartare, charcuterie, and cheese boards.
One of the highlights of The Press Lounge is its expansive outdoor terrace, which offers unobstructed views of the city and the Hudson River. The terrace is heated during colder months, making it a popular spot year-round.
Overall, The Press Lounge is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a luxurious and upscale rooftop bar experience in New York City. Its stunning views, creative cocktails, and elegant atmosphere make it one of the best rooftop bars in the city.
5. Le Bain
Le Bain is a stylish rooftop bar and nightclub located in the Meatpacking District of Manhattan, New York City.
Perched atop the Standard hotel, this bar offers stunning views of the city skyline, the Hudson River, and the High Line park.
The bar has a vibrant and energetic atmosphere, with a spacious indoor and outdoor area, featuring a pool, a hot tub, and a bar.
The decor is eclectic and playful, with a mix of vintage and modern furnishings, neon lights, and a disco ball.
Le Bain is known for its creative cocktails and lively parties. The bar hosts regular DJ sets and live music events, creating a party atmosphere that lasts well into the night.
The menu features a variety of unique drinks, such as the "Blueberry Basil Margarita" made with tequila, blueberry, basil, and lime, and the "Cucumber Collins" made with gin, cucumber, and lemon.
In addition to cocktails, Le Bain also serves a variety of small plates and snacks. The menu features dishes such as grilled cheese sandwiches, chicken skewers, and charcuterie boards.
One of the highlights of Le Bain is its pool and hot tub, which offer a unique and luxurious experience for rooftop bar-goers.
The pool and hot tub are open during the summer months, making it a popular spot for a refreshing dip and a cocktail.
Overall, Le Bain is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a lively and fun rooftop bar experience in New York City.
Its stunning views, creative cocktails, and energetic atmosphere make it one of the best rooftop bars in the city for partygoers.
6. Refinery Rooftop
The Refinery Rooftop is a stunning rooftop bar located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, New York City.
Situated on top of the Refinery Hotel, this bar offers breathtaking views of the Empire State Building and the surrounding city skyline.
The bar has a trendy and sophisticated atmosphere, with a spacious outdoor terrace, indoor seating, and a bar area.
The decor is industrial-chic, with exposed brick walls, wooden furnishings, and a glass-enclosed rooftop conservatory.
The Refinery Rooftop is known for its inventive cocktails and delicious food. The menu features a variety of unique drinks, such as the "King's Cup" made with bourbon, black tea, and honey, and the "Jalapeño Margarita" made with tequila, jalapeño, and lime.
The food menu offers a variety of small plates and larger dishes, such as the "Refinery Burger" and the "Lobster Roll."
One of the highlights of the Refinery Rooftop is its panoramic views of the city skyline. The bar offers unobstructed views of the Empire State Building, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a cocktail while admiring one of New York City's most iconic landmarks.
The Refinery Rooftop also features a retractable glass roof, which allows the bar to remain open year-round.
During the winter months, the bar transforms into a cozy and intimate setting, complete with blankets and heaters.
Overall, the Refinery Rooftop is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a sophisticated and stylish rooftop bar experience in New York City.
Its stunning views, inventive cocktails, and delicious food make it one of the best rooftop bars in the city for both locals and tourists.
7. Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge
Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge is a whimsical and playful rooftop bar located in the Moxy Times Square hotel in Midtown Manhattan, New York City.
This bar is known for its unique and creative atmosphere, which includes carnival-inspired decor, amusement park rides, and playful cocktails.
The bar features a spacious indoor and outdoor area, complete with a rotating carousel, a mini-golf course, and a giant pink topiary bear.
The decor is colorful and whimsical, with neon lights, playful murals, and a variety of seating options.
Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge is known for its playful and inventive cocktails, which are served in creative and quirky glassware.
The menu features a variety of unique drinks, such as the "Big Top" made with gin, blueberry, lavender, and lemon, and the "Cotton Candy Cosmo" made with vodka, cranberry, and cotton candy.
In addition to cocktails, Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge also serves a variety of small plates and snacks. The menu features dishes such as truffle fries, mini sliders, and a variety of pizzas.
One of the highlights of Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge is its carnival-inspired rides and games. The bar features a rotating carousel, a mini-golf course, and a variety of carnival games, such as skee-ball and ring toss.
Overall, Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun and playful rooftop bar experience in New York City.
Its unique atmosphere, inventive cocktails, and carnival-inspired games make it one of the best rooftop bars in the city for those looking for a memorable and quirky experience.
Conclusion
New York City offers a diverse selection of rooftop bars that provide stunning views, creative cocktails, delicious food, and unique atmospheres.
Each of the rooftop bars discussed in this article offers a unique experience, from the sophisticated and chic atmosphere of the Refinery Rooftop to the playful and whimsical vibe of the Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge.
Whether you're a local or a tourist, visiting one of these rooftop bars is a must-do activity in New York City. So, whether you're looking for a place to enjoy a romantic date or a lively night out with friends, the city has something to offer for everyone.