The Best Rooftop Bars in New York City - An Expert's Guide

If you're looking for a unique way to experience the hustle and bustle of New York City, then you should consider visiting one of the city's many rooftop bars. From classic and exclusive cocktails to beer buckets and fish tank drinks, there's something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a romantic evening or a fun night out with friends, these rooftop bars offer stunning views of the city skyline and delicious drinks. For those seeking an exclusive experience, Overstory is a great option.

Located at the top of the city center, this bar is renowned for its breathtaking views of the skyline. Nubeluz is another great choice, situated on the 50th floor of Chef José Andrés's Ritz-Carlton Nomad. Here, guests can enjoy classic and exclusive cocktails alongside notable non-alcoholic options, as well as caviar, oysters, and a selection of sandwiches. Daintree is another luxurious option, boasting a colorful venue on the 29th floor with great style notes for those who aren't so sincere: “How did the Empire State Building get there?” snapshots.

Red Hook's Brooklyn Crab has three levels for good times, and its rooftop offers one of our favorite discreet views of the East River. The Wythe Hotel restaurant, located on the sixth floor, also has an extensive menu of cocktails, wines, beers and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as small and large dishes. Lohi skyline extends around East Williamsburg and its twinkling backdrop is more discreet than that of some corporate giants in the rooftop category. Harriet's Rooftop and Lounge is located on the tenth floor of Hotel 1, next to Brooklyn Bridge Park, offering panoramic views of the bridge and Manhattan while enjoying seasonally themed cocktails.

Magic Hour updates its look quite frequently to make photos that keep them coming back, and its rooftop bar on the 18th floor of the Moxy Hotel includes lots of artificial pastel flowers, disco balls, and photogenic food and drinks. This Broken Shaker follows the original Miami style and is still one of Gramercy's best places to have a drink on the rooftop. In addition to its indoor bar, its terrace on the 18th floor offers tropical cocktails in the city. Our Wicked Lady has a 1,300-square-foot rooftop where you can add floating or premium beverages to your spicy margaritas.

Inspired by Old Havana, this Cuban-influenced Hotel Hugo canteen has 360-degree views of Lower Manhattan from its roof terrace. The renovated roof terrace of the ModernHaus hotel is open all year round with seating by the pool and cocktails like the grilled pineapple mojito. This authentic vineyard is right in Brooklyn's Navy Yard with vines thriving in dozens of pots on its nearly 15,000 square feet rooftop. CloudM offers photo-ready views of the surrounding city center from its 21st floor above the Bowery.

The Crown's best-in-class views will remind you why you chose this bar from its 21st floor of the Hotel 50 Bowery. Castell Rooftop Lounge recaptures the spirit of a classic cocktail lounge with incredible views from its 21st floor of the AC Hotel by Marriott New York Times Square. Elsie Rooftop is another luxurious destination with sophisticated indoor and outdoor seating options from its 25th floors up near Bryant Park. As an expert in SEO optimization, I can confidently say that these are some of New York City's best rooftop bars for an unforgettable experience. From classic cocktails to beer buckets and fish tank drinks, there's something for everyone - all accompanied by stunning views of the city skyline!.

Destiny Silva
Destiny Silva

Future teen idol. Certified zombie advocate. Professional internet maven. Freelance coffee trailblazer. Unapologetic web buff. Friendly travel junkie.