You dream of sipping a drink on a rooftop bar in New York? Then this article is for you! Here, I give you my 10 favourite places to have a drink in New York on a rooftop, while enjoying the view.
Discovering a rooftop bar is a must for any stay in New York. This experience will allow you to see the city in a brand new way: from the top of a building, with a cocktail in hand! Doesn’t that sound nice?
Not to mention that it's also a great way to have lunch, spend the afternoon or end the day with style.
The problem is that there are more and more rooftop bars in the Big Apple and all of them have a unique atmosphere and offer an extraordinary view – whether on a building, an avenue, a park, a neighbourhood or the whole city.
So to help you make a choice, here are my top 10 best rooftop bars in New York.
1 – "230 Fifth" – The rooftop bar you shouldn't miss!
Address:
230 FIFTH
230, Fifth Avenue (Corner 27th)
Flatiron District
Manhattan
"230 Fifth" or "230 Fifth Avenue Rooftop Garden Bar and Restaurant" is THE rooftop bar in New York – the most famous and the most popular!
As such, it is often very crowded (by regulars and tourists both), especially after 11 p.m., on weekends and during Sunday brunches. So although the place is very spacious, you may have to wait at the bar before you are given a table. But reservations are not required!
The bar is on the 20th floor of a building on 5th Avenue, and the entrance to the rooftop is at the corner of 27th Street.
The first thing you'll see is a lounge area with a chic yet relaxed atmosphere, the "Penthouse Lounge".
This bright and trendy space can accommodate up to 600 people.
Then take the stairs up to the rooftop, also called the Rooftop Garden. Here too, there is plenty of space. The furniture is modern and cosy – velvet armchairs and sofas, and many mirrors on the walls. The terrace has pretty palm trees, and the atmosphere is very pleasant thanks to the good background music.
The view from 230 Fifth
From this rooftop bar, you'll have a breathtaking view of Manhattan, including the Empire State Building standing just 10 blocks away. In fact, it's the best view you'll get of this building from a rooftop! You will also see the Chrysler Building and the WTC (World Trade Center) towers.
By day, you will even see the Statue of Liberty if the weather is good. The view at night, when the monuments are all lit up, is also exceptional – so don't forget your camera!
In winter, when it's cold, you can borrow woollen dressing gowns. Otherwise, you can stay in heated, transparent "igloos".
Prices and Opening Hours
The "230 Fifth" is open all year round from 2 p.m. to 4 a.m. on weekdays (no meals served after midnight), and from 10 a.m. to 4 a.m. on weekends.
There is no entry allowed after 2 a.m.
Entrance to 230 Fifth is free! The prices of the drinks are a bit higher than in other rooftop bars in New York, though.
The dishes are simple during the week (salads, hamburger, fries...) but more sophisticated during brunch (bacon, eggs, pancakes, salad, fruit...).
For drinks, expect about:
- $15 for a cocktail,
- $12 for a glass of wine,
- $10 for a beer,
- $8 for a soda.
If you're in the mood for fries, you'll get them for $9. A burger? You'll have to pay $22!
Note that you can also take advantage of a:
- Happy Hour — Monday to Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., with dishes between $10 and $14 and drinks cheaper than in the evening (beer at $7, glass of wine at $8 and cocktail at $9),
- Brunch Buffet — Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Brunch costs an average of $29 for an adult and $15 for children under 12.
Dress code
The establishment is chic and requires proper attire in the evening.
Minors (under 21) are not allowed on the rooftop, except on weekends between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. (brunch time).
Have you thought about observation decks? 🏙️
If you're reading this article, you're looking for a place to enjoy a cocktail while taking in a beautiful view of New York City.
Did you know that the city has several observation decks that will allow you to enjoy a unique view of the different sites & places in New York?
The most famous are: the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock (view of Central Park & the Empire), the One World Observatory, The Edge and the very latest: Summit One Vanderbilt.
Some platforms will offer you a drink when you visit, but not all of them do! However, the views they offer are even higher and more breathtaking than those of most Rooftops, and you can also enjoy unique experiences, such as walking on the transparent floor of The Edge platform, for example 🙂
2 – "The Press Lounge", one of the most beautiful views of Manhattan!
Address:
THE PRESS LOUNGE
“Kimpton Ink48 Hotel”
653 11th Avenue, 16th Floor,
10036 New York
"The Press Lounge” is located on the 16th floor of the Kimpton Ink48 Hotel. It consists of an interior room with large windows and a large terrace that can be covered and heated in winter. A rectangular pool lit in blue at night adds a chic touch to the terrace.
It is a large rooftop with beautiful and comfortable armchairs, pouffes and sofas. The decoration is very elegant in a lounge spirit. In fact, this rooftop is probably the most beautiful in New York and the most luxurious!
The atmosphere is calm and the mood is soft.
The view from the Press Lounge
You'll have one of the best views of Manhattan – you will see Times Square, the Empire State Building, the Hudson River and the aircraft carrier housing the Intrepid Sea Air & Space Museum. It is even possible to see New Jersey.
The best part? The sunset over the Hudson River is the best thing about this rooftop.
Prices and Opening Hours
"The Press Lounge” is open to the general public every day of the year from 5 p.m.:
- from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Monday and Tuesday,
- from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Wednesday and Thursday,
- from 5 p.m. to 3 a.m. on Friday and Saturday,
- from 5 p.m. to midnight on Sunday.
Consumption is relatively expensive. Expect about:
- $22 on average for a cocktail,
- $11 for a beer,
- $6 for a soda.
You can also buy a few simple dishes and side dishes, but if you want bigger meals, you'll have to go to the hotel's "Print Restaurant".
Dress code
Dress well is required. You will not be allowed to enter in tracksuits and trainers, for example.
Minors under 21 years of age may enter the facility.
3 – "The Refinery", New York's cosy rooftop bar
Address:
THE REFINERY
63 W 38th Street
Garment District
New York, NY 10018
"The Refinery” is located on the roof of The Refinery, a former factory that has since been converted into a luxury hotel. This New York rooftop bar is not very big but consists of three parts:
- an indoor space that can accommodate 80 people,
- a covered outdoor area with a glass roof that can be opened (100 people),
- a terrace (80 people).
It is the perfect place for a small evening with friends or lovers. The decoration made of red bricks and metallic pipes is modern, chic and industrial. In fact, some elements come directly from the old factory. It's typically New York style!
The sofas on the terrace, the lit candles and the string lights add a calm and cosy atmosphere. There is also a fireplace and a fountain.
The lounge-style background music is pleasant, although a little noisy inside. It is even louder on Fridays and Saturdays, as a DJ mixes from 10 p.m.
The view from The Refinery Rooftop
From the roof of The Refinery, you'll have a great view of the Empire State Building – although not an exceptional one.
Prices and Opening Hours
"The Refinery” is open all year round, 7 days a week:
- from 11:30 a.m. to midnight on Thursday, Friday and Saturday,
- from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. the rest of the week (Sunday to Wednesday)
"The Refinery” serves lunch and brunch. In the evening, you can order small bites, sweet or savoury snacks (e.g. fries for $8) and drinks. You can expect to pay between:
- $16 to $18 for a cocktail,
- $12 to $16 for a glass of wine,
- $7 to $9 for a beer.
You can go there for lunch from Monday to Friday, between 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. You can order a salad ($15) or a classic menu: a chicken sandwich ($19) or a burger ($23), for example. Remember to make a reservation!
Dress code
A casual outfit is sufficient. No need to wear a suit and tie or a fancy dress!
Minors are not allowed to access the rooftop after 6 p.m. on weekdays. They can also access the rooftop during the Sunday brunch.
4 – The MET Roof Garden, for its breathtaking view of Central Park
Address:
THE MET ROOF GARDEN
1000, 5th Avenue
Manhattan
New York, NY 10028
The MET Roof Garden is also known as The MET Roof Garden Café & Martini Bar, The Cantor Roof Garden and The Met Cantor Rooftop & Garden. It is the rooftop of the MET (Metropolitan Museum of Art).
It is located on the 5th floor of the museum (on the roof, obviously). To get there, take the lift which is located on the level of room 555: "Nineteenth-Century Sculpture Vestibule".
The view from The MET Roof Garden
The MET Roof Garden is the icing on the cake of your visit to the museum. You can of course admire the exhibits (usually huge sculptures) but from this rooftop, you will have a breathtaking view of the largest urban park in New York (Central Park) and the Manhattan skyline.
It's often very crowded, so it's best to visit during the week.
Prices and Opening Hours
The MET Roof Garden is open whenever the museum is, but only from mid-April to October and when the weather permits.
- from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday to Thursday
- from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday
With your ticket to the MET, you can go up to the rooftop at no extra cost!
You can have lunch there during your visit to the museum – you can order sandwiches and drinks, though the prices are relatively high. For example, a beer costs $11.
Dress code
Only proper attire is required. The rooftop is accessible to people under 21.
5 – The "Salon de Ning" – Between Oriental and European
Address:
SALON DE NING
700, Fifth Avenue Floor 23
Midtown West
New York, NY 10019
The “Salon de Ning” rooftop is located on the 23rd floor of The Peninsula Hotel, located on 5th Avenue. It is one of the most luxurious hotels in the city.
The rooftop area is divided into 3 zones: an interior, a balcony and a terrace.
The terrace is small, so access is limited. In fact, you will probably have to wait your turn before you can enter.
You will discover a particular atmosphere with a decoration between oriental and European style (the Shanghai of the 1930s).
The atmosphere is cosy, with sofas and armchairs on the terrace and high bar tables on the balcony.
The view from the Salon de Ning
The Salon de Ning is famous for its unobstructed view of 5th Avenue. But you can also enjoy a beautiful view of Midtown and of the Top of the Rock building.
From the balcony, you can see Carnegie Hall.
Prices and Opening Hours
The "Salon de Ning" is open from:
- 5 p.m. to midnight from Tuesday to Saturday,
- it is closed on Sunday and Monday.
Drinks served on the rooftop are priced in line with the 5-star hotel. It's $25 for a cocktail and $15 for a soda – but at that price, you'll of course get palatial service.
Remember to make a reservation for the evening! This is not a New York rooftop bar that you can access without a reservation.
Dress code
The establishment requires casual dress during the day, but more formal dress in the evening.
Minors cannot access the rooftop.
6 – The "Jimmy", a rooftop inspired by the 1930s
Address:
THE JIMMY
at The James
Hotel
15, Thompson Street, SoHo
New York, NY 10013
The Jimmy rooftop is located on the 18th floor (top floor) of The James Hotel in the trendy SoHo district. It consists of an indoor bar and a terrace.
Elegant furniture, upholstered seating, exotic wood tables and a fireplace give the lounge an intimate and refined atmosphere. On the rooftop terrace, it is the sun loungers and the small swimming pool (for hotel guests only) that make the place enjoyable – especially in summer. You can enjoy the sun while sipping a drink…
In the evening, the rooftop is often filled with regulars, so a visit during the day will be much less crowded!
Note that from 5 p.m. onwards, there is a lot of entertainment, and a DJ mixes every weekend from 4 p.m.
The view from the Jimmy rooftop bar in New York
From the large windows of the lounge, you can enjoy a beautiful view of Wall Street, the One WTC, the bridges over the East River, the Hudson River and New Jersey.
But the “Jimmy” is best known for its 360-degree panorama of lower Manhattan from its terrace.
Prices and Opening Hours
The “Jimmy” is open from:
- 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. Sunday to Wednesday,
- 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday,
- 3 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Sunday.
The “Jimmy" sells small dishes (tapas, chips, burgers...), cheese boards, cold cuts and drinks.
Prices are expensive compared to other rooftops in New York. Expect about:
- $19 for a cocktail,
- between $19 to $30 for a glass of wine,
- $10 for a beer
You can order snacks from $16 to $25 (chicken wings for example).
Dress code
The “Jimmy” offers a relaxed atmosphere during the day but is elegant, trendy and chic at night.
Minors under 21 can access the rooftop, though not after 9 p.m.
7 – Le bain, a panthouse discotheque!
Address:
LE BAIN
The Standard High Line
848 Washington Street/444 W.13th Street
Meatpacking District
New York, NY 10014
"Le Bain” is the rooftop of The Standard High Line – one of New York's trendiest hotels (located above the High Line). To get to the rooftop, which is on the hotel’s 18th floor, you will have to go through the entrance next to it.
The rooftop has both an outdoor and an indoor area. In the summer, the terrace is covered with an artificial lawn where you can sit in the afternoon.
There is also a huge Jacuzzi on this roof! This is what makes it so special 😉 You can even buy a bathing suit on the spot if you forgot yours. This is THE rooftop bar in New York where you can really party.
"Le Bain" is very popular for its bar/disco atmosphere. World-renowned DJs perform there all year round (electro music). Some shots from the Sex and the City series were also filmed on this rooftop.
Taking all this into account, you will probably have to queue in the street before you can get in. If you want to avoid a long wait, go in the afternoon – it will be less crowded.
The view from Le Bain
From this rooftop terrace, you will have a superb view of the High Line, Wall Street, the entire skyline of the Financial District, the Hudson River and New Jersey in the distance.
A little tip? Take a look at the toilets! Weird tip, I know – but you'll find large windows and a spectacular view of the district from there!
Prices and Opening Hours
"Le Bain” is open from:
- 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. (on average) on Wednesday and Thursday,
- 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. on Friday,
- 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. on Saturday,
- 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday.
Drinks are correctly priced for such a popular venue: $16 for a cocktail.
Dress code
"Le Bain” is a trendy rooftop. The entrance is "select" and a sophisticated outfit is therefore required.
8 – The Westlight, Brooklyn's highest rooftop
Address:
The WESTLIGHT
The William Vale Hotel
111 N 12th Street, Brooklyn
New York, NY 11249
The Westlight is located on the roof of The William Vale hotel. It is the highest rooftop in Brooklyn.
"The William Vale Hotel” is a new luxury hotel (opened in 2016) located in the Williamsburg neighbourhood. Its rooftop (on the 22nd floor) has a covered area with bay windows and an outdoor terrace.
The industrial decor is a bit retro: there are large, comfortable leather sofas, velvet armchairs, black iron furniture and natural stone. The atmosphere is relaxed – it’s a perfect place for an evening with friends.
The highlight? The 4th of July evening with the fireworks over the East River makes for an incredible sight. But be warned, reservations are required and tickets are very expensive: between $88 and $146!
The view from the Westlight
You'll have a 360° view of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, the Manhattan skyline and the East River. There are even binoculars to enjoy the view!
Prices and Opening Hours
The “Westlight” is open from:
- 5 p.m. to midnight Monday to Friday
- 1 p.m. to midnight Saturday and Sunday
You can order all sorts of dishes like tacos, burgers ($18) and even oysters!
The prices are fair considering the hotel's standing: on average $18 for a cocktail and $7 - $8 for a beer. There are even plates to share for as little as $22!
Dress code
In the evening, it is best to dress up.
The rooftop is accessible to minors until 6 p.m.
9 – The 1 Rooftop, the best rooftop in Brooklyn
Address:
THE 1 ROOFTOP
1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
60 Furman Street, Ste ROOFTOP, Brooklyn
New York, NY 11201
"The 1 Rooftop", now called "Harriet's Rooftop & Lounge", is located on the 10th floor of the "1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge" which itself is next to Brooklyn Bridge Park.
Opened in 2017, this 325 sqm rooftop consists of a rooftop bar and an indoor lounge located one floor below. You'll also see a pool, but it can only be used by hotel guests.
The atmosphere is chic and urban.
It's always crowded (by tourists who have booked a room at the hotel and regulars), so be sure to make a reservation before you go.
The view from "The 1 Rooftop"
This rooftop offers the best view of the Brooklyn Bridge, but you will also see Brooklyn Bridge Park, the Manhattan Bridge, the Financial District and the Manhattan skyline. You will even see the Statue of Liberty.
The best part? The breathtaking sunset behind Manhattan.
Prices and Opening Hours
"Harriet's Rooftop & Lounge” is open every day of the year, from noon to midnight. In addition to the $20 rooftop fee, you can order small dishes such as burgers, fries and hotdogs.
As for drinks, expect having to pay:
- $16 for a house cocktail,
- $8 for a beer,
- $25 for a menu.
Dress code
There is no real dress code. A smart look is preferred, although casual is accepted.
Minors under 21 are welcome until 7 p.m.
10 – The Skylark, the trendy cocktail bar
Address:
THE SKYLARK
200 W 39th Street
Times Square Sud
New York, NY 10018
"The Skylark” is located on the 30th floor of a building in the heart of Times Square South, not far from 7th Avenue. This cocktail bar has two floors: a lounge with sofas and coffee tables in one corner, high tables and stools in the other, a bar and pool table in a separate room downstairs; and the rooftop on the top floor. A DJ entertains from the rooftop terrace.
The decoration is sober but chic with a predominance of black and gold colours. Soft background music gives the Skylark a lounge feel.
The view from "The Skylark"
From the first level and through the large windows of the main lounge, you can enjoy a drink with a view of the Empire State Building on one side and Times Square on the other. You will also see the Hudson River.
From the upper level, you can see everything: the Empire State Building, Times Square, and the entire Midtown area.
Prices and Opening Hours
The Skylark's main lounge is open Monday to Friday from 4:30 p.m. until midnight or 1:30 a.m. Weekends are usually reserved for private parties – you will need to call the establishment to find out if it is open to the public.
You can enjoy delicious cocktails, including the "Skylark", the rooftop’s house cocktail. However, these cocktails are a bit expensive: between $18 and $19. If you are with friends, I advise you to opt for the carafe, which will be a better deal: $80 for 5 people.
You can also order small dishes like tapas or burgers. Prices range from $10 to $20.
Dress code
To get into the Skylark, you will need to be dressed in a chic, almost upscale outfit. Even if casual is accepted, it is better to be elegant.
The Skylark being a cocktail bar, it is not open to anyone under 21.
And this concludes my article! So, how about it? Up to enjoy a drink while taking in some amazing views of New York City? 😉
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