NYC is famous for having some of the world's most iconic skyline views, and rooftop bars provide a unique way to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere while sipping on a cocktail.
Get ready to elevate your nightlife game with our handpicked selection of the best rooftop bars in NYC. From swanky spots to budget-friendly gems, whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just unwinding after a long day, we've curated a list that'll have you sipping cocktails with the stars (literally).
Read on to find out the best rooftop bars in NYC, as chosen by us!
And just so you know - we’re not paid by anybody to include these on our list. They’re just places we’ve been or experiences we’ve loved so you can find the best rooftop bars in NYC.
The Best Rooftop Bars in NYC for Date Night
Looking to raise your date nights to new heights? Let’s start off with the best rooftop bars in NYC so you can surprise your significant other…
1. Broken Shaker
Freehand Hotel, New York, NY
Step into the Freehand Hotel and up onto Broken Shaker—one of the best rooftop bars in NYC for a cozy and romantic date night.
The tumbling greenery and tropical-inspired décor creates a warm, intimate setting perfect for everything from your first date, to your 51st date (we love that movie, don’t you?!).
Known for its inventive cocktails, Broken Shaker offers a quieter rooftop experience, away from the bustling crowds of other city spots so you and your partner will feel like you’ve got the skyline to yourselves!
Before you visit this aesthetically pleasing rooftop bar, why not check out this article for a little inspiration on your pre-rooftop-drink date night activities: 20+ Date Ideas in NYC (That You'll Actually Want to Do).
2. Ophelia Lounge
3 Mitchell Place, 26th Floor, New York, NY 10017
Perched atop the historic Beekman Tower in Midtown East, Ophelia Lounge is a glamorous destination for an unforgettable date night.
The art-deco interior, featuring cathedral windows and views of the East River, adds a touch of nostalgia to your romantic evening.
The cocktail menu is equally impressive, with inventive options alongside alcohol-free mocktails for a sophisticated, intimate night out.
Want to explore NYC’s best rooftop bars with an added twist? Our CityDays scavenger hunts and urban exploration games take you to hidden gems, including some of the best rooftop bars NYC has to offer.
3. The Skylark
200 W 39th St, 30th Floor, New York, NY 10018
Tucked in Midtown Manhattan, The Skylark is a chic, intimate rooftop lounge perfect for a romantic date night.
Situated on the 30th floor, it offers stunning views of the Empire State Building and Hudson River, creating a magical backdrop for a memorable evening.
With a sleek interior and creative craft cocktails, The Skylark offers the perfect blend of casual elegance. Open year-round, it’s a versatile spot, equally suited for a special occasion or a quiet evening together.
This bar is perfect if you and your partner have been in the Midtown area on a CityDays Glamour of Midtown Scavenger Hunt. And if you haven't, why not? Scavenger hunts make fantastic date ideas. Especially for first dates—there are no awkward silences around, with interactive games and fun puzzles to solve!
4. Manhattan Cricket Club
226 W 79th St, New York, NY 10024
Could this be the best rooftop bar for a date night in NYC? Hidden above the Australian-inspired Burke & Wills restaurant on the Upper West Side, the Manhattan Cricket Club offers an intimate and exclusive date night experience.
Modeled after old British colonial clubs, this speakeasy-style rooftop has a relaxed, easy going vibe, featuring vintage decor, cricket memorabilia, and an extensive whiskey collection.
Its luxurious yet understated ambiance creates a romantic setting that’s both unique and relaxing, perfect for couples looking to escape the hustle of downtown.
P.S. If you need the toilet, it's hidden behind the walls!
Did you know that the Manhattan Cricket Club was one of the few Upper West Side speakeasies? Read more about Prohibition in New York here: Van Brunt Stillhouse - New York City, United States.
The Best Rooftop Bars in NYC to Visit on a Budget
So you want great views but not at a great cost? Here are all the best rooftop bars in NYC to visit on a budget…
5. The Heights Rooftop Bar & Grill
Location: Washington Heights, New York, NY
Tucked away in Washington Heights, The Heights Rooftop Bar & Grill is one of the best rooftop bars in NYC where you can experience unbeatable skyline views without the hefty Manhattan prices.
Overlooking the Hudson River and the George Washington Bridge, The Heights Rooftop Bar & Grill provides a laid-back neighborhood vibe that's hard to find in central NYC.
With affordable drinks and food, it's a hidden gem for budget-conscious visitors looking for a scenic retreat far from the city's busier nightlife districts.
6. Sutton Bar Room
Location: 1074 1st Avenue, Manhattan, NY 10022
This is your go-to for an affordable night out without skimping on the New York rooftop experience.
Located near the Queensboro Bridge, Sutton Bar Room serves craft cocktails and a stellar selection of draft beers.
Known for its boisterous Monday Trivia Night and relaxed "bring-your-own-food" (BYOF) policy, Sutton Bar Room is the perfect choice for those wanting a no-fuss rooftop experience.
Its friendly staff and welcoming vibe make it a local favorite, ideal for unwinding after a busy day exploring the city.
7. The Delancey
168 Delancey St, New York, NY 10002
For couples seeking a more laid-back vibe, The Delancey on the Lower East Side offers a cozy rooftop garden escape.
With stunning views of the Manhattan skyline by the Williamsburg Bridge, this rooftop is perfect for those who want to enjoy the evening under the stars.
The retractable roof means you can enjoy the rooftop year-round, making it a great option for a relaxed, scenic night out.
Psst! While The Sutton Bar hosts trivia nights, many of NYC's best rooftop bars hold other unique events like live DJ performances, and even outdoor movie screenings, adding a layer of excitement to your rooftop experience.
Best Rooftop Bars for Skyline Views of NYC
While you would think that ‘rooftop bars’ and ‘skyline views’ would go hand in hand, it's actually worth noting that some bars stand out more than others, for offering the best views of NYC!
8. Bar 54
135 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036
Self proclaimed New York City's highest hotel cocktail bar, Bar 54, located atop the Hyatt Centric Times Square, has one of the highest vantage points for soaking in NYC’s skyline.
From 54 stories up, visitors can take in panoramic views of Times Square, the Chrysler Building, and beyond.
Despite its location, Bar 54 offers reasonably priced cocktails, making it an affordable yet glamorous spot to experience New York’s legendary cityscape.
9. Panorama Room
22 N Loop Rd, New York, NY 10044
For a truly jaw-dropping view of New York City, head to the Panorama Room on Roosevelt Island.
Located on the 18th floor of the Graduate Hotel, this rooftop bar offers 360-degree views of the Big Apple’s most iconic landmarks.
The chic interior and seafood-forward menu make it an excellent choice for visitors wanting an upscale dining experience paired with unbeatable views.
Don’t miss their creative cocktails like the “Manhattan-ish,” best enjoyed while watching the sunset over the city skyline.
Check out the Skyscraper Museum for more information on the city’s magical skyline!
10. 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
230 Fifth Ave, New York, NY 10001
230 Fifth Rooftop Bar is arguably one of the best rooftop bars in the city, with unobstructed views of the Empire State Building and iconic New York skyscrapers, because it sits proudly in the Flatiron District.
The expansive space includes indoor and outdoor seating, making it a popular spot year-round. Inside we love the gold accents on the furniture, the potted plants, well placed lighting, and different areas where you can sit for different kinds of occasions.
Outside we love 230 Fifth’s themed evenings and the heated igloos during the winter, so you can enjoy the best skyline views of NYC, even in the colder months.
Top tip! For the best Instagram-worthy shots, visit these rooftop bars during golden hour or after dark when the city lights create a star-studded backdrop.
The Best Rooftop Bars for a Luxe Experience
If you want the best of the best in terms of a luxury rooftop experience, then look no further...
11. Sandbar Rooftop
152 W 26th St, New York, NY 10001
Sandbar Rooftop is a mashup of Hamptons beach charm and luxe rooftop bar experience, right in the heart of New York City's Fashion District.
Located on the 23rd floor of the Hilton, its decor includes lifeguard chairs, swings made from reclaimed wine barrels, and sand-covered floors for a unique beachy vibe.
The bar’s nearly 360-degree views of Manhattan, including the Empire State Building, make it a must-visit for those seeking an immersive, luxurious experience.
Signature cocktails crafted by the house mixologist pair perfectly with a sophisticated menu of light bites, such as pinsa-style pizza.
Open year-round, Sandbar Rooftop will whisk you off the concrete and place you in a sandy slice of heaven, right on top of the city!
For other experiences that’ll make you forget you're in the middle of NYC, check out a CityDays outdoor escape game in NYC? The Devil In Chelsea tale begins with a body discovered on the banks of the River Hudson, after playing a mysterious game. The only way to catch the killer? Join the game!
12. Westlight Rooftop Bar
111 N 12th St, 22nd Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11249
For the ultimate luxe rooftop experience, Westlight on the 22nd floor of The William Vale in Williamsburg offers sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline and an upscale atmosphere.
Curated by award-winning chef Andrew Carmellini, the rooftop bar’s food and drink offerings reflect global influences.
From the Thai Tiki and the Trinidad Sunset to the Toki-O Highball the extensive cocktail menu at Westlight will have you falling in love with global flavours without leaving this popular NYC rooftop.
The industrial-chic design, stylish crowd, and breathtaking sunset views make Westlight a prime destination for those looking to indulge in a sophisticated night out.
Looking to uncover a world of different flavours in the sky at Westlight, and a world of different cultures below? Take the Slow Boat to Chinatown along Manhattan's famous buried canal with CityDays and we’ll show you the last surviving structure of 17th century NYC, the remains of a gruesome Revolutionary War prison, and the Ghostbuster HQ.
13. Overstory Rooftop Bar
70 Pine St Fl 64 NEW YORK NY 10005, New York City, NY 10005-1522
Way up on the 64th floor of 70 Pine Street, Overstory offers a sleek cocktail experience high above the Financial District.
Sharing a building with the acclaimed Saga restaurant and Crown Shy, this elevated bar treats guests to panoramic 360-degree views of New York City from its wraparound terrace. Follow the stylish travertine stairway upwards and you won’t be disappointed.
Overstory exudes elegance with plush seating and meticulously crafted cocktails, making it a coveted spot for those in search of an upscale venue and one of NYC’s best rooftop bars.
The Best Rooftop Bars for a Lively Atmosphere
We all just wanna have fun right? Why not let your hair down at some of the more lively rooftop bars in town!
14. Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge
485 7th Ave, New York, NY 10018
Part of the Moxy Times Square, Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge combines playfulness with upscale charm, perfect for a night of fun with friends.
This all-season rooftop—the largest in NYC—features an outdoor carousel, mini-golf, multiple bars, live DJs, bar bites, cocktails, rotating seasonal pop-ups, and imaginative decor.
By the way, Magic Hour Rooftop also frequently updates its décor to provide fresh photo opportunities, making it a regular favorite for locals and a bucket list item for visitors!
15. Le Bain
444 W 13th St, New York, NY 10014
Le Bain, atop The Standard, High Line, is one of the best rooftop bars in NYC for those seeking a high-energy night out. Want fun, dancing, great views, classy cocktails, and great music? You’ll find it all here, at Le Bain!
Known for its glamorous parties, celebrity sightings, and sweeping views of the Hudson River, Le Bain brings together the best of New York nightlife.
With a rooftop plunge pool available during summer months, a chic terrace, club-like interior and stylish drinks to match your stylish evening, it’s a must-visit for those who enjoy an upscale, lively scene.
But of course, a lot of our wonderful scavenger hunts, walking tours, and escape rooms – whilst taking you on an immersive adventure – will put you on the path of many great places to drink across NYC, so why not check them out?!
Find More Things to Do in New York with CityDays
So you’ve enjoyed the cocktails, now how about continuing the rooftop theme and tucking into some delicious food at one of the best rooftop restaurants in NYC?
Whatever your interests are, there’s always something new for you to discover and do in New York. In fact, you don’t have to go out of your way at all to find them—you just have to know where to look.
Discover New York’s secret sights and noteworthy nooks by playing one of our New York urban exploration games!
All you have to do is team up with your partner, friends, family or whoever to solve riddles, complete challenges and answer trivia to lead you on an unforgettable journey around NYC’s most intriguing streets.
The best part? We’ll recommend top-rated bars (such as these rooftop ones) and cafés along the way and give your team the chance to earn rewards by competing on our leaderboard!
CityDays gives you total freedom to start and finish whenever you like, take extra breaks if you want or need them, and it’s suitable for people of all ages.
You’re also guaranteed your money back if you don’t have an amazing time - although our previous reviews speak for themselves: we’re rated 5/5 on TripAdvisor and 4.95/5 on Google Reviews!