Let’s just say it: New York City knows how to do rooftops. We kill the rooftop game year-round, whether it’s rain or shine: there’s a rooftop for you to hang out at after work with an overpriced drink in hand. And boy, are the views good! I’ve always loved rooftops, but I don’t drink alcohol. However, I still decided to go around and round up all the best rooftops in NYC! Most of these don’t have drink minimums and are happy to make your drinks into mocktails if you so choose. We love an accommodating place to hang out!
There’s no reason to dawdle, so let’s dive right in. Oh, and by the way—this list is actively updated, so make sure to bookmark this one as I discover and add new rooftops!
Magic Hour Rooftop
This fantastically pink rooftop is known for its adorable and Instagrammable floral carousel. You’ve definitely seen it before and it is just as cute in real life! Sometimes, they also have these floral steps in another corner of the roof, though it depends on the season. In my opinion, the carousel is the only truly cute part of Magic Hour, and the food and drinks aren’t very good either (though very pretty). Definitely worth coming for a picture, but don’t expect to spend your entire evening filling up here either!
Sandbar Rooftop
Sandbar is a Hamptons-themed rooftop with lovely views of the Empire State Building. The decor is pretty but not over-the-top, and it’s refreshing to catch some beachy vibes in the middle of the city. I quite enjoyed the food too! They also have a lovely retractable rooftop so you can enjoy the bar even on a rainy day.
This is one of the less crowded rooftops in New York and I really appreciate it. The clientele is a bit older and more elegant than some of the other options on this list, and it’s quite relaxing.
Eataly Serra by Birreria
SERRA by Birreria is an Italian rooftop restaurant on top of the Eataly in the Flatiron district. The decor changes seasonally and they never slip on making the most gorgeous greenhouse imaginable, in every season. My personal favorite tends to be their fall decor, but it’s stunning year-round! There’s also a dedicated photo corner in the back to take pictures without people.
I also love the food here. My favorite is the fall menu’s butternut squash ravioli and the delicious crispy brussels sprouts. I come every year!
The Fleur Room
The Fleur Room is colorful and elegant, and I love the views of the Empire State Building from the seats. The decor here is top-notch, with gorgeous patterns in rich velvety colors everywhere you look. They also have floor-to-ceiling windows that make sunset a real treat!
I don’t drink alcohol, but the Fleur Room is well-known for its beautiful and tasty cocktails. We got the mocktail version of their signatures and they were absolutely delicious! All the food is pretty good too, especially the caviar sandwich. Yum!
The Skylark
The Skylark is elegant, classy, and has unbeatable views of the Empire State Building. This might be one of my favorite rooftops in New York due to the upscale vibe and unrestricted view. The Skylark kindly hosted us for an evening and I couldn’t stop taking photos at the small open deck on the main floor, because look at the skyline! There is a second floor deck also, so plenty of space for everyone.
The drinks were delicious and the food was actually so good, I would go back just to eat the raw tuna tacos and the steak and potato bites again. Cheers to my favorite rooftop in the city!
PHD Terrace at Dream Midtown
PHD Terrace is a bar located on the roof of the Dream Midtown hotel. It’s famous for its seasonal flower tunnel, which changes decor a couple times a year. The view is lovely, offering straight shots down the long avenues to Times Square and the iconic midtown buildings. There is both an indoor and outdoor portion, so the terrace is open to visitors in every season.
We had some tasty bites and some mocktails, which aren’t bad but also aren’t the best rooftop food I’ve had (cough, cough, Skylark). However, their desserts are super Instagrammable—we got their signature flowerpot and it was unbelievably cute! Also, carrot cake is delicious.
Ophelia Lounge
In the winter, elevate your celebration at the enchanting and elegant rooftop bar that is Ophelia. With panoramic views of the city’s sparkling lights and a holiday-themed ambiance, Ophelia provides an exquisite escape for an upscale rooftop with gorgeous views.
Ophelia’s 26th-floor bar is a lovely blue color all year round, but the magic really starts to shine in the winter, when the ceiling is decorated with glittering hanging lights. Sip on seasonal cocktails while immersed in the refined ambiance, or come for an elegant 3-tiered brunch on the weekends.
New York City is truly a haven for rooftop bar enthusiasts, offering a wide array of options to suit every taste. From awe-inspiring views of the iconic skyline to cozy hidden gems tucked away in between towering buildings, there’s something for everyone.
As I continue to discover and visit new rooftop bars, I’ll be adding them to my ever-growing list. So make sure to stay tuned for updates and exciting additions! The rooftop bar scene in NYC is always evolving, and there’s always a new gem waiting to be discovered.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these elevated havens offer a unique and unforgettable experience. So grab your friends, raise a glass, and let the magic of New York City’s rooftop bars transport you to new heights.
Cheers to the best rooftop bars in the city that never sleeps!
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