It’s a well-known fact that New Yorkers love exploring rooftops during the warmer months of the year – actually, all year long, lol! Now, with social distancing, they are great options to enjoy some time outside! So, check out some of the best NYC rooftop bars!
Today we’re going to share with you a list of some of the best NYC rooftop bars in Manhattan and Brooklyn!
Rooftop bars in New York are popular in the summer because of their revitalizing breezes, skyline views, and relief from the crowded streets.
Since outdoor dining is the only way you can indulge in communal drinking, rooftop bars have become necessary than ever before.
If you are looking for a break from the home-made cocktails you’ve been forced to make at home since the onset of the COVID pandemic, here is a collection of the best rooftop bars in New York.
#1 Cantina Rooftop [Hell’s Kitchen]
The Cantina Rooftop bar is on 48th Street. This outdoor space was opened four years ago and offers the best modern Mexican menu.
You should try their specialty mezcal and tequila cocktails to get the party starting.
One of the main attractions of the Cantina Rooftop bar is its climate-controlled glass rooftop terrace. This bar provides a fantastic panoramic view of Manhattan, which you will enjoy – regardless of the weather or season.
Location: 605 West 48th Street
#2 The Greens at Pier 17 [South Seaport]
One of the recently launched rooftops in New York is already one of our favorites NYC rooftop bars to go!
The famous Howard Hughes Corporation owns The Greens at Pier 17. This pier has the Brooklyn Bridge for its backdrop and a rooftop designed to allow the required social-distancing standards.
One end of the space features micro backyards, an inbuilt Yeti cooler, umbrella, and comfortable lounge chairs. You will also find USB ports if you want to charge your device, so don’t worry if you run out of battery during the day.
The other end of the space has lounge areas. You can enjoy delicious lobster rolls and other delicacies in this lounge space. The pier also offers refreshing cocktails like watermelon margaritas. Pretty cool, right!?
Check out the bar’s website for upcoming events. And, for the best experience, it is advisable to make reservations, after all, no one likes to be hanging on a waiting list…
Location: 89 South Street
https://thegreens.pier17ny.com
#3 74WYTHE [Williamsburg, Brooklyn]
Side from exploring great public rooftop bars, you might consider this one for your private event.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re hosting a party or want an intimate gathering place, the 74Wythe has got you covered.
This outdoor space will surely create unforgettable memories for you and your guests. 74Wythe has a priceless view of Manhattan’s amazing skyline, with an all-season rooftop.
If you want privacy, you can ask for a private loft. There is also a spacious main room and a chic, elegantly furnished Greenroom for you to chose from. Or, you can decide to enjoy your drinks at the concealed cocktail lounge.
Remember to make reservations in advance and enjoy! Oh, and we’re sure your guests will be talking about your party for months!
Location: 74 Wythe Avenue
#4 Ophelia at the Beekman Tower [Midtown East]
As they say: “Drink & dine like Frank Sinatra.” So, if this is what you’re looking for, you found the right place!
Ophelia is situated at the top of the popular Beekman Tower. It has an impressive Art-Deco design, which includes restored elements of vintage artifacts such as old tarot cards and flapper hats.
You can expect some of the best well-crafted cocktails at this outdoor space. They won’t disappoint!
So, enjoy your cocktails and favorite drinks while reflecting on the panoramic view of the East River with Roosevelt Island right in the middle!
Location: 3 Mitchell Place
https://thebeekmantowerny.com/ophelia
#5 Mr. Purple [Lower East Side]
If you like to party, this is the place to do so and this spot couldn’t be left out of our list of best NYC rooftop bars that you should explore!
Mr. Purple is a rooftop bar situated above Hotel Indigo at the Lower East Side of New York.
This rooftop bar is where you will find a fun, young crowd and the who’s who in New York getting their groove on. It’s even on Holy Burt’s post “The Perfect Girl’s Night Out in NYC“, if you want to check it out.
Expect awesome cocktails and take selfies in this chic space that provides 360-degree views of the city.
You shouldn’t leave this bar without enjoying THE Mr. Purple – a punch of tequila, allspice dram, cranberry liqueur, lemon, and apple. Also, make sure you try out the fish tacos and buttermilk fried chicken sliders. Yum!
Location: 180 Orchard Street – 15th floor
#6 The Crown [Chinatown]
If you thought Brooklyn was the only place you would enjoy impressive views of Manhattan, think again. And, if you twist your nose when people talk about Chinatown, it’s about time to reconsider that thought.
Situated on Chinatown’s Hotel 50 Bowery, The Crown is loved for its intimate lounge, unobstructed views of Brooklyn Bridge, and rooftop patios.
You also have a perfect view of One World Trade and The Empire State Building from this strategic location.
You can expect great drinks and a therapeutic atmosphere at The Crown. It is advisable to make reservations in advance, as we always recommend.
Location: 50 Bowery
#7 Top of The Box [Greenpoint, Brooklyn]
Initially, this rooftop bar was used exclusively for wedding parties and their guests. As of July of this year, anyone who wants to party has access to the Box House Hotel – a 10,000-square-foot rooftop.
This is one of the only bar and restaurant in New York that has a retractable rooftop.
You will find lots of room for seating, including the adorable cozy hanging chairs. Plus, their unobstructed view of Manhattan is definitely worth experiencing.
Top of the Box offers small bites and drinks in the form of wine, cocktails, and bottle service. And they’ll be hosting some cool events through out the Summer like morning Yoga Classes with YO BK and other cool activities!
This spot is open from Wednesday to Sunday. Make reservations in advance to avoid last-minute disappointment.
Location: 77 Box Street
#8 Summerly [Williamsburg, Brooklyn]
The name of this rooftop bar is enticing.
Situated above the Hoxton Hotel, in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, you can expect to experience New England vibes here.
The delicious flatbreads and lobster rolls will leave you craving for more. And, of course, the unique view of the Manhattan’s skyline is breathtaking.
The restaurant boasts of its own elevator and the hotel observes all distancing rules with several sanitizing stations and digital ordering.
Location: 97 Wythe Avenue
https://thehoxton.com/williamsburg/summerly-restaurant
#9 Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge [Garment District]
New York City’s biggest indoor and outdoor hotel rooftop bar is an ideal adult playground.
The lounge features a topiary garden, mini-golf, and rotating seats. In addition, expect to enjoy the soothing sounds of talented DJs during the night.
You will definitely have a good time with great drinks and a panoramic view of our beautiful Empire State Building. This rooftop spot is designed to allow you to self-indulge and have an enjoyable nightlife.
Location: 485 7th Avenue – 18th floor
http://moxytimessquare.com/dining/magic-hour-rooftop-bar-lounge
In Conclusion:
If you are tired of isolating yourself at home and making monotonous cocktails, it’s high time you went out for communal drinking.
There are many rooftop bars in New York that observe all the social distancing and sanitizing standards. Before you visit any of these rooftop bars, you should make an online reservation to avoid long waiting time.
Go enjoy some of the best NYC rooftop bar and come back to leave your comments or even share new discoveries with us! We’d love to know what you’ve been up to!
Photo Credits: Courtesy of the venues
