7 Of The Best Rooftop Bars In New York City

Rise above the busy city streets to experience a different side of the Big Apple. These are seven of the best rooftop bars in New York City that you’ll want to add to your itinerary.

Naturally, we have to start our best rooftop bars in New York City list right upstairs with St. Cloud Rooftop Bar at The Knickerbocker. Sip on creative signature cocktails or craft brews while looking out over Times Squares from one of our corner Sky Pods, the ultra-private exclusive Waterford Crystal Lounge, or our other stylish indoor and outdoor seating. An enticing small plates menu and eclectic entertainment is the cherry on top of this top-of-the-city experience. May we suggest the Lilly Blue, made with Grey Goose, St. Germain, prosecco, homemade raspberry cordial, lemon juice to celebrate?

For a truly unique view of New York, make your way to Graduate Roosevelt Island’s 18th-floor rooftop bar. Aptly named Panorama Room, the sleek and slightly retro rooftop bar and lounge boasts 360-degree views of New York. Pair your glass of bubbles with a classic seafood tower as you toast to the city.

What’s more New York than…Italian? At Eataly NYC in the Flatiron District, you can savor your fill of flavorful wines and handcrafted cocktails, along with rustic Italian fare at the rooftop SERRA by Birreria. Meaning “greenhouse” in Italian, the garden-like oasis changes with the seasons, both in terms of the menu and the atmosphere.

Get a taste of the outdoors while staying in the city. The Greens at The Rooftop at Pier 17, on the southern end of Manhattan, offers different seasonal escapes. From cabins in the winter to charming mini lawns and waterfront vibes in the summer, this rooftop is great for small groups. The Greens indoor lounge also offers cocktails and bar food year-round.

Built in 1928, the art deco Beekman Tower on the East River has long attracted visitors, including Frank Sinatra, to its storied floors. Now, the classic interiors and impressive views from the rooftop Ophelia are bringing in a new generation. Indulge in specialty cocktails while taking in the memorable Manhattan views and enjoying sets from live DJs on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

You don’t need to go upstate to sample New York wines. At Rooftop Reds, Brooklyn’s first and only rooftop winery. Here 42 custom urban planters cover The Brooklyn Navy Yard’s 14,800-square-foot rooftop, producing a sustainable, 100% Brooklyn vintage. Reservations for time-specific tickets are required.

This free-spirited bar near the Flatiron District also knows how to whip up spirit-forward cocktails—think colorful concoctions and picture-worthy tiki drinks. While this cool spot is casual, and doesn’t take reservations, it’s serious when it comes to food and booze, and was even a James Beard Award finalist.

Beyond the rooftop bars in New York City, there’s more to explore. Check out our NYC Travel Guide for recommendations on where to eat and what to do here in New York.