a cityscape of a city at night

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Visiting an elevated location with views of New York City is an excellent way to experience the town`s nightlife sans the blaring music of an overcrowded nightclub. While some rooftop bars offer live performances and dancing areas, most of these venues cultivate a more relaxed atmosphere. Simply put, heading to one of these rooftop lounges and bars represents the best activity to participate in New York City to unwind with companions.

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To aid your selection from among NYC’s rooftop eateries and bars worth visiting, I’m sharing 15 top rooftop spaces in the city. All offer breathtaking vistas of NYC, so I know you’ll find one with precisely the atmosphere and vibe you seek.

1. Mr. Purple, one of the best rooftops in New York City for cocktails

The initial Manhattan rooftop you may want to take into account is Mr. Purple. It’s situated on the fifteenth floor of the Hotel Indigo on the Lower East Side, providing beautiful perspectives of the city. Its lively environment renders it a superb spot to get together with companions over craft beers and shareable appetizers.

a row of benches in front of a large building

You can also enjoy specialty wines, modern cocktails, and other drinks at this rooftop lounge above New York City, as well as the small rooftop pool area. While this hangout spot boasts a nice, artistic vibe, it is best known for its cocktail selections. Enjoy a lychee martini or hibiscus lemonade during the summer months, or sip on a banana-apple whiskey or jalapeño mezcal to provide warmth in the winter.

2. 230 Fifth, a popular NYC rooftop with an igloo bar

230 Fifth is one of our especially enjoyed rooftop bars in New York City, due to its impressive perspectives, delectable beverages, and igloo bar if you travel to NYC in the winter. Visiting 230 Fifth is one of the top things to do in NYC at night with companions or as a duo, so if you adore the nightlife, don’t miss it.

a city filled with lots of tall buildings

The multi-level venue has an enclosed space on the twentieth floor and an open-air area on the twenty-first floor, so visitors can appreciate the views during all seasons. This rooftop lounge in New York City offers exceptional perspectives of the Empire State Building, and nothing surpasses admiring the sunset while sipping on a frozen beverage in the summer heat.

Regardless of when you go, you can enjoy the extensive menu with beer, wine, cocktails, and sushi. The igloo bar is a distinctive feature that you won’t find anywhere else, and the swanky indoor area is perfect for hosting private events. 230 Fifth serves bottomless brunch on weekends and live music at night, although there is a $20 cover charge starting at 8 pm.

3. The Crown, a beautiful indoor and outdoor rooftop bar in NYC

Meanwhile in the Bowery neighborhood, The Crown is a stylish lounge and bar situated on the 21st floor of the Hotel 50 Bowery. Featuring live DJ performances and an elegant ambiance, it counts among the premier rooftop bars in Manhattan for art and music devotees.

a row of tables with chairs and umbrellas

Vibrate to hip-hop beats and sip on seasonal beverages while taking in beautiful views of the city skyline. The Crown serves some of the tastiest Asian-influenced drinks, as well as a decent selection of wines and beers. For food, there is a variety of appetizers and small plates.

The Crown lounge`s indoor region allows floor-to-ceiling window views for admiring the scenery inside, while two balconies in the outside area provide ample space for all. Undoubtedly, this rooftop hangout spot in Manhattan could be viewed as one of NYC`s nightlife jewels.

4. JIMMY at Modernhaus SoHo, one of the first rooftops in New York City

JIMMY may be among the city’s initial rooftop lounges, but it remains one of the absolute best. Inspired by Picasso’s Blue Period paintings, this dimly-lit and trendy rooftop in downtown NYC is a sexy late-night hangout for friends and couples.

a large building with a view of the ocean

Situated on the eighteenth floor of the Modernhaus SoHo, JIMMY offers panoramic sights of Midtown Manhattan, one of the best neighborhoods in Manhattan, like the Freedom Tower and the Empire State Building. The indoor lounge has a bar and vintage furniture where you can relax and enjoy the practical fireplace. Sample the drink menu full of signature cocktails as well as beer, cider and wine.

This SoHo rooftop bar also has an outside pool deck that hosts gatherings and other unique occasions in the summer. Even so, JIMMY is open year-round, so you can always come to this lodging in NYC with a poolfor live music, exceptional perspectives, and refreshing beverages.

5. Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge at Moxy Times Square, a fun NYC rooftop

Here is one highest level lounge in NYC that’s certainly magical. Magic Hour at Moxy Times Square stands out for its sparkly decoration and top-quality perspectives of one of the busiest parts of Manhattan.

a city street filled with lots of lights at night

The entire venue is decorated with fanciful crystals, flowers, fairy lights, and elaborate topiaries. Situated 18 stories above the city, Magic Hour offers a stunning view to admire the Empire State Building and surrounding area. There are indoor and outdoor areas with ample seating so you can visit here with friends to share cocktails and appetizers.

This adult playground located in Times Square also functions as a 21+ roof bar and features weekend brunch service as well as a mini-golf course.

6. Harriet’s Rooftop & Lounge, a luxurious rooftop bar in NYC for couples

Harriet’s is a relaxing rooftop bar in Brooklyn located on the 10th floor of the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, not just one of the finest hotels in Brooklyn, but one of the top hotels in New York City. As expected, the perspectives from up here are phenomenal, spanning the entire borough, the East River, and into Manhattan.

a city with lots of buildings and a river

Besides the sweeping urban perspectives, Harriet’s has a fully-stocked bar where you can order local brews, seasonal cocktails, and other tasty beverages. For nourishment, you can choose from hot and cold dishes, appetizers, and vegetarian options crafted with sustainable ingredients.

Not only that, a rooftop pool and live music from skilled DJs make it one of the best rooftops in Brooklyn for an upbeat atmosphere.

7. Westlight, the best rooftop bar in New York City for panoramic views

Another eminent rooftop bar in Brooklyn that I suggest is Westlight, which is situated on the twenty-second floor of The William Vale. This locale is one of the premier places to view the sunset in the city, as you can see the gorgeous orange glow descending over the Manhattan skyline and the East River. It’s one of the top things to do in Brooklyn.

people sitting at tables in front of a pier

In addition to the beautiful perspectives, Westlight has a delightful menu of beer, wines, and globally-influenced cocktails. You can also order off the dietary selection, which includes small bites, main courses, and desserts. With its industrial-style interior design and colorful beverages, Westlight is an awesome venue for connecting with acquaintances. Just be aware that it’s a popular place, so you should make reservations ahead of time.

When visiting here, be certain to explore the indoor and outdoor areas, and bring your camera because the panoramic perspectives from this rooftop in NYC are unmatched.

8. Azul at Hotel Hugo, one of the best NYC rooftop bars with a restaurant

For an experience reminiscent of Havana in New York City, visit Azul at the Hotel Hugo, one of the highly rated rooftop venues in NYC. Azul`s vibrant and artistic atmosphere is reflected in every aspect, from the decor and cuisine to the furnishings and tropical cocktails.

a city street filled with lots of colorful umbrellas

This rooftop bar in NYC’s West Village is full of tropical plants and imaginative animal sculptures, fashioning a Cuban cantina vibe inspired by Old Havana. Of course, the panoramic Manhattan views will remind you that you’re in the urban jungle of New York.

The mosaic of colors and artwork, combined with the plush seating and handcrafted cocktails, make this rooftop terrace the perfect spot to celebrate with friends or treat your partner to a sunset meal.

9. Make Believe, the best New York City rooftop bar with live music

Make Believe at the Sixty LES Hotel is an additional imaginative rooftop in Manhattan where you can experience NYC’s sexy nightlife scene.

people sitting at tables in a restaurant

Situated in the Lower East Side, Make Believe is an elevated eatery in Manhattan with a spectacular bar, innovative drinks, live performances, and phenomenal perspectives. While marveling at the skyline, sip on a Japanese-inspired beverage and appreciate the music from that evening’s live DJ. The lounge’s vivid pink booths not only completely contrast perfectly with the dimly-lit bar but also offer comfortable seating for you and your friends. Take your time soaking in the atmosphere and nibbling on sushi rolls and other small dishes.

For those seeking a more creative and festive experience, Make Believe is regarded as one of the premier rooftop bars found in NYC, though it doesn’t offer as much open air space.

10. The Ready Rooftop, a vibrant NYC rooftop bar for friends

One of the premier rooftop bars in Midtown NYC is The Ready Rooftop, which stands apart for its backyard vibe. This venue provides you the best of both worlds – a sophisticated rooftop terrace and a relaxed beer garden.

a living room filled with furniture and decorations

This playful bar and lounge is a great place to spend an enjoyable evening out with friends or decompress and relax after a day of work. Its unique retractable glass roof allows the space to be open year-round, and the patio seating makes it feel like summertime year-round.

The Ready Rooftop offers regular weekly happy hours and weekend festivities, making it among the top locations for NYC rooftop parties. Here, you can find local beers and standard bar snacks, along with frozen cocktails and gourmet tacos. While treating yourself to an enjoyable snack, you will gain the extra benefit of beautiful views of Manhattan.

11. The Press Lounge at Kimpton Hotel, one of the most popular New York City rooftops

A luxurious lounge located on the eleventh level of the Kimpton Hotel in New York City’s Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood, called The Press Lounge, provides visitors with some of the best rooftop views in NYC. From this upper location, travelers will have a complete 360° panoramic sight of Manhattan that is distinctly attractive after dark. I suggest arriving in time to watch the sunset`s end, then staying to socialize as night arrives.

a city with a lot of windows and lots of benches

As one of the premier rooftop bars at a NYC hotel, The Press Lounge features an elegant yet casual setting with indoor and outdoor areas. Inside, you can relax on the leather furniture and share classic appetizers and charcuterie with friends. Outside, the ornamental pool and fire pits create the ideal setting to sip cocktails and admire the glistening night skyline.

12. Somewhere Nowhere, a swanky NYC rooftop with a pool

Somewhere Nowhere is a two-tier rooftop bar in Chelsea, NYC found on the 38th and 39th floors of the Renaissance NY Chelsea Hotel, offering an indoor lounge and outdoor rooftop area. It`s a popular spot for winding down after work or enjoying a fun evening out, so if you`re on the lookout for something to do in NYC as a pair, add it to your checklist.

a living room filled with furniture next to a river

As you walk through the lounge’s arched entrance, one will be transported to Somewhere Nowhere’s magical landscape design. The artful design incorporates garden gnomes scattered throughout, as well as elegant touches and panoramic views of Manhattan.

Enjoy the airy rooftop and pool deck or venture into the whimsical main lounge to order tapas and cocktails. Somewhere Nowhere hosts international and local DJs and has a cutting-edge sound system, so it’s the most excellent hotel rooftop in NYC for after-dinner beverages and dancing.

13. Monarch Rooftop Bar, a cozy rooftop bar in New York City

One of the preferable rooftop locations in NYC to take in panoramic perspectives is the Monarch Rooftop Bar positioned on the eighteenth floor. This spacious lounge has a tidy aesthetic defined by wooden details, contemporary furnishings, vibrant artwork, and tropical flora. Situated in Herald Square close to Macy`s flagship establishment grants patrons breathtaking cityscapes including the monumental Empire State Building.

a row of tables and chairs in front of a large building

This indoor and outdoor bar is a popular site for social gatherings, and during the warmer months, patrons can sit outside in the glass-enclosed royal terrace area which has bar seating. Order an innovative cocktail crafted by the in-house mixologist or grab your favorite beer or wine. While you’re at it, treat yourself to the small shareable dishes menu, with plates made from fresh local ingredients.

Alongside the best rooftop dining in NYC, Monarch offers skillfully crafted beverages and irresistible perspectives, so you shouldn’t go past it.

14. The Roof at PUBLIC Hotel, another NYC rooftop with incredible views

The Roof at PUBLIC Hotel is another active indoor/outdoor venue on the Lower East Side. It’s on the hotel’s 18th floor and provides sprawling 360° views of the city from the outside terrace and the indoor lounge, which has floor-to-ceiling windows. So, regardless of when you come, you’ll have the opportunity to capture breathtaking photos of NYC.

a living room filled with lots of furniture

What makes this one of the most desirable rooftop cocktail bars in NYC is the beautiful garden-like design and the intimate indoor lounge. Together, they create the perfect place to spend an evening, whether at sundown or late into the night. However, the later it gets, the more crowded it becomes, so reserving a spot ahead of time is recommended.

Overall, The Roof is among the coolest rooftop bars in NYC, particularly for those who want great music and cocktails.

15. Bar 54 at Hyatt Centric Times Square, a beautiful rooftop in NYC’s Theatre District

In conclusion, Bar 54 located at the Hyatt Centric Times Square is a supreme destination to partake in some of the best rooftop libations in NYC. Situated 54 stories above the bustling crowds of Times Square, this lounge provides magnificent sundown panoramas, specifically of the Chrysler Building and the Hudson River.

a city street filled with lots of colorful umbrellas

You’ll want to stay after dark to enjoy the sociable outdoor terrace, which has dining tables and couches where you can lounge with a drink. Bar 54’s menu is full of distinctive beverages, signature libations, and gourmet bar fare, so you can easily spend hours here soaking up the atmosphere.

There is also an indoor area for dining, so it’s a rooftop bar in Times Square that has something for everyone.

That’s the wrap-up of the top rooftop bars in NYC, and I’m leaving you with a map so you can promptly locate each of these hotspots.

If you have any queries about these NYC rooftop areas, kindly provide a comment below and I’ll offer helpful information. Enjoy your trip!