You're in NYC baby - so of course, you want to enjoy some amazing views of the city. Might I suggest a rooftop?
Rooftop bars are probably the thing I get asked about the most when people ask me what they should do in NYC. So here's a guide to my all-time favorite rooftop bars that are open year-round.
Most of these rooftops are in Manhattan—Midtown, to be exact—but there are a few outliers, including a couple in Brooklyn—where you can see views of both Brooklyn and Manhattan!
Midtown
Haven Rooftop
You can expect this place to be decorated for the season. Every season, they change the theme and decorate it really nicely. I love the brunch here. The steak & eggs are my favorite.
Dear Irving on Hudson Rooftop Bar
This is another nice rooftop bar that people go to.
Ophelia Lounge NYC
Super classic upscale lounge. It's really classy. I'd recommend it for a date night because it's really cute.
Refinery Rooftop
This rooftop has a really nice view and is pretty popular.
Monarch Rooftop
This is a hip rooftop/bar. A lot of people like to go here.
The Fleur Room
Located on the rooftop of the Moxy.
230 Fifth
This rooftop is really popular. It's near Times Square, and it's really touristy, but it's pretty budget-friendly. It gets crowded, but you'll meet a lot of people. It's a cool pregame spot.
SERRA by Birreria
This restaurant is located on the rooftop of Eataly, and it's so good. It's one of my favorite places because it literally tastes like you're in Italy.
Magic Hour
Rooftop cocktail bar at the Moxy Times Square, featuring an amusement park theme complete with mini-golf.
Lower East Side
cloudM New York Bowery
This rooftop extends all the way around and has a really appealing look. It’s slightly pricier, though.
Brooklyn
1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
I really love this one. If you can't stay at the 1 Hotel in Brooklyn because it's really expensive, I think like $600/night, you definitely should go to the rooftop. The drinks and the food are really good. They also have a pool on the roof that you can swim in during the day. You have to spend a $100 minimum per person, but that's probably what you'd spend anyway if you're spending the day there.
The Water Tower Bar
This rooftop bar is in Brooklyn, so if you're staying there, you should definitely go. You'll get views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the city.
Queens
MOON BAR Rooftop
Chic spot at The One Boutique Hotel serving small bites and cocktails, with stunning city views.
Leaf Bar & Lounge
Trendy rooftop venue at Hyatt Place featuring craft cocktails, Taiwanese small plates, and scenic views.
Lost in Paradise Rooftop
A popular rooftop famous for its brunch! Be sure to make reservations in advance.
Vista Sky Lounge
Inviting rooftop spot at the Vista LIC Hotel with city views, a cocktail bar, and dining options.
A+ Roof Bar
Rooftop bar at the Parc Hotel serving beer and cocktails, with views of the NYC skyline and Citi Field.
Lighthouse Rooftop
One of my favorites with outdoor seating, excellent cocktails, and live music.
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