New York’s Rooftop Bars
Nothing says summer like a balmy night spent sipping cocktails at NYC’s best rooftop bars. Summer in the city is sort of like spring break in Miami, sans the wet t-shirt contest (well, I guess that all depends on the bar you head to…). Anyway, the city is buzzing with locals and tourists all here for the same reason: the lights, the sights, and the night life. You can’t beat Manhattan for all three, and in the summer the city kicks it up a notch.
Gallow Green
Think Secret Garden on a rooftop…this rooftop bar is really unlike any other you will find in Manhattan. A charming oasis, adorned in lush greenery throughout, and with just the necessary touch of whimsy, you will truly feel like you’ve entered some alternate universe amid the New York City buzz. In the evening crowds roll in to find a perfect space to relax and sip a cocktail, but beware this rooftop isn’t as secret as one might hope – the space does fill up rather quickly so consider arriving early to grab a seat. Opt for a punch bowl or midnight lullaby cocktail and you will be in mixology heaven. Drinks and décor do not disappoint at this hot spot.
Good to know: Brunch is hosted on Saturdays & Sundays starting at 11:30am. A complimentary mimosa included! Oh and, the elevator to get up to the rooftop is a little slow (and small), but kinda beats out 7 flights of stairs…unless you’re into cardio before you booze.
542 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001
Loopy Doopy
Prosecco on tap and perfectly crafted cocktails with boozy popsicles… really not much more needs to be said than that. Summery, refreshing, colorful cocktails with a killer view…no doubt you will be instagramming a shot of your popsicle prosecco goblet with the perfect hudson river backdrop. Loopy Doopy – atop the Conrad Hotel – is a can’t miss to cool off and wind down from a long week of work. For those not interested in the boozy popsicle drinks (we can’t be friends, sorry) there are plenty of other options from beer to wine to other specialty hand-crafted cocktails. There are also a few small plates offered to choose from to ward off the alcohol infused munchies. Opt for the sea salt + olive oil potato chips paired with a raspberry thyme prosecco + popsicle cocktail and enjoy the view.
Good to know: Hours of operation are always weather permitting…Fridays and Saturdays Loopy Doopy keeps the party going til 1am. If you mis out this summer, Loopy Doopy spans the seasons from Spring to Fall open April – October.
102 North End Ave, New York, NY 10282
Tequila Park
Ok so technically this isn’t a rooftop, seeing as its located on the 2nd floor courtyard of the Hudson Hotel. But what this patio lacks in rooftop views it more than makes up for in the form of the perfectly thought out decorum (foosball table included), cocktails and tacos. This just-secluded-enough patio serves killer tacos Tuesday – Saturday starting at 5pm…if this doesn’t scream happiness than maybe you should have another margarita. Opt for the pineapple chili-glazed skirt steak taco (you’re welcome) and a hudson daisy (classic margarita).
Good to know: Pricey, but definitely worth it.
356 W 58th St, New York, NY 10019
Pod 39
Casual, cool, brick laden rooftop bar and lounge, Pod 39 is an up-and-comer in the rooftop bar scene that is gaining traction for its style, scenic views (hello Chrysler building!), and menu. Indulge in a $70 margarita pitcher fit for an army of lushes…the portions are big and beg to be drank alongside a serving of guacamole. While there is no happy hour on the rooftop it’s still the perfect place to go after work, with no dress code, no cover charge, and open until 2am Tuesday-Saturday – this is a great spot to kick back and relax and throw back some tequila, followed by salt and a lime. Opt for chips & guac and a pitcher of margaritas or sangria to get more bang for your buck!
Good to know: The downstairs restaurant Salvation Taco (and its adjacent lounge) is a great place to start the evening. Head upstairs to the rooftop for after dinner drinks!
145 E 39th St, New York, NY 10016
SoHo House
Brought to the spotlight by none other than the fabulous ladies of Sex and The City this is the exclusive rooftop pool you’re dying to be invited to. With some of the best views of downtown Manhattan and the Hudson River this the ultimate spot for catching sun and living the lap of luxury (pun intended). 4 different types of memberships are offered, if you see yourself as a regular – and lets face it, after one afternoon on one of the infamous striped chaise lounges, you will. To get in you either have to be a member, be invited by a member, or be a hotel guest (which can run you about $500/night).
Best bet: Have your outfit ready for the day you get your invite, and maybe don’t wear that striped bikini…you want to stand out, not blend in with the lounge chairs.
Good to know: Taking photos is frowned upon, and cell phones are only permitted in certain areas. My advice? Detach from Instagram, SnapChat, and Facebook and just enjoy the atmosphere. Mingle. And brag about it afterwards.
29-35 Ninth Ave, New York, NY 10014
New York Rooftop Street Style
New York Rooftop Street Style
New York Rooftop Street Style
New York Rooftop Street Style
New York Rooftop Street Style
