The Best Rooftop Bars in New York
The New York skyline is impressive and the city has lots of rooftop bars. But which are the best?
Website The Rooftop Guide has visited over 60 bars in New York. Here is their list of bars that you absolutely must visit.
When the view is everything
The Presslounge
Looking for the ultimate rooftop view, with the Hudson River and sunset in one direction and Midtown Manhattan in the other? Then The Presslounge is the place to visit. A magical view in luxurious and sophisticated surroundings. In the afternoons and evenings, the terrace is the ideal place for a good “pre-party”, and a little later in the evening, the entire roof is transformed into the perfect place for a party. Put on your glad rags and your biggest smile, and you’ll feel right at home amongst the trendy clientele that can usually be found hanging out here.
Popular with both tourists and locals
Jimmy at the James
New York
The James Hotel in Soho is best known for having one of the best rooftop pools in New York. However, the pool itself can only be used by hotel guests. But after 5pm, the terrace is opened to the general public, attracting a younger clientele (aged 20-35) who raise their glasses against the backdrop of Downtown, Freedom Tower and the Hudson River. The terrace also has a large indoor area, where the bar is located. Make sure you get there early on weekends. Jimmy at the James is very popular with both tourists and locals alike.
View + fantastic dinner = true
The Skylark
New York
If you like a magnificent view amidst the skyscrapers at Times Square, The Skylark is the perfect choice. Book a table in advance and prepare yourself for a great party atmosphere, tasty bar snacks and perhaps the most sublime views you can get in central Manhattan. The terrace is quite narrow and has both seating and standing areas. There is also an indoor area where you can play pool and throw darts. Perfect for those days when the weather is not so great. Don’t miss the food, it’s fantastic!
Views over Central Park
The Roof at Viceroy Central Park
As the name of the hotel suggests, this is one of the few rooftop bars in New York where you get a magnificent view of Central Park and its surroundings. The terrace here is quite small, but oh so good. Make sure you get out in good time in order to get a seat, otherwise there will be standing room only. The bar serves classic cocktails to the sound of relaxing loung music. In other words, many people come here early to have a few drinks before continuing their night elsewhere in New York.
Text by Amanda Hjelm