Top Rooftop Bars in NYC for an Unforgettable Summer 2025

The skyline of New York City is famously stacked with skyscrapers, offering a heavenly view. Until recently, however, the opportunity to enjoy this spectacular perspective with a cocktail was limited. Thankfully, we are now experiencing a rooftop bar renaissance.

Unknown factors delayed this surge, but now New York’s rooftop bars are better than ever, featuring high-quality cocktails complemented by awe-inspiring views of the sprawling metropolis below. Here are the 14 best rooftop bars to visit in New York City.

Views of the East River and Roosevelt Island from Ophelia Lounge — From swank Ophelia Lounge, views of the East River and Roosevelt Island open up © courtesy of the Beekman Tower

1. Ophelia, Midtown East

Best rooftop bar for art deco enthusiasts

Opened in 1928, Ophelia is a quintessential New York City spot. Located in the Beekman Tower hotel, this bar boasts ornate cathedral windows and stunning views of the East Side Manhattan skyline from 26 floors above. Enjoy a classic dirty martini or one of the venue’s signature cocktails. Additionally, this venue has a historic vibe; Frank Sinatra was known to frequent this spot.

Daintree rooftop bar, just two blocks south of Bryant Park © Daintree

2. Daintree, Midtown

Best rooftop bar for sipping a martini in the sky

Located 30 floors above Bryant Park, Daintree is an elegant, plant-decorated rooftop lounge that presents creative signature cocktails. The potent drinks may have you questioning what you see across the way at the Empire State Building!

JIMMY bar on the roof of ModernHaus SoHo hotel — The rooftop Jimmy at ModernHaus SoHo hotel faces west – ideal for sunsets © courtesy of JIMMY

3. Jimmy, SoHo

Best year-round rooftop bar

Situated on the 18th floor of the ModernHaus SoHo hotel, Jimmy offers breathtaking views of the historic cast-iron buildings lining the cobblestone streets of SoHo. Savor a refreshing Tequila Martini or a grilled-pineapple mojito. During colder months, enjoy the indoor ambiance, complete with leather furniture and a cozy fireplace.

The outdoor terrace at Overstory — The narrow, vertiginous outdoor terrace at Overstory © courtesy of Overstory

4. Overstory, Financial District

Best rooftop bar for a pre- or post-dinner drink

Perched 64 floors above, Overstory serves a diverse selection of expertly made cocktails and classic libations while offering stunning views of the city below. Be sure to reserve in advance, as this venue frequently ranks highly among the best bars globally.

360-degree views of midtown NYC: The Skylark rooftop bar — The Skylark rooftop bar offers 360-degree views of Midtown Manhattan © courtesy of the Skylark

5. Skylark, Midtown West

Best rooftop bar for cocktails that rival the view

The Skylark features sweeping 360-degree views, elegant décor, and a seasonal cocktail menu that delights patrons. This bi-level rooftop bar in Midtown is perfect for romantic evenings or fun nights out with friends.

The Ready NYC atop the Moxy in the East Village — Channel the East Village’s alternative vibes at The Ready © The Ready NYC

6. The Ready, East Village

Best rooftop bar to feel like you’re at a backyard party

This lively rooftop bar on the Moxy has a festive atmosphere, capturing the essence of a backyard celebration. The bar offers enticing happy-hour specials, including $9 margaritas and delicious $1 tacos.

Dominick Hotel's Terrace on 7 rooftop in SoHo — The Dominick Hotel’s Terrace on 7 rooftop on SoHo’s western side © courtesy of Terrace on 7

7. Terrace on 7, SoHo

Best rooftop bar for a Mexican-luau vibe

Located in the Dominick Hotel, this seventh-floor terrace bar is styled to offer a unique fusion of Mexican and Hawaiian flavors, perfect for enjoying refreshing cocktails alongside SoHo views.

The Azul Rooftop in SoHo — You’ll find a festive, Cuban-inspired mood at the Azul Rooftop in SoHo © courtesy of Azul

8. Azul Rooftop, SoHo

Best rooftop bar for Havana vibes

Azul is adorned with palm trees, vibrant decor, and plays Afro-Cuban music to create the ultimate experience for patrons wishing to sip mojitos and enjoy Cuban cuisine.

9. The Crown, Chinatown

Best rooftop bar for Asian-inspired drinks and views of Chinatown

Situated atop the 50 Bowery hotel, The Crown features an expansive roof deck with stunning views of the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges, along with Asian-inspired snacks to complement your cocktails.

You'll find the RT60 atop the Hard Rock Hotel near Times Square — You’ll find the RT60 atop the Hard Rock Hotel near Times Square © courtesy of RT60

10. RT60, Times Square

Best rooftop bar for rocking out with the views

RT60, perched on the 34th floor, provides an exhilarating atmosphere with live music, engaging cocktails, and delectable snacks while enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding skyline.

The infinity pool at TWA Hotel's rooftop deck overlooks JFK — The pool on the TWA Hotel’s rooftop deck overlooks the runways of JFK Airport © courtesy of TWA Hotel

11. TWA Pool Bar, JFK Airport

Best rooftop bar for plane spotters

At the TWA Hotel, this unique rooftop bar features an infinity pool and aviation-themed cocktails that allow guests to watch planes take off and land while enjoying a relaxing atmosphere.

The charming, low-key rooftop deck at Night of Joy in Williamsburg, Brooklyn © courtesy of Night of Joy

12. Night of Joy, Williamsburg

Best for drinking inventive cocktails amid antiques

This charming bar features a cozy rooftop deck filled with vintage decor, serving unique cocktails crafted with herbal infusions. The atmosphere makes it a favorite spot among the locals.

Excellent views of the Manhattan skyline unfold from Bar Blondeau atop the Wythe Hotel, Brooklyn © Liz Clayman / Bar Blondeau

13. Bar Blondeau, Williamsburg

Best rooftop bar for gawking at the Manhattan skyline…without being in Manhattan

Sitting six stories high in Williamsburg, Bar Blondeau provides stunning views of Manhattan across the river, featuring a menu that artfully fuses Italian and French cuisine with delightful cocktails.

Roosevelt Island's Panorama Room on the top of Graduate Roosevelt Island — Roosevelt Island’s Panorama Room on the top of Graduate Roosevelt Island © Noah Fecks / Panorama Room

14. Panorama Room, Roosevelt Island

The best rooftop bar on (and the best reason to go to) Roosevelt Island

The Panorama Room boasts 18 floors of striking views across Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn, along with an innovative menu that includes both casual and gourmet dishes.

Explore these rooftop bars throughout New York City for stunning views and inventive cocktails that turn any evening into a memorable outing!