7 Rooftop Bars in Asheville Offering Spectacular Drinks and Views

After a day exploring the captivating trails of Pisgah National Forest or enjoying a relaxing drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, return to Asheville for a different perspective of the mountains—set against the backdrop of one of the city's vibrant rooftop bars. Asheville's skyline boasts remarkable structures, including the art deco Asheville City Hall and the neo-Gothic Jackson Building. These elevated bars provide stunning views that are hard to beat.

Montford Rooftop Bar

• Ideal for: An afternoon sip
• Location: 199 Haywood Street in the Hyatt Place Hotel
• Area: Downtown Asheville

With a stunning wall of glass separating you from the bustling city below on this eighth-floor rooftop, you might feel a rush—especially when savoring a potent and delightful Montford Mule, a signature drink crafted with Salamander vodka, spiced-honey Krupnikas liqueur, ginger beer, and a hint of lime. Tip for day-drinkers: Don’t forget your sunscreen and sunglasses to fully enjoy the Montford’s afternoon summer rays.

The Observatory

• Ideal for: An elegant evening out
• Location: 68 Patton Avenue in the Restoration Hotel
• Area: Downtown Asheville

Asheville’s Drum Circle—home to a lively mix of drummers, dancers, and Hula-Hoopers—has been a Friday evening staple at 6 p.m. in Pritchard Park for almost 25 years. While it can get quite busy, patrons at the Observatory can enhance their experience by enjoying the vibrant scene from above. This bar is perfect for a romantic night out, a special occasion, or a solo drink on any other night of the week. Although the staff is welcoming and there’s no formal dress code, you might feel a bit out of place if you come straight from the trails in your hiking gear.

Antidote at Chemist Spirits

• Ideal for: Fans of craft cocktails
• Location: 151 Coxe Avenue
• Area: South Slope

Many visitors never make it to the rooftop of this venue—enticed instead by the charming ambiance of the apothecary-inspired bar from the 1900s on the first floor. However, you should definitely venture up, as the rooftop is well worth it. The partially covered lounge offers stunning views of the bustling South Slope neighborhood and serves as the perfect setting to enjoy flights of award-winning spirits, including the Barrel Rested Gin or Biltmore Single Malt Whiskey. It's also a great spot for catching the annual Mardi Gras parade and ideal for people-watching on warm evenings. The cocktails here are exceptional, crafted with a level of precision that distinguishes this place in a city known for its beer culture.

Capella on 9

• Ideal for: A great overall atmosphere
• Location: 10 Broadway Street in the AC Hotel Downtown Asheville
• Area: Downtown Asheville

Kaye Bentley, the founder and owner of Asheville Rooftop Bar Tours, has likely explored more stunning views than anyone else in the city. Since 2018, she has turned her passion for Asheville's breathtaking scenery into a career, blending it with historical insights and a selection of carefully crafted cocktails that vary by location (including nonalcoholic choices). This venture has become one of the town's most cherished experiences. It's noteworthy when she praises Capella on 9 for offering the finest atmosphere. "At Capella, guests can enjoy two distinct rooftop viewing areas with ample outdoor seating and admire local artwork," she explains. If you're hungry, she notes, "They offer an excellent selection of tapas."

Social Lounge

• Best for: Enjoying seasonal cocktails in an excellent location
• Where to find it: 29 Broadway Street
• Neighborhood: Downtown Asheville

The Social Lounge is known for its artisanal cocktails—start with their refreshing Thalia drink made with gin, lime, and pineapple—and if you’re craving pasta or pizza, the food is sourced from the neighboring Stada Italiano trattoria. The rooftop is equipped with a cover and heating for the colder months; as temperatures rise in the summer, the roll-up doors open and fans kick in to keep the air flowing.

Hemingway’s Cuba Rooftop Restaurant & Bar

• Best for: Gastronomes and larger gatherings
• Where to find it: 15 Page Avenue, located within the Cambria Hotel
• Neighborhood: Downtown Asheville

At this Cuban-themed rooftop gem, share a few small plates—we suggest the ceviche mixto and yuca frita served with garlic aioli—while enjoying a fabulous cocktail. A standout option is the #Hemingwayssunset, which combines Bacardi Silver, blackberry puree, lime juice, simple syrup, mint, and soda water, complete with a complimentary pair of sunglasses. For rooftop dining, this is Bentley’s top recommendation.

The Roof at the Radical

• Best for: Views of golden sunsets over the river
• Where to find it: 95 Roberts Street, inside the Radical Hotel
• Neighborhood: River Arts District

Perched atop the latest hotel in the city is an outdoor drinking oasis that overlooks the French Broad River and the vibrant River Arts District. "The open-air bar offers a perfect spot to unwind and absorb the energy and creativity of the Arts District from above," Bentley notes. As the sun sets, the river glows with a golden hue, sprinkled with people floating on inner tubes and kayaks. The Radical cleverly arranges outdoor seating to create cozy spots around firepits, resulting in a space that feels both relaxed and contemporary. Plus, its Friday and Saturday hours starting at 3 p.m. make it an excellent choice for afternoon cocktails—don’t miss the 3 Day Weekend Bourbon!