8 of the Best Rooftop Bars in New York City

There’s something magical about being high above the chaotic streets of the Big Apple, especially during summer when the humidity climbs and the pavement radiates heat.

'Being on a New York City rooftop offers a unique pleasure—feeling connected to the city, immersed in it, yet distanced from it,' says Ray Chung, design director at The Johnson Studio, the firm behind the rooftop lounge at The Wit Hotel in Chicago, among other projects.

'Walking through the streets is one experience, but having the chance to unwind and watch the city shrink in size, all while still breathing the same air and hearing its hum, is intoxicating,' adds Chung.

Drinks taste even better from 10 stories up, especially when a refreshing evening breeze sweeps through.

So what makes a rooftop bar truly great? Chung highlights a few essential elements. 'One of the most significant moments is that first view when you step off the elevator,' he says. 'Where else can you have such a dramatic reveal, with the doors slowly opening to reveal the skyline?'

Of course, thoughtful space design, cozy seating, breathtaking views, and an innovative, diverse menu are all crucial—especially the menu.

'Unique food and drink options are now expected,' Chung notes, 'and a skilled bartending team can be a major attraction in itself. But ultimately, as long as there’s a great view and fresh air, people will flock to it.'

Here are some of the top rooftop bars in Manhattan.

1. PHD Terrace at Dream Midtown

PHD Terrace at the Dream Midtown hotel has recently undergone a renovation, now offering twice the space and sweeping views of Times Square and midtown Manhattan.

The menu features a variety of small bites, including the BLT deviled egg and Murray’s meatballs served with house-made pickles.

For those seeking a VIP experience, bottle service is available. Otherwise, enjoy one of their signature cocktails, such as the Hot to Trot (tequila, cucumber, jalapeno) or the Singani Sour (a blend of Bolivian Singani 63, lemon, and grapes).

2. Empire Rooftop

Located on the 12th floor of the Empire Hotel near Lincoln Center, the Empire Rooftop is a new gem from the creators of the iconic Campbell Apartment, which recently reopened under new ownership.

The lounge covers 8,000 square feet, featuring east- and west-facing terraces, two bars, and a cozy fireplace for added ambiance.

The menu offers a variety of small plates, including Koreatown-style fried chicken wings, crispy mac and cheese, and Moroccan-spiced lamb sliders.

Cocktail offerings include a barrel-aged Old Fashioned, the signature Empire Sunset (a blend of rum, vodka, and citrus), and carafe drinks such as a pineapple-jalapeno margarita and Prohibition Punch.

3. Roof at Park South

The Roof at Park South sits atop the Park South Hotel, offering stunning views of the Gramercy and Flatiron districts in Manhattan.

Both the food and drink offerings are exceptional, with a beverage menu curated by Ted Kilpatrick and dishes prepared by James Beard Award-winning chef Tim Cushman.

On the menu, you’ll find yellowtail poke tacos, crispy fried artichokes, and Cajun poached shrimp cocktail, alongside luxurious drinks like the Dukes' Martini (chilled Plymouth gin garnished with caviar) and Miami Vice (a layered pina colada and strawberry daiquiri).

4. St. Cloud Social at the Knickerbocker

At times, the best view of Times Square is from high above the bustling crowds. St. Cloud Social, perched on top of The Knickerbocker, takes its name from the historic hotel that once occupied the site where the Knickerbocker now stands.

This spot is all about indulgence – private sky pods are available for booking, a cigar lounge sets the mood, and small plates crafted by chef Charlie Palmer complete the experience.

The menu changes with the seasons, but right now you can enjoy a Maine lobster roll, short rib sliders, and a charcuterie board. For cocktails, try the Rake, Shovel and Hoe (a mix of gin, Irish whiskey, and lemon) or one of the three margaritas, each crafted with a different tequila and unique flavor profile.

5. STK Rooftop

STK Rooftop is more like an open-air steakhouse than a traditional rooftop bar, but its stunning views, delicious food, and fantastic drinks make it a must-visit.

The Rooftop, part of STK Downtown, offers a stunning view of the Hudson River and the High Line as the sun sets, providing the perfect vantage point to take in the fading light.

This year, STK introduces the Frozen Mule, a frozen twist on the classic Moscow Mule, available both at STK Midtown Patio and here at the Rooftop.

The menu features a variety of prime cuts, fresh raw bar selections, and classic steakhouse sides. For brunch, enjoy a sunlit view of downtown Manhattan while indulging in dishes like a crispy fried chicken sandwich or tater tots topped with caviar and crème fraiche.

6. Bar SixtyFive at Rainbow Room

Located atop Rockefeller Center, one of New York City's most iconic landmarks, Bar SixtyFive offers breathtaking views from its 65th-floor perch, adjacent to the famed Rainbow Room. Here, you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the city that are unmatched.

The cocktail list at The Jane Rooftop features a mix of classic drinks like the Manhattan and the 1915 Gin and Tonic, alongside modern concoctions such as the Sage and Apple, which blends vodka, sage, and New York State maple syrup. For those feeling hungry, the menu offers everything from light snacks to hearty dishes like the Szechuan peppercorn filet of beef.

7. The Jane Rooftop

The building that now houses The Jane Hotel was a key part of downtown New York's vibrant music and arts scene in the ’80s and ‘90s. Originally named Hotel Riverview, it hosted rock musicals like “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” and “tick, tick… BOOM!” before undergoing a revival.

The Jane Rooftop, once home to RuPaul’s apartment, boasts stunning views of the Hudson River and the downtown waterfront, making it a prime spot to enjoy the city skyline.

The octagonal bar and open-air terrace are open to both hotel guests and walk-in visitors, serving up craft cocktails like the Little White Lie, a refreshing mix of gin, apricot brandy, Lillet, and lemon.

8. Upstairs at The Kimberly

Perched 30 stories above Midtown Manhattan, the penthouse lounge at The Kimberly Hotel offers breathtaking views and a stylish atmosphere.

With three distinct indoor and outdoor spaces, this rooftop spot boasts sweeping vistas of the city's vibrant streets and a top-tier food and drinks menu. The dress code is business casual, so be sure to dress to impress.

The drink menu reads like a literary masterpiece, featuring cocktails such as the Chrysler, Rum Service, and Mistress, each described with poetic charm. For instance, the Mistress, described as 'an alluring ruby red,' 'unfolds into a flawless blend of citrus, Pisco, elderflower, and a hint of licorice.'

This rooftop bar is open year-round, but the warm summer months provide the perfect setting to take in the views and enjoy a drink under the sun.