New York City
The 10 Best Rooftop Bars in NYC
The best rooftops, whether you’re looking to relax or party, or something in between.
Jimmy at The James Hotel
15 Thompson Street (in south/west SoHo) website
This intimate rooftop bar is located at the James Hotel in Soho. This setting is deliberately kept small, with a cap at around 70 people indoors and 60 outdoors, and opens to the public at 5pm every day, so get there around then, as the rather picky bouncer shows up at 9pm.
Want to cool off in the pool? Hotel guests get access at all times, but the pool is open to the public (so wear a bikini under your dress) on weekends from 3pm to 9pm from Memorial Day to Labor Day. This hot spot also has an indoor area with air conditioning, amazing cocktails and delicious appetizers from David Burke kitchen.
Jimmy: The James hotel’s rooftop bar
Camilla Collins
I still like my bars on the ground thank you very much. being drunk on multiple occasions has thought me that stairs and elevators are the wort places to be when your piss drunk. So it’s a no go for me.
Genesis White
With The big Apple being crowded and all. Rooftop bars are like havens for open space longing individuals as my self. But the thing is, I always doubt the safety of said establishments being on the rooftop and mixing in alcohol. It’s bound to become a disaster real quick, luckily there haven’t been any case of fallen drunk on any bars. YET!
Bruce Irving
That 5th at 82nd bar is legit awesome. Great view great crowd awesome drinks. A must visit whenever you guys are in NYC…
Abigael Fisher
It’s not always easy to get into the rooftop bar at Tribeca’s James Hotel (bouncer, clipboard, all that), but it’s worth a try — If you have time please try it guys. 🙂
Grace Stirling
Was here for a friend’s birthday party with some close friends. I was super excited about the Delancey Rooftop Garden because it looked like such a cool and unique place to hang out with friends. The people are friendly and the energy is high. There’s trees and it turned out exactly what I thought it would be: a spacious, comfy and tropical setting for chilling out. Overall, cool spot if you are in the area.
Elsie Spurlock
Every year brings a spate of new rooftop bars to the city. When summer rolls around here in NYC, we and visitors alike love spending time outside. Preferably with a refreshing cocktail in hand. Everywhere you’ll look in New York there’s no shortage of awesome views to enjoy. Thank you for guiding me and others.
Aimee Marks
Okay, personal observation, you might agree or disagree, rooftop bars are places where these people meet: professionals, prima donna types, trust-fund babies, regulars (like me) and tourists!
Melissa Mendez
One thing I’ve learned about rooftop bars: If you just want to chill, relax and not fond of big groups, go early! You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the space and take pictures! But if you’re in the mood for partying, then go late! (of course you have to check on the opening and closing hours to know early and late times… LOL)
I usually go early!
Andrea Clark
I love rooftop bars with pool! Thanks for including in your list 😉
Crystal Nicholson
In my search for the “NYC best rooftop bar,” I try to google and compare recommendations of various articles. And I noticed that Gallow Green is always part of the list. I guess, it’s a must visit place for me in my upcoming trip to NYC. I’d like to commend you for you have the most fantastic photos, great job! (I’ve checked out 6 articles).