Roundup of NYC Rooftop Bars

Just west of Bryant Park on 39^th Street, The Skylark’s beautiful lounge looms 30 stories above midtown Manhattan and the Garment District and showcases panoramic views of the Hudson River, Hudson Yards, Times Square, The Empire State Building and a host of other iconic sights. The Skylark consists of several indoor spaces on multiple levels, plus an open-air rooftop terrace. With classic décor complementing a classic selection of fresh-made cocktails and small plates, this NYC rooftop bar makes for a great starting or ending point to a summer night on the town.

The Gansvoort Meatpacking Penthouse, just below 13^th Street, is home to Gansevoort Rooftop — a relaxed, comfortable, 14^th-floor rooftop bar and lounge with panoramic views of the city and Hudson River. While swimming in the pool is for registered guests only, the view of the cool water contrasted with the cityscape, 5 - 7 PM weekday happy hour, fun music for dancing the night away and close proximity to a fantastic neighborhood filled with nightlife make Plunge, well, worth the plunge. Its summertime Plunge Pops — Orange Pinot Gris, Coco Rosé and Fruity Sangria — bring a bit of whimsy to this popular NYC rooftop bar.

Built in 1928, the art deco Beekman Tower at 49^th Street and First Avenue is now home to Ophelia — a year-round cocktail lounge with a greenhouse terrace, a five-star menu and stunner Manhattan and East River views. Nods to its early-20^th-century roots are everywhere (think antique flatware, vintage flapper accoutrements, hand-written notes, colorful tarot cards). A pewter bar is accented with rich blue walls and gorgeous windows.

Sure, you can get a tasty classic martini; but don’t pass up a chance to try its signature Ophelia’s Ascension — smoked Jamaican pepper-infused Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, Maker’s Mark, Sri Lanka palm sugar, aromatic bitters and cedar smoke (yes, really).

At the corner of 27^th Street and 5^th Avenue is the aptly named 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar in NoMad. Claiming New York’s largest outdoor rooftop garden, the bar also has an enclosed penthouse lounge, making this NYC rooftop bar an ideal go-to spot year-round. Bring the family for brunch (kiddos allowed when accompanied by a parent), or spend an open-air evening with gorgeous north-northwest views of the city.

Stopping by when there’s a chill in the air? Not to worry — the rooftop is partially heated on cooler nights, and twinkling, heated, transparent igloos each accommodate up to 12 guests while lighting up the space November - May.

Viceroy Central Park on West 57^th between Sixth and Seventh Avenues is not only an easy walk to Central Park and the Theatre District, it’s also home to a gorgeous rooftop bar and the street-level Kingside Restaurant. Along with lovely views of the park, the “massively popular” rooftop has live music and top-notch drinks using fresh ingredients — an inviting way to start an evening before going to dinner or the theatre or to wind down after a night on the town.

Right below Houston on Orchard Street, Mr. Purple entertains guests (and swimmers) on the 15^th floor of Hotel Indigo Lower East Side. Both indoor and outdoor spaces combine reclaimed wood, concrete, festoon lighting and dramatic lower Manhattan cityscapes for a modern rooftop experience. And yes — a swimming pool on the west terrace is flanked by a variety of seating and a rooftop bar.

Small-batch spirits, regionally brewed craft beers, universal wine selections, fresh-ingredient cocktails, cold-pressed juices and handcrafted coffee round out the beverage options, while locally sourced ingredients fill plates from the all-day menu.

On the 22^nd floor of West 38^th Street’s Archer Hotel, Spyglass® Rooftop Bar mixologists serve up distinctive signature cocktails from AVA Social, plus a selection of wines and beers. A small but mighty-tasty list of snacks includes Scallop on a Stick, Tuna Tartare Tacos and Sticky Ribs.

And then there’s the stunning view, which features the Empire State Building up close, rising up from midtown Manhattan. A Spyglass back room can be reserved for private functions, as well. Inside or out, the approachable, chic atmosphere and attentive staff bring the NYC rooftop bar experience into clear focus.