When visiting NYC, there’s no shortage of bars to visit for a good drink and a great spot to gather with friends. Since there’s nothing quite like summer in the city, rooftop bars are one of the best ways to enjoy the scenery, weather, and offers a different perspective to admiring the city.
Whether you’re looking for a place that makes an authentic Old Fashioned or a place that offers a few appetizers to enjoy with your craft beer, here are just a few rooftops bars (there are dozens more) worth checking out during the dog days of summer.
MOON ROOFTOP BAR
Don’t be deterred by the fact that one of the newest rooftop bars is located on a hotel. MOON offers some perks for hotel guests only, but it’s open to the public, and casual attire is allowed. While there are some definite benefits to enjoying a night out not too far from where you sleep, MOON is worth checking out whether you’re touring rooftop bars for the evening or looking for a comfortable and classy place to enjoy the cityscape and a deliciously crafted drink.
PINE BAR + GRILL
This popular Bronx hotspot is a great place to enjoy the atmosphere of an old-style pizzeria or a complimentary “Eye Opener” (Bellini) during Brunch with friends. Pine Bar + Grill has a spacious rooftop bar that gets lots of use during nicer weather, but if you need a break from the NYC heat, there’s plenty of space indoors to grab a bite to eat and sip on some of their signature sangria.
LE BAIN
Even if you have no intention of soaking in the hot tub or hitting the dance floor, Le Bain is a rooftop venue with plenty of opportunities. Even if you’re a guest at The Standard, which houses the ever-popular rooftop bar, there’s no guarantee you’ll get a chance to check out the bar. Despite its popularity, it’s still worth trying to get in to enjoy the “grass” covered ground and just catch an iconic NYC sunset.
BROKEN SHAKER
Want to visit a rooftop bar that feels a little bit more like your bestie’s backyard hangout spot than a hip and industrial NYC destination? Broken Shaker is still a cool and popular hangout but the vibe is a little more calm, a little retro, and all about enjoying the beautiful NYC summer weather.
SOME THINGS TO CONSIDER
If you’re lucky enough to be staying in a hotel that has a rooftop bar, you’re set and are only a floor or two from your room. While many of NYC’s finest rooftop bars are conveniently located above hotels, you still need to use the same precautions as you would when visiting any other bar in the city.
Whether you’re indulging in a Sunday morning drink special or celebrating a friend’s birthday, always utilize transportation plans that will keep your from getting behind the wheel. Even if you’re walking, navigating the city while you’re intoxicated can put you at a greater risk of being injured while crossing the street or making a poor decision based on impaired judgement.
Enjoy the drinks and the rooftop views, but always drink responsibly!