Rooftop Bars in Manhattan

New York City pulses with energy—horns blaring, crowds weaving, and life unfolding at every corner. It’s a thrilling place to be, but sometimes, the best way to take it all in is from above. Rooftop bars offer a welcome escape from the street-level chaos, pairing skyline views with great drinks and even better vibes. While some spots sit just a few stories up and cater to the party crowd, others soar higher, offering panoramic vistas that make you feel like you’re floating above the boroughs. Here are some standout rooftop destinations that promise elevated experiences and unforgettable views.

Name: Ophelia Lounge NYC

Address: Rooftop lounge at the Beekman Tower, 3 Mitchell Pl 26th floor, New York, NY 10017

Website: https://www.opheliany.com/

What Stood Out:

• Neighborhood: Midtown East/Turtle Bay

• Style: Cocktail bar situated in a stylish 1920s Art Deco brick building. The rooftop offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

• Food:  Great brunch and happy hour options. Small cocktail plates or food towers.

• Venue: This spot is ideal for happy hour or a cozy date night. Intimate and romantic, the bar’s small size makes it perfect for one-on-one conversation or a relaxed outing with a few close friends. Best enjoyed with groups of four or fewer to keep the vibe comfortable and personal.

• Nearby Bars: Parnell's on First Avenue. The Stag's Head or the Cornerstone Tavern on Second Avenue.

• Nearby Restaurants:  Copinette on First Avenue or The Smith of Second Avenue.

• Nearby Interest:  The United Nations.

• What Stood Out:  Great views of the East River and the United Nations.

• Reservations:  If you want a seat, make a reservation.

Name: Artie's Backroom and Rooftop

Address: Rooftop bar & lounge at Pod 39 Hotel, 145 E 39th St, New York, NY 10016

Website: www.artiesbackroom.com

What Stood Out:

• Neighborhood: Murray Hill

• Style: Laid-back bar with beer, cocktails, and small bites.

• Food:  Burgers, Wings, Meatballs, NYC Pretzels, and Fries.

• Sports/Television: No televisions on the rooftop.

• Large Groups or Pub Crawl:  Great location for groups or pub crawl.

• Nearby Bars: City Beer for Craft Beer or Peter Dillon's Irish Bar.

• Nearby Restaurants:  Kjun (Korean Cajun Food)

• Nearby Interest:  AKC Museum of the Dog

• What Stood Out:  View of both the Chrysler Building and the Empire State Building

• Reservations: Good idea for large groups.

Name: Vintage Green Room Rooftop

Address: 303 Lexington Ave 16th Floor, New York, NY 10016

Website: https://vintagegreen.nyc/

What Stood Out:

• Neighborhood: Murray Hill

• Style: Upscale rooftop bar

• Food:  Known for its food and Sunday Brunch.

• Large Groups or Pub Crawl:  This would be a cool spot for a large group, but make a reservation.

• Nearby Bars:  Ted's Corner, City Beer, or The Long Hall

• Nearby Restaurants:  KJUN

• Nearby Interest:  The Morgan Library & Museum

• What Stood Out: They also have a nice back room and a private rooftop area.

• Reservations: Recommended. 

Name: Refinery Rooftop

Address: Refinery Hotel, 63 W 38th St, New York, NY 10018

Website: https://refineryrooftop.com/

What Stood Out:

• Neighborhood: Midtown South Central

• Style: Cool rooftop bar and restaurant

• Food:  Good choice of Starters, Dips, Sandwiches, Burgers, and Salads. They also have a brunch menu.

• Large Groups or Pub Crawl:  Great for large groups or pub crawls.

• Nearby Bars:  Parker & Quinn, The Campbell

• Nearby Restaurants:  La Pecora Bianca, Bryant Park

• Nearby Interest:   Bryant Park

  What Stood Out:  Inside and outside areas.

• Reservations: Are not needed but preferred.

Name: VERSA Rooftop

Address: Renaissance New York Midtown Hotel, 218 W 35th St, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10001

Website: http://versanyc.com/

What Stood Out:

• Neighborhood: Garment District

• Style: Rooftop Sports Bar

• Food: Full Menu including breakfast, lunch/Dinner, happy hour, and game time menu.

• Sports/TVs: Yes, Lots of TVs for games.

• Entertainment/Music:  Special events.

• Large Groups or Pub Crawl:  Yes, a good-sized bar for a group.

• Nearby Bars:  Tír na Nóg or The Tailor Public House

• Nearby Restaurants:  Butcher and Banker NYC

• Nearby Interest:   Madison Square Garden and Penn Station

• What Stood Out:  Retractable Roof and Televisions.

• Reservations Needed:  Yes, when there are major events at Madison Square Garden

Name: PHD Rooftop Lounge

Address: Dream Downtown Hyatt, 355 W 16th St, New York, NY 10011

Website: https://taogroup.com/venues/phd-lounge-new-york/

What Stood Out:

• Neighborhood: Chelsea

• Style: Younger style club with a dance floor.

• Food: Bite-sized bar options.

• Entertainment/Music:  Yes, DJ style dance music.

• Large Groups:  Good spot for a large group.

• Nearby Bars:  Bathtub Gin or Puttery

• Nearby Interest:  Chelsea Market or Little Island

• What Stood Out:  Inside and Outside areas.

• Reservations Needed: VIP Reservations