9 NYC Rooftop Bars To Try While It's Still Warm

There's nothing quite as quintessentially New York City as sipping an Aperol spritz and taking in a gorgeous skyline view. Rooftop bars have always been a destination to behold, with the hub of the city far below and nothing but clear skies and boozy drinks — what more could you want on a warm day? While some rooftops are still closed, many have reopened with socially distanced tables and plenty of fresh air. Grab your mask, a roommate, and head to a sky-high paradise. 

Refinery Rooftop 

Located at the top of the Refinery Hotel in Midtown Manhattan, this hotel bar will make you feel like you're on a mini tropical getaway — sans airfare. Some sections of this bar are closed in a glass greenhouse, so you can sip away regardless of an impending rainstorm. With stunning views of the Empire State Building and delicious cocktails on deck, this spot is sure to please any socially-distanced crowd.

Westlight

This Brooklyn rooftop features stunning views of Manhattan across the East River that are even better to catch during sunset. While their refreshing cocktails are the main attraction, don't miss out on their tasty appetizers like fried calamari and spicy chicken empanadas. You can get in without a reservation, but to be safe we recommend booking a table in advance to avoid waiting in line. 

Serra Fiorita

If you're in search of an Instagrammable spot for your next cocktail sojourn, Serra Fiorita in the Flatiron District is about as picturesque as it gets. The overhead trellis is covered in colorful flowers that also inspired their light and floral cocktail menu. 

Time Out Market

Come here for the rooftop view of the Brooklyn Bridge and stay for the range of mouthwatering food and delicious cocktails below. The Time Out Market is a sprawling food hall that offers everything from the mad-scientist style desserts at Ice & Vice to the seafood creations at Fish Cheeks. While some of the restaurants in the hall have temporarily closed, there are still plenty of spots to grab some grub and a cocktail before heading up to the rooftop. 

230 Fifth

Normally this rooftop destination is packed with people in search of a cocktail after their 9-5, but their socially distanced tables have made this location a much more relaxed space to unwind. We recommend checking out their brunch buffet, which runs 12:00-4:00 and offers dishes like Bailey's french toast and cheesy omelets. 

The Crown

For those that want a chill rooftop vibe, check out the Crown atop the Hotel 50 Bowery in the Lower East Side. Though their food menu is smaller than some other rooftop locations, their classic drinks made with high-quality ingredients and a stellar view of Manhattan make this spot worthy of a visit. 

Dear Irving

With sweeping 360-degree views of Manhattan and an assortment of both classic and unique cocktails, Dear Irving is a high-class spot to sit back and admire the glory of New York City. Though admittedly one of the more expensive rooftops, the view makes it well worth the price tag.

Azul

The Azul Rooftop serves up Cuban-inspired drinks and cantina vibes — along with a stunning view of Lower Manhattan. This rooftop destination has a lounge atmosphere, so it's a perfect spot to take a first date or have a relaxing cocktail with your closest friends. 

Elsewhere

This spacious Bushwick dance floor has been converted into a beautiful rooftop location, so if you live in the area there's no need to trek to Manhattan to enjoy a cocktail and some views. They're only open Thursday through Sunday, so this might just be the spot to unwind after a long week of WFH.