When the sweltering heat hits the New York City streets, locals and tourists alike head up, literally. All around town are rooftop bars with plush couches for enjoying a relaxing drink while admiring the view and catching a cool breeze. But don’t get stuck at the tourist-heavy spots! There are a few locals-only rooftops that should be on your list. Some have the chill lounge vibe, and others are definitely for raucous party nights. Below are our go-to local rooftop spots:
The Crown: This brand new hotel bar boasts two patios: one is perfect for looking uptown and over Brooklyn, and the other is a choice locale for sunsets. With all of 50 of Bowery’s dining run by Dale Talde’s Three Kings Restaurant Group, The Crown’s cocktail menu is inspired by Chinatown with ingredients like papaya, Thai basil, lychee, and dragon fruit. (50 Bowery)
The Delancey: Just a couple of floors up, but across from the picturesque entrance to the Williamsburg Bridge, is The Delancey. This is the place to go if you’re looking for a show during your evening, or to sit by a water feature surrounded by palm fronds. (168 Delancey Street)
Hotel Chantelle: Few places in New York successfully transport their guests to Paris as well as Hotel Chantelle. And its retractable roof makes it one of the best year-round bars on the Lower East Side. (92 Ludlow Street)
Bar Hugo & Azul: Hudson Square still has vestiges of its industrial past. But new places, like Hotel Hugo, are there to usher in the new neighborhood vibe. Head up to the playful Cuban-inspired outdoor lounge, Azul, or stay inside at the sleek Bar Hugo. We recommend going for their happy hour. It goes on until 9 pm making it one of the best in the city. (525 Greenwich Street)
Bookmarks: There are a few rooftops to see in Midtown, but few are as unique as Bookmarks. The space, on the 14th floor of The Library Hotel, feels like the penthouse living room of a publishing scion, with the terrace to match. On colder days, grab a seat on one of the leather couches by the fireplace. (299 Madison Avenue)
Refinery Rooftop: Classic cocktails and comfort food are what you’ll find at this industrial-chic rooftop of the Refinery Hotel. Step onto the patio for a drop-dead view of the Empire State Building, or stop by on Sunday afternoon for games on their big screen. (63 W 38th Street)
Salvation Taco: This hot Mexican street food-focused restaurant from star chef April Bloomfield is actually best for a quick afternoon taco along with a spicy margarita or a glass of frosé. Their ample rooftop is surrounded by brick archways, framing the gorgeous skyline, day and night. (145 E. 39th Street)
Northern Territory: You may be enticed to Williamsburg, Brooklyn by restaurants, Smorgasburg, or the view from Westlight at The William Vale, but when you’re done, head to the Greenpoint border. Here you’ll find the popular Australian bar, Northern Territory, and from their rooftop patio, you can catch a wonderful view of the skyline.
