Best Rooftop Bars in NYC (2025)

There’s just something magical about sipping a cocktail with the Manhattan skyline as your backdrop. Rooftop bars in NYC are more than just trendy hangout spots—they're the perfect way to take in the city from above, enjoy some fresh air, and indulge in great drinks, food, and vibes. Whether you're in the mood for a laid-back lounge, a lively party spot, or a sophisticated setting for a romantic night out, Manhattan has the rooftop for you.

Woman smiling on a rooftop with a city skyline in the background under a cloudy sky. She wears a mauve dress and layered necklace.

Below are some of the best rooftop bars in Manhattan, NYC for 2025. Each one offers a unique experience, from panoramic skyline views to delicious bites and creative cocktails. Get ready to elevate your next night out.

Horizontal line separating text with "Advertisement - Continue Reading Below" in gray. Minimalist design.

A thin, grey horizontal line on a white background, centered in the image, creating a minimalist and neutral design.

7 Best Rooftop Bars in NYC

230 Fifth Rooftop Bar

230 Fifth is one of Manhattan’s most iconic rooftop bars and for good reason. With unbeatable views of the Empire State Building and a sprawling rooftop space lined with palm trees in the summer and heated igloos in the winter, this bar is a year-round favorite. It offers a lively, social atmosphere that’s great for groups and casual hangouts. While it’s a popular tourist destination, locals still flock here for its unbeatable views and no-reservation-needed vibe.

📍230 Fifth Ave, New York, NY 10001

Dear Irving on Hudson

Perched on the 40th and 41st floors of the Aliz Hotel in Midtown, Dear Irving on Hudson is a swanky, vintage-inspired cocktail lounge with breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. The space is divided into several stylish rooms, each with its own unique aesthetic. It feels intimate and upscale, making it perfect for a date night or a classy evening with friends. The cocktail list is thoughtfully crafted and the ambiance is romantic without being stuffy.

📍310 W 40th St, New York, NY 10018

Azul on the Rooftop

Located on top of Hotel Hugo in SoHo, Azul on the Rooftop brings the spirit of Havana to NYC. This colorful Cuban-inspired rooftop is a relaxed escape from the city's hustle, offering sweeping views of the Hudson River and Lower Manhattan. The atmosphere is vibrant yet chill, with Latin music playing in the background and tropical cocktails on deck. It’s a fantastic spot for golden hour drinks and feels like a mini vacation right in the city.

📍525 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10013

Horizontal line with gray text "Advertisement - Continue Reading Below" centered, on a white background.

A thin, horizontal line centered on a white background.

RH Rooftop Restaurant

This rooftop restaurant sits atop the RH (Restoration Hardware) Gallery in the Meatpacking District and is as stunning as you’d imagine. With lush greenery, crystal chandeliers, and sleek design, RH Rooftop feels like dining in a Pinterest dream. It's not your traditional rooftop bar—it leans more restaurant-forward—but if you’re looking for a beautiful setting for brunch, lunch, or dinner with a cocktail or glass of wine, this is the place. It’s a serene oasis in the middle of the city with views to match.

📍9 9th Ave, New York, NY 10014

Learn More: Must See in NYC: Light Up Chinatown

PHD Terrace at Dream Midtown

If you're looking for a high-energy rooftop experience, PHD Terrace at Dream Midtown delivers. With dramatic views of Midtown Manhattan and Times Square, this trendy rooftop is known for its upbeat vibe, DJ sets, and party-ready crowd. It’s a go-to for celebrations like birthdays and bachelorettes. The decor is chic and seasonal, and it’s definitely a spot where dressing to impress is part of the fun.

📍210 W 55th St, New York, NY 10019

Monarch Rooftop

Monarch Rooftop is a sleek, modern rooftop lounge located just steps from Herald Square. With both indoor and outdoor spaces, it’s perfect for year-round visits. The rooftop boasts fantastic views of the Empire State Building and the surrounding city skyline. The atmosphere strikes a great balance between lively and relaxed, making it ideal for after-work drinks or a casual weekend night out. The cocktail menu is solid, and the space is stylish without being overly flashy.

📍71 W 35th St, New York, NY 10001

Horizontal line with text "Advertisement - Continue Reading Below" centered in a minimal white background.

A thin, horizontal gray line on a white background, visually dividing the space.

Cantina Rooftop

Cantina Rooftop brings the fiesta to Hell’s Kitchen with bold colors, Latin-inspired flavors, and an energetic atmosphere. This vibrant rooftop bar features a retractable roof, making it a great option rain or shine. The menu includes delicious Mexican fare alongside strong margaritas and playful cocktails. With live music, DJs, and a party-forward vibe, Cantina is perfect for a fun night out with friends, especially if you want to dance, drink, and dine under the stars.

📍605 W 48th St, New York, NY 10036

There’s nothing quite like the energy of New York City paired with rooftop views, and these spots prove just how magical that combo can be. Whether you're in the mood for a chill afternoon drink, a romantic evening under the stars, or a lively night out with friends, there's a rooftop for every vibe and occasion. From skyline views to standout cocktails and unforgettable atmospheres, Manhattan’s rooftops truly deliver. I can’t wait to explore even more rooftop gems this summer—so stay tuned for updates, new favorites, and more rooftop moments to come.