Best rooftop bars in Manhattan, 2026.

They say you can only have two, good views, good quality, or good prices, at Manhatta, you can have it all. Located on the 60th floor at 28 Liberty Street, the views at Manhatta are easily the most sensational for a rooftop bar in lower Manhattan with stunning panoramic views of the NYC skyline.

The rooftop bar is best described as casual-upscale, where dressing up is encouraged but you can ditch the sports coat at home.

The menu is full of innovative and modern flavors, mostly revolving around American staples. And here’s a little bonus tip, if you can’t get reservations, arrive early to try to snag a seat at. The bar. Manhatta’s bar opens an hour before the restaurant, making this the perfect Manhattan rooftop bar to start your night.

Dear Irving on The Hudson is situated on the 40th and 41st floors of the Aliz Hotel in Times Square. While primarily indoors, the Manhattan rooftop. The 41st floor exudes a luxurious feel, while the 40th floor offers comfortable seating inside and out, great for groups.

If you snag a seat on the east side of the bar, you’ll capture glimpses of the vibrant lights of Times Square. While the west side treats you to views of Hudson Yards and the southern skyline. Drinks at Dear Irving typically cost around $19 each, which I wish I could gripe about, but they’re actually quite good. Expect top-notch drinks crafted from classic recipes with a modern twist, using fresh ingredients.

Locals Tip. This Manhattan rooftop bar offers cocktail courses! You and a friend can sign up for a 90-minute course on any of the numerous cocktail classes available for $250. You can expect to learn about the history of unique cocktails, get a lesson how to mix them, and, of course, taste the results.

The Refinery Rooftop Bar offers stunning views of the city skyline atop the Refinery Hotel in Midtown. It’s a chic spot for handcrafted cocktails, put together wine list, and delicious small plates, perfect for after-work drinks or special occasions.

This rooftop bar in Manhattan combines industrial charm with modern elegance, creating an unforgettable experience. Get ready to enjoy some of the most iconic views of the Empire State Building (you’ll be amazed at how close you can get!). It’s particularly rewarding to visit after sunset when the building is illuminated, truly breathtaking.

The Skylark is undeniably one of NYC’s best rooftop bars, offering a remarkable experience from start to finish. Located at 200 West 39th Street, the journey up thirty stories in the elevator sets the stage for the breathtaking views awaiting guests.

Upon arrival, friendly hosts guide patrons to tables with unbelievable views, enhanced by the option to step outdoors for an even more enchanting experience amidst the city lights. The ambiance is welcoming, the drinks are top-notch, and the food is delicious.

Something Worth noting. While there is no dress code, folks are encouraged to dress a step above casual. Leave the workout gear and flip-flops at home.

Unpopular opinion. I’ll say it. The best bars in NYC are the ones without a velvet rope or a secret entrance.

Located on the 21st floor of the Marriott Vacation Club Pulse in Midtown, Top of the Strand offers a serene atmosphere complemented by breathtaking views. Although the crowd tends to be older, the bar’s cozy ambiance and signature drink selections enhance its appeal.

Operating year-round, this Manhattan rooftop bar has a retractable glass roof that adjusts with the changing seasons. Reservations are encouraged due to its small size, and guests should check for private events before arriving for a walk-in visit.

With its exclusive ambiance and unbeatable views, The Top of The Strand is a place you need to try rooftop bar in Manhattan for an intimate date night.

Ophelia Lounge, nestled in the historic Beekman Tower in Midtown, offers a sophisticated yet whimsical atmosphere with stunning views of the East River. Housed in a historic Art Deco building, the lounge features plush seating and classic decor.

The food, particularly the spinach dip and truffle fries, is worth the trip but the prices can be on the higher side. It’s a great rooftop bar in Manhattan for a girl’s trip or for entertaining visiting in-laws.

The Tea Party experience is a highlight. You’ll get a variety of teas, finger sandwiches, and pastries in vintage-style teapots and cups. The space is small, so reservations are essential for securing a spot at this popular Manhattan rooftop bar.

Tucked inside The Knickerbocker Hotel (rumored to be the birthplace of the original martini), St. Cloud is a popular rooftop bar in Manhattan. Overlooking Times Square, the bar offers mesmerizing views of the chaos below, especially during the iconic ball drop on New Years Eve.

During the warmer months, the bar occasionally has a live DJ on the weekends, which takes the experience up a notch. Whatever the occasion, from after-work gatherings, romantic rendezvous, or lively group outings, St. Cloud offers an ideal setting for socializing.

Spyglass is located atop the Archer Hotel has incredible views of the Empire State Building. Located on the 22nd floor, it has an indoor bar and outdoor patio, making it a great option regardless of the weather.

While it can get crowded at times, the highlight is the spyglass (a small telescope), that gives you unparralleled close up views of city landmarks. From classics to creative twists, the cocktails steal the show but there’s plenty of light bites on offer too. I’m partial to the truffle fries and charcuterie at this lively Manhtattan rooftop bar.

Situated atop the AC Hotel in Times Square, Castell Rooftop offers more than just stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. Originally known as the New York Times Tower, the building was completed in 1904 and served as the headquarters of the newspaper until 2007.

Today, Castell Rooftop pays homage to the building’s history while providing a sophisticated atmosphere for locals in search of a good time. The handcrafted cocktails are impressive and there’s plenty of wines and beers on offer, if that’s more your speed.

This opulent Manhattan rooftop bar provides a celebrity-like experience without breaking the bank. Castell is one of the best spots for happy hour in Times Square if you want to impress someone special or treat yourself (and your wallet) to a good time.

Broken Shaker at the Freehand Hotel is a standout rooftop bar in Manhattan that offers more than just stunning skyline views. The bar originated in Miami and quickly gained popularity for its inventive cocktails and laid-back vibe. The New York outpost maintains this reputation, blending a relaxed atmosphere with a vibrant energy.

Stand-out drinks include the Pineapple Express and the Tropic of Colada. They also serve small plates inspired by global street food. The original building was constructed in the 1920s as the George Washington Hotel, so this one of the few rooftop bars in Manhattan that exude a historic charm. With its eclectic decor, creative libations, and cozy rooftop setting, the Broken Shaker rooftop bar is a top destination in NYC.

While it may not be the trendiest rooftop bar in Manhattan, Rooftop93 consistently provides a memorable experience. I first visited a few years ago for happy hour, which unfortunately didn’t return after the pandemic.

However, even without the happy hour, the drinks remain reasonably priced compared to other NYC rooftop bars (around $15-$18 per cocktail). Rooftop93 is also home to some of the friendliest bartenders in the neighborhood.

The laid-back atmosphere encourages easy small talk at the bar, giving it a VIP feel. I’ve brought numerous friends here, especially those from out of town, and they can never leave without taking photos of the views. The views, drinks, and feel are solid, earning Rooftop93 a spot among the best rooftop bars in Manhattan.

Mr. Purple is named after the notorious Lower East Side gang leader, Mr. Purple. This vibrant rooftop hotspot pays homage to the neighborhood’s colorful history.

The bar itself has a sleek and modern design, with ample seating and a stylish indoor-outdoor space. Originally a clothing factory in the early 20th century, the building has been transformed into a chic hotel, with Mr. Purple serving as its crown jewel.

The Manhattan rooftop bar has a pool, but it comes with a hefty $200+ per person price tag. What stands out is the drink menu offers strong cocktails served by friendly bartenders. The dress code is “fashionable,” but smart casual is generally acceptable.

I suggest avoiding sneakers, sports gear, or torn clothes. Due to its popularity, reservations are strongly recommended for a hassle-free experience, although weekday walk-ins before sunset are possible.

Monarch rooftop bar sits on the 18th floor of the Marriott Courtyard in Herald Square, and offers stunning views of the Empire State Building and Midtown skyline. Housed in a historic 1928 building with Art Deco architecture, it blends vintage charm with modern rooftop vibes.

The Manhattan rooftop bar is named after the majestic butterfly and attracts a diverse crowd with its elegant ambiance. Despite occasional slow service, the cocktails shine, though the food may not impress. The atmosphere is great for casual. Reservations are a must for this popular rooftop bar in Manhattan.