New York City's Five Rooftop Bars and Gardens To Visit This Summer

Before summer ends, head up to New York City's lively rooftop bars for breathtaking views, lush outdoor spaces, and festive cocktails in the sky. From industrial chic terraces in Manhattan to Brooklyn Bridge vistas, this guide covers the top rooftop destinations to soak up the remaining days of summer high above the bustling streets. With stunning scenery and happening scenes, these five NYC rooftop gems offer the perfect perches to savor the city and the season.

The Roof at Park South Hotel (124 E 28th St, New York, NY 10016)

Located on top of the Park South Hotel in Midtown, find escape from the hustle to this leafy bar that offers panoramic views of the Empire State Building and Chrysler Building from its garden terrace. Sip inventive cocktails like the cucumber-infused "Rooftop Spritz" and enjoy light bites as you take in the city sights from above. The greenery, chic couches, and skyscraper vistas make it a perfect after-work oasis.

Westlight at The William Vale (111 N 12th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249)

Situated 22 stories up on a Williamsburg hotel, Westlight boasts jaw-dropping 180 degree views of the midtown Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge. The vibe is swanky yet laidback, balancing on the border of hip and elegance with DJ sets and craft cocktails like the Elderflower Collins with herbaceous gin.

Dine on seasonal dishes like yellowfin tuna poke and ricotta gnocchi under strands of twinkling lights. There's also a Turf Club, a summer-long pop-up perched atop Westlight at The William Vale. The all-day rooftop party offers New Yorkers a sun-drenched green space to soak in 360-degree views of all five boroughs, summer cocktails, small bites, lawn games, special events & more.

Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge (485 7th Ave 18th floor, New York, NY 10018)

Located atop the Moxy NYC Times Square hotel on the 18th floor, Magic Hour transforms into a whimsical wonderland with neon lights, spiked milkshakes, and skyline views. An epic disco ball presides over the colorful space where you can groove to upbeat tunes. Soak up the last summer days by quenching your thirst with their Prickly Pear Margarita, a sweet and tart blend, or opt for boozy taproot floats on the open-air terrace while watching the sunset behind the Empire State Building.

Upstairs at Kimberly Hotel (145 E 50th St, New York, NY 10022)

The Kimberly Hotel offers one of the most intimate rooftop experiences in NYC. Upstairs is
a secluded, peaceful oasis in an elegant inviting space that boasts 360 degree NYC views. The urban hideaway is also Manhattan's only rooftop bar with a retractable glass ceiling for year-round enjoyment. Rain or shine, Upstairs offers a spectacular setting for evening cocktails, small bites, and breathtaking views of the iconic Chrysler Building.

Brandy's Piano Bar at The Roosevelt Hotel (235 E 84th St, New York, NY 10028)

Hidden away inside Roosevelt Hotel's historic walls sits Brandy’s, one of the Upper East Side’s best-kept secrets, and an NYC institution many people don't even know exists. Opened in 1979, this intimate spot showcases live talent every night and has been for over 35 years. Music begins at 9:30 pm and there is a two-drink minimum for table seating, but no cover charge.