Two of the things that New York City is most famous for are the skyscrapers and the nightlife. The city’s skyline is stunning at night, and there is no better way to enjoy it than with a drink in your hand and some great company by your side. Whether you want to enjoy the fresh air, retreat from the city or enjoy fabulous music and celebrity sightings, one of these top rooftop skybars will be the perfect fit.
1. The Crow’s Nest at the Water Club
Although New York City is surrounded by water, many tourists spend most of their time looking up at the buildings and not enough time looking out at the natural landscape. At the Water Club, located just next to the East River, you can’t help but stare in awe at the scenery. The upper-deck bar offers plenty of tropical cocktails that are wildly popular in the summer, but their upscale bar food is what locals come back for.
East River & 30th St
New York, NY 10016
(212)683-3333
www.thewaterclub.com
2. Salon de Ning
Around the world, the Peninsula Hotel is famed for exuding elegance, class and luxury. At the New York City location, there are no exceptions to that rule. Although the entire hotel is beautiful, nothing can top the view of Midtown and Fifth Avenue from Salon de Ning, the hotel’s skybar. The style of the bar is a combination of East and West, and vintage touches from China’s past help to set this bar apart from all the contemporary clubs and lounges most often found in the city. This is not the place to go for loud thumping music, but it is a stunning place to bring a date or a business client that you are eager to impress.
The Peninsula Hotel
700 5th Avenue
New York, NY 10019
212-956-2888
www.elegantresorts.co.uk/the-peninsula-new-york/
3. Press Lounge
When there is a light drizzle or a particularly strong breeze coming through, you might not feel comfortable sipping drinks on the top floor outdoors. At the Press Lounge, however, you don’t have to let a little rain stop your fun. With a glass roof topping the skybar, guests can enjoy the spectacular views of Hell’s Kitchen no matter what the weather. Be sure to come hungry, because the extensive list of appetizers can easily make a light dinner.
Ink 48 Hotel
653 11th Avenue
New York, NY 10036
212-757-0088
www.ink48.com
4. Gansevoort Park Rooftop
If you want to see and be seen by all the hottest celebrities and socialites in New York City, then swing by the Gansevoort Park Rooftop. If you make it past the discerning staff guarding the velvet ropes, you can gather around the rooftop pool, sip cocktails, listen to the resident DJ spin tunes and soak in spectacular views of the Empire State Building.
420 Park Ave. South
New York, NY 10016
(646) 380-5391
gansevoortpark.com/rooftop-loft
5. Jimmy at The James Hotel
This hidden gem in the city is almost exclusively frequented by hotel guests, but an increasing number of locals are discovering the bar’s breathtaking views of Soho. There is a large outdoor bar where mingling is encouraged, and the indoor bar is quite small and best left for intimate conversations. Skip the ordinary beer and wine here, because the cocktail list includes creative options like lime and lavender bitters vodka and a Mexican Honey Bee with tequila.
15 Thompson St.
New York, NY 10013
(212) 465-2000
jimmysoho.com
6. The Brass Monkey
If you don’t feel comfortable in the trendy hipster bars of the Meatpacking District, head up to the Brass Monkey skybar. This isn’t a place to compare credentials and fashion-forward outfits, but it is a place to get a pint of Guinness or one of the more than 90 different types of bottled beer available. Prices are surprisingly affordable when you factor in the million-dollar view.
55 Little West 12th Street
New York, NY 10014
212-675-6686
www.brassmonkeynyc.com
7. Hudson Terrace
If you mention this to a typical clubgoer in New York City, they might rave about the great DJ, the tough security lines and the heaving crowds. While this might be true on the weekends, it is much calmer during the week. Swing by on a Wednesday to admire the view over 46th Street and join in the wine taste-tests that are put on each week. The mood lighting, elegant decor and chilled atmosphere makes this the perfect weeknight skybar in the city.
621 West 46th Street
New York, NY 10036
(212) 315-9400
hudsonterracenyc.com
To get the best of New York City’s nightlife as well as its scenery, head to a skybar. Each of these outdoor and rooftop destinations is a wonderful addition to your travel itinerary.
For the latest deals on flights and holidays to New York use the links below.
New York Holidays
London Heathrow to New York
Manchester to New York
London Gatwick to New York
Newcastle to New York
Glasgow to New York