Rooftop Bars With A View In Every Borough

Outdoor couches and seating with green plants overlooking the Manhattan day time skyline with blue skies at The Press Lounge terrace and rooftop bar.
Photo Credit: The Press Lounge

There are endless summer activities to take advantage of and enjoy here in the city, but one of our longtime favorites is spending a Sunday afternoon or weekday evening on a rooftop bar, overlooking the Hudson or nearby skyscrapers. While drinks high in the air do tend to be more expensive, we like to think you’re paying for the view (and the breeze!). Make the best of your remaining summer and cool down at these rooftop bars from every borough.

The rooftop bar and lounge area at Z Roof in Queens overlooking the bright city skyline at night with cushioned couches and seating options with green plants and dimly lit candles.
Photo Credit: Z Roof – Rooftop Bar at Z Hotel NY

Stopping By Queens: Z Roof

The best part about spending the night out in Queens? The nightlife at Z Roof, of course! This outdoor bar and terrace is located on top of the Z NYC Hotel and is a fabulous spot to view summertime fireworks, sunsets, and skylines of nearby buildings. Boasting a sprawling 5,000 square feet plus 360 degree panoramic views of Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and even the Bronx, the Z makes for the perfect spot to sip signature cocktails and watch the city turn from day to night. With clear views of the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, and other world-famous landmarks, the Z Roof is also available for private party and special event bookings.

An open outdoor rooftop terrace and bar overlooking the skyline of Manhattan during the day with cushioned seating and blue skies with clouds in the background.
Photo Credit: The Press Lounge

Here in Manhattan: Press Lounge

Sitting 187 feet above street level on top of a converted printing factory on 11th Avenue (now the Ink48 Hotel), the Press Lounge is the rooftop bar in NYC. You have views of the Hudson River and Jersey to one side, and sweeping city views on the other. Since you’re so far West, you don’t have to worry about skyscrapers blocking your views, which is pretty convenient! Complete with a pool, multiple fire pits, and retractable roofs for spotty weather, Press Lounge is one to bookmark for drinks with coworkers or hosting out-of-town guests!

An outdoor rooftop terrace and bar with candlelit tables and cushioned seating areas with greenery overlooking a sunset of New York City.
Photo Credit: Pine Bar + Grill

Out in the Bronx: Pine Bar + Grill

The vibe at Pine Bar + Grill is very South Beach Miami-ish, adorned with palm trees and plush pillows for lounging. With slim pickings of rooftop venues in the Boogie Down, this place certainly wins the gold. From happy hour drink specials Monday-Friday, half-priced bottles of wine every Wednesday, Ladies Night every Thursday with $5 mojitos, martinis and sangria, you’ll have a reason to stop by every week! Order a Bronx Bomber cocktail or create your own margarita and it’s like you’re on an instant staycation!

Brooklyn’s Best: The Ides Bar

Located on top of the Wythe Hotel, The Ides Bar stands out for two reasons. With breathtaking views of Manhattan and being one of the few gratuity free bars in NYC (meaning the price of your drink is actually what you’ll end up paying, no need to tip!), The Ides Bar is the perfect spot to end your work week and start your weekend. With cocktail names that suit the city, like Copper Queen and Brooklyn View, you’ll definitely feel like a New Yorker here. The Ides can close on the early side (sometimes by 11pm), so we suggest visiting on the earlier side and catching unobstructed sunset views over the island for an unparalleled photo-op.

An outdoor rooftop terrace and bar in Staten Island with bright fire pits and colorful cushioned cabanas overlooking a sunset of New York City.
Photo Credit: aboverooftop.com

Over on Staten Island: Above Rooftop

Hey Staten Island- this one is just for you! Above Rooftop is no hidden gem to the locals of the Island, but we’re here to let mainlanders know it’s totally worth the ferry ride if you’re looking for a rooftop with a  fun, club vibe. Above Roof’s 6,900 square foot space is only open Friday and Saturday nights from 9 pm to 4 am, but don’t let that get in your way of having a good time! With $14 handcrafted cocktails, bottle service, and small plate options available, round up your friends for a night on the island! If you need a break from dancing and good times, there’s fire pits to cozy up to and cabanas to lounge in overlooking the Manhattan skyline.

What are your favorite rooftop bars in NYC? Connect with us on Twitter and Facebook and let us know!

Posted in Glenwood News, manhattan living, NYC Dining, Top Picks |