The New York City nightlife scene tops the global charts due its diverse list of bars, lounges and nightclubs. From dirty dives to expensive discos, NYC has got all its bases covered for your weeknight out or weekend celebration. Although plenty of venues throughout the five boroughs have their own unique charm, nothing quite rivals the bright lights of the city’s inspiring skyline at a rooftop bar. Whether it’s year-round or a seasonal venue, these top spots give both native New Yorkers and tourists the excuse to party nearly everyday of the week, amidst a backdrop that will never need a filter. Read on to find Rad Season’s Top NYC Rooftop Bars.
You may have seen the epic pictures on Pinterest or you might be amazed after looking at this photo for the first time. Either way, 230 Fifth in the Flatiron District is ten times better in person. Luscious palm trees, giant umbrellas and an extravagant penthouse lines this rooftop bar, with stunning views of the Empire State Building and Madison Square Park. During the winter months, snuggle up inside one of the neon-lit inflatable igloos with a speciality cocktail drink. Make sure to get there early as the place fills quick but the drinks don’t stop flowing.
Rad’s Choice: Brunch Buffet from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays
Location: 230 Fifth Ave, New York, NY 10001, USA
Long Island City isn’t just home to Amazon Headquarters. The buzzin’ neighborhood of Queens is also a hub for a diverse range of street foods and a unique list of bars. The Penthouse 808 at the Ravel Hotel serves up delicious Hawaiian and Asian inspired pacific rim fare in a lounge atmosphere. As you gorge, make sure to take a breath before losing it as you gaze at the panoramic views that include the Queensboro Bridge, East River and the Manhattan skyline. The retractable roof makes it a go-to spot for year-round dining and plenty of drinking. Summertime offers a wide array of draft beers and cocktails in the outdoor Estate Garden Grill. Stay late to enjoy the nightclub vibe as DJs throwdown the best of dance music. Dress to impress!
Rad’s Choice: Pacific Sangria and Grilled Swordfish
Location: 8-08 Queens Plaza S, Long Island City, NY 11101, USA
For more of a laid back bar-game type of night, head to Williamsburg Berry Park. This Brooklyn gem televises the big game on multiple projectors on the main floor while the epic rooftop delivers beautiful skyline views and classic bar eats. If you are feeling competitive, head downstairs to The Backyard, Brooklyn’s premiere indoor soccer facility. Aside from the multiple adult leagues that take place here, patrons can get in on the fun during free play hours. The retractable glass roof allows you to hang upstairs rain or shine while pounding some of the best European beers known to mankind. With a 3,500 square foot roof deck, enjoyable bar food, and endless beer and sports it’s hard to not want to party at Berry Park.
Rad’s Choice: Weihenstephan on draft – (wheat beer from the world’s oldest brewery)
Location: 4 Berry St, Brooklyn, NY 11211, USA
Skyline views of the city and the Statue of Liberty? Check. Unique bar snacks? Check. Popsicle Prosecco drinks? Sold! The Loopy Doopy in Battery Park City offers a one-of-a-kind NYC rooftop bar experience. From the impressive views of the Hudson River and Lady Liberty to the color themed nights held throughout the year, this bar is the place to be to get your booze on. They are best known for their refreshing and delicious ice pop champagne drinks, that are best enjoyed during a summertime sunset. The signature drink is so popular that the bar can go through 150 gallons of prosecco a day! Aside from their inspiring cocktail menu, Loopy Doopy also serves up fancy bar snacks including duck fat popcorn, lobster rolls and house-made purple chips. The stylish bar is located on the 16th floor of the Conrad Hotel and is an absolute must for rooftop lovers.
Rad’s Choice: Strawberry Lemongrass Prosecco Ice Pop Cocktail
Location: 102 North End Ave, New York, NY 10282, USA
Pod 39 is Manhattan’s mini escape from the city thanks to it’s beautiful Latin American decor and romantic lighting. If you didn’t look up in the sky, you would never know that you were drinking so close to the Empire State Building or the Chrysler Building. The unique colors and architectural design make this rooftop bar completely atypical of New York. For more of a competitive vibe, head to the Playroom Lounge where comfy couches, air hockey, battleship and several other bar games await. If you have one too many, check in to one of their unique pod hotel rooms downstairs!
Rad’s Choice: Classic Margarita and Salvation Taco
Location: 145 E 39th St, New York, NY 10016, USA
Last updated on Apr 14, 2021
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Harry R. Bennett III is a Los Angeles native who grew up addicted to playing sports. His love for the game of baseball eventually landed him several scholarships to play college ball across the United States. After receiving his B.A. in journalism, he pushed himself out of his comfort zone and moved to New York City in an effort to pursue his passion in the sports industry. Bennett has worked with major companies such as Fox Sports and Major League Baseball and has written for several online publications covering a variety of sports content. Although his playing days are over, he enjoys the endless pursuit of competition from athletics and action sports. In his free time, Harry can be found surfing, snowboarding, golfing, playing basketball and selling homes in Brooklyn. Follow him on Instagram @hb3_estates
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