11 Best Hotels in New York City with Rooftop Bars

New York City, a metropolis that never sleeps, offers an endless array of experiences. Among its many charms, we find the rooftop bars to be a quintessential part of the city’s allure. With breathtaking skyline views, innovative cocktails, and vibrant atmospheres, the following hotels in New York City with rooftop bars provided us with a unique escape from the bustling streets below. In this guide, we’ll let you know some of our favorite hotels that boast extraordinary rooftop bars, where you can savor stunning vistas, indulge in delectable cuisine, and create unforgettable memories.

ModernHaus SoHo

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Kicking off this list is ModernHaus SoHo, a boutique hotel that perfectly captures the essence of its trendy neighborhood. Formerly known as The James, this establishment has mastered the art of minimalist charm while maintaining a strong sense of community.

Our apartment-style accommodation was one of 114 thoughtfully designed spaces. The room’s highlight was undoubtedly the spectacular city views, which we enjoyed through floor-to-ceiling windows. To be honest, everything about our room was perfect. The comfortable beds and Intelligent Nutrient toiletries added to our luxurious experience, and the reliable Wi-Fi kept us connected throughout our stay.

The hotel’s rooftop bar, JIMMY SoHo, deserves special mention. We spent several evenings here, mesmerized by the panoramic views of the Freedom Tower, the Empire State Building, and other iconic New York landmarks. The space strikes the perfect balance between luxury and comfort with its plush lounge chaises and sofas. While the drink menu is the star, we also sampled some bar bites when hunger struck. Don’t forget to make a splash in the rooftop pool.

Conrad New York Downtown

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Up next is Conrad New York Downtown, an all-suite luxury hotel that exceeded our expectations in every way possible. Nestled alongside the Hudson River, we could walk to Tribeca, Wall Street, and the World Trade Center within minutes. The proximity to major attractions like the Statue of Liberty and Brookfield Place made our daily excursions effortless.

Our suite was nothing short of spectacular. The separate living room provided ample space to unwind, while two flat-screen TVs ensured we never had to compromise on entertainment choices. Of course, the espresso machine was our morning companion, and we also appreciated the thoughtful Bedside Reading program, which offered complimentary best-sellers right at our fingertips.

But what we loved the most, though, was the Loopy Doopy Rooftop Bar on the 16th floor. This seasonal gem offers what we consider one of the best views in the city – a panoramic spectacle encompassing both the New York and New Jersey skylines, the Hudson River, and the iconic Statue of Liberty. The bar’s signature Poptail drink is an absolute must-try.

Kimpton Hotel Eventi

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Best Cocktail Hour. Our stay at Kimpton Hotel Eventi proved to be everything we hoped for in a Manhattan hotel. Perfectly positioned on Sixth Avenue at the northern edge of Chelsea, we were near everything we wanted to see. We particularly loved being just a five-minute stroll from Koreatown, where we indulged in late-night Korean BBQ and karaoke sessions.

One of the highlights of our stay was our room. The neutral color palette and contemporary furnishings created a sophisticated retreat, but it was the floor-to-ceiling windows that truly captured our attention. Our room offered a spectacular view of the Empire State Building – a sight we never tired of, especially as the sun set and the city lights began to twinkle.

While the fitness center was compact, it had everything we needed for a quick workout. We didn’t get a chance to try the spa’s famous frangipani body wrap, but we heard other guests raving about it. But upon visiting the bar, we understood why Kimpton Hotel Eventi is one of the top hotels in New York City with rooftop bars. We truly enjoyed the daily cocktail hour from 5-6 PM on the fifth-floor open-air veranda. We made it a point to return to the hotel each evening in time for this complimentary service, where we could unwind and watch the city transition from day to night.

PUBLIC

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PUBLIC is more than just a hotel; it’s a portal to the vibrant heart of the Lower East Side. Nestled amidst historic tenements and trendy boutiques, its prime location puts us within easy walking distance of iconic eateries like Balthazar and Russ & Daughters. With seven subway lines nearby, exploring the rest of the city was a piece of cake.

The hotel’s commitment to round-the-clock hospitality impressed us a lot. Three cocktail bars, accessible 24/7, offered varied seating arrangements from communal tables to cozy sofas and even theatrical bleacher seating. The rooftop bar became our favorite spot, treating us to breathtaking 360-degree views of the cityscape, complete with outdoor beds for ultimate relaxation. Meanwhile, on the lower level, you’ll find a state-of-the-art fitness center and the intriguing ArtSpace, a versatile venue hosting everything from comedy shows to dance performances and private screenings.

The hotel offers 367 beautifully appointed rooms, ranging from compact Queens to luxurious suites. Since we wanted the best, we decided to stay in the Penthouse. It offered us tranquility, and the abundant natural light gave us peaceful luxury. We also loved the electronic blackout blinds and sheers that gave us complete control over our environment.

Archer Hotel New York

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Our stay at the Archer Hotel New York proved to be a strategic choice in Manhattan’s Garment District. We found ourselves perfectly positioned, just two blocks from Bryant Park and the New York Public Library while maintaining a comfortable distance from the tourist-heavy Times Square and MSG. The Empire State Building stands as our impressive neighbor, and we appreciated how easily we could walk to both the east and west sides of the city from this central location.

While the rooms lean toward the cozy side, we were charmed by their meticulous attention to detail and sophisticated design. Our King room gifted us with a spectacular view of the Empire State Building. We also smiled at the personal welcome touches: bottled water and handmade caramels awaiting our arrival.

The highlight of our stay was undoubtedly the Spyglass Rooftop Bar on the 22nd floor. We were quickly drawn to its stunning views, whether for pre-dinner cocktails or late-night drinks. The truffle fries and steak on toast made for perfect accompaniments to our beverages. When we wanted a change of scenery, the Lobby Bar provided an excellent alternative for drinks and light bites.

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

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Best Bar Atmosphere. Perched along the waterfront in Brooklyn Bridge Park, the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge claims what might be the borough’s most coveted location. From our vantage point, we were treated to breathtaking views of Lower Manhattan’s skyline, the majestic Brooklyn Bridge, the flowing East River, and even Lady Liberty herself.

We started our mornings at The Osprey, where the breakfast spread didn’t disappoint. The Aussie banana bread became our instant favorite, though we couldn’t resist trying their various breakfast toasts. And when we needed to work off those indulgent breakfasts, the well-equipped on-site gym proved perfect for our needs. In the evenings, we often found ourselves drawn to Harriet’s rooftop bar. Trust us when we say this is one of NYC’s premier spots for sundowners. Sipping cocktails while gazing at the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge was simply unmatched. The rooftop pool made our stay even more luxurious.

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Our Superior King Room was a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. The board and batten details reminded us of a luxury ship cabin, while the custom organic cotton Keetsa mattress and sustainable linens ensured we slept like babies. The bathroom deserves special mention – its industrial-chic design featuring Natal mahogany, glass, and marble impressed us immediately.

AC Hotel by Marriott New York Times Square

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Another great option that’s too good to ignore is the AC Hotel by Marriott New York Times Square. This glass-fronted hotel is only a short stroll away from Times Square. Its perfect location allowed us to access all the city’s major attractions easily while still offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Our room, the high-floor King Room, was a stylish haven with sleek furnishings, comfortable bedding, and all the modern amenities we needed. We particularly loved our private balcony, which was one of the best spots to enjoy the stunning views of the city skyline. The hotel’s shared spaces were equally impressive. We enjoyed working out at the fitness center and indulging in delicious tapas and cocktails at the Barcelona-style Boqueria bar. However, if you’re looking for food that adheres to Jewish dietary laws, take a look at these kosher hotels in New York City instead!

The highlight of our stay was undoubtedly the Castell Rooftop Lounge on the 21st floor. This elegant and sophisticated space offered breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, making it the best place on the property to unwind. Nothing could top sipping on classic cocktails, savoring delicious bites, and soaking up the stunning sunsets from the outdoor terrace.

The Knickerbocker

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Best Bar Location. Our stay at The Knickerbocker is one that we’ll always cherish and remember. It’s a serene sanctuary perched at the epicenter of New York City’s most frenetic neighborhood. While the hotel’s location adjacent to Times Square might give pause to travelers seeking tranquility, we found this positioning to be surprisingly advantageous. Broadway’s dazzling theaters lay at our doorstep, while the verdant respite of Bryant Park beckoned just blocks away.

Perhaps the most remarkable feat of The Knickerbocker is how it manages to silence Times Square’s constant commotion. Our Junior Suite was better than we expected, and we always had a good night’s sleep, mostly thanks to the Stearns & Foster Euro-top mattress. Best of all, the Diptyque bath amenities transformed our daily routines into spa-like experiences.

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On the fourth floor, we discovered The Knick. The live jazz performances offered three nights weekly, provided the perfect soundtrack to our evening cocktails. But our favorite was St. Cloud, the rooftop bar where we savored creative small plates while drinking both craft cocktails and spectacular city views. No wonder Knickerbocker is named one of the best New York Times Square hotels with rooftop bars.

Refinery Hotel – New York

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The Refinery Hotel – New York has so much to offer. Let’s start with its location. Just two blocks south of Bryant Park, we were within easy reach of major attractions. We’re talking about not only the Empire State Building but also the Grand Central Station. The hotel’s proximity to many subway lines also made getting around a breeze.

The hotel is a stylish blend of modern comfort and vintage charm. We loved our tall-ceilinged Studio King Room, which came with distressed oak floors and a cozy bed. The gourmet minibar was also a great addition, perfect for those late-night cravings. We also loved the nightly turndown service and plush robes, which added a luxurious feel to our stay.

As one of the top hotels in NYC with rooftop bars, the on-site Refinery Rooftop is a blast. It’s a stunning rooftop lounge offering breathtaking views of the Empire State Building. We enjoyed the handcrafted cocktails and small plates. Not to mention, the enclosed space ensured we could enjoy the views year-round.

The William Vale

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Best Rooftop Views. We found ourselves perfectly positioned in the heart of Williamsburg at The William Vale, nestled between McCarren Park and the East River. The location couldn’t be more ideal for our exploration of Brooklyn’s trendiest district, with the vibrant Bedford Avenue – the neighborhood’s main artery of cool bars, restaurants, and shops – just a short stroll away.

The moment we stepped onto the rooftop, we were captivated by the 360-degree views of Manhattan and Brooklyn’s skyline. The groovy rooftop bar quickly became our favorite spot for evening cocktails, where we indulged in delectable small plates like lobster summer rolls and baby back ribs from celebrity chef Carmellini’s kitchen. One of the hotel’s crown jewels is its 5,000 sq ft roof deck featuring one of New York City’s largest seasonal pools. We also made good use of the state-of-the-art gym.

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For our stay, we spent our nights in the King Room, and it exemplified ultra-modern minimalism at its finest. What truly set our experience apart was the private balcony. It was a feature we learned comes standard with every room. But if you’re looking for the ultimate luxury experience, stay in the Vale Garden residence. This spectacular two-bedroom, two-bathroom duplex suite with its sprawling terrace represents the pinnacle of urban luxury living.

“The views from the rooftop bar are truly priceless. It’s an experience that we won’t ever forget.”

WOW Travel

The Peninsula New York

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Best Premium Bar. Just four blocks from Central Park and surrounded by Fifth Avenue’s legendary shopping, The Peninsula New York is a prestigious hotel offering an ideal base for exploring the city’s cultural treasures. We particularly appreciated being able to walk to MoMA in just three minutes, while the architecturally stunning New York City Center was practically at our doorstep. With six subway lines within a six-minute walk, we had the entire city at our fingertips.

As a luxury hotel in New York City, the Peninsula’s wellness offerings were particularly impressive, featuring a world-class spa where we indulged in exceptional treatments ranging from body wraps to reflexology. We also enjoyed the glass-enclosed pool and modern gym. Moreover, the culinary experience at The Peninsula matches its prestigious reputation, with two excellent restaurants and elegant lounge areas. However, the crown jewel has to be Salon de Ning on the 23rd floor. This 1930s Shanghai-inspired rooftop bar, though admittedly one of Midtown’s pricier venues, offered us some of the most spectacular views of Fifth Avenue and the Manhattan skyline. The ambiance alone justified the premium prices.

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For the rooms, even the entry-level ones are spacious by New York standards. We booked the Superior Suite and the attention to detail in the amenities was impressive. We had an executive desk with a multi-functional business center, and the suite technology was thoughtfully integrated, allowing easy control of lighting and temperature.

Our Verdict!

All of the hotels in New York City with rooftop bars listed above are fantastic. However, which bar is the best? To help you answer that question, we’ve categorized some of them.

• Best Premium Bar: The Peninsula New York
• Best Rooftop Views: The William Vale
• Best Bar Location: The Knickerbocker
• Best Bar Atmosphere: 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
• Best Cocktail Hour: Kimpton Hotel Eventi

Where to Stay in New York City?

If you’re here, we assume you also want to know where are the top places to explore NYC’s best bars. We’ve got you covered! The first choice is Manhattan. This borough is home to Lower East Side, a vibrant neighborhood known for its diverse nightlife scene, with trendy cocktail bars, dive bars, and everything in between. There’s also West Village, a historic neighborhood that’s home to some of the city’s most iconic bars, including McSorley’s Old Ale House, a classic Irish pub dating back to 1854.

In addition to Manhattan, you should also consider staying somewhere in Brooklyn. One of the best examples is Williamsburg. It’s a trendy area and home to a variety of bars, from craft beers to rooftop bars with stunning city views. We also recommend Greenpoint. This up-and-coming neighborhood is known for its laid-back vibe and its growing number of bars and breweries.

Then, there’s Queens. It’s home to Astoria, a diverse neighborhood that houses a variety of bars, including some great Greek taverns and craft beer bars. Or, you can stay in Long Island City. This trendy neighborhood is home to a growing number of bars and breweries, with many offering stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.

While we’re at it, make sure to also check out the best Ritz Carlton hotels in New York City and the best Hyatt hotels in New York City.

Which is the highest rooftop bar in NYC?

Bar 54 is the highest rooftop bar in NYC, located on the 54th floor of the Hyatt Centric Times Square. It offers stunning views of the city skyline, including the Chrysler Building and Lower Manhattan.

Why are rooftop bars so popular?

Rooftop bars offer unique experiences with panoramic views, fresh air, and a vibrant atmosphere, making them popular destinations for socializing and relaxation.

What time must bars close in NYC?

Bars in NYC are generally required to close by 4 AM, but some establishments with specific licenses may stay open later, especially on weekends.