Warmer weather typically means longer days, and most importantly, the opening of rooftop bars in cities across the U.S. Sipping a popsicle cocktail on a warm spring or summer day is always satisfactory, but when coupled with a skyline view, it makes for an even more exciting happy hour.
From East Coast to West Coast and several spots in between, check out these seven cities that rock rooftop bars with views for days.
As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.
New York City
After visiting The Metropolitan Museum of Art, one of New York City’s best museums, pop up to the fifth floor for drinks at Cantor Rooftop Garden Bar, one of the city’s best-kept secrets. Sip on boozy popsicles and craft cocktails while gazing at contemporary art installations (they change annually) and stellar sunsets with views of Central Park.
For unobstructed views of the Big Apple, head to Ophelia, a swanky rooftop bar situated at the top of the Beekman Tower. Fun fact: The Grand Terrace bar was once frequented by Frank Sinatra, so enjoy a classic martini or one of the epic, seasonal-inspired cocktails.
Nashville
The three-story Acme building, built by JR Whitemore, dates back to the 1890s. Today, Nashville locals flock to Acme Feed & Seed for good music and refreshing cocktails. Inside you’ll find the first floor is a “funkytonk” (Acme’s twist on a honky-tonk), while the rooftop serves up tempting frozen drinks with views of Broadway and the Cumberland River. DJ dance parties are also part of the weekend lineup.
Coined Nasvhille’s “tallest rooftop bar on Broadway,” Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row is home to three floors of nonstop fun. Enjoy a gastropub dining menu of items like beer-can chicken and a whiskey burger and head up to the rooftop for views of bustling broadway, live music and libations, including an extensive beer list and frosé (frozen rosé).
For music enthusiasts, Jason Aldean’s Kitchen + Rooftop Bar is a hyped hangout with Southern eats; live music, of course; and a great beer and cocktail menu. The bar also happens to share a rooftop with Luke Bryan’s Luke’s 32 Bridge — so double the country music fun.
Los Angeles
Pop up to Margot in Culver City to get away from the hustle and bustle for a hot minute. The rooftop, which you reach through an entrance in an outdoor mall, entails a stylish patio with ample space and unobstructed city views. Snack on Spanish-style snacks plus wines and cocktails. And if you’re around during aperitivo hour, well, lucky you, as the perfect Aperol spritz and tropical Negroni await.
Perch, a French-inspired bistro, is a popular meeting point in downtown Los Angeles for its rooftop alone. The rooftop solely serves drinks, so eat inside the restaurant if hunger strikes; otherwise enjoy the cozy atmosphere and skyline views.
Or check out L.P. Rooftop Bar — one of L.A.’s largest rooftop terraces — to enjoy magical views of West Hollywood while sipping handcrafted cocktails on trendy Melrose Avenue. The bar is attached to E.P. & L.P., a hip South Asian restaurant serving remarkable street food.
Houston
After a fun day exploring all the city has to offer, head up to the sixth floor of the Marriott Marquis Houston — what’s best described as a tropical oasis amid a bustling downtown. Enjoy cocktails under the Texan sun, and if the weather’s right, take a dip in the infinity pool and Texas-shaped lazy river (free for hotel guests and accessible via day pass for non-guests).
For a more no frills, dive bar approach to rooftops, Grand Prize Bar is the ultimate watering hole. The two-story house-turned-bar includes a jukebox, plenty of entertaining games and a sizable rooftop porch where patrons can consume libations under shelter without melting in the Texas sun.
Calling all meat lover’s: B&B Butchers & Restaurant is essentially a melting pot of an in-house butcher shop, fancy steakhouse restaurant and beautiful rooftop space. Texan-style cocktails and a killer steak await — plus a weekend rooftop brunch to write home about.
Tampa Bay
Locals will be the first to say that Ulele Restaurant and Brewery is a spectacular place where craft beer, a rooftop terrace and riverside views exist in one spot. The restaurant’s menu is inspired by indigenous people from Florida, making it a unique experience overall.
If huge pitchers of sangria and a bustling happy hour on a rooftop are what you seek, look no further than Bulla Gastrobar. Their rooftop bar, Luna Lounge, is the perfect spot for a first date or a post-work gathering with friends to take in downtown Tampa views with a breeze.
If you find yourself in Sarasota, just south of Tampa Bay, don’t miss the opportunity to scope out The Roof Bar and Eats at The Westin Sarasota. Think panoramic views of sunny Sarasota and an epic poolside menu of refreshing craft cocktails and post-sun gourmet bites.
San Diego
For an evening to remember, toss on your finest summertime attire and head up 22 stories to Altitude Sky Lounge. Located on the rooftop of the San Diego Marriott Gaslamp Quarter, the bar offers some of the best panoramic views in the city, plus one of its most happening happy hours. Order from a solid list of cocktails, wine and beer — plus small bites and burgers if you get hungry.
The Nolen is another hot spot with a view and has amazing happy hour specials and a Sunday brunch worth the hype. Insider’s tip: Don’t skip on the barrel-aged cocktail service if you’re looking for a standout treat.
For a more chill afternoon, post up at Bagby Beer Co. in Oceanside. Blue skies, umbrellas and a super casual environment are just what’s needed after a day in the sun.
Baltimore
16 on the Park, atop the Residence Inn Baltimore at the Johns Hopkins Medical Campus, might seem like an odd place to catch beautiful sunsets on a rooftop, but don’t sleep on this spot. It’s got the best panoramic views of East Baltimore and a tasty raw bar menu and excellent cocktails.
Or head to an insider’s local joint, Mt. Washington Tavern, to get a glimpse of Northwest Baltimore. It’s casual but fun with a menu of more than 80 local and national craft beers. And for a more quaint setting, Pure Wine Café, in Ellicott City, is a favorite wine bar with a small outdoor patio overlooking historic Main Street. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the thoughtful, well-organized list.
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