The GofG Guide To NYC's Best Rooftop Bars

by Kirby Allison · June 23, 2011

    There is no better way to spend your summer days and nights than sipping on a cocktail and taking in the New York skyline while you catch a breeze in the hot summer. We have your complete guide to the best rooftop bars in the city.

    Hotel Chantelle, 92 Ludlow Street

    This hotel already has a reputation for providing a good time. The rooftop potion of the destination opened last night with a party with Blackbook, which brought out a good looking crowd. The restaurant attached also provides tasty french food and downstairs is club SGT, in case it rains.

    Upstairs at the Kimberly Hotel,  145 East 50th Street

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    Rain or shine, hot or cold, the Kimberly Hotel doesn't let mother nature stop it from offering 360 degree, sprawling views of Midtown. Upstairs is located on the 31st floor and has a retractable roof and heated flooring. There's really nothing stopping you from hanging out at this high-reaching hangout. Watch out, with views this good there is a price, the drinks can get a little steep so make sure your wallet is loaded before you venture over there.

    STK Rooftop Bar, 26 Little w 12th St

    Located in the heart of the Meat Packing District, STK goes from high-end steak house to trendy night club. Fill up on some of the best steaks and small bites before you go out and take part in the scene. There are views of the Hudson River and the new High Line.

    The Delancey, 168 Delancey St

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    During the summer months bar goers are drawn to this Lower East Side staple. The decor gives you a slight South Beach vibe with its potted palms, fountains and  BBQ. This is a laid back rock-and-roll  music spot without the hassle of a difficult door. Bartenders are friendly and competent with well priced drinks. Hot dogs and hamburgers are priced at $5 per plate so you can also get your food fix!

    Z Roof, 11-01 43rd Avenue, Long Island City

    With a grand opening scheduled for July 1, we can't wait to see what this Long Island rooftop bar at the Z Hotel has to offer. We do know that it will boast an incredible view of the Manhattan Sky Line, yummy eats, and signature cocktails. It has a 5,000 square feet of space and a full 360 degree view.

    PhD at Dream Downtown, 355 West 16th Street

    This newly opened spot offers sweeping views of downtown New York and tasty cocktails for your sipping enjoyment. The terrace lounge has drawn an A-list crowd and guarantees a good time. You can also find a mini beach with real sand and a pool.

    Jimmy, 15 Thompson Street

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    Located at the James Hotel in SoHo, the Jimmy offers an intimate bar scene with capacity of about 70 people. Get there early, the door man doesn't want to overcrowd the bar. It joins the few rooftop bar that takes its clientele to a South Beach state of mind with its outdoor pool and extensive summer cocktail specialty list.

    The Watering Tower, 160 North 12th Street, Brooklyn

    Adding to the trendy mix of already established local bars, the Watering Tower, located at the Williamsburg Hotel offers something unique to the neighborhood's bar scene: a great view. Get out of Manhattan and sip some cocktails upstairs or take a dip in the pool downstairs to cool off.

    Gansevoort Park Rooftop, 420 Park Avenue South

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    No stranger to the rooftop bar business, the new Park Avenue location is similar to what we have learned to expect from Plunge, the Gansevoort's original rooftop location in Meatpacking. The music gets you dancing and there are plenty of lounge areas to take advantage of if you are feeling low-key. This sleek and modern location has the typically long lines but worth the view and fun once you get up there.

    Glass Bar, 127 West 28th Street

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    Located in the Hotel Indigo in Chelsea, Glass bar is completely enclosed in glass giving totally unobstructed views of the surrounding areas. It also has a  waterproof covering, creating a little sanctuary if you want to go rooftop even on a dreary day. Come to glass bar for the view, food and perfectly mixed drinks.

    [Top Image via]