By Captain And Clark, on May 10, 2016

Top 5 rooftop bars in NYC

To truly enjoy New York you should get out and have a drink on one of these excellent rooftop bars.  Enjoying sky-high libations typically comes as a cost in NYC. Expect to pay slightly more than standard when dining above the city lights.

Bar SixtyFive at Rainbow Room

Located on the 65th floor of 30 Rock (Rockefeller Center) and billed as the highest outdoor terrace bar in NYC, Bar SixtyFive is one of the best places to enjoy a drink with a view.  The price of a cocktail might have you sway more than the liquor itself, but keep in mind that your $25 libation is roughly the same price as admission to the Top of the Rock observation deck location just one floor above. Sunset would be the ideal time to visit, but be sure to  leave the jeans and sneakers back at the hotel as “proper attire” is requested.

The Press Lounge

The Press Lounge, located on the top floor of the Ink48 Hotel, is prized for its spectacular views of the city. Guests are treated to not one but two iconic NYC sites: the Hudson river and the iconic Manhattan skyline.  Expect to pay about $20 (including tip) for a perfectly mixed cocktail. We would recommend something from the seasonal menu, perhaps a Seravek—Atlantico rum, blackberry puree, lime juice, and club soda.  Those with an appetite might want to start at the Press Lounge for a little cocktail hour before heading out for a meal. The small plate menu is limited and might leave the hungry wanting. In other words, go for the drinks and the views, but leave before your belly is empty and the lounge gets crowded.

Viewfinder Tip: Most of these sky-high watering holes have a dress-to-impress dress code. Swap the sightseeing sneakers and jeans for something a little more swanky or risk being turned away at the door.

230 Fifth

Rain or shine, 230 Fifth is renowned as one of the best rooftop bars in New York City. This two-floor watering hole allows summer guests to soak up the sun twenty floors above the ground, while those visiting in the chilly winter months can snuggle up and stay warm in provided plush red robes while huddled under a heated inflatable igloo. Regardless of the season, the reason you’ll be there is to be treated to one of the best unobstructed views of the Empire State Building. Your cup will overfloweth with the wine, beer, and cocktail selection, while the full food menu is nothing to scoff at.

PH-D Lounge at Dream Downtown Hotel

Dream Downtown Hotel by itself is a magical building with a touch of surrealism and whimsy. The glass-bottomed pool serves as the ceiling for the lobby and the circular windows stud the metallic high-rise. The PH-D Lounge serves fine champagne and classic cocktails in a swanky bar that blends modern design with a rough-hewn wood look. Grab one of the benches along the railing and order a 50 Shades of Bleu—50 Bleu vodka, Luxardo Maraschino, crème de violette, and sparkling wine.

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Loopy Doopy

For the ultimate view of the Statue of Liberty, come enjoy this rooftop bar in lower Manhattan. The Loopy Doopy  perches atop the Conrad Hotel and serves a blend of urban and fun in each glass. Their signature frozen cocktails, like the Prosecco & Ice Pop cocktail, set them apart. Red Plum Sour and the Blackberry Gimlet are great examples of their frozen summer beverages for adults. At $18–$25, this bar is a great place to enjoy a cocktail and savor the view. Don’t miss out on their Prosecco on tap either.

Did we miss one? Let us know in the comments below. We need to try it.