50 Top Rooftop Bars Around the World
Relax with a drink and admire stunning vistas from sky-high venues.
Elevate your drinking and dining experience at these 50 rooftop bars around the world. Whether it's alfresco dining at sunset or cocktails and live music atop a skyscraper, these favorite spots attract visitors with their beverage and culinary offerings paired with impressive views. Head to the top, where everything seems better, for an unforgettable afternoon or evening.
Cindy's: Chicago
This glass and steel rooftop atrium located at the top of The Chicago Athletic Association Hotel features panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the Windy City. With an outdoor terrace complete with fire pits, the design is reminiscent of a Great Lakes beach house. Travelers can enjoy comfort food, biodynamic wines and award-winning cocktails at this iconic Chicago bar and restaurant.
Charmaine's: San Francisco
For drinks and snacks with a view, stop by this chic yet laid-back rooftop terrace. The bar, which is situated about 120 feet above the city, offers sweeping views of the San Francisco skyline. Sip specialty craft cocktails indoors or out while sitting around cozy couches and toasty fire pits.
Westlight: Brooklyn, New York
Located at the top of The William Vale on the 22nd floor, this rooftop venue is one of the hottest spots in Brooklyn's Williamsburg neighborhood. Enjoy cocktails and light bites while taking in views of the Manhattan skyline and of the sunset over neighboring boroughs. Visitors can choose to stay indoors or venture outside to grab a seat on the wraparound balcony.
Rooftop at the Providence G: Providence, Rhode Island
Open year-round, the city's only rooftop bar has a retractable glass roof, fire pits and private lounges. Snuggle up with a glass of red wine by the fire in the winter or sip prosecco in the summer. Then, watch the city skyline light up after sunset as you enjoy the nightly entertainment.
The Rooftop: Toronto
Located on the seventh floor of The Broadview Hotel, The Rooftop affords impressive views of the Toronto skyline and Don River. The rooftop is not only the perfect location for casual small bites and drinks, but it also acts as a great space for private events. And don't fret about seasonality: The bar features a 360-degree glass facade, allowing the venue to stay open year-round.
Sky Bar: Lisbon
This recently redesigned rooftop bar features several terraces with captivating views of Lisbon. Located on the ninth floor of the Tivoli Avenida Liberdade Lisboa hotel, Sky Bar is open year-round. You can sample the bar's shareable 1.5 liter cocktails and pitchers, in addition to the new extended menu with specialty dishes, such as sushi.
L.A. Jackson: Nashville, Tennessee
Located in the city's reinvigorated Gulch neighborhood, this lively indoor-outdoor bar and restaurant sits perched atop the sleek Thompson Nashville hotel. With the downtown skyline in view, you can enjoy warm, Southern evenings while sampling local Tennessee brews, cocktails and regionally inspired small plates.
Saigon Saigon Rooftop Bar: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
This iconic bar has attracted guests from around the world to its 10th-floor veranda since opening in 1959. The Saigon Saigon Rooftop Bar is located atop the Caravelle Saigon hotel and features unrivaled views of the city's ever-changing skyline. The bar was a favorite of wartime journalists in the 1960s and is still a popular nightlife spot today.
Lustre Rooftop Bar: Phoenix
This modern outdoor venue is a trendy rooftop lounge located at the top of the Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix. Stop by for the venue's summer pool parties, live music or a lazy afternoon of lounging in the cabanas. Travelers can cool down with handcrafted cocktails at this hip spot and then head next door to CityScape, home to world-class entertainment and dining.
The Refinery Rooftop: New York
This popular midtown Manhattan locale, complete with a retractable glass roof, features impressive views of the Empire State Building. The bar is open year-round and offers indoor and outdoor seating, a full menu at lunch and in the evenings, handcrafted cocktails and light fare, including sliders and flatbreads.
Sky Bar: Bangkok
This famous rooftop bar, perched on a precipice 820 feet in the sky, is billed as one of the highest rooftop bars in the world. Visitors can experience the best views of the city at sunset and the glittering lights of Bangkok at night while sipping specialty cocktails like a Hangovertini, created for the crew of the "Hangover Part II" movie.
High Dive: Houston
Head to the sixth floor of the Marriott Marquis Houston for panoramic views of the city skyline, the largest rooftop pool in Texas and a lazy river in the shape of the Lone Star state. You can enjoy handcrafted cocktails under the Texan sun while lounging on the deck or stay cool while floating along the lazy river.
Vue Rooftop Lounge: Buffalo, New York
Stay warm year-round at this indoor-outdoor venue atop the historic Curtiss Hotel in downtown Buffalo. The bar offers views of the surrounding city as well as the Lake Erie and Canadian shoreline. Guests can share a bottle of wine with friends outside by the fire pits in the spring or fall, or enjoy a toasty evening inside during the winter.
Capa Bar: Orlando, Florida
This chic indoor bar and outdoor terrace on the 17th floor of the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort sits next to the property's Spanish-inspired steakhouse, Capa. Watch the captivating nightly firework displays over the Disney parks from one of the best vantage points in town while sipping a signature Capa GinTonic or one of the bar's Spanish wines.
Rumpus Room: London
Take in views of London's skyline at this stylish bar on the River Thames. Reminiscent of the top deck of a cruise ship, Rumpus Room's sleek space pays homage to the 1920s transatlantic crossings and the golden age of cruising. Visitors can listen to London's hottest bands while enjoying British-American-inspired cocktails and fare at this traveler-approved rooftop bar.
Perch: Los Angeles
The 16th-floor rooftop lounge of this French-themed bistro features unrivaled, 360-degree views of downtown Los Angeles. Listen to live music while dining on classic French cuisine, then head outdoors for the rest of the evening. You can sip Parisian-inspired cocktails under the night sky and relax on the outside patio, with its manicured green space and decorative fireplaces.
Terrass'' Restaurant and Bar: Paris
This rooftop restaurant, bar and terrace affords sweeping views of the City of Light. Linger over breakfast outdoors or dine on bistronomique cuisine at lunchtime overlooking the rooftops. In the evening, you can sip a Moulin Rouge, one of the bar's specialty drinks, while watching the twinkling lights of the Eiffel Tower in the distance.
TOMO: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Take the elevator to TOMO's Tatami Terrace for cocktails, dinner and impressive views of the surrounding glistening skyscrapers such as Emirates Towers and the world's tallest building, Burj Khalifa. Located in the Raffles Dubai hotel, the authentic Japanese restaurant features a menu with Wagyu beef sushi and other traditional dishes, such as Toubanyaki and Yakitori.
1-Altitude Rooftop Galley & Bar: Singapore
At more than 925 feet high, 1-Altitude is one of the highest alfresco bar in the world. You can enjoy panoramic views of Singapore's skyline here any time of the day, but if you plan your visit around the venue's nightly Sundown Affair, you'll be treated to unmatched views of the sunset. And if you can, stick around later to listen to local bands and DJs perform.
The Rooftop: Charleston, South Carolina
Known as one of Charleston's best rooftop bars, this iconic locale at the top of The Vendue hotel overlooks the Charleston Harbor, Waterfront Park and Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, as well as the historic district. Come for live music every Sunday, available seasonally from March to October, and enjoy cocktails with both residents and tourists at this spirited spot.
360 Istanbul: Istanbul
Gaze across the Bosphorus Strait to the Hagia Sophia mosque and out to the Sea of Marmara from atop this 19th-century apartment building in the old embassy row in Beyoglu. Open for lunch and dinner, 360 Istanbul serves up an international wine list and modern Turkish meze alongside its spectacular city views.
Terrat: Barcelona
Come for the scenery, the drinks and the food at this rooftop restaurant and bar in the Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona. You can sip signature cocktails at sunset and stay for Peruvian cuisine by world-renowned chef Gastón Acurio, all while admiring 360-degree views of the city. Order a pisco sour followed by a selection of ceviches and watch as the city's lights brighten the darkened sky.
Drai's Beachclub: Las Vegas
Located at the top of The Cromwell, this is the only rooftop beach club in Las Vegas. Host to the ultimate pool party, this 30,000-square-foot venue features 30 luxury cabanas and bungalows and 40 daybeds surrounded by palm trees. Relax with cocktails by one of seven sparkling pools by day and admire the illuminated Strip lights at night.
Hotel Raphaël: Rome
The views of the Eternal City from the landscaped Bramante Terrace are lovely. It appears as if you can reach out and touch nearby rooftops from this multilevel bar and restaurant. You should start the evening with cocktails, then dine on organic cuisine while watching the sunset between St. Peter's Basilica and Castel Sant'Angelo.
The Roof: Beirut
It feels like you're on the top of the world at this chic, open-air lounge on the 26th floor of the Four Seasons Hotel Beirut. Gaze out over the ever-changing city skyline and the Mediterranean Sea at sunset while sipping signature cocktails like sangria or the Tequila Boom-Boom drink. Travelers can also savor Asian-inspired cuisine under the star-filled sky.
OZONE: Hong Kong
This 118th-floor bar atop The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong is billed as one of the highest bars in the world. Take an elevator ride to the sky-high bar for unparalleled views, creative cocktails and Asian tapas, then dance the night away to the tunes played by Hong Kong's best DJs.
The Rooftop by STK: San Diego
Make plans to head to the top floor of the Andaz San Diego for specialty cocktails, farm-to-table cuisine and impressive views of downtown San Diego and the neighboring Coronado Island. Visitors can relax by the pool during the day and on the weekend, reserve bottle service, sip drinks and mingle with others at this trendy rooftop lounge.
Casa Gangotena: Quito, Ecuador
The third-floor terrace of this small luxury hotel features views of the historic city and its famous churches, including the neo-Gothic basilica. On a clear day, you may even be able to see the Cayambe volcano in the distance. Perfect for a romantic afternoon, this bar invites travelers to spend time lingering over a glass of wine while enjoying the scenery.
Baba Nest: Phuket, Thailand
The rooftop bar at the stylish Sri panwa resort features an infinity pool and deck with 360-degree views of the Andaman Sea, surrounding islands and Phuket's southeastern peninsula. While the scenery is impressive any time of day, plan to get cocktails in the evening so you can watch the sun disappear into the sea.
Sugar: Miami
Savor cocktails at this green, urban garden oasis atop the EAST Miami hotel at Brickell City Centre. The bar offers expansive views of Brickell Bay and the Miami skyline, as well as music curated by international DJs. Sugar serves Asian-inspired drinks and fare, such as the Tiger Lily cocktail and Korean chicken wings.
The Canopy: St. Petersburg, Florida
This waterfront rooftop bar in downtown St. Petersburg (the only one in town) offers panoramic views of Tampa Bay, Beach Drive and Straub Park. Relax in one of the venue's white-curtained cabanas or cozy up by a fire pit while sampling handcrafted cocktails and small bites. You can also enjoy brunch dishes with Champagne on the weekend.
Hot Tin: New Orleans
Escape the bustling crowds of the French Quarter at this intimate rooftop hot spot at the top of the historic Pontchartrain Hotel. Relax after a day of sightseeing with a signature drink, such as the Some Like it Hot (a tequila, mezcal, mango, lime, brandy and habanero concoction), while admiring beautiful views of downtown New Orleans and the Mississippi River from the terrace.
Lookout Rooftop and Bar: Boston
The views of the Boston skyline and Boston Harbor are unmatched from this lively bar in the Seaport District. While the bar is popular with locals and visitors in the summer, it offers some quirky wintertime perks, too. You can stay warm and toasty inside one of the igloo bars, complete with blankets and a button to call a server when you're ready to order.
The Rooftop: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
The only rooftop bar in Cabo San Lucas, this open-air terrace is located in The Cape, A Thompson Hotel and looks out at the Sea of Cortez, El Arco and the vibrant city. Communal seating, lush greenery and fire pits create a relaxed vibe, making it the perfect place to enjoy handcrafted cocktails at sunset and listen to live music after sundown.
Galaxy Restaurant & Bar: Athens, Greece
Head to the top of the Hilton Athens for cocktails under the stars, both inside and out. This stylish space features an outdoor terrace with impressive views of the city, including the Acropolis. Indoors, you can dine on Mediterranean cuisine while watching the colorful bar's dancing lights, which resemble twinkling stars and glowing planets.
Departure Restaurant + Lounge: Portland, Oregon
This sleek downtown restaurant and lounge sits perched atop the former Meier & Frank department store, which is now The Nines, A Luxury Collection Hotel. Relax outdoors while dining on modern Asian cuisine, sushi and global cocktails, or order from an extensive menu of sake and Japanese whiskey while taking in panoramas of Portland, the Willamette River and beyond.
The Rooftop: Sydney
This iconic bar located atop the Glenmore Hotel is known for its panoramic views of Sydney Harbour and the architecturally notable Sydney Opera House. First opened in 1921, the bar features a menu of pub classics with a twist, creative cocktails and an extensive beer and cider list. And thanks to a retractable roof, the impressive view is available year-round.
SEVVA: Hong Kong
This wraparound terrace and rooftop bar features panoramic views of Victoria Harbour and the city, and offers multiple eclectic dining options. The trendy bar is one of the city's hottest destinations: It's a great place to linger over cocktails and watch Hong Kong's nightly Symphony of Lights laser show or holiday fireworks displays.
City Lights Rooftop: Charlotte, North Carolina
Savor craft cocktails or sip Champagne while dining on small plates at the only rooftop bar in town with a 360-degree view of Charlotte. City Lights is the perfect spot to relax and unwind while watching the sunset over Charlotte. On weekends, visitors can stay late and party as live music or DJs liven up the night.
Capella on 9: Asheville, North Carolina
The dramatic sunsets and backdrop of the mountains are what make this rooftop venue a unique destination. Travelers can linger on the terrace while enjoying handcrafted cocktails and a tapas-style menu prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Then, as the sun disappears behind the mountains, stick around for live music under the stars.
Crimson View: Washington
Located on the penthouse level of the Pod DC hotel in the Chinatown neighborhood, this modern space is one of the District of Columbia's newest rooftop additions, and the indoor-outdoor venue is open year-round. Try Crimson View's martinis, wines and craft beers and dine on light bites while taking in impressive views of the Washington Monument and city skyline.
HG SPLY CO.: Dallas
This trendy restaurant located in the Lower Greenville neighborhood of the city is a favorite of local diners with a paleo lifestyle. The venue's unique menu is focused on high-quality ingredients and "hunted and gathered" foods. Visitors should plan to head to the rooftop bar for lighter bites and spirited beverages or brunch on the weekends.
Bar 17 Bistro: Orlando, Florida
Universal's new Aventura Hotel will open in August 2018 with a rooftop bar overlooking all three theme parks and the city's skyline. You can take the dedicated elevator to the top to sample globally inspired small bites and expertly prepared cocktails. After sunset, gaze at the twinkling lights of the parks and lava erupting from the mighty Krakatau Volcano.
Eleven Rooftop Bar: Brisbane, Australia
This eclectic restaurant and bar was inspired by the Middle East and the rooftop bars of Istanbul. At 11 stories above the hub of nightlife on Brisbane's Ann Street, the venue offers inspiring 270-degree views of Fortitude Valley and the surrounding area. Travelers can come for drinks and then stay late as the party begins.
Biergarten: Pittsburgh
This open-air rooftop venue is located on the ninth floor of William Penn Place in the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh. Unwind after a day of sightseeing with an extensive selection of beers, including Belgian ales and sours, and try a German bratwurst with your frosty beverage. Afterward, you can play lawn games like garden chess and cornhole.
Bell Tower Bar: Santa Fe, New Mexico
This charming, seasonal bar (open from May through October) is perched on the fifth floor of the historic La Fonda on the Plaza hotel. The location has been home to an inn since the 1600s. Visitors can sip one of the bar's signature Bell Ringer margaritas and order Southwestern-inspired small bites while watching the sunset over Santa Fe and its surrounding mountains.
SkyLounge: Atlanta
Located at the top of the Glenn Hotel in downtown Atlanta, this chic bar is the perfect spot to check out before a concert or sporting event at Philips Arena or Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Open year-round, SkyLounge offers impressive views of the city's skyline and travelers can enjoy cocktails and small bites like bacon-wrapped dates and smoked trout dip.
The Nest: Seattle
This bar at the top of the Thompson Seattle hotel, in the heart of downtown, is just steps away from the city's historic Pike Place Market. Come for the signature cocktails and small plates that highlight the region's culinary fare, and stay for captivating views of the city, Olympic Mountain Range and Puget Sound.
Rocks on the Roof: Savannah, Georgia
Take the elevator to the top of the Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront's rooftop for impressive views of the Savannah River. Guests can sample the bar's signature cocktails paired with regionally inspired dishes or light snacks -- such as oyster shooters, parmesan truffle fries and chicken and waffle tacos -- while watching cargo ships sail by.
Q Rooftop Bar: Richmond, Virginia
The open-air bar atop the Quirk Hotel is a sleek modern space overlooking the city. The rooftop season begins as the temperatures warm, so plan to head to the Q Rooftop Bar this spring or summer for craft cocktails, beer and wine on tap and an upscale take on street food.
Gwen Pratesi is a James Beard Finalist in Journalism, award-winning food and travel writer, and coauthor of PratesiLiving.com, where she shares the stories of her international food and travel experiences. She also freelances for other regional, U.S., and international publications. You can follow her at Twitter (@pratesiliving), Linkedin, Google+, Facebook, and Instagram.
