The Pursuitist Guide to NYC Luxury Rooftops

Kimberly Fisher is a Pursuitist contributor, freelance writer and luxury…

New York City’s skyline is best admired from above, and there’s no better way to experience it than from one of the city’s most luxurious rooftop bars and lounges. From Midtown’s glittering high-rises to Downtown’s trendy hotspots and Brooklyn’s laid-back charm, these elevated escapes offer breathtaking views, expertly crafted cocktails, and unforgettable atmospheres.Here’s your guide to NYC luxury rooftops:

MIDTOWN

The Peninsula Rooftop

Perched atop The Peninsula New York on Fifth Avenue, The newly revamped Peninsula Rooftop (open seasonally and now called Pen Top) is one of Manhattan’s most exclusive elevated escapes. This elegant retreat offers views of the city skyline, and by day, it’s a serene sunlit lounge where guests can relax with artisanal cocktails and light Mediterranean-inspired bites. By night, it transforms into a sophisticated cocktail destination, with live music and chic ambiance under the stars. The plush seating and lush greenery create an intimate yet luxurious atmosphere. Whether for afternoon cocktail with a view or evening champagne under the stars, The Peninsula Rooftop delivers timeless NYC glamour.

Darling at Park Lane New York

With stunning Central Park views from the 47th floor of Park Lane New York, Darling is Central Park South’s only rooftop lounge. Perfect for date night or client meetings, Darling is a sky-high intimate space with an elevated cocktail menu, wraparound outdoor patio oasis, and sophisticated design. A must-visit for those seeking a glamorous night out with unparalleled views.

Credit: The Terrace, The Times Square EDITION

The Terrace at The Times Square EDITION

The Terrace and Outdoor Gardens at The Times Square EDITION by award-winning Chef John Fraser is the perfect place to dine al fresco. For guests headed to Broadway, check out the Sunset Menu available from 3PM-5PM daily, with light bites like East Coast Oysters and Shrimp Cocktail and a variety of sophisticated sips.

St. Cloud Rooftop at The Knickerbocker

Another chic Times Square property, St. Cloud Rooftop offers skyline views of Manhattan’s Times Square, overlooking the heart of the city. The perfect spot for pre-theater cocktails or shareable light bites, the rooftop is open daily from 4PM to 11PM, St. Cloud Rooftop boasts breathtaking skyline views of Times Square.

The Lookup Rooftop

This hidden gem designed by the Rockwell Group is hidden inside the Kixby Hotel, and has a perfect view of the Empire State Building, as well as some of the best summer snacks:Hamptons lobster rolls, truffle grilled cheese, old bay popcorn and street corn nachos. Pair with a selection of spritzes, frozen drinks wines and more for the perfect summer escape.

Somewhere Nowhere

This trendy two-level indoor nightlife venue and open-air rooftop pool is the best place to be for panoramic views of the New York City skyline. The 38th floor lounge hosts world renowned DJ’s jazz nights and is perfect for after work happy hours.

DOWNTOWN

Terrace on 7 at The Dominick

Located in Soho, The Dominick’s Terrace on 7 offers a place to sip bespoke cocktails, unwind, take a dip in the rooftop pool, and enjoy El Ta’koy, a year-round Hawaiian-inspired restaurant.

Le Bain & The Rooftop at The Standard, High Line

If you are looking for an energetic penthouse discotheque and rooftop bar, head to Le Bain on the top floor of The Standard, High Line in the Meatpacking District. With stunning city views, world-famous DJs and a state-of-the-art sound system, this is the place to be. In summer months, head to the astroturf-covered terrace area with comfortable couch seating for cocktails and bites, and some of the best views of the city.

THE ROOF at PUBLIC

THE ROOF at PUBLIC, an Ian Schrager Hotel, is a vibrant downtown venue offering 360-degree panoramic views of the city, with abundant greenery, plush seating and a menu of craft cocktails. The perfect setting for sunset cocktails and small bites, or a sultry late-night hotspot with the best local and international DJs from around the world. Book Here.

Manhatta

For a fine-dining rooftop experience, Manhatta (by Chef Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group) sits 60 floors above FiDi, offering panoramic city views and a seasonal prix-fixe menu. The floor-to-ceiling windows and refined ambiance make it ideal for a luxe business lunch or romantic dinner.

BROOKLYN

Westlight at The William Vale

One of Brooklyn’s most luxurious rooftops, Westlight (22nd floor of The William Vale) offers jaw-dropping Manhattan skyline views. Helmed by Chef Andrew Carmellini, the menu features global small plates and craft cocktails in a modern-industrial chic space.

LilliStar

LilliStar is a stunning rooftop lounge and cocktail bar atop Moxy Williamsburg, with unobstructed skyline views of the Williamsburg Bridge, East River, and Lower Manhattan. With a sleek contemporary design and Brooklyn’s vibe, LilliStar is an experience like no other.

elNico at The Penny Williamsburg

Located atop The Penny hotel in Williamsburg, the whimsical elNico is elevated Mexican cuisine paired with 360° views of New York City. The menu celebrates locally sourced ingredients with dishes like the curated Mole Tasting, Tempura Rock Shrimp tacos, and Short Rib Barbacoa. Complemented with innovative agave-based drinks, enjoy the ambiance and greenery for a perfect night out.

Whether you’re seeking glamorous cocktails, world-class dining, or late-night beats, NYC’s luxury rooftops deliver unmatched experiences. Which one will you visit first?