Best Rooftop Views in New York City
New York City is home to over 6,000 high rises and, after spending a day wandering around Manhattan, you can end up feeling a little claustrophobic. Luckily enough, many of these buildings have converted their rooftops into viewing platforms, restaurants and bars.
Before the street-level blues hit, try out these stunning New York rooftops.
Top of the Rock
The battle between the Empire State Building and Rockefeller Centre’s rooftop views is best explained by a simple statement: you can’t get the perfect view of New York City and the iconic Empire State Building if you’re standing on it.
Head instead to the Top of the Rock, Rockefeller Centre’s rooftop viewing platform, where you can get a stunning 360 view of Manhattan (including, of course, the Empire State). Sunrise and sunset tend to be the Rock’s busiest, so make sure you book well in advance.
Top of the Strand
For an even more intimate view of the Empire State Building, climb to the Top of the Strand, the Strand’s surprisingly modest rooftop bar. The atmosphere may be a little dire and the drinks may be overpriced, but you get unfettered access to the perfect portrait of the Empire State.
Le Bain
If you really want to splash out while soaking in the New York skyline, make like countless celebrities and head The Standard’s rooftop bar, Le Bain. You may get a sense of deja vu stepping into the elevator, as this is where Solange Knowles and Jay Z got into their now infamous scuffle. When the doors open at the top floor, however, you will be overcome by the decadent copper bar, the disco ball hanging over the pool and, predictably, the views.
The Met
While not the highest or most happening rooftop bar in the city, the Met’s is the perfect spot to wind down in the summer months.
