We’re in the thick of winter in New York City, sick of the indoor hobbies and activities and itching for that first taste of spring.
While there are some things you aren’t able to experience year-round in NYC, enjoying a drink at a rooftop bar isn’t on that list. In fact, many rooftop bars have creative solutions for staying open year-round, including glass enclosures and igloos, heaters, blankets, and cozy cocktails.
The benefit of going to a rooftop in NYC in the winter is that you won’t be facing anything close to summer crowds, and you’ll enjoy a more relaxed and low-key atmosphere.
If you’re looking for the best places to go, keep reading for 9 winter rooftop bars in NYC.
1. Panorama Room
Located on the 18th floor of Roosevelt Island’s Graduate Hotel, the Panorama Room is aptly named for its 360° views of New York City. The interior has a fun and modern vibe with velvet, marble, and chrome details.
On the menu, you’ll find craft cocktails, wines, beers, and tasty small bites. This is a hotspot in the summer months, so you’ll be glad you visited during the winter! Make the most of the experience and ride the cable car over to the bar from Manhattan.
2. 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
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230 Fifth Rooftop Bar is famous for being the first to use igloos for outdoor dining! During the winter months, the rooftop is filled with clear igloos, which are heated inside. It’s the perfect place to gather with a group of friends or celebrate a birthday while enjoying skyline views (we’re talking directly in front of the Empire State Building).
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3. Refinery Rooftop
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If you’re looking for a winter rooftop bar near Bryant Park, Refinery Rooftop is the place to go. It’s located on the top floor of the stylish Refinery Hotel and was named America’s #1 Rooftop Bar & Hotel Bar 3 years in a row by USA Today!
The twinkling lights, exposed brick walls, and warm wood details set the stage for a romantic date or a girls’ night out. And the glass walls and ceiling offer great views over the Midtown skyscrapers.
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4. Ophelia Lounge
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Ophelia Lounge is a must-visit winter rooftop bar in NYC! It’s located on top of the historical Beekman Tower in Midtown East. The wrap-around terrace gives a 360° view over Manhattan and the East River making this a dreamy spot for sunset. You’ll feel inspired and charmed here, much like Frank Sinatra, who was a regular! Plan your visit on a Thursday, Friday, or Sunday to catch the live DJ.
5. The Ready Rooftop
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The Ready Rooftop is your escape from the cold winter and the daily hustle. Located atop The Moxy Hotel, this rooftop is cleverly designed to be able to be glassed in during the winter and open during the summer.
Not only will you escape the cold of the winter, but also enjoy something akin to a mini vacation among the palm trees and string lights.
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6. St. Cloud
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Have you ever seen Times Square from above? St. Cloud is just the place for that. On the top floor of the Knickerbocker Hotel, you can visit a unique open-air corner pod that feels much like a cloud looking over the skyscrapers, Times Square, and the hustle and bustle of the city.
This rooftop bar has an indoor and outdoor portion making it an accommodating spot for any season of the year, including winter.
7. Harriet’s Rooftop & Lounge
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If you want the rooftop bar experience without the cold of a rooftop, head to Harriet’s Rooftop & Lounge in Dumbo. The lounge is on the 10th floor of the posh 1 Hotel and is entirely glassed in for a panoramic view of the Manhattan skyline.
Whether you come during the day or night, you won’t be disappointed with the view or the top-tier cocktails which were recognized on Condé Nast Traveler’s 2021 Gold List of the Best Bars and Restaurants in the World.
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8. Westlight
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Located at the very top of the William Vale building, the tallest skyscraper in Williamsburg, is the iconic Westlight bar. Opened by Chef Andrew Carmellini, it has an impressive menu with new dishes debuting regularly.
This is the perfect spot to meet with a group of people, enjoy some drinks, and enjoy a 360° view of Manhattan and the East River.
9. Salon de Ning
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Among the upscale winter rooftop bars in NYC, Salon de Ning is the place to be. It’s part of The Peninsula Hotel in Midtown and is largely inspired by 1930s Shanghai, which you’ll experience from the decor to the menu.
This stylish rooftop bar has multiple outdoor terraces and a bar inside. From the terraces, you can take in the Midtown skyline over Fifth Avenue. This is a great place to meet with colleagues for a business dinner or after-work drinks.
And that concludes our list of 9 winter rooftop bars in NYC.
If you haven’t enjoyed a winter drink yet, what are you waiting for?