There’s nothing quite like surveying the majestic New York City skyline while sipping a cocktail as the sun slowly dips below the Hudson River. Thanks to a whole slew of new rooftop bars opening in the Big Apple, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy sky-high drinks this summer.
Top of the Strand at The Strand Hotel Debuting December 2009, this rooftop watering hole is bound to become even more popular now that the weather is balmy and the sliding roof can finally be opened. The chic 21st-floor lounge was designed by Lydia Marks, whose credits include the sets for the first Sex and the City movie and The Devil Wears Prada.
Glass Bar at Hotel Indigo Set in nightclub-heavy Chelsea, 20th-floor Glass Bar provides a rooftop respite from the hustle and bustle of the streets below. The bar opened May 14; Monday is swing night with live music by The Michael Fredo Orchestra.
Private roof garden at The Surrey This Upper East Side rooftop officially opens this weekend, but don’t try to casually stop by for a drink – the exclusive seasonal space is only open to hotel guests. The garden, located on the 17th floor, looks out over Central Park. Guests can enjoy casual dining and specialty cocktails (delivered by butler) from morning to night.
Rare View at Fashion 26 An offshoot of the hotel’s restaurant, RARE, the 23rd-floor space at this fashion-themed hotel promises to be just as stylish as the floors below. The retractable roof means it will also be a year-round hotspot following a mid-June opening.
Upstairs at the Kimberly Hotel The loftiest of the new bars, Upstairs (on the 30th floor) will be another year-round happy hour haunt after its mid-June debut, with retractable glass walls and ceiling, plus heated floors for those chilly nights. Look forward to enviable views of the Chrysler Building, haute appetizer offerings, and high-end design.
Plunge Bar + Lounge at the Gansevoort Park Avenue As a follow up to the original NYC Gansevoort’s successful bar/pool rooftop combo, the new Park Avenue location’s three-story lounge space (floors 18-20) opening in July packs in a 40-foot indoor/outdoor heated pool, six event spaces, and see-through floors for unique views of the city below. The pool will be reserved for guests during the day, but it is fair game for partygoers once the sun sets.
The James New York With a scheduled August opening, the 16th-floor rooftop bar at The James will miss most of the 2010 summer season, but indoor/outdoor seating means it should stay open after the weather turns brisk. The top-floor area will also include a pool.
Press Lounge at Ink48 The 16th-floor bar atop this Hell’s Kitchen Kimpton hotel fronts the Hudson, an ideal spot for watching sunsets. The indoor/outdoor space includes a hot tub and reflecting pool, and drinks and snacks flow freely until the wee hours.
Bar d’Eau at Trump Soho Though not technically a rooftop bar, the 7th-floor Bar d’Eau on the Trump’s pool deck still provides a welcome sanctuary from the streets below at its seasonal outdoor haven. Marvel at the pool area’s waterfall or engage in a leisurely game on the Bocce ball court.