Rooftops in NYC can be tricky especially if you are looking for a spot that is a kid – Mom – family friendly but it is well worth the search as the views are magnificent. Try one out for a light lunch or evening cocktails.
They can be uncomfortable because of many different reasons – seating, loud music and the obvious, being the oldest in the crowd. And if you are with your kids, you want to make sure that they are in an environment that they will be comfortable in.
I have searched high and low and found three amazing rooftops that are appropriate for ADULTS with or without kids! You can actually hear a conversation, enjoy a nice cocktail in silence and sit in a comfortable seat. Is that too much to ask?
BAR65 located in 30 Rockefeller Plaza. You can make reservations on Open Table. Bar 65 is located in the same building as The Top Of Rock excursion and the great part about this site is that you can visit both in the winter and summer. It is located adjacent to the Rainbow Room on the 65th floor which is two floors lower than the Top of the Rock. In addition, you do not have to pay the admission fee for The Top of the Rock and you will actually be at a higher location. You will need the admission fee savings as the cost of a cocktail is $20 but it is worth it for the views and the climate.
Most importantly there is no loud music to scream over. Enjoy the breathtaking view of NYC either inside or out on the balcony. They have a nice variety of appetizers which are quite good but keep in perspective, you are there for the views and atmosphere – this isn’t a Michelin star meal.
The outdoor seating can be tricky. There is a minimum purchase fee and you will want to check prior to your visit because they tend to reserve for private parties. Personally, it is a small fee to pay to sit quietly and comfortably with an amazing view, as well as being that you are getting The Top of the Rock experience while enjoying a meal. There is no fee for the indoor seating which has a magnificent 360-degree view of the city.
New York Marriot Marquis–
Broadway Lounge and Terrace– This is the BEST place to see Times Square! It is located at 1535 Broadway, 8th floor. You will avoid crowded streets and enjoy a meal while you are sitting parallel with the bright lights of this iconic location below.
The outdoor lounge can be a little tricky to locate as it is actually on the 8th floor, and you will probably have to ask someone for the entrance as it is tucked in the right-hand corner of the venue. Am quite sure the staff is used to giving directions.
You can sit inside at a window with a full view of the billboards or enjoy the outdoor patio. Call ahead and make sure they are not hosting a private event in the outdoor patio.
I highly recommend the cheese platter!
There is no entrance fee and you still get the views even if you are not sitting by a window. We usually stop by here after a play for dessert and a cocktail. And as important, I found the restroom to be quite nice – never crowded and always kept immaculately.
The View– This is the most famous of the two scenic bars and restaurants. While I prefer the Broadway Lounge, we have enjoyed some time in the View as well.
After 8 there is a cover charge to enter for drinks for this rotating restaurant and lounge. The floor actually ROTATES 360 degrees! Your placemats have a sketch of your view to help you determine which building you are looking at. Again the drinks are pricey however it is definitely a cool place to have one – either starting or finishing your evening. They do not have an outdoor patio so this might be a great option for winter visits. The elevator ride was a highlight for my son as it’s an excursion within itself. The Marriot Marquis elevators are floor to ceiling glass so you view your fast ascent.
1 Hotel- Harriet’s Rooftop & Lounge– This is located in DUMBO, Brooklyn. Dumbo, if you have never been or haven’t visited in a while, has views of NYC that will take your breath away.
Nestled in a green oasis on the 10th floor and rooftop of 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, against a backdrop of panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, you can enjoy the old-fashioned cocktail lounge. Revelry with a view, the bar is stocked with fresh and seasonal ingredients alongside some of the finest and approachable spirits.
Reservations are recommended with minimums applicable. Dumbo is a great place to stroll around so the fun does not end after your visit. This is definitely a great spot for some pictures with the city as your background (we usually take our out of town guests to Dumbo for photo ops.
These are the go-to Rooftops that we love to visit on our trips into the city – for plays, guests or just an outing. They are accessible, comfortable, and offer great food and drinks. Not too many better ways to soak in the views with great company and a beverage.
I would love to hear about your favorite NYC Rooftop! Please share in comments below or head over to Instagram @comeflywithmenyc
