Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Rooftop Bar Lovers in DUMBO
Top Things to Do in New York City for Rooftop Bar Lovers in DUMBO
1. Harriet's Rooftop
Perched atop 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, Harriet’s Rooftop pairs cinematic views of Lower Manhattan, the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, and the harbor with polished cocktails and a lively soundtrack. Indoor-outdoor seating lets you chase golden hour or retreat from the breeze without losing the skyline.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the quintessential DUMBO rooftop moment—unobstructed vistas, craft drinks, and a sophisticated crowd right on the park’s edge.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
April–October at sunset (roughly 6:30–8:30 pm in summer); winter weekends for cozy indoor lounge vibes with views.
✓ Insider Tip:
Lines spike after 7 pm; arrive early or book via the venue’s reservation system. Bring a light layer—river winds can be brisk even in summer.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers rave about the jaw-dropping skyline and balanced cocktails, noting prices are premium but justified by the setting.
2. Time Out Market New York Rooftop
Ride the elevator to the fifth-floor terrace for casual drinks with a blockbuster view of both bridges. Order at the rooftop bar and settle into open-air seats that feel tailor-made for skyline selfies.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a relaxed, come-as-you-are rooftop with multiple food options downstairs—ideal for groups and spontaneous sunset plans.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon to sunset, weekdays for fewer crowds; winter clear days for crisp visibility.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head to the north terrace to frame the Manhattan Bridge perfectly. Rail seating goes first—arrive 30–45 minutes before sunset.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love the views-to-value ratio and easygoing vibe; expect a buzzier scene on warm weekends.
3. Randolph Beer DUMBO Rooftop
A neighborhood favorite with a self-pour beer wall and a breezy roof deck, Randolph pairs small-batch brews with skyline peeks and picnic-table camaraderie.
✓ Why Go:
Craft beer fans get variety without fuss, and the rooftop setting keeps the DUMBO views in play.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Spring–early fall, 4–7 pm for sun without the scorch; weekend afternoons for a social scene.
✓ Insider Tip:
Load a pour card to sample multiple styles by the ounce. The roof can close for weather—check day-of updates.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Praised for a friendly staff, great selection, and laid-back atmosphere that contrasts with pricier rooftops nearby.
4. Dumbo House
Soho House’s waterfront club brings a chic rooftop pool and bar to Empire Stores with wraparound views and a serene, design-forward aesthetic.
✓ Why Go:
For members (and their guests), it’s the most exclusive way to sip by the skyline in DUMBO.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday afternoons for mellow poolside lounging; summer evenings for a golden-hour glow over the bridges.
✓ Insider Tip:
Members can host guests; check current policies and capacity controls. Expect smart-casual dress and limited photography in some areas.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Members highlight seamless service, stylish spaces, and poolside comfort with unbeatable views.
5. Empire Stores Rooftop
A public rooftop atop the restored brick warehouses offers free, elevated vantage points with seating and landscaping—no reservation required.
✓ Why Go:
Rooftop lovers get the height and views without the line or cover charge, perfect for a breather between bar stops.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Morning for calm photo ops; sunset year-round for warm light on the skyline.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use the courtyard elevators at 55 Water St to reach the roof. Keep drinks to licensed areas—public alcohol rules are enforced.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors call it a priceless panorama and a welcome, crowd-thinning escape from the waterfront bustle.
6. Max Family Garden
A leafy rooftop garden atop St. Ann’s Warehouse offers a peaceful, elevated nook with glimpses of the bridges—an atmospheric pause between sips.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a quiet, romantic counterpoint to lively rooftops, still keeping you above street level with DUMBO character.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon through early evening on performance days; spring blooms and fall foliage add charm.
✓ Insider Tip:
Hours vary with events; if closed, circle back post-show. Enter via the Water St courtyard.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Often described as a hidden gem—tranquil, photogenic, and distinctly DUMBO.
7. Celestine
Mediterranean plates and thoughtful cocktails on a riverfront terrace directly under the Manhattan Bridge make Celestine an atmospheric open-air hangout.
✓ Why Go:
While not a rooftop, the elevated-feeling terrace sits so close to the water and arches that it scratches the same view-loving itch.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Blue hour into nightfall to watch the bridge lights come on; shoulder seasons for comfortable temps.
✓ Insider Tip:
Request an outside table facing Jane’s Carousel; trains add ambient rumble—bring a light layer on breezy nights.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests praise the romantic setting, warm service, and cocktail program—note occasional train noise.
8. Cecconi's Dumbo
A fashionable Italian spot inside Empire Stores with an expansive waterfront terrace, classic spritzes, and martinis against postcard views.
✓ Why Go:
Perfect for aperitivo-hour drinks in an elegant, view-forward setting steps from DUMBO’s rooftops.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekdays 3–6 pm for lighter crowds; summer sunsets for golden light over the bridges.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for a terrace table near the railing; if winds kick up, interior seats keep the view via floor-to-ceiling windows.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Widely considered glamorous and reliable, with prices reflecting the setting and scene.
9. The River Café
A storied fine-dining landmark tucked beneath the Brooklyn Bridge with a garden, piano bar, and refined cocktails overlooking the East River.
✓ Why Go:
For rooftop fans seeking a special-occasion drink with equally towering views—no elevator ride required.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late evening for night-skyline sparkle; winter holidays for a particularly magical ambiance.
✓ Insider Tip:
Dress code applies (jackets suggested). Bar space is limited—reserve dinner or call ahead to confirm availability for drinks.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Celebrated as iconic and romantic, with attentive service and unforgettable bridge views.
10. Kimoto Rooftop
A short hop from DUMBO in Downtown Brooklyn, Kimoto delivers lantern-lit vibes, DJs on weekends, and skyline peeks from an indoor-outdoor aerie.
✓ Why Go:
Extend your rooftop crawl nearby when DUMBO lines get long—same views, different energy.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Fridays and Saturdays after 9 pm for a lively scene; weekdays at sunset for easier seating.
✓ Insider Tip:
If it’s windy, choose the enclosed lounge seats by the windows; check for guest DJs and themed nights.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Known for upbeat energy and approachable prices compared with waterfront rooftops.
