Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City for Rooftop Bar Lovers on the Upper East Side
Top Things to Do in New York City for Rooftop Bar Lovers on the Upper East Side
1. Cantor Roof Garden Bar
Perched atop The Metropolitan Museum of Art, this seasonal roof garden pairs contemporary art commissions with a casual bar and sweeping views over Central Park and the Midtown skyline.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the quintessential UES rooftop sip: culture plus cocktails at golden hour with front‑row views of the park.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late April–mid October; go Fridays or Saturdays near sunset for extended hours. Note: the 2025 season runs through October 19 before a multi‑year renovation pause.
✓ Insider Tip:
Lines form at the elevators; enter via the 5th‑floor European Sculpture galleries and arrive 30–45 minutes before sunset.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests love the effortless mix of art, breeze, and skyline—often calling it their most memorable drink of the trip.
2. Casa Cruz Rooftop Terrace
A glamorous, canopied, 30‑seat terrace crowns Casa Cruz’s Beaux‑Arts townhouse, serving polished Mediterranean plates and crafted cocktails above East 61st Street.
✓ Why Go:
For an elegant, year‑round alfresco experience on the UES with a true see‑and‑be‑seen vibe.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Evenings Tuesday–Saturday; lunch on sunny days is a quieter, luxe alternative.
✓ Insider Tip:
Dress codes are enforced and reservations are essential—request the rooftop (Frances at Casa Cruz) specifically.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Diners rave about the chic ambiance and attentive service, noting the terrace feels like a private garden in the sky.
3. The Surrey Roof Terrace
At The Surrey, A Corinthia Hotel, the reimagined rooftop terrace channels an intimate garden aerie with refined cocktails—access typically reserved for hotel guests, residents, or members.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a serene, upscale perch just off Madison Avenue—perfect for a celebratory nightcap above the neighborhood’s townhouse canopies.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Warm, clear evenings spring through early fall; midday is lovely for a quiet aperitivo if access is available.
✓ Insider Tip:
Booking a room or dining via the on‑site membership partner may expand access; inquire when reserving.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests appreciate the discreet service and genteel atmosphere, calling it a quintessentially Upper East Side escape.
4. The Mark Penthouse Terrace
The Mark’s famed penthouse includes a sprawling private rooftop terrace with cinematic views over Central Park and Museum Mile—an ultimate splurge for private soirées.
✓ Why Go:
For rooftop bar lovers seeking the city’s most exclusive terrace setting for a milestone celebration.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Sunset throughout the year; summer evenings are spectacular for outdoor dining and stargazing.
✓ Insider Tip:
Access is tied to booking the penthouse; coordinate catering and bar service through the hotel’s team well in advance.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Those who’ve hosted here describe it as a once‑in‑a‑lifetime New York moment—unrivaled views with flawless hospitality.
5. 92NY Rooftop
The 92nd Street Y hosts periodic rooftop evenings featuring live music or social programming with drinks, set above Lexington Avenue.
✓ Why Go:
A relaxed, cultural rooftop option on the UES where you can mingle, sip, and enjoy skyline breezes without the velvet‑rope scene.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
When special events are scheduled—typically spring through early fall; check the calendar before your visit.
✓ Insider Tip:
Tickets can sell out—book early and arrive promptly to snag the best edge‑of‑terrace spots.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Attendees praise the friendly crowd and neighborhood feel, noting it’s a low‑key way to enjoy an UES rooftop with a cocktail.
6. Metropolitan Club Rooftop Terrace
This Gilded Age landmark offers a members‑only rooftop terrace with cocktails and classic UES grandeur overlooking Central Park South.
✓ Why Go:
For an old‑New‑York rooftop experience steeped in history—ideal if you have member access or an invitation to an event.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early evening in late spring and summer, when the terrace is at its most atmospheric.
✓ Insider Tip:
Mind the dress code and sponsorship rules; if attending an event, confirm terrace access and bar hours in advance.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests admire the stately setting and polished service, calling it a timeless slice of Upper East Side high society.
7. The Pierre Terrace Suites
Select suites at The Pierre feature expansive private terraces—perfect for in‑suite cocktails with Central Park views and white‑glove service.
✓ Why Go:
Combine five‑star refinement with your own open‑air lounge above Fifth Avenue—no bar line required.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon into sunset; terraces are magical during spring bloom and crisp autumn evenings.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask reservations specifically for a terrace suite (availability varies) and arrange a bespoke bar setup through catering.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Stays feel quintessentially Manhattan—guests highlight the romantic terraces and seamless hospitality.
8. The Lowell Garden Suite Terraces
The Lowell’s garden‑inspired suites offer one or more private terraces—intimate urban oases for a bottle of Champagne beneath the skyline.
✓ Why Go:
For a boutique, residential‑feeling terrace experience with classic UES charm and top‑notch service.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Spring through fall; mornings are serene for coffee, while evenings are ideal for cocktails.
✓ Insider Tip:
Request a terrace suite when booking and have Jacques Bar craft a custom in‑room cocktail service.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests cherish the tranquil, townhouse vibe—“like your own private rooftop without leaving the hotel.”
9. The Clare Rooftop
A sleek, modern rooftop event space atop The Clare condominium that can be booked for private functions with full bar setups and 180° Midtown views.
✓ Why Go:
Create your own rooftop bar—perfect for birthdays, engagement toasts, or stylish gatherings on the UES.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Sunset through evening; consider late summer dates for the most reliable weather.
✓ Insider Tip:
Secure permits and catering early; ask about wind screens and backup indoor space on breezy days.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Hosts love the clean design and skyline backdrop, noting it photographes beautifully at dusk.
10. Bentley Rooftop Event Space
High above York Avenue, the Bentley’s 21st‑floor rooftop terraces open for private events, pairing East River and bridge views with a full bar setup.
✓ Why Go:
For an East River‑facing rooftop party that still keeps you squarely on the Upper East Side.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Blue‑hour into evening, when the Queensboro Bridge lights glow over the river.
✓ Insider Tip:
Confirm event‑only availability and inquire about terrace heaters or tenting for shoulder‑season dates.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Attendees highlight the river breezes and dramatic bridge views—an unexpected UES perspective.
