It's Time to Drink from the Rooftops
Spring is here so raise a glass from new heights!
Spring is finally here. That means it’s time to shed the coats, leave our caves, and head into the sunshine.
There’s no better way to celebrate the turn of seasons than on a rooftop with a cocktail. Here are the best in five cities around the country for your imbibing pleasure.
Nashville
Nashvegas is in eternal bloom at White Limozeen. You’re more than likely to see groups of gals on Bachelorette weekends here than in any other bar on this list and for good reason — out of all of these, this one has a million Instagrammable moments from the gold-flecked champagne jello shots to the giant pink Dolly Parton bust made from chicken wire on the outside patio!
Jon Bon Jovi isn’t the only famous musician to open a rooftop bar in Nashville, but this one is pretty great: live music, drinks, and even a tattoo parlor makes this one a must-do in Music City.
New York City
The Terrace at The Times Square Edition
The Terrace and Outdoor Gardens at The Times Square Edition offers a Sunset Menu from 3 to 5 p.m. daily, with light bites, and refreshing cocktails. Enjoy an array of fresh seafood such as East Coast oysters and a shrimp cocktail. The mini martini craze continues here, as well, and are perfect tiny sippers with a view.
For views of the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center, grab a cocktail at this rooftop lounge that includes an excellent wine selection. If the weather turns chilly not to worry — the terrace has operable walls so that guests can enjoy the space in any weather.
Margaritaville Times Square’s 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar
If you’re looking for a rooftop experience without the velvet ropes, or you forgot your red-bottom heels at home then head up to the 31st and 32nd floors of the Margaritaville Times Square Resort where you’ll find the two-story 5-o Clock Somewhere Bar. Here, you’ll get a bird’s eye view of Times Square, the Edge, and other NYC landmarks with a relaxed attitude, no cover charge, and no stress. What would Jimmy Buffett do? He’d drink here.
Chicago
Take a drink outside for a perfect view of Chicago’s famous “Bean” at this lively rooftop lounge on the 13th floor of the Chicago Athletic Association hotel. The bar is a destination for tourists and locals alike who come for the view, the drinks, and food by Top Chef contestant executive chef Kaleena Bliss.
If you’re aiming higher for a drinking experience, at 94 floors above street level Cloud Bar is the “elevated” experience you’re looking for. Time your arrival for just before sunset (which is also the busiest time for the bar), to watch the city turn golden, then indigo as the skyline lights up before you.
Houston
Houston’s highest rooftop bar, Z on 23 offers cocktails and bites on the 23rd floor of Houston’s Le Méridien hotel.
This laid back bar at the Texas Medical Center offers everything from cocktails to coffee (for those that want to enjoy a zero-proof view).
Miami
High above the bustle of Miami’s Brickell neighborhood rises Sugar on the 40th floor of the East Miami hotel. The bar offers panoramic views of Downtown Miami and Biscayne Bay in a lush setting.
For a departure from Miami’s “too loud to enjoy anything” vibe, head to Coconut Grove’s Mayfair House Hotel for a quieter respite. This rooftop lounge pays homage to Coconut Grove’s Bahamian roots with delicious rum libations, great music, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Skip the dining room at chef Massimo Bottura’s Miami restaurant and opt, instead, for aperitifs and pizza on the rooftop patio. Between the decor, the music, and the sunset, it’s no crime to mistake Miami for Milan.