An essential part of any New York City vacation is taking in the iconic skyline. But some of the most popular tourist destinations are a lot less magical that might seem. Skyscrapers across the city sell tickets to their observation decks that start at $40 a person (some can cost upwards of $100!). They corral you in long lines, pack you into elevators like sardines, then only give you a few moments to take your photo and leave.
If that's your jam, more power to you. But we'd argue that there's a better option: going to a bar or restaurant with an incredible view instead. There are many spots on the tallest floors of buildings in every corner of New York City that offer everything from casual co*cktails to multi-course feasts.
For the same price of admission to the Top of the Rock for a family of four, you can sit down, get a couple of drinks, and enjoy the experience at your own pace. We've rounded up some of our favorite dining destinations with views of the New York City skyline.
Nubeluz
If you want your New York City skyline experience to be super swanky, head over to the Ritz Carlton New York, NoMad. Nubeluz is the hotel's bar on the top floor, with a menu created by celebrity chef and philanthropist José Andrés. The drinks are inventive, refreshing, and perfect for sipping out on the outdoor terrace offering 270° views.
25 W 28th St, New York, NY 10001
Gitano Island
Pro tip for NYC tourists: skip the trip to Liberty Island and go to Governors Island instead. You still get to look at the Statue of Liberty up close, but you can also relax at the spa and grab a meal at Gitano Island. The restaurant and bar is just a five-minute ferry ride from Manhattan and serves modern Mexican food in a tropical garden setting. It's the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
125 Carder Rd, New York, NY 10004
The Skylark
Why pay $44 a person (plus a five-dollar booking fee) to head to the top of the Empire State Building when you could spend that money on a couple co*cktails instead? The Skylark is situated on the 30th floor in Midtown Manhattan, a stone's throw away from the Empire State Building. You can either enjoy your drinks and bar snacks on the cozy indoor sofas, or take them out to the terrace to get an unobstructed view of the city.
200 W 39th St, New York, NY 10018
Gansevoort Rooftop
If you find yourself in the Meatpacking District, head up to the roof at the Gansevoort Hotel. Their newly transformed rooftop features Eden, a space influenced by Southern Europe that boasts gorgeous views of the Hudson River. The retractable glass roof enclosure means you can enjoy the space rain or shine, making it the best place to sip a spritz year round.
18 9th Ave, New York, NY 10014
Bar Blondeau
Located on the sixth floor of Williamsburg's Wythe Hotel, Bar Blondeau boasts some of the best skyline views outside of Manhattan. Their Sunset Hour menu is perfect if you're in the mood to sip a high quality co*cktail while watching the East River skyline. The entire menu is delicious, but ordering dessert is nonnegotiable.
80 Wythe Ave Brooklyn, NY 11249
Dear Irving On Hudson
If you find yourself in Times Square and want a swanky escape from the crowds, head up to the 40th and 41st floors of the Aliz Hotel. Dear Irving on Hudson has a cozy, retro feel with wood paneled walls and moody lighting. But the real appeal is the view—the bright lights of Midtown Manhattan are even more mesmerizing from above.
310 W 40th St, New York, NY 10018
Peak With Priceless
Peak with Priceless is located in Hudson Yards on the 101st floor, which offers some of the best views in all of Manhattan. A meal there is certainly a splurge, but if you want a lower commitment experience you can hang out in the bar and lounge space and enjoy small bites. Regardless of how you choose to spend your time there, the view is worth every penny.
30 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001
Ophelia
Ophelia in the historic Beekman Tower channels old school New York energy. The Art Deco-inspired co*cktail lounge used to be a spot frequented by none other than Frank Sinatra. Now, it's a destination for light bites, craft co*cktails, and a wraparound patio offering 360° views of the city.
226 W 52nd St, New York, NY 10019
Panorama Room
If you really want to see all of New York, your best bet is going to Roosevelt Island. The narrow island in the middle of the East River offers views of both Manhattan and Queens. The Panorama Room on the 18th floor of the Graduate Hotel is the best place on the island to relax and enjoy the skyline. To maximize the views, take the tram there.
22 N Loop Rd, New York, NY 10044
Overstory
Saga Hospitality Group's Overstory is one of the best destinations for inventive co*cktails and some of the fanciest bar snacks you'll ever eat. The wraparound terrace surrounding the bar features panoramic views of lower Manhattan, including both the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges.
70 Pine St, New York, NY 10005
Robert
If your ideal New York City view includes seeing the lush greenery of Central Park, you should stop by Robert on Columbus Circle. Aside from their signature co*cktails and upscale food menu, you can also enjoy live music performances while you enjoy the sunset.
2 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10019
Manhatta
Manhatta from Union Square Hospitality Group isn't just one of the best restaurant views in the city; it's one of the best restaurants in the city, period. If you don't mind splurging, eating in the dining room is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You can also walk into the bar and enjoy co*cktails inspired by different New York City neighborhoods.
