Best Outdoor Bar Seating in NYC

When it comes to enjoying a drink outdoors in the bustling city of New York, you're spoiled for choice with an array of al fresco bars, rooftops, and waterfront spots. With its vibrant nightlife and stunning cityscapes, it's no surprise that the Big Apple is home to some of the best outdoor seating bars around. So, let's dive into the city's finest, perfect for soaking up the sun or stargazing with a cocktail in hand.

From trendy downtown hotspots to rooftop retreats with skyline views, we've curated a list of must-try outdoor seating bars in NYC. But what makes these venues stand out, you ask? They offer an unforgettable experience by combining stunning views, an extensive drink menu, and an atmosphere that's uniquely New York.

Rooftop Bars: Soaring High Above the City

There's nothing quite like sipping a cocktail while taking in panoramic views of the city. New York's rooftop bars have mastered this art, providing unique perspectives and thrilling experiences.

Rooftop bars in NYC have seen an explosion over the past decade, each one vying to offer more breathtaking views and innovative cocktails. From the iconic Standard Hotel's Le Bain to the sleek Gallow Green at the McKittrick Hotel, here are two unforgettable rooftop experiences you shouldn't miss:

Le Bain at The Standard, High Line

Perched on the top floor of The Standard, High Line, Le Bain offers a glamorous disco-inspired setting with a Ferris wheel (!) and outstanding views of the Hudson River and downtown Manhattan. As the sun sets, the dance floor comes alive, and thesee-and-be-seen crowd loyal to this vintage-meets-modern hotspot.

For a memorable night, try their signature "Soldier's Groove" cocktail, a mouth-watering mix of Belvedere vodka, fresh lemon, and spicy ginger beer. If you're feeling peckish, indulge in some of their delicious shareables like truffle popcorn or steak tartare.

Gallow Green at the McKittrick Hotel

Situated atop the McKittrick Hotel, home to the immersive theatrical experience "Sleep No More," Gallow Green offers an enchanting garden oasis bathed in twinkling fairy lights. The extensive drink menu boasts creative concoctions, and the live music sessions provide the perfect soundtrack to a laid-back evening.

Order their popular "Greenpoint Bronx" cocktail, a blend of contracted rye, sweet vermouth, and elderflower liqueur, or opt for a pitcher of sangria. When hunger strikes, the poutine and BBQ braised beef sliders are must-tries.

Waterfront Bars: Where the City Meets the Sea

For those who find a certain allure in watching the boats bob, NYC's waterfront bars provide the perfect blend of urban jungle and beachy vibes. Here, we highlight two of the city's best waterfront venues that combine stunning views with an unbeatable atmosphere:

The Frying Pan

Moored at West 26th Pier in Chelsea, this floating bar and seafood spot is a summer staple. The Frying Pan, a 100-year-old lightship, offers an unrivaled view of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the Hudson River. With its wooden decks, potted plants, and gingham tablecloths, this tandem of school buses turned shipping containers feels more like a nautical port than a city bar.

Sip on their signature cocktails like a shrunken Head – a blend of vodka, fresh lemon, and brandy – or their house-made sangria while enjoying a platter of peel-and-eat shrimp or a taste of their famous lobster roll.

Grand Banks

Tucked away in the heart of Tribeca, Grand Banks offers a seafaring experience right on the Hudson River. This historic fishing boat has been transformed into one of NYC's most beloved waterfront destinations, complete with wooden floors, a sprawling deck, and picturesque views.

Savor the flavors of the sea with maritime-inspired dishes like oysters, lobster rolls, and whole grilled fish. Pair your meal with one of their special isotonic cocktails – a refreshing blend of alcohol, nutrients, and electrolytes – for a healthier twist on happy hour.

With these outdoor seating bars as your guide, you're ready to embark on a cravable journey through NYC's best al fresco drinking spots. So raise a glass, revel in the city's charm, and cheers to your adventure in New York!