Best New York City Hotels for Rooftop Views

Elevate your Big Apple adventure with a hotel stay offering million-dollar views.

Welcome to The Big Apple, The City that Never Sleeps, The Empire State. New York City is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating and vibrant cities in the world – the problem facing many visitors is just how to cram as much as possible into their time in this buzzing metropolis. The best way to immerse yourself in the atmosphere is to pick a hotel with incredible views, so that you can drink in the iconic skyline even when you’re relaxing at your hotel in between adventures.  

We’ve compiled a list of the best New York City hotels for rooftop views. Each of these ultra-luxurious properties offers a unique perspective of the city, boasting romantic and exciting vistas along with top-class amenities, consummate service, and proximity to the city’s best attractions. The only challenge is deciding which one to choose.

Gansevoort Meatpacking NYC 

The best of the best New York City hotels for rooftop views is the fabulous Gansevoort Meatpacking Hotel. This iconic, contemporary hotel is located in the heart of the city on Ninth Avenue and 13th Street, affording superb views over Manhattan and easy access to attractions such as the Hudson River, Little Island, the High Line, markets, museums, dining districts and more. Breathtaking views, curated artworks, cutting-edge in-room technology and first-class dining and bar options make this trendy hotel a total winner.  

The hotel’s recently renovated rooms and suites are the epitome of class, with a blend of traditional and modern elements creating a light and airy atmosphere. Huge bay windows, step-out Juliet balconies or large private terraces show off the dazzling views of the city, depending on the room type you select.  

Gansevoort makes the most of its expansive rooftop area, offering a sky-high omakase restaurant, a licensed café, a bar and heated rooftop pool. Whether you’re taking an early-morning swim or indulging in a cheeky sundowner, you’ll do it all with unfettered, 360° views across the skyline at this sophisticated property. 

Boro Hotel New York 

Located in up-and-coming Long Island City, just 15 minutes from Manhattan, the hip Boro Hotel offers a delightful retreat for visitors who want to get to know New York’s artsier areas. The ultra-modern hotel is within walking distance of the East River, MoMA PS1, the Museum of the Moving Image, the Noguchi Museum and an array of bars and restaurants. 

Airy and bright with industrial overtones, the property manages to be simultaneously comfortable and glamorous. Some suites feature balconies and terraces, and all have huge floor-to-ceiling windows, perfect for watching the sparkling city lights over the river at night. Contemporary furnishings, hardwood floors, porcelain bathroom fixtures and modern amenities lend the rooms a crisp, clean feel. Enjoy New York-style ‘pizza pies’ and other Italian American treats at the lively BeeBe’s restaurant, enjoy a coffee and cake at the Lobby Café, or grab your camera and get some Instagram-worthy shots at the phenomenal open-air rooftop bar, delicious cocktail in hand.  

The Knickerbocker New York 

If you want the full, movie-worthy New York experience, the ever-popular and ultra-sophisticated Knickerbocker Hotel is the spot for you. The ‘Knick’ overlooks Times Square and is a quick walk from Broadway, the Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, and Carnegie Hall, while you can reach Central Park with only an 18-minute stroll.  

Dating from 1906, the hotel is steeped in history, with famous guests including Teddy Roosevelt, John D. Rockefeller, F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald, and Babe Ruth, among many others. It is also said to be the birthplace of the martini and the velvet rope.

The views from most rooms are glorious, with six-foot windows overlooking New York’s beating heart. Even if you book a room without Times Square views, spectacular panoramas are available from the lively St. Cloud rooftop bar and the luxurious Charlie Palmer at The Knick restaurant more than make up for it.  

Mondrian Park Avenue New York 

If you adore sophistication, art and fashion, the stunning Mondrian Park Avenue will suit you to a tee. Located in Manhattan’s trendy NoMad (Madison Square North) neighbourhood, the Mondrian is around the corner from Madison Square Park and the Flatiron District, with easy access to the East River, the Empire State Building, Times Square, Madison Square Garden and other NYC highlights. It’s also adjacent to the fashionable Madison Avenue, so prepare for some retail therapy. 

The hotel’s unique rooms and suites have been carefully fitted out by acclaimed French industrial designer, Philippe Starck. Artfully crafted with a delicate touch, the sleek décor features warm accents and curated artwork that give each room a unique atmosphere. Plush bedding, marble bathroom counters and double-headed rain showers complete the experience. Huge windows offer spellbinding views of the city, and some rooms even feature private, walk-out balconies overlooking Park Avenue or 30th Street.  

Fresh, local produce is the star of every delicious meal and cocktail at the Mondrian’s drinking and dining venues. Savour Eastern Mediterranean cuisine at Cleo restaurant, or some electrifying cocktails at Never Never. It’s the rooftop terrace bar that is the real star, however, with truly magnificent views, especially at night when the sparkling skyscrapers transform the city.  

Looking for more New York inspiration? Check out New York City’s Best Hidden Bars & Under-the-Radar Restaurants.