There’s no shortage of bars in New York City, everything from rooftop to underground, mega clubs to hidden gems. Outdoor rooftop spaces have become popular in the past few years, with dozens of spots popping up in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens.

It’s in the spring and summer months that New Yorkers tend to gravitate to the tops of skyscrapers to enjoy a few drinks, but that trend almost completely disappears in the cold winter months. With artisanal blended cocktails and a retractable glass roof that shields people away from the bitterness of winter, the Top of the Strand is the ideal spot to experience rooftop cocktails, even when summer is far away.

Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, the Top of the Strand sits at the highest level of the Strand Hotel. As one of the tallest rooftop bars in all of New York City, at 254 feet high, the Top of the Strand’s signature view of the neighboring Empire State Building is one feature that sets it apart from the rest.

Both hotel guests and public visitors can bask in the glory of the tallest building in New York City, close enough it almost feels like you can touch it. The unparalleled views of the Empire State Building give this rooftop bar an edge, while its extensive cocktail menu reminds visitors that they are in upscale Midtown. Cocktails can set you back an average of $15, but with strong options like a pear infused drink or an equally potent traditional Manhattan are easily great choices while at this rooftop lounge.

The glass retractable roof at the Top of the Strand makes the stunning views available year round, something not many other rooftop lounges in New York City can stake their claim on. A short elevator ride from the welcoming lobby opens up to an intimate yet trendy setting on the roof, where rows of comfortable seating face directly towards the view.

Two larger lounging areas backed with a wall full of bamboo and greens helps loungers feel as if they’re in a faraway oasis, framed by curtains that give a more intimate ambiance. The space was created by Lydia Marks, who knows a thing or two about urban design after helping on design aspects of Sex and the City. Unlike other rooftop spots in New York City, the Top of the Strand has more of a relaxed environment, where heat lamps and robes aren’t needed to keep warm.

This 21^st floor lounge offers up some traditional cocktails such as martinis and mojitos, along with more exotic, fruit filled blends. The staff at the Top of the Strand is extremely welcoming and attentive, making it easy to enjoy a night out without spending too much time waiting at the bar for a drink.

DJ Stone Joy, a London native, is the resident DJ at the Top of the Strand, where he brings his style of mixing both modern and classic songs throughout the night. Although this rooftop lounge favors a more relaxing atmosphere, the continuously upbeat music helps everyone remember that they’re in the city that never sleeps.

The Top of the Strand is the perfect year round rooftop lounge with a unique view of the Empire State Building just three blocks away. It’s a great place to sip some cocktails with a group of friends, or have a date night with that special someone. The Top of the Strand is located in The Strand Hotel at 33 West 37^th Street and opens at 5pm daily.

Share This

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

About the author

Sarah Dayan
I'm a Brooklyn native with a strong love for New York City, traveling, photography, writing, and music. I have my Bachelors degree in psychology and communication, and my Masters degree in school counseling. Through my writing, I want to share all my fun experiences in New York City.