NYC’s Best Rooftop Bars for Happy Hour: Views and Deals in 2025

Published on April 11, 2025

Looking for the NYC rooftop bars happy hour 2025 scene that won’t break the bank? New York City’s skyline is best enjoyed with a cocktail in hand, and the city’s rooftop bars offer breathtaking views paired with unbeatable happy hour deals. From Midtown’s iconic vistas to Brooklyn’s laid-back terraces, we’ve rounded up the best rooftop bars NYC with views and deals for a sky-high experience that’s as affordable as it is memorable. Whether you’re sipping discounted margaritas or enjoying a sunset over the Empire State Building, this guide to affordable rooftop happy hour NYC has you covered. Plus, we’ll share local directories to plan your perfect NYC day, from dining to entertainment. Let’s elevate your happy hour game!

Why NYC Rooftop Bars Are Perfect for Happy Hour

NYC’s rooftop bars are more than just a place to drink—they’re an experience. With panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, the Hudson River, and iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building, these sky-high spots offer a magical backdrop for happy hour. Many rooftop bars in NYC provide affordable deals during off-peak hours, making it easier to enjoy a cocktail with a view without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these happy hours let you soak in the city’s energy while keeping your budget in check.

NYC’s Best Rooftop Bars for Happy Hour in 2025

Here’s our curated list of the best rooftop bars NYC with views and deals for 2025, focusing on happy hour specials, stunning vistas, and a relaxed vibe.

1. Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge – Times Square

Location: 485 7th Ave, 18th Floor, New York, NY 10018 (Moxy Times Square)

Magic Hour, NYC’s largest indoor/outdoor rooftop bar, offers epic views of the Empire State Building and a playful vibe with seasonal pop-ups. Their happy hour, Monday to Friday from 5 PM to 6:30 PM, features $4 fries, $6 beers, $8 wines, and $10 mixed drinks—perfect for an affordable sky-high experience. After your drinks, explore more Times Square dining with the NYC Pizza Near Me Directory.

• Happy Hour Deals: $6 beers, $8 wines, $10 mixed drinks (Mon-Fri, 5 PM–6:30 PM).
• Views: Empire State Building and Midtown skyline.

2. 230 Fifth Rooftop – Flatiron

Location: 230 5th Ave, New York, NY 10001

230 Fifth is a Flatiron favorite, known for its massive rooftop space and breathtaking views of the Empire State Building. While they don’t have a traditional happy hour, their prices are surprisingly reasonable for the location—specialty cocktails are $19, beers are $10, and wine by the glass is $18. The year-round indoor/outdoor space makes it a great spot any time of day. After your visit, unwind with a spa session using the NYC Spa Clubs Near Me Directory.

• Deals: Cocktails at $19, beers at $10—affordable for the views.
• Views: Empire State Building and Midtown skyline.

3. The Fleur Room – Chelsea

Location: 105 W 28th St, New York, NY 10001 (Moxy Chelsea, 35th Floor)

The Fleur Room offers 360-degree views of the Manhattan skyline, including the Empire State Building, from its glass-enclosed rooftop. Their happy hour, Tuesday to Friday from 5 PM to 8 PM, includes $7 beers, $8 wines, $8 bites, $10 spritzes, and $12 mixed drinks—a steal for such a chic spot. After happy hour, catch a comedy show nearby with the NYC Comedy Clubs Near Me Directory.

• Happy Hour Deals: $7 beers, $8 wines, $12 mixed drinks (Tue-Fri, 5 PM–8 PM).
• Views: 360-degree Manhattan skyline, including the Empire State Building.

4. Mr. Purple – Lower East Side

Location: 180 Orchard St, 15th Floor, New York, NY 10002 (Hotel Indigo)

Mr. Purple offers stunning views of the Lower East Side skyline, including One World Trade Center and the Empire State Building. Their happy hour, Monday to Friday from 4 PM to 7 PM, features $6 bar snacks, $11 wines, and $11 cocktails—great value for a prestigious rooftop. The vibe is sleek yet unpretentious, perfect for a relaxed evening. After your drinks, explore vegan dining options with the NYC Vegan Restaurants Near Me Directory.

• Happy Hour Deals: $11 cocktails, $11 wines, $6 snacks (Mon-Fri, 4 PM–7 PM).
• Views: Lower East Side, One World Trade Center, and Empire State Building.

5. Cantina Rooftop – Hell’s Kitchen

Location: 605 W 48th St, New York, NY 10036

Cantina Rooftop in Hell’s Kitchen is a colorful, energetic spot with beautiful views of the NYC skyline and Hudson River. Known for its Mexican-inspired menu, their happy hour (times vary, check their website) offers deals like $10 cocktails and $7 beers, making it a budget-friendly choice. After your margarita, enjoy a Korean BBQ meal nearby with the NYC Best Korean BBQ Restaurants Near Me Directory.

• Happy Hour Deals: $10 cocktails, $7 beers (times vary).
• Views: Hudson River and NYC skyline.

6. Cloud Social NYC – Koreatown

Location: 6 W 32nd St, New York, NY 10001 (Nyma, The New York Manhattan Hotel)

Cloud Social NYC in Koreatown is an unpretentious rooftop bar with lovely views of the city skyline, including the Empire State Building. Their daily specials make it one of the most affordable options, with deals like $7 house cocktails, hot sake, and beers from 5 PM to 8 PM. It’s a great spot for a casual date or drinks with friends. After happy hour, explore outdoor dining with the NYC Outdoor Dining Directory.

• Happy Hour Deals: $7 cocktails, sake, and beers (daily, 5 PM–8 PM).
• Views: Empire State Building and Midtown skyline.

7. Refinery Rooftop – Midtown

Location: 63 W 38th St, New York, NY 10018 (Refinery Hotel)

Refinery Rooftop in Midtown offers magical views of the Empire State Building from its retractable glass roof terrace. Their happy hour (times vary, check their website) includes deals like $15 wines and $18 cocktails, which are reasonable for the location. The sophisticated yet comfortable vibe makes it a great spot for a post-work drink. After your visit, grab a classic diner meal with the NYC Diners Directory.

• Happy Hour Deals: $15 wines, $18 cocktails (times vary).
• Views: Empire State Building and Midtown skyline.

8. Time Out Market – Dumbo

Location: 55 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201

Time Out Market in Dumbo offers stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline from its rooftop. Their happy hour, Monday to Friday from 4 PM to 7 PM, features $5 beers, $7 wines, and $8 classic cocktails—a fantastic deal for such an iconic view. After your drinks, explore free activities in the area with the NYC Free & Cheap Events Directory.

• Happy Hour Deals: $5 beers, $7 wines, $8 cocktails (Mon-Fri, 4 PM–7 PM).
• Views: Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline.

9. Castell Rooftop Lounge – Times Square

Location: 260 W 40th St, New York, NY 10018 (AC Hotel Times Square)

Castell Rooftop Lounge, perched on the 21st floor near Times Square, offers stunning views of the Midtown skyline. Their happy hour, Monday to Friday from 4 PM to 6 PM, includes $12 classic cocktails, $10 select wines, and $6 beers—perfect for a pre-Broadway show drink. After happy hour, play a game of pickleball with the NYC Pickleball Courts Near Me Directory.

• Happy Hour Deals: $12 cocktails, $10 wines, $6 beers (Mon-Fri, 4 PM–6 PM).
• Views: Midtown skyline and Times Square area.

10. The Ready Rooftop (Chalet East) – East Village

Location: 123 E 7th St, New York, NY 10009 (Moxy East Village)

The Ready Rooftop, now themed as Chalet East, offers a whimsical all-season experience with views of the East Village skyline. Their happy hour, Tuesday to Friday from 4 PM to 6 PM and Saturday to Sunday from 12 PM to 3 PM, features $1 tacos and $9 margaritas—a budget-friendly deal for a rooftop vibe. After your drinks, grab a coffee nearby with the NYC Coffee Shops & Cafes Directory.

• Happy Hour Deals: $1 tacos, $9 margaritas (Tue-Fri, 4 PM–6 PM; Sat-Sun, 12 PM–3 PM).
• Views: East Village skyline.

Tips for Enjoying Rooftop Happy Hour in NYC

Here are some tips to make the most of your rooftop happy hour experience in NYC:

• Arrive Early: Happy hours at popular spots like Magic Hour and The Fleur Room can get crowded, so arrive at the start to secure a good spot.
• Check Age Restrictions: Many rooftops, like Refinery Rooftop, are 21+ after 6 PM, so plan accordingly if you’re with younger guests.
• Plan Your Day: Use directories like the NYC Emergency Services & Healthcare Directory to ensure you’re prepared for a full day of exploring.

Final Thoughts: Elevate Your Happy Hour in NYC

NYC’s rooftop bars in 2025 offer the perfect blend of stunning views and affordable happy hour deals, making it easier than ever to enjoy a sky-high experience on a budget. From Magic Hour’s playful vibe in Times Square to Time Out Market’s iconic Brooklyn views, these NYC rooftop bars happy hour 2025 spots will elevate your evening without emptying your wallet. Explore these affordable rooftop happy hour NYC gems, and use our directories to plan your day—whether it’s dining, relaxing, or having fun in the city!

What’s your favorite rooftop happy hour spot in NYC? Share your recommendations in the comments below, and follow us on Twitter/X for more NYC lifestyle guides!