The Park
The Park's Penthouse is one of NYC's hottest rooftop spots, thanks to its refusal to adopt that tacky, still-popular faux-Miami aesthetic that so many of its brethren employ.. The retro, wood-heavy space is a classic yet gorgeous patio that has attracted equally classic beauties. This Penthouse is full of more eye candy than a dirty Penthouse magazine and fortunately, no sleezy men are in sight. However, the outdoor hot tub has seen its fair share of naughty behavior when the Chelsea boys come out to play. 118 Tenth Avenue, 212-352-3313



Plunge
Don’t let the taunting name fool you – especially you, vertigo sufferer. An upscale, chic rooftop terrace, Plunge sits regally atop the Hotel Gansevoort. Featuring a rooftop pool, patrons can sip cocktails while taking in a sunset view of the Hudson River while occasionally sneaking surreptitious glances of toned swimmers. Incidentally, don’t drink and swim. Of course, these views don’t come cheap, but the fantastic sites are more than worth the tag. 18 9th Avenue, 212-660-6736



The Pooldeck at the Empire Hotel
There’s nothing quite like watching an evening melt away while drinking a cocktail on a breezy patio. Do you know what’s even better than a normal patio? A rooftop patio! The Empire Hotel has just opened The Pooldeck – as you may have guessed, there’s a pool up there. Bonus: there are massage services available for anyone who likes a rubdown with their booze. Sadly, you’ll need to be a guest to enter, but if you’ve got the green pony up and rent a room, who knows you’ll maybe even find someone to share your room with on the patio. It’s worth a shot. 4 West 63rd Street, 212-265-7400



Rare Bar and Grill
Providing some of the best views of the Manhattan skyline, as the Empire State and Chrysler buildings are just blocks away, the Rare View Rooftop Garden gets top marks for scenery. The garden-like setting is supported by an outdoor bar serving standard drinks, with beds to lounge on when you've had one to many. While the Rare View doesn't really serve food, head downstairs to Rare, the restaurant, for the ultimate in summer food like a rib eye flambéed in bourbon and topped with cheddar and avocado. Meat cooked in liquor? It's a frat boy's wet dream. –C.S. 303 Lexington Avenue, 212-481-1999