Hotel Metro Rooftop Bar
While the Hotel Metro Rooftop Bar doesn't exactly draw the same crew that hangs at the Ritz's Batter Park Rise, you can't beat the prices and stellar Empire State Building view at this post-9-5 workday watering hole. A trip through the art deco lobby and a short elevator ride to the 13th floor (not for the superstitious) leads you to the bar where cheap beer and DJ-spun hip-hop awaits. Incidentally, don't bring your mother-in-law, your 5th avenue born and bred date, or the boss (though you might see him hanging around here for Happy Hour). 45 West 35th Street, 212-279-3535



Hudson Sky Terrace
Though you're far, far away from anything in Miami and nowhere near the Caribbean, the Hudson Sky Terrace is happy to help you relive those lazy vacation days in this urban oasis atop the Hudson Hotel. Fully exposed to crisp blue skies and a generous amount of sun, patrons can work on their tans with a cocktail in hand and avoid all the chatter and house music fifteen floors below. Unfortunately for locals wishing to capitalize on the attendant cityscapes, a hotel room-key is required for admittance. 356 West 58th Street, 212-554-6317



Local West
Located right across from Madison Square Garden and the Hammerstein Ballroom makes Local West a pre- and after-show destination filled with suits, tourists, and avid fans alike. With two outdoor spaces, a roof deck and garden patio means that there is plenty of space to get your summer on. Bar food classics like nachos and burgers are served along with two for one martinis and $3 beers during happy hour, making Local West a relaxed place to hang out, even if you don't have tickets to the big game. –C.S. 1 Penn Plaza, 212-629-7070



Me Bar
For a cozy rooftop bar that feels like you’re at a friends place, look no further then Me Bar. Enter through the La Quinta Inn and take an elevator that feels like you're in a can of sardines to a seemingly normal hotel floor. But turn right and see that teensy tiny is the name of the game here in this constantly crowded bar. This helps in making you feel like you are at an exclusive party just for you and your friends. Void of poseurs, the crowd is filled with legit hipsters and yuppies chilling on cheap and colourful patio furniture. –C.S. 17 West 32 Street, 212-290-2460