The best outdoor bars in Manhattan

Located on the top floor of the AC Hotel, the Castell Rooftop Lounge will transport you from the chaos of Times Square below to a chic terrace that feels like Don Draper might walk in at any moment. The combination of a sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere and the stunning views of Manhattan makes this the perfect place to unwind with a cocktail.

The drink menu features a wide range of beer, wine, and seasonal cocktails - fruity drinks like the "Coastal Crush" and "Skyline Paloma" would be dreamy additions to a sunny day. They also offer a variety of snacks and small plates, from Insta-worthy charcuterie boards to nostalgic desserts.

The 3,400 sq. ft. of combined indoor and outdoor space can be transformed to fit your event. The open-air terrace adapts to the weather conditions with retractable awnings to keep your guests cool and heaters if your late-night event gets a bit chilly.

The Copper Still is the perfect place for a casual weeknight drink or if you need somewhere to take that friend who studied abroad in Ireland and it became their whole personality. This Chelsea pub is an authentic slice of the Emerald Isle in Manhattan.

Choose from their extensive drinks menu, which includes over 300 whiskeys. Then grab a bite to enjoy on their neighborhood-style patio, which is covered in twinkly lights and is the perfect spot for people-watching. Their menu includes favorites like fish and chips and that classic Irish dish, shrimp tacos (Hey, they look delicious - who are we to judge!)

The Copper Still can accommodate private events of 80-100 people, making it an ideal setting for a laid-back event. They also have a second location in the East Village.

Perched atop the iconic Beekman Tower, Ophelia takes inspiration from the building's art deco facade and fascinating history. The tower was originally a women-only hotel for sorority sisters in the 1920s, but you no longer need to "rush" to get in. Anyone can now enjoy the outdoor terrace's spectacular views and glitzy atmosphere.

The Gatsby-esque glamour of the space is reflected in the decadence of the menu, featuring elegant small plates and luxury champagne experiences. Ophelia also hosts Sunday morning cocktail brunches and Tuesday evening live jazz to truly make you feel like you've stepped back in time.

Ophelia offers tiered corporate and private event packages that allow you to treat guests to an open bar and a selection of appetizers. They also provide the option to work with their team to customize your event.

If you want to forget about your day at the office and feel like you've spent the afternoon wandering the cobblestone streets of a Spanish village instead, stop in The Ten Bells. With rustic interiors and an open-air garden space, this wine bar evokes a relaxed, continental dining experience.

Their selection of natural wines is so vast that the website directs you to a 20-page document categorized by region. If you manage to narrow down your options, take your wine outdoors and enjoy a few tapas al fresco, or partake in their $1 oyster happy hour.

The Ten Bells is a lovely venue for more intimate gatherings. The bar can accommodate up to 43 guests for sit-down meals and 60 guests for standing cocktail parties.

If you're anxiously anticipating a trip to the beach this summer, a few drinks at Gilligan's might make the wait a bit easier. With a palm-covered outdoor bar and chilled-out vibes, Gilligan's makes Manhattan actually feel like an island.

The tropical ambiance is complemented by a summery menu of stone-baked pizzas and seafood. They also have a variety of refreshing cocktails, like the "Spicy Skipper" and "Rock-a-Hula," to get you in vacation mode.

Gilligan's takes reservations and bookings for private events of up to 250 guests for a full buyout. They have an online form with options to plan brunches, evening receptions, and seated meals.