The Best Outdoor Bars in Midtown

Getting any New Yorker to visit Times Square is a big ask, but we promise this sophisticated oasis is worth dodging tourists and being blinded by billboards. From the elegant, modern decor to the jaw-dropping panoramic views, The Skylark is an ideal location for an elevated cocktail party.

The bar offers a variety of refreshing cocktails that pay homage to the city, like the Empire G&T and the Strawberry Fields. Their menu of light bites includes twists on comfort food favorites, such as crispy chicken sliders and boozy apple pie wontons.

The Skylark is made up of both indoor and outdoor spaces, each with views from Midtown to the Hudson River. The venue can accommodate up to 150 guests for private events.

It's no mystery why this rooftop bar would make for an iconic night out in the Big Apple. With front-row seats to one of the best views of the Empire State Building on their outdoor terrace, this dazzling bar rivals the Broadway shows on the streets below. The decor evokes 1920s New York, taking inspiration from the Hitchcock film Rear Window.

Their food menu includes brunch, savory small plates, and decadent desserts, while their drinks menu includes a variety of fun cocktails and mocktails, like The Tiramisu Martini.!

The venue can be split into three separate rooms to best fit your event, with a full buyout accommodating up to 75 guests.

If you're looking for a more rustic, laid-back outdoor bar, Refinery Rooftop is a perfect location for savoring a delicious drink and taking in the city skyline. The twinkling string lights, exposed brick, and cozy seating nooks will transport you to a homey backyard patio - until you notice the Empire State Building looming above.

In keeping with the al fresco theme, the cocktail menu includes summery drinks like the Garden Terrace Spritz and the Rooftop Sparkler. The food menu features an elevated version of backyard barbecue food with seafood starters, burgers from the grill, and flatbread pizzas.

The retractable glass roof makes this a perfect venue for enjoying Midtown views year-round. A full buyout is available for up to 200 guests.

With a whimsical carnival theme and an enchanting view of New York City, Magic Hour Rooftop Bar and Lounge is sure to bewitch your guests. The outdoor terrace is covered in sparkling lights, while the indoor space evokes a 19th-century circus, complete with an antique carousel.

The menu is sure to appeal to your inner child with brunch options like pink pancakes topped with cotton candy or giant croissants coated with frosting and sprinkles. The cocktail selection also plays on childhood nostalgia with drinks served in juice pouches and TV show-themed options like the "We Were on a Break."

The space can be reserved for up to 300 guests.

If you happen to find yourself without plans when the sun is shining and the humidity is bearable, keep 230 5th Rooftop Bar in mind. As New York's largest indoor/outdoor bar, you won't have to worry about fighting for a seat on their massive outdoor terrace filled with sun loungers.

The food menu includes options for snacks to share, small plates, and larger entrees. They also offer a wide variety of refreshing cocktails, including eight flavors of frozen margaritas, perfect for staying cool on a hot summer day.

The space can be enjoyed year-round with igloos in the winter to ensure you can enjoy the views while staying warm. A full buyout is available for up to 500 guests.