Best five summer party venues on the Upper West Side

Host your summer party atop this iconic New York City hotel. The Empire Hotel is known for its bright neon red sign and cameo in Gossip Girl – and the bar honors this with a drink in its name! Just two blocks away from Central Park, host your summer party on their rooftop lounge and art deco-themed bar and hotel. Live in Chuck and Nate’s shoes for an extravagant night filled with drinks, hors d'oeuvres, and an impeccable view in this luxurious hotel.

The Empire Hotel can accommodate around 250 guests for a large summer bash.

Grab some friends and your friends’ friends to cool down this summer at Bodega 88. This casual sports bar can host around 20 people for thirst-quenching frozen margaritas and piña coladas while you watch the many sporting events going on throughout the summer. Feast on ropa vieja empanadas, tacos, burgers, sangria, and more while you and your friends cheer on your team in the Olympics before the summer ends.

You probably drove right over this Upper West Side eatery without knowing. Pier i Cafe is a hidden restaurant under the Joe DiMaggio Highway by Pier 1. This space can host a party of over 20 guests on a beautiful riverside patio and lawn to enjoy a snack or drink as you watch the sunset over the Hudson. Chill out on the Pier 1 boardwalk with a pitcher of frozé, seafood specials, or a specialty buzz from their coffee bar.

Escape urban fatigue in one of New York’s most iconic locations. Tavern on the Green is a magical green garden on the border of Central Park and the Upper West Side. With many indoor and outdoor spaces to book, their garden terrace hosts up to 100 guests and the main courtyard hosts up to 500 to enjoy the summer weather before the leaves change and snow falls. Their extensive menu includes a specialty summer wine list, borough-themed cocktails, and delectable dishes such as their seafood raw bar and lobster or black truffle mac and cheese.

If you frequently walk around Riverside Park, enjoy the view with a drink, dish, and your friends at Ellington in the Park. This two-level patio features picnic tables and dim fairy lights emitting a backyard feel that is scarce for New Yorkers. Enjoy the sunset in the park while sipping a sunset spritz or glass of summer sangria and choose between many street food bites, sandwiches, tacos, or pizza.

To book a party with over 35 guests, contact the restaurant directly.