Affordable Rooftop Bars – NYC Views Without the Price Tag
Not every rooftop bar needs to cost $25 per cocktail. These spots give you skyline views with drinks under $15.
1. Berry Park (Williamsburg) – $8-12 beers
A beer garden rooftop with Manhattan skyline views. No cover, no dress code, no pretense. Grab a Brooklyn Lager and enjoy the view. The most relaxed rooftop in the city.
2. Hot Tin Roof at The Williamsburg Hotel – $14-18 cocktails
Technically not budget but the happy hour (4-6 PM) brings cocktails to $12. Williamsburg Bridge and Manhattan views. Worth timing your visit.
3. Rooftop at Pier 17 (Seaport) – Free entry
The rooftop at Pier 17 has free public access with Brooklyn Bridge views. Buy a beer from the bar ($10-14) or just enjoy the view for free.
4. The Roof at Whole Foods (Gowanus) – $8-12 beers
Yes, the grocery store. The Gowanus Whole Foods has a rooftop bar with surprisingly good views and cheap beer. Nobody expects it, which is why its never packed.
5. Bookmarks (Midtown) – $14-16 cocktails
Library Hotel rooftop. Empire State Building view. Smaller and less known than 230 Fifth, so easier to get a seat. Cocktails are reasonable for Midtown.
Budget Rooftop Strategy
- Go during happy hour (usually 4-7 PM) for $5-8 off drinks
- Stick to beer over cocktails — saves $5-10 per drink
- Weekday evenings are less crowded and sometimes have specials
- Brooklyn rooftops are consistently cheaper than Manhattan ones
Watch our budget rooftop guide on NewYorkNoNavro YouTube.