We’re big fans of Mama Shelter as a hotel and a restaurant, but once we saw the rooftop, we decided we just might move in for good. The bright space is splattered with multicolored sofas and chairs where you can lounge while waiting for your salmon pita to arrive. Cocktails veer from the Mediterranean with a full Moscow mule bar, though you can also find multiple sangrias. On warm nights, you can dance under the stars while DJs spin an eclectic mix of music or take in a classic movie on their outdoor screen. There’s also a foosball table, a yoga area and sweeping views of Hollywood. Like we said—we’re never leaving.
While cities like Miami have a year-round outdoor cocktail culture, for much of the country, sipping a drink while soaking up urban views or waterside vistas is one of summer’s great pleasures. We’ve selected the best rooftop bars for a taste of the high life from NYC to L.A.