Top 31 Rooftop Bars in/around Washington D.C.
There’s never a dull moment in D.C. Whether you are looking for sunset views along the water or for stunning panoramas of the monuments and the city, you can trust this list to guide you. Sip on fun cocktails and munch on small plates while you explore the best rooftop bars in our city!
by Yelena Nicolle Salvador
1) Top of the Gate
When: Mo-We from 4-10PM; Th from 4-11PM; Fr-Sa from 4PM-12AM; Su from 3-9:30PM
Where: Foggy Bottom
What: Grab a seasonal cocktail or sip on some wine as you enjoy 360-degree views of the Kennedy Center, Potomac River, Key and Arlington Bridges, the Washington Monument, and the DC skyline. You’ll be blown away by the beauty of DC as you watch the sunset and the evening lights glow.
2) El Techo
When: Tu & Th from 5PM-12AM; We from 5-11PM; Fr from 5PM-1:30AM; Sa from 12PM-1:30AM; Su from 12-10PM
Where: Shaw
What: Head to this rooftop jungle whose nickname is “The Adult Treehouse.” Enjoy yummy margaritas and other cocktails, as well as mouthwatering tacos, in an oasis filled with plants, colorful lights, and bumping tunes.
3) Hi-Lawn
When: Mo-Tu from 2-10PM; We-Th from 2-11PM; Fr from 2PM-12AM; Sa from 11-12AM; Su from 11AM-8PM
Where: NoMa
What: Grab your favorite snack or try a new cuisine from Union Market below. Then, head on up to Hi-Lawn for a cocktail and picturesque views of NoMa. Rest on some adirondack chairs, picnic tables, or the turf.
4) Top of the Yard
When: Seasonal & Open Now | Mo-Sa from 3-11PM; Su from 12-8pM
Where: Navy Yard
What: This rooftop bar is open during the Nationals’ baseball season. Sip on a brew with your friends and see expansive views of Nationals Park, Capitol Riverfront, and DC monuments. This bar is a hidden gem, especially when you stop by while the Nats are playing!
5) Moonraker
When: Mo-Sa from 7-12AM; Su from 7AM-10PM
Where: The Yards
What: Savor Japanese cuisine from sushi to Japanese whiskey while indulging in panoramic views of the Potomac waterfront. Whether you stop by for a laid-back vibe during the day or an intimate mood at night, you’ll have a memorable experience at Moonraker.
6) Takoda
When: We from 5-10PM; Th from 5-11PM; Fr from 5PM-3AM; Sa from 12PM-3AM; Su from 12-10PM
Where: Shaw
What: Head to the stunning horseshoe-shaped bar upstairs with a partially covered canopy system. You’ll love this roof deck with its green plants and its ambiance as you munch on all-American food and sip on their expansive beer and cocktail list. Check out their other location in Navy Yard too!
7) Wild Days
When: Su-We from 4-10PM; Th from 4PM-12AM; Fr-Sa from 4PM-2AM
Where: Downtown
What: Head to this Parisian-underground-inspired bar. Whether you chill in their indoor space or hang out on the outside patio area, you’ll love their cocktails, tacos, and s’mores!
8) Colada Shop 14th St
When: Su-We from 7:30AM-9PM; Th-Sa from 7:30AM-10PM
Where: 14th St Corridor
What: The thing that defines this rooftop is the bright pink bar! Enjoy the lively pops of color as you savor Cuban cuisine, coffee, and fun and well-spiced cocktails.
9) La Vie
When: Su-Th from 5-10PM; Fr-Sa from 5-11PM
Where: The Wharf
What: If you’re feeling fancy, head to this rooftop spot for a Mediterranean adventure. With gorgeous waterfront views that are perfect during golden hour, La Vie is an upscale space where you can enjoy carefully curated cocktails and dishes. Brunch is also served on Saturdays and Sundays!
10) Treehouse Rooftop
When: Mo-Th from 5PM-12AM; Fr from 5PM-2AM; Sa from 12PM-2AM; Su from 12-4PM
Where: Mt. Vernon
What: Stop by this lush neighborhood treasure with tropical, imaginative cocktails and shareable plates. You will love the green accents in this jungle space which is complete with plants and rooftop views.
11) Salazar
When: Tu-We from 4PM-Late; Th from 4PM-2AM; Fr from 4PM-3AM; Sa from 11-3AM; Su from 2PM-Late
Where: 14th St Corridor
What: If you’re ready to party and dance the night away, this rooftop bar should be on your go-to list. Sip on tequila, dance under the neon lights, and don’t forget to throw an ice shot at their giant rooftop bell!
12) The Conservatory at Ivy City
When: Th & Su from 5-9PM; Fr-Sa from 5-10PM
Where: Ivy City
What: Transport yourself to a garden hideaway where you can enjoy dishes and cocktails. Wander through the rooftop garden, smell the herbs, and taste them in the meals you will absolutely enjoy at this small, but mighty hidden gem.
13) O-Ku DC
When: Mo-Su from 5-10PM
Where: NoMa
What: This Japanese rooftop bar serves sushi, sashimi, and robata-style dishes. You don’t have to travel far to experience Japanese hospitality at this location. Enjoy this dinner-only restaurant with curated cocktails, wine, or sake.
14) Ciel Social Club
When: Tu-Th from 5PM-12AM; Fr from 5PM-2AM; Sa from 12PM-2AM; Su from 12-3:30PM (Mt. Vernon Sq) & Tu-Th from 5PM-11PM; Fr from 5PM-1AM; Sa from 12PM-1AM; Su from 12-9PM (Capitol Hill)
Where: Mt. Vernon Square & Capitol Hill
What: The gorgeous chandelier and tall windows define this luxurious penthouse lounge. With panoramic views of DC, you’ll feel like you’re living your best life while sipping on one of their cocktails.
15) Tiki TNT & Potomac Distilling Company
When: Mo from 3-9PM; Tu-Wed from 3-10pM; Fr-Sa from 12PM-12AM; Su from 12-9PM
Where: The Wharf
What: Looking for beach vibes? This one is your spot! This bar embodies the definition of a laid-back ambiance by serving great, tropical cocktails in red solo cups. Cool off with the breeze from the river and have a fun time.
16) Perry’s
When: Mo-Th from 4-9PM; Fr-Sa from 4-10PM; Su from 5-10PM
Where: Adams Morgan
What: This intimate rooftop is perfect for a date or a catch up with a friend with its warm string lights and views of Adams Morgan. Don’t forget to reserve a spot for one of their famous drag brunches, one of DC’s firsts!
17) Terrazza at Officina
When: Tu-Th & Su from 11am-9PM; Fr-Sa from 11AM-10PM
Where: The Wharf
What: This rooftop garden getaway will transport you to Italy. Enjoy the small plates or cannolis as you watch the sunset. Plus, you can enjoy live DJ tunes every weekend!
18) The Graham Georgetown
When: Mo-We from 3:30-10PM; Th-Sa from 3:30PM-12AM; Su from 2-10PM
Where: Georgetown
What: Savor the views of Georgetown and the DC skyline that features the Kennedy Center and the Washington Monument. You’ll love the comfy lounge couches and their expansive menu!
19) The Betsy Rooftop
When: Tu-Th from 4:30-10PM; Fr from 4:30-11PM; Sa from 10AM-10:30PM; Su from 10AM-3:30PM
Where: Capitol Hill
What: This hole-in-the-wall restaurant serves small plates with a backyard BBQ feel. Many of the ingredients for their dishes and cocktails are sourced from their rooftop garden! Enjoy the intimate atmosphere at this neighborhood favorite. Follow the graffitied chicken feet to find the entrance.
20) Baby Shank
When: We-Sa from 4:30PM-1AM; Su from 12-5PM
Where: U St Corridor
What: This unique restaurant and bar offers a fusion of French and Japanese cuisine. Munch on their famous fish and chips or some sushi and end your meal with crème brûlée. Don’t forget to grab a cocktail in their romantic and historic bar area.
21) Upstairs at the Morrow
When: We-Th from 4-11PM; Fr-Sa from 4PM-12AM; Su from 4-10PM
Where: NoMa
What: Sit by the fire pits on a chilly night and enjoy sunset or night time views of NoMa and the Capitol. Take a break in the indoor lounge area where you can sip on sparkling wines and other cocktails too.
22) Sushi By Bou
When: Mo-Th & Su from 5-11PM; Fr-Sa from 5PM-12AM
Where: L’enfant Plaza
What: This funky speakeasy has stunning views of the Capitol, disco balls, and a whole lot of color. Enjoy traditional omakase or chef’s choice while sipping on some imported sake and other crafted cocktails.
23) VUE Rooftop
When: Mo-We from 4PM-12AM; Th from 11:30AM-12AM; Fr from 11:30AM-1AM; Sa from 11AM-1AM; Su from 11AM-12AM
Where: Federal Triangle
What: This bar will give you unforgettable views of the White House and the Washington Monument. Plus, people rave about their truffle fries, crafted cocktails, and lobster rolls. The pro tip is getting here to watch the sunset over the People’s House.
24) Smoke & Mirrors
When: Tu-Fr from 4PM-12AM; Sa-Su from 5PM-12AM
Where: Capitol Hill
What: While drinking a cocktail and splitting some small plates, soak in beautiful views of the Capitol building at this rooftop bar. You’ll enjoy the ambiance whether you decide to sit inside their indoor lounge or the outdoor patio.
25) Whitlow’s DC
When: Mo-We from 5PM-12AM; Th from 5PM-1AM; Fr from 5PM-2AM; Sa from 12PM-2AM; Su from 12PM-12AM
Where: U St Corridor
What: This three-floor restaurant has a different vibe as you ascend the building. Enjoy a neighborhood vibe and take in the history of the establishment on the first, watch your favorite sports team or dance on the second, then transport yourself to the rooftop “Beach Bar” on the third.
26) Over Under Sportsbook Rooftop Lounge
When: Mo-Th from 4PM-2AM; Fr from 4pm-3am; Sa from 11AM-3AM; Su from 11AM-2AM
Where: Mt. Vernon Triangle
What: Take in skyscraper views at this lounge’s floor-t0-ceiling glass walls. Enjoy happy hour, cheer on your favorite sports teams on one of their many TVs, and even place a bet on who will win.
27) Sauf Haus
When: Su-Th from 2PM-2AM; Fr-Sa from 12PM-3AM
Where: Dupont Circle
What: This rooftop bar doubles as a beer garden. And it’s the first one of its kind with a retractable roof! Head to DC’s largest authentic German Biergarten for a good time and a wide selection of beers, wines, and spirits.
28) Roofer’s Union
When: Tu-We from 5-11PM; Th from 5PM-12AM; Fr from 5PM-2AM; Sa from 12pM-2AM; Su from 2-10PM
Where: Adams Morgan
What: This three-floor experience is one that you don’t want to miss. On the first floor, enjoy experimental drinks at their cocktail lab. Grab a bite to eat on the second. Then, enjoy beautiful views of the colorful buildings in Adams Morgan as you sip and savor on the third!
29) Summit the Rooftop at the Conrad
When: We-Sa from 4:30-10PM; Su from 3:30-9PM
Where: Downtown
What: Sip on a refreshing cocktail while enjoying views of Downtown, the Capitol, the Washington Monument, and more. You'll love the lush ambiance, the large drink list, and delicious food.
30) Whiskey Charlie
When: Mo-Th from 5-11PM; Fr from 5PM-2AM; Sa from 2PM-1AM; Su from 2-11PM
Where: The Wharf
What: Head to the 10th floor rooftop escape of the Canopy Hotel on the Wharf. Enjoy waterfront views, crafted cocktails, nautical vibes, and yummy finger foods to match the perfect alcoholic bevs while soaking in sweeping views of the city.
31) Rooftop Recess
When: Mo-Th from 3PM-12AM; Fr from 10:30-2AM; Sa from 3PM-2AM; Su from 10:30-12AM
Where: Arlington
What: Explore the best views of Arlington while sipping on expertly hand-crafted cocktails and munching on contemporary American cuisine. Enjoy the 360-degree panoramic experience with your friends.