When New York City turns into a beautiful winter snow globe, the best way to enjoy the splendor is from a warm, cozy spot far above the streets. The city has no shortage of amazing places to watch the snow fall, whether you want a cozy indoor corner with a glass of wine, a Michelin-starred view of famous landmarks, or a sky-high refuge where snowflakes almost touch your fingers.
These high-up getaways provide great vistas, fresh food, soul-warming drinks, and all the beauty of winter without the slush. They are located from the Lower East Side to Midtown and beyond. Here are the nicest rooftops and sky lounges to enjoy the most beautiful weather in New York City.
Nestled in the heart of the Lower East Side, the indoor/outdoor rooftop at UNTITLED boasts unobstructed views of downtown and midtown Manhattan, an ideal front row seat for the city’s weekend snowglobe. The intimate, warmly designed space is every New Yorker’s dream, complete with floor to ceiling windows, velvet couches and armchairs, and a wood-beamed ceiling. Guests can cozy up with a glass of wine alongside comforting bites from the new rooftop menu, including a warm sourdough grilled cheese and creamy tomato soup. If you’re feeling playful, (zip up your coat!) and step outside to catch some snowflakes.
With its cathedral height ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows that wrap around the restaurant, Chef Daniel Boulud’s Michelin-starred retreat in the heart of Midtown is the perfect place to watch the snowfall. The restaurant’s bar overlooks Grand Central Terminal and the Chrysler Building, providing incredible views of the snow-covered landmarks.
Apres Cafe at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
1,100 feet above Madison Ave., SUMMIT One Vanderbilt and its onsite bar and cafe Apres offer some of the closest vantage points to the falling snow. After making your way through the immersive observatory and art installation, finish a visit with snacks and signature cocktails like the SUMMIT Sunset Margarita or the Midnight Gin & Tonic at Apres, with sweeping 360-degree views of the city as a backdrop. Even step out onto the open air terrace to catch a few snowflakes on your tongue! SUMMIT tickets are required to visit Apres.
Perched 18 stories above Times Square, Magic Hour Rooftop offers a front-row seat to the snowfall without stepping outside, thanks to sweeping wraparound windows and panoramic skyline views. For winter, the all-season rooftop has transformed into Magic Hour Mountain Lodge, a cozy Western winter escape complete with plush lodge décor, après-ski–inspired cocktails, and winter desserts. It’s the perfect viewing spot to pretend you’re in the Alps as the city turns into a snow globe below. No parka required.