VIBE

Set on the top floor of the swanky Hotel Gansevoort, this rooftop bar and lounge showcases breathtaking panoramas of Midtown’s skyscrapers and the nearby Hudson River. That is, if you can see through the throngs and throngs of Manhattan’s fashionably fierce Sex and the City types that flood the place. The outdoor space offers lovely summer breezes, while a handy glass enclosure ensures that the party rages through all seasons.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

In this see-and-be-seen crowd, keep it sexy yet classy with a low-cut sleeveless top, chic skirt, wow-worthy heels, and your favorite designer clutch.

GO HERE WITH

A group of friends; a date

CROWD

Meatpacking’s fashionable beauties, tough-guy hotshots, well-coiffed couples, the occasional tourist, and the even-more-occasional celeb.

WHY WE LIKE IT

Despite the teeming masses, expensive cocktails, and restricted access to the visible and tantalizing outdoor pool, it’s still worth taking your chances for the hot scene and one of the best views on this side of town.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

Since private parties are hosted here many nights of the week, you may have a hard time gaining entry unless you’re on the guest list (or visiting during off-peak hours, like weeknights). Also, as at most trendy venues, the cocktails are overpriced.

GOOD TO KNOW

Although the drinks are expensive, they’re pretty generous–almost worthy of the price tag. The bar overlooks the hotel’s heated rooftop pool, but the pool’s for registered guests only.

OTHER LOCATIONS

Gansevoort Park Avenue (New York)

CLOSEST COMPS

ABH (Los Angeles); Soho House New York (New York)

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to New York City.