Discovering Rooftop Elegance in Los Angeles
Skip the Search of “Rooftop Bars Near Me” and Read along for your guide to the Best Rooftop Bars in Los Angeles
Imagine winding down a sunny Los Angeles day with a spectacular sunset view, a cool breeze, and a drink in hand, all from a vantage point above the bustling city. This picture-perfect scenario drives many to search for “Rooftop Bars Near Me,” revealing a treasure trove of elevated escapes within the City of Angels. Los Angeles, known for its diverse culture, entertainment industry, and picturesque landscapes, offers an equally varied range of rooftop bars and lounges. Whether you’re looking for a laidback spot in Santa Monica, a glamorous evening in Hollywood, or an upscale night out in West Hollywood, the city caters to every style and budget, ensuring that your search leads to numerous captivating options.
Methodology: Rating the Skyline Sanctuaries
Our journey to curate the best rooftop bars in Los Angeles was meticulous, focusing on factors that enhance the rooftop experience. The criteria include ambiance, view, cocktail selection, service quality, accessibility, and the unique features that set each venue apart. Personal visits, customer reviews, and expert opinions contributed to our comprehensive assessment, ensuring that our recommendations are not just places but experiences. This blend of firsthand observation and community feedback has shaped a list that promises unforgettable nights under the LA skyline.
The Pinnacle of Leisure: The Top Rooftop Bars in Los Angeles
Los Angeles’ skyline is dotted with numerous rooftop bars, each offering its unique allure. Here’s a closer look at the top picks across Santa Monica, West Hollywood, and Hollywood.
Santa Monica
The Penthouse at The Huntley
This upscale venue combines breathtaking ocean views with a sophisticated dining experience, ideal for those looking to indulge in gourmet cuisine and inventive cocktails.
Calabra at the Santa Monica Proper Hotel
Offering a mesmerizing blend of indoor-outdoor dining with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Monica. This rooftop restaurant and bar captivates with its Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, inventive cocktails, and a laid-back, yet sophisticated atmosphere perfect for any occasion.
West Hollywood
E.P. & L.P.
With its vibrant atmosphere and expansive city views, E.P. & L.P. is a favorite for those looking to enjoy Asian-inspired cocktails and bites under the stars. A haunt for local and tourists alike, you’ll always find well-dressed individuals looking to enjoy a good time.
Skybar at the Mondrian Hotel
Skybar is a magnet for both locals and tourists seeking a glamorous night out. Known for it chic decor and variety of events, you’ll thoroughly enjoy the view at the top of the Sunset Strip from this Hotel.
The Roof at Edition West Hollywood
This rooftop Bar in West Hollywood dazzles with its chic, modern design and stunning views of Los Angeles, offering a luxurious lounge experience with top-tier cocktails and an exclusive ambiance.
Hollywood
Mama Shelter
Blending colorful decor with a laid-back vibe, Mama Shelter’s rooftop boasts a 360-degree view of the Hollywood sign and downtown LA, perfect for a casual night out.
The Highlight Room
Located atop the Dream Hollywood, this exclusive rooftop lounge offers a pool, restaurant, and nightclub experience, all with breathtaking views of the Hollywood Hills and the city.
Bar Lis
One of the newer additions to the rooftop bar scene in Hollywood, and it does not disappoint. The design captures the spirit of Southern California and the French Riviera – inspiring elegance and class. Not only known for its breathtaking views, this rooftop bar offers live music and DJs several nights a week.
The Best Rooftop Bars in Beverly Hills & DTLA
We would be remiss if we didn’t include best rooftop bars in Beverly Hills and downtown Los Angeles. Venues in Beverly Hills are perfect for those seeking an upscale experience, where the city’s elegance can be savored from above, amidst sophisticated decor and a tranquil atmosphere. On the other hand, rooftop bas in Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA), pulsates with a different energy. Expect a diverse crowd, combined with stunning panoramic views of the city skyline and a dynamic social scene.
Beverly Hills
Rooftop by JG at the Waldorf Astoria
Offering a luxurious oasis atop the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, featuring breathtaking views and a menu of gourmet, globally-inspired dishes. Undeniably, the BEST location for stunning views of Beverly Hills.
Above Beverly Hills at the Sixty Beverly Hills Hotel
This chic, intimate rooftop bar also offers panoramic views of Los Angeles. This bar is primarily ideal for a sophisticated night out in a more fun and casual setting.
Downtown Los Angeles
Perch
The French-inspired bistro creates a classy ambience with the combination of live music and stunning city views from its beautifully decorated outdoor terraces. Excellent spot for food, beverages, and an all-around good time.
Spire 73
An excellent spot for those who want a bit of an adrenaline rush as it is not technically on the ‘rooftop’ but, on the 73rd floor of the InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown. This bar currently stands as the tallest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere, offering innovative cocktails and sweeping cityscapes. This bar offers indoor and outdoor seating (be wary of windy days as it gets quite strong!).
Broken Shaker
Lastly, this jaunt delivers a vibrant, eclectic cocktail experience in a lush, garden-like setting in the heart of Downtown LA. Expect a fun and lively crowd as there are many events and meetups held at this bar.
Selecting Your Skyline Retreat
Choosing the right rooftop bar depends on the occasion, time of day, and personal preferences. For a relaxed sunset viewing, spots like High Rooftop Lounge and The Penthouse offer serene environments. Conversely, venues like Skybar and The Highlight Room are perfect for those looking to dive into the night with a vibrant atmosphere. Starting your evening at a rooftop bar allows you to enjoy the sunset and city lights coming to life, while ending your night at one can provide a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle.
Navigating the Highs and Lows
While rooftop bars offer an elevated experience, there are considerations to keep in mind. Age restrictions, dress codes, and cover charges are common, aimed at maintaining an exclusive atmosphere. Additionally, some venues might require reservations, especially on weekends or for special events. Weather can also play a role; though rare, inclement weather might limit access to outdoor spaces.
Los Angeles: A City of Rooftop Wonders
Los Angeles’ rooftop bars epitomize the city’s diverse and dynamic nature, offering something for everyone. From the laid-back vibes of Santa Monica to the glittering nights of Hollywood and West Hollywood, each venue provides a unique way to experience the city from above. While the search for the perfect spot might seem daunting, the variety ensures that there’s always an exceptional place waiting to be discovered. For those looking to navigate these options with ease, considering a Private tour in a luxury SUV with Classic Experiences can reduce the stress and tailor the experience to your preferences, ensuring that every moment spent in LA’s rooftop bars is nothing short of spectacular.
