‍Our Favorite Rooftop Bars and Restaurants in DC

‍

Washington, DC, offers incredible rooftop bars and restaurants with stunning views, creative cocktails, and delicious bites. Whether you're looking to sip drinks with a view of the monuments, enjoy a cozy evening under string lights, or dance the night away with the city skyline as your backdrop, this guide has you covered. From laid-back lounges to upscale dining spots, these are the best rooftops to check out on your next visit to the capital.

‍

If this is your first time reading our travel blog, here’s our introduction. We connect NYC-based trip planners to NYC travelers so they can save time planning things to do and enjoy more time doing things they love with the people they love. Space is limited. Reserve time with our team early.

‍

{{ad-three}}

‍

Ok … On to the list

‍

D.C. Rooftops with Views of The Capitol Building

‍

‍

Smoke & Mirrors

This sleek rooftop at the AC Hotel Capitol Hill offers unobstructed Capitol views, fire pits, and a retractable canopy for year-round comfort. Sip creative cocktails like the namesake “Smoke & Mirrors” and snack on elevated bites like mumbo wings and prime rib steak. A stylish spot for sunset drinks or brunch with a view.

‍

‍

Ciel Social Club

With nearly 360-degree city views, Ciel brings luxury to Mount Vernon Triangle. Its Mediterranean-inspired small plates and whimsical cocktails—like a cotton candy-topped French 75—complement a glamorous, see-and-be-seen atmosphere. Perfect for sunset lounging or late-night revelry.

‍

‍

Upstairs at The Morrow

Perched atop The Morrow Hotel in NoMa, this stylish rooftop blends cozy fire pits with playful cocktails (espresso martinis on tap) and elevated bar snacks. With views stretching from the Capitol to the Washington Monument, it’s an effortlessly chic spot for drinks and city gazing.

‍

‍

Sushi by Bou

This disco-themed omakase bar atop citizenM Capitol hotel serves up premium sushi in a lively, intimate setting. Opt for a 12- or 17-course tasting experience alongside sake flights and creative cocktails—all set against a vibrant skyline backdrop.

‍

‍

{{ad-one}}

‍

‍

Bonus! Rooftop with a Presidential View

‍

‍

VUE

While it doesn’t overlook the Capitol, VUE’s rooftop offers a different kind of iconic scenery—panoramic views of the White House and Washington Monument. This chic lounge at Hotel Washington is a favorite among DC’s power players, with a stylish ambiance, craft cocktails, and even bottle service for those looking to level up their night.

‍

D.C.’s Best Rooftops at the Wharf

‍

‍

Tiki TNT

A tiki bar with a rum distillery underneath, Tiki TNT brings playful vibes and tropical drinks to the Wharf. The multi-level space feels like a treehouse, with marina views and a rooftop lawn dotted with pink flamingos. Try house-made rum in classic or frozen cocktails, or hit happy hour (weekdays 3-6 PM) for $9 frozen drinks and island bites like spam musubi.

‍

‍

12 Stories

Perched atop the InterContinental, this sleek rooftop bar boasts some of the Wharf’s best panoramic views. The moody interior leads to a cozy patio, where you can sip creative cocktails like the 'Aren't You a Fineapple' and take in the skyline. Small plates—think miso chicken skewers and tempura zucchini—round out the menu.

‍

‍

Moonraker

The Pendry Hotel’s rooftop bar brings a touch of Tokyo to the D.C. waterfront, with sushi, Japanese whisky, and fire pits for chilly nights. Expect some of the highest Wharf views, plus cocktails with Asian spirits and botanicals. It’s laid-back by day, but turns buzzy after dark.

‍

‍

{{ad-two}}

‍

‍

Officina

Michelin-starred chef Nicholas Stefanelli’s three-story Italian spot saves the best for last—the Terrazza rooftop. Inspired by Roman terraces, it serves seasonal cocktails, bubbly, and small Italian bites. Fire pits and heaters make this a year-round escape with prime river views.

‍

‍

Whiskey Charlie

Nautical vibes meet stunning sunsets at this indoor-outdoor rooftop atop the Canopy by Hilton. The cozy “Cabin” lounge gives way to a deck with fire pits, glass railings, and views of the Potomac. Signature cocktails, shareable bites, and a relaxed-but-sophisticated atmosphere make it a Wharf favorite.

‍

‍

Other Great Rooftops in D.C.

‍

‍

Top of the Gate

Open seasonally, this rooftop at the Watergate Hotel offers some of the best views in the city, stretching from the Washington Monument to the Potomac River. Cocktails and bites are pricey, but for a special occasion, the 360-degree panorama is worth it. Time your visit for sunset to catch the city at its most stunning.

‍

‍

El Techo

This Shaw rooftop is a neon-lit jungle of hanging flowers, glowing lanterns, and tequila-fueled fun. The retractable roof keeps the party going year-round, with strong margaritas, house-made tortillas, and a DJ spinning into the night. Taco Tuesday deals and shareable skull-sized cocktails make it a lively pick.

‍

‍

Hi-Lawn

Perched atop Union Market, this rooftop feels like a backyard picnic with skyline views. Artificial turf, picnic tables, and a laid-back crowd set the scene for draft cocktails, canned seltzers, and comfort food like hot dogs and curly fries. Bring up bites from the market below or stick to Hi-Lawn’s playful menu.

‍

‍

{{ad-three}}

‍

Want more travel inspiration? Each week we share local travel tips with people planning trips. Add your email to become a part of the community. Include your travel dates and we’ll automatically unsubscribe you once your trip ends. 

Use our free trip planner to get organized or get in touch with us if you’d like tips for your next trip!

‍

More Travel Inspiration

The Best Free Museums in Washington DC

The Most Luxurious Hotels in Washington D.C.