DRINK: Best Rooftops This Summer [NYC]

Now that it's officially summer, I wanted to share my favorite rooftops in Manhattan and Brooklyn.  Or at least do a top 3 list.  Now, I am not one for pretentious rooftops that are hit or miss if you can get in, so these are a couple of my favorites plus one that I'm dying to try.  Granted, in the summer even these unpretentious rooftops may have a wait to get in, but only because rooftops are limited and it's just a numbers game--not because you're not cool enough.

Pod 39 (145 East 39th Street, New York)

Pod 39 might be my favorite.  A friend of mine told me about it last summer and it's a great spot to hang out and have a few drinks.  It is in the Pod Hotel, but it's actually part of Salvation Taco which I have heard good things but I've never eaten there.  This is important: do not go straight upstairs to the roof.  They will make you go downstairs and check in at Salvation Taco--you get a stamp and them you can go up.  I can't tell you how many times I've seen people mess this up.

I had actually tried to go here around 6pm on a Thursday a couple of weeks ago, one of the first really nice days in a while, and there was a bit of a wait.  But a friend went the other day and said it was fine.  And whenever I've gone here I've never had to wait a super long time.  Even though it's in Midtown, the views aren't really what you're going for here.  The architecture is beautiful and the people that go there are chill and laid back.  Not overly touristy or douchy, if you know what I mean.  Check it out.

Berry Park (4 Berry Street, Brooklyn)

This is probably an obvious one, but it's just great.  It's exactly what I look for in a rooftop and it's not far from the city at all.  Super easy to get to, and always a great time.  The downstairs is quite larger but the roof on top is a great size and while it might be crowded at first if you just wait it out a little I've always found a table/spot to hang out.  Perfect for those warm summer nights with good friends and drinks.

Canopy Bar @ Output (74 Wythe Avenue, Brooklyn)

This probably goes against what I said earlier about "chill place to drink on a roof" because it's actually a club--BUT it's chill, I swear!  You can drink on the roof during the day and then at night listen to some of the best house music around.  Output may actually be one of my favorite clubs in the city, but the rooftop is just as amazing.  Amazing views of the city and yeah, you're at Output so try going home after a few drinks--you'll probably find yourself wandering out at 6am--but at least you can say you watched the sun set and rise?

Gallow Green (542 West 27th Street, New York)

This is the one I was saying that I want to go to, but haven't had the chance yet.  I also have to mention that I haven't seen Sleep No More yet, but I am determined to go this summer!  This is relevant because Gallow Green is actually in the McKittrick Hotel, where Sleep No More takes place.  That will be my goal, ha.  But honestly, this rooftop looks incredible.  You got plants everywhere, twinkle lights, and great cocktails (I hear) so in my book, this moves to the top of my list.  And you can bet I'll write about my experience here once I do.

I am looking to explore more rooftops (Night of Joy in BK looks great) but these are the ones I am excited for this summer!  See you there :)

**All photos were copied from the sites**