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D.C.'s bar scene is reaching new heights. Nothing lifts our spirits like sipping a cold drink while looking at sweeping views of the District.
Whether you're looking for a sophisticated date night spot or a place to watch sports, D.C. has a rooftop for you.
Here are The Scene's top rooftops (in the order they were added to the list):
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Whitlow's DC
📍 901 U St. NW, Washington, D.C.
🔗 Details
Whitlow's is moving into the space formerly known as The Brixton so it can have more space for live music a few times a month, DJs on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays — and a rooftop serving beach shack vibes.
The menu includes classic bar appetizers ($10-$14), sandwiches ($10-$15), smash burgers ($16+) and entrees ($14-$25), plus fresh, frozen and draft cocktails ($12-$13), beers ($6-$9) and wine ($9).
The spot just reopened in early June with a happy hour menu including $5 rail drinks and draft beers running 5 p.m. to close on Monday, 5-8 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday and 9 p.m. to close on Sunday. Brunch is coming soon.
Baja Tap
📍 2436 18th St., NW Washington, D.C.
🔗 Details
Offering one of the most affordable rooftop happy hours we've found — complete with live music — this Adams Morgan newcomer does tacos, tequila and more California-inspired Mexican fare. The regular menu includes seven margaritas by the glass ($10-$14) or pitcher ($39-$54), plus $8 tap beers, $5 tacos... and a festive $85 torre de tacos.
Ciel Social Club
📍 601 K St., Washington, D.C.
🔗 Details
Go here for a good sunset view and late-night hours (until 2 a.m. on weekends) atop the AC Hotel by Marriott near the Washington Convention Center. The cherry blossom-themed food and drink menu offers cocktails for $18-$20, Japanese whiskies, beers ($8), wines ($16-$35) and Red Bull, plus Japanese bites ($15-$27 or $13 during happy hour and late night).
Weekend brunch includes Southern-influenced eats like chicken and waffles ($20) , classic AM drinks and an option for bottomless Campo Viejo ($40) or Perrier Jouet ($120).
Tickets for their Independence Day fireworks viewing party ($180) are on sale through July 3.
Cleveland Park Bar and Grill
📍 3421 Connecticut Ave., NW, Washington, D.C.
🔗 Details
Just in time for NHL and NBA playoffs season! This Cleveland Park bar has 40 TV screens, making it a great choice for catching the game on the partially-covered roof deck. Snack on burgers, sandwiches, pizza and pasta ($13-$21) while sipping a cold one (most cocktails are $13).
Crimson View
📍 627 H St. NW Washington, D.C.
🔗 Details
You'll find southern appetizers and mains ($7-$17), fresh mixed drinks ($12-$16), beers, ciders and wine, plus a "low to no" proof menu ($10) inside the Motto by Hilton Washington DC City Center hotel.
Lucha Rosa
📍 1011 K St., NW Washington, D.C.
🔗 Details
This bar with Southern Mexican vibes just arrived at the Moxy Hotel rooftop with flavorful cocktails ($16-$20), wines ($16-$19 per glass), bottled and canned beer ($7-$16) and long lists of tequila and mezcal offerings. Entradas, including shrimp or rockfish ceviche, run $16-$18, and individual tacos are $8-$12.
Moonraker at the Pendry
📍 655 Water St., SW Washington, D.C.
🔗 Details
Sweeping views of the Potomac River make this an impressive date spot. The Japanese-inspired menu includes sushi, light bites, handcrafted cocktails ($22), wines by the glass ($20 to $175 for Dom Pérignon Rosé) and Japanese whiskies.
Salazar
📍 1819 14th St. NW Washington, D.C.
🔗 Details
Ring the bell with your ice shot glass, and you'll feel like you’re in college again. Happy hour runs all night on Thursdays and 4-6 p.m. on weekends. The regular menu includes $6 tacos, big plates ($10-$16+), beers and seltzers ($7-$10) and specialty cocktails ($13-$15).
Tiki TNT
📍 1130 Maine Ave., SW Washington, D.C.
🔗 Details
The Wharf's lively tiki bar has a roof deck serving views of the Washington Channel — although we often land on the outdoor patio. Go for tropical drinks, beers and wines, then stay for shareable bowls and snacks.
Zebbies Garden
📍 1223 Connecticut Ave., NW Washington D.C.
🔗 Details
Zebbies Garden is a nighttime into early morning club above the Mayflower restaurant in Northwest. The wildly Instagramable party spot has a retractable roof that makes you feel like you’re not on Connecticut Avenue. Look for them to host themed parties as well like the LGBTQ+ friendly day party “Flower Factory” monthly.
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