
Top of the Strand Hotel
Intimate rooftop lounge at The Strand Hotel with dramatic Empire State Building views and a retractable roof.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic

Top of the Strand Hotel
Best Time
Golden hour magic

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Intimate rooftop lounge at The Strand Hotel with dramatic Empire State Building views and a retractable roof.
"The best part about this spot is the view. You can see for miles, and the skyline is incredible. "

🎯 Book Your Table Early
Essential for sunset views! Secure your spot to avoid disappointment. :ticket:
🍸 Cocktails Can Be Strong
Enjoy the drinks, but be mindful of their potency! :cocktail_glass:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Empire State Building Views
Rooftop Lounge
Dramatic, unobstructed views of the iconic Empire State Building, especially stunning at sunset.

Craft Cocktails & Bites
Rooftop Bar
Enjoy well-made cocktails and a selection of pizzas and wings, perfect for a night out.

Retractable Roof Ambiance
Rooftop Lounge
Experience the city skyline in comfort, rain or shine, thanks to the adaptable roof.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Prime Views
Consider Your Visit Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Your Table Early
Essential for sunset views! Secure your spot to avoid disappointment. :ticket:
🍸 Cocktails Can Be Strong
Enjoy the drinks, but be mindful of their potency! :cocktail_glass:
🎶 Music is Poppin'!
Expect a lively atmosphere with great music, perfect for a night out. :musical_note:
☔ All-Weather Ambiance
The retractable roof makes it a great option even on rainy nights. :umbrella:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Your Table Early
Essential for sunset views! Secure your spot to avoid disappointment. :ticket:
🍸 Cocktails Can Be Strong
Enjoy the drinks, but be mindful of their potency! :cocktail_glass:
🎶 Music is Poppin'!
Expect a lively atmosphere with great music, perfect for a night out. :musical_note:
☔ All-Weather Ambiance
The retractable roof makes it a great option even on rainy nights. :umbrella:
💰 Pricey but Worth It
While on the higher side, the views and experience are often considered worth the cost. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking views of the Empire State Building and the lively atmosphere, making it a popular spot for nightlife and sunset appreciation. However, some guests have found the food quality inconsistent and the prices high, with mixed experiences regarding drink preparation.
"Excellent service tonight on the ROOFTOP! Beautiful view of the Empire State Bldg with a great cocktail, delicious Margherita pizza base with Genoa Salami, & really good EMPIRE WINGS Seasoned with BBQ or Sriracha!!!
And the music is POPPIN' !!!!! 🕺🏾💃🏾
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED 🤩"
Dwayne Blackwell
"The drinks weren’t any good. We had a cheese and charcuterie-to-be table; the food wasn’t fresh at all. Prices are pretty high, we spent almost 100 for two and we only had one drink each and that poor table. The best thing of the place is the view of the Empire State, but you couldn’t see anything because it was full of scaffolds (and believe me, the Empire State is huge). We really don’t recommend the place."
Agustín H. Arias Deceglie
"The best part about this spot is the view. You can see for miles, and the skyline is incredible. The drinks are also very strong, so be careful!
The food is fantastic as well. I ordered the chicken, and it was cooked to perfection. The service was great, and the staff was very friendly.
I would highly recommend this spot to anyone looking for a great time."
Daulet Nurmanbetov
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Top of the Strand Hotel is centrally located in Manhattan. You can easily reach it via subway lines like the N, Q, R, W, B, D, F, M to the 34th Street-Herald Square station, or the 6 train to the 33rd Street station. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.
While there isn't dedicated hotel parking, several parking garages are located in the vicinity of the Strand Hotel. It's advisable to check parking apps for availability and rates beforehand.
If you're staying in Midtown Manhattan, walking to the Top of the Strand Hotel is a pleasant option. It's situated in a vibrant area with many attractions nearby.
The closest subway stations are 34th Street-Herald Square (N, Q, R, W, B, D, F, M) and 33rd Street (6 train). Both offer convenient access to the hotel.
The rooftop is located on the top floor of The Strand Hotel. Follow signs for the hotel's amenities or ask the concierge upon arrival.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While not always strictly required for general entry, booking a table in advance is highly recommended, especially for peak hours like sunset, to guarantee a spot with a view.
The rooftop typically opens in the late afternoon and stays open into the night. Hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information.
There is no explicit entrance fee, but there is a minimum spend requirement for tables, especially during busy periods.
Yes, table reservations are strongly encouraged and can often be made directly through the hotel or their reservation platform.
The dress code is generally smart casual. While not overly formal, guests are encouraged to dress stylishly to match the upscale ambiance.
🎫 🏙️ Onsite Experience
The rooftop offers spectacular panoramic views of the New York City skyline, with a prominent view of the Empire State Building. It's a popular spot for sunset and nighttime cityscapes.
Absolutely! The stunning skyline views, especially during golden hour and at night, make it an ideal location for memorable photos.
Yes, families are welcome during the day, particularly in the late afternoon, to enjoy the views.
The music is often described as 'poppin'' and lively, with DJs sometimes playing house music, creating a vibrant nightlife atmosphere.
Yes, the rooftop features a retractable roof, allowing guests to enjoy the views in various weather conditions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The menu typically includes pizzas, wings, and charcuterie boards. While some reviews praise the food, others suggest it can be pricey and not always fresh.
Reviews are mixed. Some find the drinks to be strong and enjoyable, while others have had less positive experiences with drink quality and preparation.
Prices are generally considered to be on the higher side, reflecting the prime location and views. Expect to spend around $100 for two people with one drink each and a small bite.
Some guests have reported that the food, particularly charcuterie, was not fresh. It's advisable to manage expectations regarding the food quality.
Yes, Margherita pizza is often mentioned as a menu item, along with other toppings like Genoa salami.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset and the hour after, known as golden hour, offer the most dramatic lighting for skyline photos. Nighttime also provides a beautiful illuminated cityscape.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is sufficient for most visitors. For more professional shots, a camera with a wide-angle lens would be beneficial to capture the expansive views.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, professional shoots or extensive tripod use might require prior permission.
The edges of the rooftop facing the Empire State Building and the general skyline offer the most iconic photo opportunities.
Yes, the craft cocktails are often visually appealing and make for great photos, especially with the city backdrop.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the evening hours might lean more towards a nightlife vibe, a daytime or early evening visit offers a more relaxed atmosphere for families. Consider making a reservation for an earlier slot to ensure a comfortable experience. The views of the Empire State Building are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
💖 Couples Seeking Romance
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Skyline View
Beyond the Empire State Building, the rooftop provides sweeping views across Manhattan and beyond. The retractable roof adds to the appeal, ensuring that the stunning scenery can be enjoyed regardless of the weather. This flexibility makes it a reliable choice for a memorable evening out, whether you're a tourist or a local looking for a special night. The combination of the view and the sophisticated atmosphere makes it a popular choice for celebrations and romantic evenings.
For photographers, the rooftop is a dream. The changing light throughout the evening offers diverse opportunities for capturing the city's energy. From the warm hues of sunset to the vibrant glow of the illuminated skyline at night, every moment presents a new visual spectacle. It's a place where the city's grandeur is on full display, offering an unforgettable backdrop for any occasion.
Navigating the Culinary and Cocktail Scene
However, other patrons have noted that the food quality can be inconsistent, with some finding charcuterie boards not to be fresh. The pricing is also on the higher side, which is common for rooftop venues in prime New York City locations. Visitors should expect to pay a premium for the ambiance and the view. Some guests have also reported issues with drink preparation and the quality of ingredients, suggesting that while the bar aims for craft cocktails, the execution can sometimes fall short.
Despite mixed reviews on the culinary aspects, the vibrant atmosphere and the music often compensate for any shortcomings. The rooftop is known for its 'poppin'' music, making it a popular spot for those looking for a lively night out. For those prioritizing the view and the energetic vibe, the food and drink experience can still be a satisfying part of the overall visit.
Community Insights: What Travelers Really Think
However, some travelers have expressed disappointment with the quality and freshness of the food, particularly charcuterie boards, and mixed feelings about the drink preparation and value for money. The prices are noted as being on the higher side, which is a common observation for rooftop bars in NYC. Despite these criticisms, the spectacular views are consistently praised as the main highlight, making it a worthwhile destination for many, even with its drawbacks. The retractable roof is also a plus, ensuring enjoyment in various weather conditions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit