Let’s just say that D.C. loves its booze. So why not see the Washington Monument from the top of a rooftop bars that’ll not only offer extraordinary views of the entire city, but also a little special something extra?
Look over the Potomac River into Virginia at sunset while holding a sage-infused margarita in hand. Yes, it’s a glorious experience for sure, and with warm days and nights finally here for good, it’s time to take a seat up top at one of the area’s endless array of dives, beer gardens, and local institutions with rooftop access that’ll cater to any taste or budget. From wild and crazy to totally chill or super fancy, here are the five best rooftop bars in D.C.
Get started by finding the perfect rental in Washington, D.C.
Our Picks For The 5 Best Rooftop Bars In D.C.
Image credit: tripadvisor.com
1. The Observatory
Sitting atop the Graham Georgetown, this one offers a truly D.C. rooftop experience, with stunning vista views all around the bar, as well as a reputation for being the gathering spot for the Gala Set and all the power movers and shakers in town. Find politicians, lobbyists, and K Street lawyers mingle together for food, drinks, and nice over-the-river views into Virginia.
The Observatory located at 1075 Thomas Jefferson St NW in Get started by finding the perfect rental in Washington, D.C.Get started by finding the perfect rental in Washington, D.C.
Image credit: hstcountryclub.com
2. H St Country Club
This the beach-themed top deck has got it all: Lifeguard chairs, strung-up light bulbs, endless margaritas and tacos, plus ping pong and cornhole activities-- you won’t even notice the lack of sand.
It’s one of those absolute local gems that make the trek out to H Street totally worth it, especially those Official Outdoor Game of People Who Drink Too Much Before Sporting Events, which offer fantastic fun all by themselves. Along with a super casual atmosphere and a decent bar menu, there’s no better spot for day drinking along with a heaping place of nachos and your best bros. Order a nice pitcher of inexpensive margaritas to satisfy you summer lawn game addictions. Jeah.
H St Country Club is located at 1335 H St NE in Get started by finding the perfect rental in Washington, D.C.Get started by finding the perfect rental in Washington, D.C.
Image credit: dcclubbing.com
3. Brixton
Grab English brews and bitters on tap while surrounded by green marble bars and wrought-iron railings on a very big deck slash roof at the corner of 9th and U St. You can even get the full across-the-Pond experience by heading down to the loo at this popular happy hour locale.
It’s a British pub situated in the heart of the nightlife hub that is U Street, offering an unofficial dress code and tons of well-groomed Millennials jamming out to some of the latest beats. Plus, with Happy Hour deals where all draughts are $2 off and all wings go for just six bucks, it’s pretty much the perfect place to chill out at.
Brixton is located at 901 U St NW in Get started by finding the perfect rental in Washington, D.C.Get started by finding the perfect rental in Washington, D.C.
Image credit: jackrosediningsaloon.com
4. Jack Rose Dining Saloon
It’s the heaven of all things whiskey, where you’ll find stacks and stacks of dusty bottles climbing high up to the ceiling. And if you climb up the stairs, you’ll find yourself face to face with a surprisingly hip rooftop open-air bar that’s got a view that aims totally uphill.
You’ll not only have all the local sights and sounds of Adams Morgan there to enjoy while downing a flight of whiskeys with a few friends, but also an array of spring-inspired cocktails and fresh from the grill snacks to choose from. There's even a small Tiki bar upstairs in the back. What could be better than whiskey, whiskey and more whiskey?
Jack Rose Dining Saloon is located at 2007 18th St NW in Get started by finding the perfect rental in Washington, D.C.
Image credit: povrooftop.com
5. POV Rooftop Lounge
See all of D.C.’s best monuments from this terrace slash bar slash lounge. Yes, it’s all three!
Snag a table for a mid-day meal of crab cakes and herbed shrimp pizza, or have an evening to remember with the cocktail culture that kicks into full swing after 7p.m.—it’s the perfect setting for mixing and mingling all on top of the W Hotel. Cheers!
POV is located at 515 15th St NW in Washington D.C.
Get started by finding the perfect rental in Washington, D.C.
This article was written by Pamela Chan.