Rooftop Bars in Seattle: The Top 7 to Explore Rooftop Bars in Seattle: The Top 7 to Explore

Rooftop Bars in Seattle: The Top 7 to Explore

Explore the 7 best rooftop bars in Seattle that offer the best ambience, delectable cuisine, and classic cocktails here!

Seattle is one of the trendiest cities, well-known for the cocoa culture that exists among its residents.

It is also famous for its picturesque skyline with the Space Needle standing tall along with the rooftop bars in Seattle.

Rooftop Bars in Seattle: The Top 7 to Explore

It’s extremely boring to talk about the weather all the time, but we can’t help ourselves at this time of year. Winter seems to last forever and ever, as every promise of early summer is met with rain (which is fine) or another cold spell (no).

However, the glimmer of hope is visible, and summer is on its way. This draws us to one of the season’s most important aspects: rooftop drinking.

Rooftops are far from the poorly lit, huddled-by-the-fire-for-warmth drinking of the winter season, and they are exploding with amazing views, which make them premier locations for an evening (or afternoon) libation.

If you want to see the finest of the city and its people, you should go to a rooftop bar in downtown Seattle. You will have a place to enjoy the beauty of the place and the friendliness of the people.

As a result, here are a few rooftop bar choices in this city for you to consider. Scroll down below to find the list of our specially curated top 7 rooftop bars in Seattle.

1. The Mountaineering Club

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Mountaineering Club, Photo by Taryn Elliott on Pexels Copyright 2022

First, on the list of the top 7 rooftop bars in Seattle is The Mountaineering Club. It is a stylish rooftop bar, located on the roof of the new Graduate Hotel, which opened in 2019, and offers some of the most amazing views of Seattle from any restaurant or bar.

The spirits and cocktail menu are extensive, with options for single malt, Irish, Canadian, and Japanese whiskeys, as well as brandy, hard liquor, gin, and rum, a list of house cocktails is also available.

The menu includes appetizers such as shrimp cocktails, sandwiches, and entrees such as baked lamb ziti and a boil with prawns, corn, potatoes, and sausage served with baked goods. Reservations are strongly advised at the mountaineering club rooftop bar.

Where to find: 4507 Brooklyn Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98105

2. Rooftop Brewing Company

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Photo by Rachel Claire on Pexels, Copyright 2022

Second, on the list of the top 7 rooftop bars in Seattle is The Rooftop Brewing Company.

This Queen Anne brewery’s space is designed for outdoor drinking, as the name suggests. The rooftop patio has picnic tables, which are ideal for playing board games with friends (dogs and kids are allowed, too).

If the weather turns chilly, there’s usually a food truck in the parking garage, as well as heating systems and a basket of heavy blankets.

Where to find: 1220 W Nickerson St, Seattle, WA 98119

3. MBar

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Photo by Rachel Claire on Pexels, Copyright 2022

Third, on the list of the top 7 rooftop bars in Seattle is, MBar.

This Seattle rooftop bar is one of the very few rooftop bars in Seattle on this list, and some may consider it to be one of the finest Seattle restaurants with views.

However, because of its stunning views of Lake Union and inspiring interiors, it’s a popular spot for after-work drinks.

Make reservations because they can fill up quickly. The crowd is frequently youthful and dolled up, so feel free to dress up as well. The rooftop patio here is amazing!

It can also be tricky to sort out just how to get in. The elevators are housed in the same tower as several other restaurants and stores, so enter through the gates beside Mochi Donuts.

Once inside, take a slight right and you’ll see someone waiting for you at a kiosk on the wall opposite where you entered. Honestly, the view of Lake Union along with the rooftop patio makes this one of the best Seattle rooftop bars.

Where to find: 400 Fairview Ave N, 14th Floor, Seattle, WA 98109

4. The Fog Room Sky Lounge

Next on the list of the Top 7 Rooftop Bar Seattle is The Fog Room Sky Lounge.

The Fog Room is among Seattle’s best rooftop bars, which is rather underappreciated. It’s inside The Charter Hotel and doesn’t have one of Seattle’s best water views, but it feels like you’re immersed in the gleaming structures.

They also have a fantastic bar program and an extremely knowledgeable staff.

You can also make reservations at the Fog Room. In their indoor or outdoor space, they have a mix of lounge chairs and tables. The majority of the indoor couches have good views as well, but they explicitly state if you like being outdoors.

The hand-crafted cocktails here at this charter hotel bar are delicious, but if you enjoy sipping spirits, order one of their flights while sitting on the rooftop patio.

Where to find: 1610 2nd Ave, Seattle, WA 98101

5. Smith Tower Observatory Bar

Fifth, on the list of the top 7 Rooftop bars in Seattle is the Smith Tower Observatory Bar.

If you’re familiar with the Seattle skyline, you’ve probably seen this tower. It’s a white, historic-looking structure near the stadiums with a pyramid-like roof.

This tower’s base houses a gift shop and a small museum, which you must pass through to reach the vintage lifts that will take you to the observation deck.

When you’re at the observation tower, there’s a wood-clad bar in the corner with speakeasy-style bar vibes. It’s fun to get a drink before venturing out for some (windy) views.

Have The Great Seattle Fire if it’s available. It’s a spicy margarita-like beverage that’s one of Seattle’s best cocktails!

Where to find: 506 2nd Ave #35, Seattle, WA 98104

6. Old Stove Brewing

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Photo by Maria Orlova on Pexels, Copyright 2022

Sixth, on the list of Top 7 Rooftop Bars in Seattle is Old Stove Brewing.

Pike Place Market is among the best ways to spend 24 hours in downtown Seattle, and no trip to Pike Place Market is complete without a stop at Old Stove Brewing. It has amazing views of the water and is ideal for taking in market’s hustle and bustle.

Old Stove Brewing is crowded and does not accept reservations, so arrive at odd hours to get a table! A tasting flight is the best way to discover their beers!

Where to find: 1901 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98101, United States

7. Mercado Luna

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Photo by Rachel Claire on Pexels, Copyright 2022

Lastly, on our list of top 7 Rooftop Bar Seattle is Mercado Luna.

For a lively atmosphere, head to Patio Cielo on the roof of Mercado Luna. There’s music, a taco stand, a Mexican ambiance, and a walk-up tavern here.

Reservations are required. When you arrive, go through the side entrance on Summit Ave, where you will most likely encounter a bouncer. Prepare yourself for strong drinks once you’ve entered. There will be a party!

The spicy margarita is a must-try. They don’t play around with the heat! If you’re hungry, go for nachos. They’re enormous!

Where to find: 422 E Pine St, Seattle, WA 98122

Honourable mentions

Our list of honourable mentions includes some of the customers’ favourite rooftop bars in Seattle which missed the Top 7 list.

5 Must See Rooftop Bars to Visit in Seattle

The Nest

Did a speck of Los Angeles appear astride the Thompson Hotel? The people are lovely, but the reservation policy is strict. The cocktail menu is diverse, but summery drinks, such as Moscow mules, blossom on the open-air couches regardless of the weather.

The view, on the other hand, could not happen anywhere else. It’s a rare rooftop view that gives you a bird’s-eye view of Pike Place Market, as well as every angle of Elliott Bay splendour.

Where to find: 110 Stewart St, Seattle, WA 98101

The Lookout

While it does not have a rooftop bar, it seems to have a fantastic outdoor deck with spectacular views of the city. This dive bar is among Seattle’s best-kept secrets. Get a rooftop bar experience for a fraction of the cost!

Shafer Baillie Mansion is a historic Tudor Revival home on Millionaire’s Row in the vibrant Capitol Hill neighbourhood. This female-led boutique hotel provides a luxurious stay in a majestic mansion. Look into their last-minute offer!

Where to find: 757 Bellevue Ave E, Seattle, WA 98102, United States

The Pink Door

Between Belltown and Downtown, The Pink Door is a thrilling, highly-rated Italian restaurant. But this isn’t just any Italian restaurant: there are burlesque and trapeze artists who will keep you entertained throughout your meal!

If the acrobatics get you in the door, the food and drinks will keep you there. I’m crazy about their cioppino and spicy pizza Bianca.

Where to find: 1919 Post Alley, Seattle, WA 98101

Terra Plata

This stunning Cap Hill diner is ideal for a few cocktails partnered with a few of the signature dishes. Choose from Peruvian chicken or Korean-style short ribs, and don’t forget about their Monday Night Paella.

Terra Plata provides an “earth to plate” experience and the best ingredients available. Share with your friends this incredible rooftop on the west side of Capitol Hill, and have a wonderful summer day.

Where to find: 1501 Melrose Ave, Seattle, WA 98122

Frolik Kitchen

It’s located in the heart of downtown inside the Motif Hotel near the 5th Avenue Theater and has a contemporary feel with outdoor seating, string lights, and fire pits.

This spacious indoor or outdoor drinking destination is 4,000 square feet in what used to be The Red Lion and is full of fire characteristics, Powerade ping-pong tables, and plenty of ice-cold light summer cocktails to help you beat the heat (if you’re actually too hot, you could always just sit inside, as indoor dining is also available).

This location can be a little young and clubby. Get their prosecco pops if they’re available! They look great on Instagram.

Where to find: 1415 5th Ave, Seattle, WA 98101

Ben Paris

Surprise! You can reserve tables on the rooftop at this brilliant eatery in The State Hotel. Most locals are unaware of this, but it’s an excellent way to enjoy dinner and the city views.

Reservations are required, and tables are expensive. You can also just get some food and book a room at a few other cool Seattle hotels. Ben Paris has an outstanding cocktail program that changes regularly, so trust the bartenders!

Where to find: 130 Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101

Maximilien

Maximilien is an intimate and charming French restaurant with a gorgeous rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Puget Sound, the mountains, and the Seattle skyline.

The terrace was previously a summer-only hotspot, but thanks to some cool and cozy rooftop igloos, it is also now readily accessible during the colder months.

Genuine French cuisine, refreshing cocktails, and over 100 exclusive French and Northwest wines are available here. This is amongst the best Seattle rooftop bars.

Where to Find: 81A Pike St, Seattle, WA 98101

Conclusion: 7 Best Rooftop Bars in Seattle

These are some of Seattle, Washington’s best rooftop bars. As you’ll see, the above bars differ in design aesthetic, ambiance, food culture, and classic cocktails option, so there’s something for everyone.

Be it happy hour, unparalleled views, or specialty cocktails, Seattle has it all. Have fun exploring!

Last Updated on June 14, 2023 by somya909