Happy end-of-June!

As summer is officially in full swing, I wanted to roundup a few of my personal favorite rooftops to go for happy hour deals, after-dinner drinks, or just to catch a breeze and escape the DC heat on a summer’s day. Below is a list of places I’ve loved going to and want to share with you all!

Top of the Gate – Watergate Hotel

This is my favorite rooftop in DC – the sunset views over the potomac are simply the best in the city! Top of the Gate is the spot I take friends or family visiting from out of town and I love to just grab a glass of wine and enjoy the view on my own. However, you are paying for the view, so I’d recommend sticking to a cool glass of wine and some truffle fries while you’re there, before heading to dinner – it’s the perfect aperitivo!

Colada Shop (14th Street NW location)

This spot has been a fave since I first moved to DC. It’s my go-to spot to watch the Pride parade each June, and I absolutely love their selection of coffees, mojitos, and empanadas.

The Rooftop at the Graham Georgetown

This classic Georgetown spot is always beautiful decorated with faux wisteria or cherry blossoms, and offers delightful views of M Street. If you’re looking for a place to grab a perfectly crisp rose or aperol spritz and people watch, this is the spot for you!

Hi-Lawn at Union Market

This space right on top of Union Market really comes alive during the summertime! This rooftop/eatery/greenspace is located right on top of all the incredible food and shopping of Union Market and boasts it’s own selection of snacks and craft cocktails. They also host tons of community events, from weekly games of bocce, cornhole, bingo, and trivia, to concerts and movie nights – you’re never bored at this spot!

Treehouse Rooftop – Hotel Nell

I was introduced to this spot through a DC Blogger Union event earlier this year and was impressed by the green ambiance of the space, amazing food and drink selection, and friendly staff. It’s on the top of my list to return for one of their special events or late night DJ parties!

Baby Shank

This place is a newer find that was suggested by a friend but it didn’t disappoint! I adored the cute rooftop that offers both sunny lounge seating and a shaded bar area so you can choose your level of sun exposure. The great happy hour deals on their delicious food and drinks definitely made this one of my new fave finds!

Jack Rose Dining Saloon

While it’s been a minute since I’ve visited this spot, I fondly remember the great beer, whiskey, bourbon, and scotch selection. It is also a classic DC establishment and definitely worth a visit at least once if you live in the area!

Roof Terrace Restaurant at the Kennedy Center

Similar to the views at the Top of the Gate, the Roof Terrace also has beautiful sunset views over the potomac. They have a fabulous selection of seasonal cocktails and a delicious dinner menu – it’s perfect for dining at right before a show!

12 Stories

I absolutely loved the panoramic views at this rooftop spot along the Wharf. It’s a perfect space for grabbing drinks with the girls, going on a date, or pregaming before seeing a show at the Anthem!

Smoke & Mirrors Rooftop Bar

This is another spot I was introduced to through the DC Blogger Union. Located between Capitol Hill and Navy Yard, Smoke & Mirrors overlooks the iconic U.S. Capitol Building and has a wide selection of craft cocktails and fun shareable bites – their brunch in particular is delicious!

Officina at the Wharf

I’m a big fan of this three-story Italian restaurant located along the Wharf. The delicious food and classic drinks make it a perfect date night or GNO spot!

VUE Rooftop

The views from this restaurant of downtown DC truly can’t be beat – however, it’s definitely the priciest spot on this list. I’d definitely recommend stopping by for a quick, simple drink to take in the views late at night to top off a dinner downtown.

Looking for even more spots to check out that I haven’t yet been to but are super popular? Check out these lists from DC Eater and The Rooftop Guide!

I hope this inspires you to take advantage of DC’s fantastic rooftop bar scene and make the most of these long summer days! And DC friends, please let me know if there are any spots not on my list that I should check out ASAP!

XOXO

Parisa