Discovering Cities from Above: Rooftop Views Around the World
Rooftop Views: Exploring the city from above
There’s something about seeing a city from above that makes it all feel new again. The familiar streets and buildings take on a different perspective, and suddenly everything feels more alive. Rooftops have always had an allure for urban explorers looking to capture the perfect shot or experience the thrill of being in a forbidden space. Here, we’ll explore some of the best rooftop views in cities around the world.
New York City is known for its skyline, but there are plenty of places to see it from above that aren’t just tourist traps like Top of the Rock or Empire State Building. One hidden gem is Westlight, a rooftop bar in Brooklyn that offers stunning views of Manhattan across the river. You can also head over to Williamsburg’s The Ides at the Wythe Hotel where you can get panoramic views while sipping on craft cocktails.
Chicago has equally impressive skyscrapers as New York, and one way to experience them up close is by visiting Cindy’s Rooftop Bar atop Chicago Athletic Association Hotel. This spot offers beautiful views of Lake Michigan and Millennium Park along with delicious drinks and food.
If you’re looking for something more unconventional than typical rooftop bars, London has lots to offer when it comes to alternative spaces with great views. One such place is Frank’s Cafe & Campari Bar located atop a multi-story car park in Peckham offering unobstructed 360-degree vistas across south-east London.
For those visiting Paris seeking breathtaking aerial photos without having to pay fees like Eiffel Tower admission prices should check out Printemps Haussmann department store’s tenth-floor terrace which delivers amazing perspectives down onto Boulevard Haussmann below alongside iconic landmarks including Opera Garnier and Sacre-Coeur Basilica perched atop Montmartre Hillside.
In Asia, Bangkok provides some fantastic opportunities for discovering unique rooftops; Above Eleven, situated in the Sukhumvit district, gives a stunning view of the city’s skyline along with its famous night markets. And if you’re looking for something more exclusive, The Roof@38th Bar at Mode Sathorn Hotel offers 360-degree views of Bangkok and is only accessible by elevator.
In Hong Kong, many buildings have rooftop spaces that are open to the public. One such place is Sevva, which sits atop Prince’s Building in Central District presenting panoramic views over Victoria Harbour while enjoying chic cocktails and Asian-inspired cuisine.
While it’s always important to be aware of safety concerns when exploring rooftops, there are plenty of legal options available too. Many cities offer observation decks or publicly accessible rooftops with stunning views without any risks – New York City’s High Line Park being one example where visitors can enjoy amazing vistas across Manhattan from an elevated walkway above former railway tracks on West Side.
Rooftop exploration isn’t just about getting great photos or experiencing a thrill but also seeing your city from a different angle and appreciating all the small details that may have gone unnoticed before. So next time you find yourself in a new metropolis, consider taking to the heights for an unforgettable perspective on everything below.