15 Awe-Inspiring Rooftop Hangouts in the US

It took longer than usual but rooftop season has arrived across much of the U.S. Whether you're just looking to take in some breathtaking city views or indulge in a one-of-a-kind cocktail, these sky-high hangouts are sure to impress.

ROOF on theWit in Chicago is a year-round hotspot thanks to a retractable roof and a climate-controlled space. Guests here are entertained on a regular basis by world-class DJs and will enjoy gorgeous views of Millennium Park, the Chicago River and other popular sights from the 7,000 square-foot indoor/outdoor venue.

The rooftop at Mama ShelterLos Angeles offers one of the best views in the city. Patrons are able to see the famous Hollywood sign far off in the distance along with plenty of other landmarks as they sip a cold cocktail and chow down on a build-your-own meat and cheese board.

Head to the 40th floor of the EAST Miami Hotel and you'll find Sugar, an Asian-influenced restaurant and bar offering tremendous views of Miami and its famous waterways. Sugar fittingly takes on a tropical feel and the good vibes carry on well into the early morning since it's open until 3 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

Located on the 24th floor of the Hyatt Centric The Loop Chicago, AIRE is a beloved summertime hangout thanks to its 360-degree views of the Chicago skyline, open fireplaces for chilly nights and a sizable craft cocktail list.

The massive Marquee Nightclub & Dayclub at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas spans more than 60,000 square feet and boasts a rooftop patio overlooking Sin City. World-class DJs keep the party going all day long so you can transition from poolside cabana to dance floor without skipping a beat.

Top of the Gate is relatively new to the Washington, D.C. rooftop bar scene but its location atop the iconic Watergate Hotel gives it a distinct advantage over other sky lounges. Visitors will be blown away by sweeping views of the Potomac River, the Washington Monument, Kennedy Center and other sights that are only enhanced by a spring or summer sunset.

There are plenty of inviting rooftop bars and lounges to choose from in the Big Easy. However, Hot Tin, which is located on the roof of the historic Pontchartrain Hotel, is perhaps more worthwhile than most. Uninterrupted views of New Orleans help set this spot apart. Of course, specialty cocktails like the Champagne Safari and Hibbity Dibbity don't hurt either.

Highlights at the Raised rooftop bar in Chicago include stunning views of the Windy City skyline and Chicago River, comfortable couches, fire pits, cabanas, wines on tap, local craft beer and a food menu featuring sharable plates.

Nashville's L27 Rooftop Lounge is the highest in the Music City. As its name suggests, this hangout sits 27 stories above the city on top of The Westin Nashville. The recently transformed space features an outdoor terrace, indoor lounge and a pool that's complemented by a seasonal menu including innovative cocktail programming.

If you're looking for a foodie paradise in the sky, you'll find it on the 16th floor of the Kimpton EPIC Hotel in Miami. Area 31 not only boasts panoramic views of the city but a stellar seafood-centric menu utilizing locally sourced ingredients.

The Altitude Sky Lounge atop the San Diego Marriott Gaslamp Quarter opens just in time for Happy Hour at 5 p.m. daily and keeps the party going until 1 a.m. In addition to DJs and firepits, guests can anticipate impressive views of Petco Park.

Situated atop the Revere Hotel in Boston Common, Rooftop@Revere is a luxe oasis high above Beantown that's open seasonally from May to September. Here, guests can secure their own private cabana, snag a comfortable couch or take a swim nearby in the indoor heated pool. In addition to snacks and salads, the menu features more than a half-dozen rooftop cocktails, draft and can beer as well as sangria and a variety of wines.

Denver's Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, or "WTF," is home to over 90 whiskeys and 30 beer taps so you're guaranteed to find something that suits your taste. Just be sure to grab a seat outside in the sun where the live music tends to sound even better in the summer.

There's a lot to love about Jones but the outdoor patio here stands out. The 8,000 square-foot patio boasts a colorful garden, tons of fresh air and loads of sunshine. If you're looking for a brunch spot in the Bay Area, look no further than Jones.

If the dozens of craft brews on tap at City Tap House don't win you over, the outdoor terrace certainly will. On top of a relaxed atmosphere ideal for patiently sampling a variety of beers, the rooftop lounge features plenty of seating, lush vegetation and pleasant views of Philadelphia.