17 Best Rooftop Bars in L.A. for Sweeping Views & Tasty Cocktails in 2024

You can find the Best Rooftop Bars in Los Angeles, from the iconic Downtown skyline to the shimmering Pacific Ocean. L.A.’s rooftop bars offer a unique way to experience the city’s diverse landscapes and vibrant nightlife.

In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey to the 17 best rooftop bars in Los Angeles. Remember, it has its distinct atmosphere and charm.

You can find all the options, from wanting a laid-back afternoon with friends, a glamorous night on the town, or a quiet escape with a stunning backdrop.

Broken Shaker At The Freehand

Broken Shaker is perched atop the Freehand Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles. Broken Shaker is a vibrant and eclectic rooftop bar that has become a magnetic hotspot for the trendiest hotel guests and youngish Angelenos. This rooftop oasis offers a unique and colorful atmosphere, setting it apart from the typical rooftop experience.

One of the standout features of Broken Shaker is its unique, moderately priced cocktail menu. Thus, it boasts a range of imaginative concoctions. Among them, the Litty City stands out, with its tequila base, lime juice, and coconut chai tea cordial. It also has bitter infused with celery, coconut, and pandan. The creativity in presentation and taste makes Broken Shaker a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts.

The food menu complements the creative libations with offerings providing excellent accompaniments to the rooftop ambiance. Guests can savor these delights, taking in the mesmerizing sunset views of Downtown Los Angeles.

The Rooftop’s laid-back, bohemian atmosphere and colorful surroundings make it an attractive destination if you are looking to enjoy imaginative cocktails. Also, remember the vibrant atmosphere above the city lights. Broken Shaker at the Freehand is an eclectic rooftop gem that adds color to L.A.’s nightlife scene.

Calabra

Calabra is nestled a few blocks from the Pacific in Santa Monica. Therefore, it stands as an upscale Mediterranean-inspired rooftop oasis that offers a taste of exquisite cuisine. But also a breathtaking ocean view.

This seventh-floor hotel lounge is impeccably designed, presenting a visually captivating setting. Thus, it is a top choice for those seeking an elegant rooftop experience on the Westside.

Although Calabra doesn’t feature views of the Santa Monica Pier, it does offer captivating vistas of its design. The lounge’s lounge seating and hidden poolside alcoves create a sense of exclusivity. Also, it provides the perfect backdrop for impressing friends or out-of-town guests.

Reservations at Calabra are strongly recommended, reflecting its popularity as an upscale and fashionable rooftop destination. It is the ideal spot if you are looking to enjoy a stylish Westside experience with incredible vistas.

So, it makes it perfect for special occasions or an elevated night out with friends. Calabra not only provides a refined dining experience but also ensures that every visit is a visually enchanting journey.

The Rooftop At Mama Shelter

The Rooftop at Mama Shelter is nestled in the heart of Hollywood. The Rooftop at Mama Shelter offers a surprising and delightful rooftop experience in a neighborhood. It is not typically associated with rooftop bars. However, it is situated atop a colorful boutique hotel and is a rooftop testament to the treasures you can discover in the city.

The first thing you’ll notice upon arriving at The Rooftop is its cheerful and vibrant atmosphere. The Rooftop is adorned with brightly-hued sofas and chairs. Thus, it creates a relaxed and inviting space for patrons to enjoy the California sunshine. Guests can take in the lively surroundings while waiting for their orders.

One of the highlights of The Rooftop is its diverse cocktail menu. This variety of drinks, along with the scenic views, makes the bar a fantastic spot to unwind.

On balmy evenings, you can enjoy outdoor entertainment, such as D.J.s spinning. It is an eclectic mix of music or classic movie screenings on an outdoor screen. The Rooftop also features a foosball table, a yoga area, and sweeping views of Hollywood, making it a multifaceted entertainment hub.

Unlike many rooftop bars, The Rooftop at Mama Shelter operates on a walk-in-only basis. So it ensures accessibility for all.

Bar Bohemian At Citizen Public Market

Bar Bohemian at Citizen Public Market is nestled in the vibrant Culver City neighborhood. Bar Bohemian at Citizen Public Market is a hidden gem among L.A.’s rooftop bars. It has an intimate and outdoor watering hole. Thus, it is the crown jewel of Culver City’s long-awaited food hall.

While it may not be the biggest rooftop destination in the city, it offers a unique atmosphere. One of the critical attributes of Bar Bohemian is its small size. It contributes to its intimate and cozy ambiance.

As you make your way up the winding stairs of the food hall, you’re greeted by a charming, bush-lined patio that becomes enchanting at sunset. This rooftop oasis is a perfect spot to meet an online date or catch up with a group of old friends.

The notable offerings include the “Not Your Mama’s Iced Tea,” blending tea-infused vodka with lemon juice, peach liqueur, and bitters, and the prosecco-infused options. Thus, it adds a delightful twist to the traditional rooftop drinks.

Bar Bohemian doesn’t need reservations. Therefore, it is an ideal spot for those who prefer a spontaneous rooftop adventure. The laid-back and welcoming atmosphere, with its inventive cocktails and charming patio, is a treasure among L.A.’s rooftop bars.

Upstairs At The Ace

If you seek a laid-back and stylish rooftop experience in Downtown Los Angeles, Upstairs at the Ace Hotel offers a surefire bet. It is perched high above the bustling city, and a rooftop oasis has established itself as a local favorite. Thus, it draws both hip Downtowns and those in search of a relaxed yet vibrant ambiance.

As you step onto the buzzing open-air deck at Upstairs, you’ll find a diverse crowd. They would be sipping on Aperol spritzes and enjoying market-driven bar bites. The Rooftop’s relaxed atmosphere is perfect for an after-work gathering or even a reunion with friends.

There are two bars on-site, and you can always find a spot to order your favorite drink. Be mindful that weekends tend to bring longer lines. So, arriving in advance can secure a prime seating area near the cozy fireplace.

The upstairs at the Ace Hotel captures the essence of Downtown Los Angeles. However, it provides a unique perspective on the city’s skyline. The Rooftop’s crowd mirrors the city’s eclectic nature and makes it an inclusive and welcoming space.

High Rooftop Lounge At Hotel Erwin

The high Rooftop Lounge at Hotel Erwin is situated in the heart of Venice. It offers an enticing beachside escape on the Westside. In a city where beachside rooftops are surprisingly scarce, High Rooftop Lounge has become an in-demand spot for locals and visitors. Therefore, seeking stunning ocean views and refreshing cocktails.

Even if you’re a guest at the hotel, it’s wise to make a reservation at High Rooftop Lounge. The allure of a multi-hued sunset over the Pacific Ocean, paired with a craft cocktail, is a spectacle. Thus, it never fails to captivate Angelenos and tourists alike. To ward off the coastal chill, evening guests can cozy up with one of the bar’s complimentary blankets. It also enjoys a hot toddy or other libations.

Notably, the bar features an adults-only grasshopper cocktail made with fudge, crème de menthe, and ice cream. Therefore, it provides a playful twist on traditional beachside beverages. Additionally, a selection of flatbreads and fish tacos complements the drink offerings, providing a satisfying beachside dining experience.

It offers a relaxed, beachy atmosphere where the captivating views of the Pacific Ocean are the show’s star. However, it makes it a quintessential beachside destination on the Westside.

Perch LA

Perch LA is an enchanting rooftop oasis in the heart of Downtown’s Historic Core. It is a favorite among Angelenos seeking a slice of Parisian charm with breathtaking city views. Its distinctive ambiance manages to captivate both locals and visitors. Therefore, it makes it a must-visit destination in Los Angeles.

The Rooftop’s allure lies in its meticulous design, featuring patterned tile floors and potted trees adorned with twinkling lights. It has an inviting seating area that transports you to a different world. One of the key attractions is the outdoor patio, where guests can unwind by cozy fire pits while taking in the stunning cityscape.

What sets Perch apart is its eclectic cocktail menu that ventures beyond the ordinary. Their kir-style cocktails, which creatively incorporate crème de cassis, are a testament to the bar’s commitment to offering unique libations.

If you are looking to rest after a day’s work, Perch offers Apéritif Hour on weekdays from 4 to 6 p.m. It also attracts a lively after-work crowd. The Rooftop also hosts frequent D.J. sets and live bands, making it an entertainment hub for night owls.

Accessibility is a priority at Perch, as it welcomes reservations and walk-ins.

Desert 5 Spot

Desert 5 Spot is located in the heart of Hollywood. It offers a unique and laid-back rooftop experience in a city known for its vibrant rooftop scene.

Alongside it is named after a Mojave wildflower, this rooftop bar provides a delightful contrast to the glitzy and bustling Hollywood surroundings. Therefore, it makes it an appealing choice for those looking for a more relaxed and approachable rooftop experience.

This bar’s character is deeply rooted in its kitschy aesthetic and pays homage to a roadside country saloon. One of the notable features of Desert 5 Spot is its weekday-only happy hour, running from 6 to 8 p.m. During this time, guests can enjoy $9 cocktails, enhancing the bar’s appeal as a casual rooftop destination.

While the drinks at Desert 5 Spot are attractively priced, it’s the bar’s kitschy vibe, weekday happy hours, and breathtaking views set apart. The bar’s aesthetic is combined with its charming outdoor patio, that’s particularly beautiful at sunset. Therefore, it is the perfect place to meet an online date or enjoy a laid-back evening with friends.

Desert 5 Spot is one of the best rooftop bars in L.A. Meanwhile, it offers an approachable and unassuming atmosphere welcoming everyone.

E.P. & L.P.

E.P. & L.P. is located at the crossroads of La Cienega and Melrose in West Hollywood. Thus, it is a prominent rooftop destination that uniquely balances accessibility and the chance to indulge in rooftop revelry.

However, it is known for its trendy, sometimes try-hard crowd. But E.P. & L.P. offers an assortment of attractions that make it a versatile choice for Angelenos.

E.P. is the rooftop restaurant at this iconic venue, while L.P. operates as a rooftop bar. The restaurant features captivating views, and it’s an excellent spot for an extravagant evening. It also offers a fusion of modern Asian-inspired dishes.

The restaurant’s central location and remarkable views make it a great halfway point for meetups with friends. Meanwhile, L.P. is the ideal spot for happy hour and more casual hangouts.

The views are consistently breathtaking, and it ensures that every visit to E.P. & L.P. is an opportunity to savor the ever-changing panorama of Los Angeles. While the scene can get lively, it provides the quintessential West Hollywood rooftop experience.

Spire 73 At The Intercontinental

Spire 73 at the InterContinental is perched 73 floors above the Downtown Financial District in Los Angeles. It claims the title of the tallest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere. This lofty distinction allows guests to enjoy an unparalleled perspective of the city. A breathtaking panorama of skyscrapers and urban landscapes surrounds it.

The unique selling point of Spire 73 is its elevation. It offers unparalleled views that make it an attractive destination for those looking to experience Los Angeles.

You can look from a truly elevated vantage point. The open-air setting provides an immersive experience, allowing you to peer down on the rest of the city. It emphasizes the sensation of being on top of the world.

While Spire 73 is an impressive rooftop bar, it operates on a reservation-only basis. It also requires a $60 per person spending minimum. This exclusivity may deter some guests, as it can be perceived as a tourist trap.

The recognizable Downtown Los Angeles skyline may not be the primary focus from this height since you’re essentially a part of it. Still, the unique experience of being on the tallest open-air Rooftop in the Western Hemisphere is an attraction.

La Cha Cha Chá

Technically, LA Cha Cha Chá is more of a second-floor restaurant than a rooftop bar in L.A. LA Cha Cha Chá in the Downtown Arts District deserves a place on our list of unique Los Angeles rooftop destinations. It has a charming venue, bringing a slice of Mexico City to L.A. But it is complete with a lush outdoor space adorned with palms, yuccas, and cacti, a tropical oasis in the city.

LA Cha Cha Chá offers a beautiful fusion of Mexican flavors and vibrant cocktails. Guests can choose to sit at the covered bar area or opt for the stunning open-air bar in the center of all the action.

The bar menu includes many delightful options, such as tacos, spas, and their signature strawberry milk punch. Therefore, it is a superb place to indulge in delicious, snackable bar bites.

While the bar area operates on a walk-in basis, the restaurant accepts reservations to ensure accessibility. If you want a lively outdoor bar experience or a charming restaurant setting with an open-air bar, LA Cha Cha Chá delivers it! It is a piece of Mexico City’s charm in the heart of the Arts District and makes it a unique and refreshing addition to L.A.’s rooftop scene.

Canopy Club

Canopy Club is located across the street from Culver City’s Platform Mall. It also offers a relaxed and unpretentious rooftop experience that sets it apart from the vibrant rooftop scenes in Los Angeles. This low-key poolside spot at the Shay Hotel caters to those seeking a laid-back atmosphere. You can find breezy cocktails and a casual California-inspired dining experience.

As the name suggests, Canopy Club brings a sense of outdoor comfort. It has an inviting poolside setting perfect for enjoying sunny Southern California afternoons. The cocktails here are known for being lighter, making them ideal for sipping and relaxation.

One of the critical attributes of Canopy Club is its quieter rooftop environment. It is far removed from the bustling crowds often found in downtown and beachside locations. The relaxed atmosphere and more straightforward menu make it an appealing choice for those looking to enjoy L.A.’s pleasant weather.

Canopy Club welcomes both reservations and walk-ins. Thus, it is accessible to all who appreciate a more casual approach to rooftop lounging. It offers a tranquil alternative to some of the city’s more bustling rooftop scenes for both locals and a visitor. However, Canopy Club provides a pleasant spot for unwinding and enjoying a sunny day.

The Highlight Room

The Highlight Room is atop the Dream Hotel in the heart of Hollywood. It offers an electrifying nightlife-oriented rooftop experience to cater to those seeking a lively and glamorous atmosphere. As one of Hollywood’s premier rooftop bars, it combines panoramic city views with poolside DJs, bottle service, and various events. Therefore, it ensures that the party never stops.

The Highlight Room hosts both evening and afternoon events. So, it includes an ultra-popular Sunday afternoon day club. Also, the freewheeling crowd is always ready for another round of drinks.

Beyond the rooftop bar, The Highlight Room offers a dining option at the Grill, a black-and-white checkered dining room with the Hollywood Sign. The Grill gives a subdued and less booze-fueled experience than the rooftop bar. Therefore, it makes it suitable for brunch or dinner outings.

It offers an exclusive and luxurious experience for those looking to elevate their night on the town. While reservations are available, the venue also welcomes walk-ins. Moreover, they allow for spontaneity in your nightlife plans.

The Highlight Room’s rooftop atmosphere is high-energy. It is an ideal destination for those seeking a dynamic and eventful night out in Hollywood.

Harriet’s Rooftop At 1 Hotel

Harriet’s Rooftop at 1 Hotel in West Hollywood is a glitzy and glamorous rooftop bar. It attracts attention for more than just its high-altitude views. This trendy rooftop destination, perched atop the 1 Hotel, offers stunning city views and a star-studded clientele. Thus, the influencers that frequent it.

Harriet’s Rooftop is known for its ability to draw celebrities and socialites to create a scene that’s perfect for those looking to experience the glitz and glamour of West Hollywood.

The rooftop bar offers a club-like atmosphere, with a crowd ready to party most nights of the week. Reservations and a fashionable group make Harriet’s a nightlife hot spot in the heart of the city.

The cocktails at Harriet’s Rooftop are watered down for their price. The views are truly spectacular, capturing the essence of West Hollywood’s high-energy nightlife. The Rooftop features pricey bar bites and standard cocktails catering to the city’s social scene.

Harriet’s Rooftop provides a rooftop destination for those seeking a high-energy atmosphere with stunning views. In contrast, there may be a more affordable rooftop experience. But Harriet’s Rooftop at 1 Hotel offers an undeniable luxury and glamour high above the city.

Onyx At Hotel Shangri-La

Onyx at Hotel Shangri-La is a discreet rooftop destination in Santa Monica. It offers a unique vantage point to gaze at the Pacific Ocean. It is also the heart of the bustling beachside city.

Alongside, it is located within the Hotel Shangri-La and provides an elevated perspective of the iconic Santa Monica Pier and beach. Thus, it sets it apart from other rooftop bars in the area.

Onyx may seem like a random hotel bar, but it is one of the few good vantage points in Santa Monica. It allows you to enjoy the ocean views with the city’s famous Ferris wheel in sight. It makes it a compelling choice, particularly during sunset and weekends when the bar typically attracts a crowd.

One of the critical attractions of Onyx is its accessibility as a walk-in rooftop destination. Santa Monica is crowded with tourists, especially around the Third Street Promenade. But Onyx offers a welcoming rooftop experience without the need for reservations.

While Onyx may not be known for its signature cocktails or an extensive menu, it delivers where it counts—the breathtaking beachside scenery. It has a casual, accessible rooftop bar to explore with a drink. You can also take in the quintessential sights of Santa Monica. Thus, it is an ideal choice for a spontaneous visit or a relaxed weekend outing.

Skybar At Mondrian

Skybar at Mondrian in West Hollywood is an iconic rooftop hotspot. It brings a unique and lively nightlife experience to the city. Although it isn’t situated on a typical rooftop, it offers an extraordinary setting perched on a hill. It provides breathtaking city views and a vibrant ambiance that sets it apart from other venues.

This trendy and stylish rooftop destination provides a variety of experiences for its guests during the day. As the evening progresses, the venue transforms into a nightlife hotspot, hosting a mix of D.J. sets, pool parties, and lively events.

The crowd at Skybar varies and attracts both young, wide-eyed newcomers to the city and those seeking a more relaxed rooftop experience. The venue’s cabanas, lounge seating, and beautiful outdoor spaces create an inviting environment for all backgrounds.

One of the standout features of Skybar is its outdoor pool. It not only serves as a refreshing oasis during the day but also becomes a lively focal point for evening events.

While the cocktails may lean on the expensive side, the combination of the incredible city views and the unique party atmosphere makes Skybar a must-visit. If you want a lively and distinctive rooftop experience, you can enjoy it in West Hollywood.

Bar Funke

Bar Funke is a renowned pasta maestro and has introduced a delightful addition to the Beverly Hills culinary scene. It has a charming rooftop bar perched atop his hotly anticipated three-story restaurant.

Unlike the dining room below, Bar Funke offers an exclusive walk-in experience. It allows patrons to enjoy some of the city’s most delightful culinary creations without reservations.

The rooftop bar at Bar Funke may offer less expansive views of Los Angeles. But what it lacks in height, it more than makes up for in culinary excellence. Guests are treated to well-executed premium cocktails that complement the sumptuous Italian-inspired bar bites.

The Rooftop offers an al fresco experience where guests can savor the flavors of Italy. They can also enjoy the vibrant ambiance of Beverly Hills. Bar Funke accommodates walk-ins to ensure accessibility for all who wish to indulge in some of the city’s most delectable focaccia and cocktails, even if they haven’t made prior reservations.

While the views from Bar Funke may differ from the star attraction, the rooftop bar’s culinary prowess and premium cocktail elevate it to a delightful rooftop experience.

Conclusion

Los Angeles has consistently pleasant weather and captivating scenery. It has carved out a niche in the world of rooftop bars. From the glitzy high-energy spots to the more laid-back and casual settings, the city offers an array of rooftop experiences. It suits any mood or occasion.

As you’ve discovered in our guide, each rooftop bar in Los Angeles brings its character and charm. It offers remarkable vistas with vast opportunities to create long-lasting rememberings with friends and loved ones.

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