That glorious time of year has arrived: The flowers are in bloom, the sun is shining, and the breezes are increasingly less chilly. Sure, the humidity will eventually arrive (it always does), but that’s just another reason to sit atop a building with beautiful views, a refreshing cocktail, and a little bit of wind in your hair. Stop by one of these DowntownDC spots and see what we mean. Or stop at them a few times: After all, there are plenty of warm-weather days ahead to visit them all.
Bar Deco
717 6th Street NW
You will feel the Art Deco period and America’s industrial roots at Bar Deco, where the rooftop is a perfect location to start the evening, and try a new-to-you signature cocktail, before an event at Capital One Arena or a performance at one of downtown’s many theaters. The venue is multilevel — including an indoor dining room and bar for when it rains.
Open 4:00 to 11:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 4:00 to 1:00 a.m., Friday; 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m., Saturday; 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Sunday
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Crimson View
627 H Street NW (Motto by Hilton Washington DC City Center)
Crimson View serves as the focal point for social conversation, a place where guests come to unwind and delight in the view of the Washington Monument at sunset. Here, the bifold glass doors transform the space into a large indoor-outdoor porch where cocktails, local wines, craft beers, and snacks are served.
Open 5:00 to 10:00 p.m., Sunday through Tuesday; 5:00 to 11:00 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday; 4:00 p.m. to midnight, Friday and Saturday
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Deck 11
415 New Jersey Avenue NW (YOTEL Washington DC)
Take in high-rise drinking and dining on top of the YOTEL, where you can enjoy seasonal cocktails and a range of artisanal snacks and bites all summer long.
Open noon to 8:00 p.m., Friday through Sunday
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Hedy’s Rooftop
1155 14th Street NW (Hotel Zena)
Hedy’s Rooftop is a seasonal upscale lounge serving vibrant cocktails, spirits, and small bites. It pays tribute to Hedy Lamarr, the groundbreaking actress, inventor, and film producer whose patents for radio frequency hopping were recognized as the blueprint for Bluetooth technology. Cocktails here reflect her effervescent vibe and celebrate her silver-screen legacy.
Hedy’s will open for the 2023 season on Friday, May 19.
Open 5:00 to 11:00 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday
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Lucha Rosa
1011 K Street NW (Moxy)
Southern Mexico vibes, colorful décor, upscale tacos, tequila, and lively music make Lucha Rosa an inviting and different space for locals and Moxy guests alike. Lively, upscale, and playful, “Lucha Rosa” literally translates to “pink struggle” and is a nod toward Mexican wrestling culture.
Open 5:00 p.m. to midnight, Monday through Wednesday; 5:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., Thursday through Saturday; 2:00 p.m. to midnight, Sunday
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SUMMIT
900 New York Avenue NW (Conrad Washington, DC)
Take in incredible views of downtown, the U.S. Capitol, and the Washington Monument, and enjoy light bites, wine, beer, cocktails, mocktails, and frozé.
Open 4:30 to 10:00 p.m., Thursday through Saturday; 2:30 to 8:30 p.m., Sunday
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VUE
515 15th Street NW (Hotel Washington)
Discover an iconic setting nestled in the stars with views of the National Mall, White House, and Washington Monument. Complement the panoramic scene with seasonal cocktails, bottle service, and delectable surf-and-turf fare.
Open 5:00 p.m. to midnight, Monday through Wednesday; 11:30 a.m. to midnight, Thursday; 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 a.m., Friday; 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. Saturday and Sunday
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Wild Days
1201 K Street NW (Eaton DC)
Wild Days is a bar and music venue inspired by a Parisian winter garden that meets an underground concert, hosting DJs, live music, comedy, and special programming. Comfortable indoor and outdoor seating provides sprawling views of downtown D.C. while you enjoy cocktails, snacks, and s’mores.
Open 4:00 to 10:00 p.m., Sunday through Wednesday; 4:00 to midnight, Thursday; 4:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., Friday and Saturday
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Did we miss a fabulous rooftop patio in the BID? Let us know!