Big Apple Downtown Drink Tour

Everybody knows New Yorkers know how to drink.  This summer, play like a local and try out one of these famed rooftop bars without missing out on the sights that make this city great.  Skip the cab tab, and instead hop on and off at any of the CitySights bus stops.  The All Around Town Tour gives you 48 hours to tour the town’s landmarks, followed by taking in the sights from the heights of some of New York’s greatest rooftop bars.  Pop in for a libation at one of the Squire’s favorite rooftop bars on your journey to discover the essence of New York, or simply, its best happy hour.

Le Bain – The iconic Standard Hotel offers one of the most stunning views of the Hudson River and downtown Manhattan; the hot tubs, waterbeds and crepes don’t hurt either.  Though it’s notoriously difficult to access this golden rooftop, come for pre-dinner drinks and enjoy the sunset before Le Bain turns from serene to a scene.

Roof Garden Café and Martini Bar at the Met – Art lovers rejoice!  Get your daily dose of vitamin A at the Met, and then mosey on up to the roof for a chilled Martini and a view of the entire Manhattan skyline.  This rooftop bar not only sits atop the museum but it also displays a changing sculpture garden and overlooks Mother Nature’s greenest city work, Central Park.

Jimmy at the James Hotel – The mod decor will have you swingin’ and singin’ Bossa Nova tunes and ordering a Blue Hawaiian in no time, flat.  Low plush couches lend a sexy air and a cocktail menu based on American classics, punched up with a modern flair, offers cocktails for any taste.  Be sure to try the crowd-pleasing Mexican Honey Bee, a mix of Milagro Reposado Tequila, Ilegal Mezcal, organic honey, lemon and lavender bitters.

Gramercy Park – 17 stories above the city, this opulent rooftop contains both indoor and outdoor space, with a retractable roof.  Akin to a private salon or drawing room, Gramercy is also host to a rare and cherished display of 20th century masterpieces from renowned artists, Andy Warhol and Damien Hirst.  Enjoy a weekend brunch at the Gramercy and rub elbows with some of New York’s most elite movers and shakers.

La Birreria – For the beer drinker in your group, be sure to check out the roof top of famed Eataly, New York’s artisanal Italian market.  Open year-round, this roof top also has another ace up its sleeve – brewing unfiltered, unpasteurized and naturally carbonated cask ales tableside.  Enjoy Italian eats and German and Austrian brews in a relaxed and communal atmosphere.