7 Family-Friendly NYC Restaurants With a View

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While observation decks like the Empire State Building’s 86th and 102nd floors offer some of the best family-friendly skyline views (check out our blog on NYC’s best observation decks here!), another great way to take in the city is by grabbing a bite at a rooftop restaurant. Most rooftop spots in NYC are bars and typically 21+, but some of the city’s best and largest rooftops allow kids either anytime with a guardian or during specific hours before the nightlife crowd rolls in.

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As Local Experience Designers, we know how common these requests are from families—and how frustrating it would be to make the subway trip only to find out kids aren’t allowed. That’s why we’ve put together this list to help you plan, but it’s always a good idea to check ahead, as policies can change. If you’re looking for a way to keep track of your travel ideas, our free travel planning tool might come in handy!

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If this is your first time reading our travel blog, here’s our introduction. We connect NYC-based trip planners to NYC travelers so they can save time planning things to do and enjoy more time doing things they love with the people they love. Space is limited. Reserve time with our team early.

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Ok … On to the list

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NYC’s 7 Best Year-Round Rooftops That Allow Kids

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230 Fifth Rooftop Bar

This well-known rooftop bar offers incredible Empire State Building views at night, and it’s also famous for its weekend brunches. During the afternoon, the vibe is more laid-back and family-friendly, making it a great option for families. Kids are welcome at any time, except on weekends after 7pm when the crowd shifts to a more party-oriented atmosphere.

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Haven Rooftop

For the ultimate escape from the busy streets of Times Square, Haven Rooftop at the Sanctuary Hotel offers a fantastic family experience. The cocktails are top-notch for a rooftop in such a tourist-heavy area, and the food menu is just as impressive. Kids are welcome until 10pm, making it a great place for an early evening visit.

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Time Out Market Rooftop

A fantastic family-friendly rooftop experience, Time Out Market in DUMBO offers stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan skyline. The food hall below serves up a variety of local food options, perfect for a family outing. It also boasts a great public bathroom for a break after walking the bridge. Kids are always welcome here, and some food stalls even offer kids menus.

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Westlight

Westlight, located in Williamsburg, is a rooftop gem in one of Brooklyn’s trendiest neighborhoods. This chic, artsy area feels like the Brooklyn equivalent of Soho, and Westlight itself offers sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline. It’s a stylish spot with a great vibe for families to visit, and kids are welcome at any time, allowing everyone to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views together.

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St. Cloud

Located above the Knickerbocker Hotel in Times Square, St. Cloud is a standout rooftop known for its craft cocktails and spectacular Midtown views. It’s a unique spot where families can enjoy the view, as long as kids are accompanied by a guardian over the age of 21. This makes it a great choice for families with older children who want to experience Times Square from a different angle.

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Electric Lemon

Located in Hudson Yards, a chic new neighborhood close to Hell’s Kitchen, Times Square and the High Line, Electric Lemon offers gorgeous views of the Hudson River. Known for its modern art-inspired ambiance and new American menu, this rooftop is more of a restaurant than a bar, making it a great family-friendly option. Kids are welcome at all times, offering a relaxed environment for both parents and children to enjoy.

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NYC’s Best Seasonal Rooftop That Allow Kids

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Cantor Rooftop Garden at The Met

What better way to start or end a day at the Metropolitan Museum of Art than with a visit to the ticket-inclusive Cantor Rooftop Garden? Featuring a small cafe, sculpture garden, and a direct view of the expansive Central Park behind the Museum and Upper West Side to the front. Cantor is more of a warm-weather experience than the other rooftops on this list and is only open April through October every year. The sculpture exhibit is constantly rotating during the on-season.

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Our team of trip consultants builds tailored plans for travelers from around the world visiting NYC. We’ve built a wide range of plans for family trips, anniversaries, birthdays, and other special occasions, even for solo travelers treating themselves. Each plan is built with a 3-step process: 

Step 1: Bucket your must-see attractions 

Step 2: Add in restaurants, rooftops & other hidden gems 

Step 3: Create a custom map and provide transportation tips, so you know the best way to navigate the city. 

Click here to have our team tailor your New York trip itinerary today or check out a few of our sample plans here.