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What is better than sipping on a cocktail in the sun and watching the world go by? Whether you’re an NYC resident, you’re here on vacation or you’re filling time between meetings on a work trip, there is nothing more refreshing than a cold drink in the sun when it all gets too much.

From kiosks in the many parks within the city, to street cafes offering seating on the sidewalk or pubs and bars across the city hiding beer gardens, roof gardens and patios within – there is the perfect spot for everyone to enjoy.

Best for Beer Gardens: Loreley Restaurant and Biergarten

Located on Manhattan’s Lower East Side, Loreley was modeled on the “Brauhaus” located in Cologne and is the largest heated outdoor beer garden on the Lower East Side – offering a range of local and imported beers, wines, and spirits, including 12 German-inspired beers on tap. The beer garden is popular and used all year round – but it really comes to life in the summer months.

Best for Roof Terrace: LoHi’s

Being a city of skyscrapers, some of the best places to enjoy a drink in the sun are on one of the city’s many rooftops. With panoramic views, great cocktails, and a great menu to indulge in – it might surprise you to know LoHi’s roof terrace is only on the fourth floor. The roof terrace might not be as high as the other favorites in the city, but the panoramic view is still impressive – and the quirky menu even more so.

Best for Park Life: Maracuja

Located on Grand Street, Maracuja has recently reopened after a 6-year hiatus – featuring $5 beers, $6 wines, and $8 cocktails the beer garden is an oasis in the city, with a natural living canopy that transports you to the middle of the jungle. If you’re an oyster fan (who isn’t?) the $1 oysters during happy hour are unmissable.

Best for Waterfront: Grand Banks

Visit Pier 25 at Hudson River Park for one of the best waterfront bars in the city. The traditional wooden “schooner” – the Sharman Zwicker - is based on the traditional oyster barges from the 19th century and is often named the best waterfront bar in the city. Offering sustainably sourced oysters, as well as all your favorite beers, wines, and cocktails – don’t miss the best summer cocktail location in NYC.

If you’re looking at a summer vacation in NYC, the Hotel Beacon is centrally located allowing you to sleep in the heart of the action and within walking distance of all the best spots – check out our site to learn more about our hotel and the range of rooms we have to offer.