Cool Bars A Short Walk From The Empire State

Once you’ve looked out across Manhattan from the top of the Empire State Building, there’s only one direction to go: down to street level for a well-earned drink. Whether you’re after rooftop cocktails with skyline views, a cozy pub for people-watching, or a lively bar with great beer and live music, the neighborhood around this famous skyscraper delivers. We’ve rounded up 15 of the best bars and pubs near the Empire State Building—split by vibe and price point—to help you toast your way through Midtown with confidence. 

230 Fifth Rooftop Bar 

• Walking distance: 0.4 miles (~8 minutes) 

• Nearest subway: 28th St (R, W) 

• Known for: Rooftop cocktails with skyline views 

• Google rating: 4.3 

230 Fifth is one of the largest and most beloved rooftop bars in Manhattan, and for good reason. With sweeping views of the skyline and a clear line of sight to the Empire State Building, it’s a must for those wanting to sip in style. The rooftop garden is open year-round — expect palm trees in summer and heated igloos in winter. The vibe is fun and social, with DJs on the weekends and plenty of space to mingle. Signature drinks like the “Empire Sunset” and their frozen rosé are perfect for warm days, while winter brings hot cocktails like spiked cider. The indoor lounge area offers a quieter space if you're avoiding the weather. Whether you’re visiting for the view, the atmosphere, or the Insta-worthy skyline backdrop, 230 Fifth is a destination bar that delivers on every level. 

Refinery Rooftop 

• Walking distance: 0.3 miles (~6 minutes) 

• Nearest subway: 42nd St–Bryant Park (B, D, F, M) 

• Known for: Craft cocktails and chic ambiance 

• Google rating: 4.4 

Refinery Rooftop is located on top of the Refinery Hotel and brings a fashionable, design-forward flair to Midtown’s bar scene. Its industrial-chic space features exposed brick, greenery-lined walls, and a retractable glass roof that makes the view enjoyable all year long. The drinks here are seriously good — think espresso martinis, cucumber-lime gimlets, and a punchy “Refinery Old Fashioned” with bourbon and spiced syrup. The crowd skews stylish but not stuffy, and the small bites menu makes it a great place to linger. Whether you're looking for a pre-dinner aperitif or a nightcap with views of the Empire State, Refinery Rooftop’s balance of atmosphere, quality, and location makes it a standout. It’s a solid choice for date nights, catch-ups with friends, or winding down after a day of sightseeing nearby. 

Spyglass Rooftop Bar 

• Walking distance: 0.2 miles (~5 minutes) 

• Nearest subway: 34th St–Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W) 

• Known for: Elevated cocktails with close-up Empire State views 

• Google rating: 4.5 

Spyglass Rooftop Bar feels like a secret worth sharing. Set on the 22nd floor of the Archer Hotel, this sleek bar offers jaw-dropping close-up views of the Empire State Building that you won't get anywhere else. Floor-to-ceiling windows give the space a glamorous, enclosed vibe, while the terrace is ideal for taking in fresh air and skyline snaps. The drinks are stylish but balanced — try the “Spyglass Martini” or their hibiscus margarita for something with a twist. The décor nods to vintage New York with modern edge: brass accents, plush seating, and just enough glitz to make the whole thing feel special. It’s perfect for smaller groups or date night vibes, and while it can get busy, it never feels overwhelming. For location, cocktails, and ambiance — all within five minutes of the Empire State Building — Spyglass is an unforgettable pick. 

Bar Cima 

• Walking distance: 0.3 miles (~7 minutes) 

• Nearest subway: 42nd St–Bryant Park (B, D, F, M) 

• Known for: Latin-inspired cocktails with skyline vistas 

• Google rating: 4.5 

Bar Cima brings rooftop energy with a twist — literally, thanks to its menu of tequila- and mezcal-forward cocktails. Situated atop the Grayson Hotel, this stylish rooftop bar leans into Latin American flavors and flair. The vibe is chic but festive, with warm wood tones, mood lighting, and plenty of lush greenery. Views of the Empire State Building, along with both rivers, make it a rare find for a Midtown rooftop. Cocktails like the “Cima Margarita” or the smoky “Oaxacan Old Fashioned” are expertly balanced and served with a side of skyline. Small plates include guacamole, ceviche, and grilled skewers, making it an ideal spot to start (or end) your night. If you’re looking for something lively but well-executed, Bar Cima’s blend of flavor and view makes it a perfect Empire State pairing. 

Mid-Range 

The Ragtrader & Bo Peep Cocktail and Highball Store 

• Walking distance: 0.3 miles (~6 minutes) 

• Nearest subway: 34th St–Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W) 

• Known for: Classic cocktails and live jazz 

• Google rating: 4.5 

The Ragtrader offers a two-in-one experience: a bustling gastropub upstairs and a cozy, vintage-inspired speakeasy downstairs known as Bo Peep Cocktail and Highball Store. Upstairs, you can enjoy hearty American fare and a selection of well-crafted cocktails in a space that pays homage to its garment district roots. Downstairs, Bo Peep transports you to a bygone era with plush seating, antique decor, and live jazz performances. Signature drinks like the "Bo Peep Martini" and the "Highball Express" showcase the bartenders' expertise. Whether you're in the mood for a lively dinner or an intimate evening of music and mixology, this spot delivers on both fronts.

The Liberty NYC 

• Walking distance: 0.2 miles (~4 minutes) 

• Nearest subway: 34th St–Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W) 

• Known for: Craft beers and elevated pub fare 

• Google rating: 4.3 

The Liberty NYC combines the comfort of a traditional pub with the flair of a modern bar. Its spacious interior features exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and a long bar that invites patrons to linger. The drink menu boasts a rotating selection of craft beers, classic cocktails, and a curated wine list. Popular choices include the "Liberty Mule" and local IPA selections. The food menu offers elevated takes on pub classics, such as truffle fries and gourmet burgers. With its welcoming atmosphere and attentive service, The Liberty is a great spot for both casual gatherings and more festive occasions.

The John Dory Oyster Bar 

• Walking distance: 0.5 miles (~10 minutes) 

• Nearest subway: 28th St (R, W) 

• Known for: Fresh oysters and seafood-centric cocktails 

• Google rating: 4.2 

The John Dory Oyster Bar is a seafood lover's paradise located within the Ace Hotel. The bright, airy space features nautical decor and a raw bar that showcases a rotating selection of fresh oysters. The drink menu emphasizes seafood-friendly cocktails, such as the "Sea Breeze Spritz" and the "Gin & Tonic with House-Made Tonic." With its focus on quality ingredients and a relaxed yet refined atmosphere, The John Dory is perfect for a leisurely lunch or a pre-dinner aperitif. 

Oscar Wilde 

• Walking distance: 0.6 miles (~12 minutes) 

• Nearest subway: 28th St (R, W) 

• Known for: Victorian-themed decor and absinthe cocktails 

• Google rating: 4.4 

Oscar Wilde transports guests to the opulence of the Victorian era with its lavish decor, including antique furnishings, ornate ceilings, and a 118.5-foot marble bar—the longest in New York City. The cocktail menu pays homage to its namesake with creative concoctions like the "Wilde Mule" and absinthe-infused drinks. The ambiance is both grand and inviting, making it an ideal spot for those looking to indulge in a unique and memorable drinking experience. 

Budget-Friendly 

Rudy’s Bar & Grill 

• Walking distance: 0.6 miles (~12 minutes) 

• Nearest subway: 34th St–Penn Station (1, 2, 3, A, C, E) 

• Known for: Cheap beer and free hot dogs 

• Google rating: 4.5 

Rudy’s Bar & Grill is a classic NYC dive with a reputation as big as the Empire State Building itself. Known for its no-frills attitude, pitchers of domestic beer for under $10, and the legendary free hot dogs, it’s a Midtown institution. The red leather booths, faded signage, and jukebox tunes give Rudy’s plenty of character. The drinks list is refreshingly simple — you’ll find cheap beer, strong wells, and enough bourbon to keep things interesting. It’s not trendy, and that’s exactly the point. The laid-back atmosphere makes it a favorite with locals, visitors, and after-work crowds who want to kick back without blowing their budget. There’s no rooftop, no velvet ropes — just good times, cheap drinks, and an old-school bar experience that’s harder to find these days. For budget-conscious drinkers near the Empire State Building, Rudy’s is practically a rite of passage. 

Reichenbach Hall 

• Walking distance: 0.4 miles (~8 minutes) 

• Nearest subway: 34th St–Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W) 

• Known for: German beers and steins 

• Google rating: 4.3 

Reichenbach Hall brings Bavarian beer hall vibes to Midtown, offering an energetic, budget-friendly option for anyone craving schnitzel and steins. The long communal tables, oversized beer mugs, and wood-paneled interior make it ideal for group hangs or solo sips alike. The drink list features a strong selection of German and craft beers on tap — from Franziskaner to Hofbräu — and most are available in half-liter or full-liter pours. Prices are super reasonable, especially during weekday happy hours. The food menu leans traditional, with pretzels, bratwurst, and potato pancakes that pair perfectly with your pilsner. Reichenbach doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s part of the fun. It’s upbeat, unfussy, and just a few blocks from the Empire State Building. If you’re into beer and hearty snacks without the hefty bill, this spot hits the mark. 

Molly Wee Pub & Restaurant 

• Walking distance: 0.5 miles (~10 minutes) 

• Nearest subway: 34th St–Penn Station (1, 2, 3, A, C, E) 

• Known for: Cozy Irish pub vibes and great pours 

• Google rating: 4.4 

Molly Wee is the kind of place that feels like home, even if you’ve never been before. With its friendly staff, affordable pints, and no-fuss charm, it’s a classic Irish-American bar tucked away just a short walk from the Empire State Building. You’ll find a rotating list of beers on tap, decent wines, and a full bar for mixed drinks — all well-priced and served quickly. The food menu includes hearty options like shepherd’s pie, fish and chips, and corned beef sandwiches, making it a good option if you need something to soak up the Guinness. It’s rarely overcrowded, and there’s always a seat at the bar or a quiet table in the back. Molly Wee isn’t flashy, but that’s exactly why it works. It’s a comforting, easygoing place to wrap up your Midtown adventure on a budget. 

American Whiskey – Midtown 

• Walking distance: 0.4 miles (~8 minutes) 

• Nearest subway: 34th St–Penn Station (1, 2, 3, A, C, E) 

• Known for: Whiskeys, wings, and game-day energy 

• Google rating: 4.3 

American Whiskey is your go-to if you're in the mood for something casual with a bit more buzz. This modern sports bar is massive, fun, and surprisingly budget-friendly for its location. The whiskey list is deep — we’re talking small-batch bourbons, single malts, and rye cocktails that don’t skimp on quality. The bar also serves up classic beer-and-shot combos, spicy wings, and bar snacks ideal for sharing. Big screens, leather booths, and a lively crowd make this a solid option for pre- or post-game drinks (especially if the Knicks or Rangers are playing at MSG). It’s perfect if you're traveling with a group or just want a more upbeat vibe that won’t stretch your wallet. American Whiskey brings the energy without losing the soul — and it’s a short, easy walk from the Empire State. 

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