Top Pick: Best Seattle Rooftop Bars & Patios


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The best way to enjoy Seattle during the summer time is outdoors. The air is breezy and fresh, there are tons of eclectic activities going on. And even at 9 PM, it is still sunny.

From the Space Needle to the local rooftop bars, there are many unique places where you can hang out while enjoying breathtaking views of the Emerald City.

These elevated vantage points that will allow you to admire the magnificent skyline. Below is our top pick of the best Seattle rooftop bars when to get an outdoor drink this summer.

1. Terra Plata

1501 Melrose Avenue

Cocktail and wine bar, Terra Plata is a favorite among Seattle rooftop bars. People also come for their delicious food, inspired by their “earth to plate” concept, and made from local produce.

The shisito peppers and roast pig stand out as crowd pleasure, best savored on the elevated patio. Despite the classy interior, it would be a shame not to bask in the warm Seattle sunset from the rooftop while peeking down on the bustling life of its vibrant neighborhood.

2. Frolik Kitchen + Cocktails

1415 5th Avenue

Nested on the 5th floor of the Motif Seattle, this Seattle Rooftop bar and restaurant offers panoramic views of Downtown Seattle and its most popular attractions.

The Frolik Kitchen + Cocktails is not only a dining spot but also a hip place to hangout, playing bar games and sipping on perfectly-crafted cocktails in an chilled ambiance.

3. AQUA by El Gaucho

2801 Alaskan Way

Fire pits, enough seats to accommodate up to 200 people, and prefered views of the Mount Rainier and the Olympic Sculpture Park, AQUA is one of our favorite Seattle rooftop bars.

AQUA doubles as a seafood restaurant and a prime steakhouse. But it is the daily happy hour from 4-6 PM that will surely make you want to get out there to relax and enjoy the great weather.

4. Mezcaleria Oaxaca

422 E Pine Street

If you never had mezcal, then you do not know what you are missing. However, this is your chance to right that wrong at the Mezcaleria Oaxaca.

This outstanding Seattle rooftop bar blends Mexican draft beers, mezcal, and street foods with the magical atmosphere of Seattle summer. No wonder the Mezcaleria Oaxaca has been voted the best Mexican restaurant in Seattle.

5. Maximilien

81A Pike Street

Maximilien brings all the romance and the Old Continent charms of a Parisian bistro to the historic Pike Place Market.

Patrons can revel in favored views of the Elliott Bay, the Olympic Mountain or the Puget Sound while savoring one of the finest French cuisines in Seattle. Surely the best time to hang out at Maximilien is during happy hour just in time to catch the sunset.

6. Anthony’s Pier 66

2201 Alaskan Way

Take a waterfront seat at the patio of this restaurant / bar to witness Elliott Bay’s boating activities or to gaze upon the stunning views of Downtown Seattle skyline. Whether you choose the restaurant’s deck or the fish bar below, the vista will be as good as the fresh seafood and craft cocktails on the menu.

The Seattle area is magical during summertime. The whole city comes to life with plenty of eclectic activities from boating to outdoor festivals to exploring its incredible bar scene.

What are your favorite bars or summertime activities in Seattle? Tell us in the comments below.