Brian Nagele
Cincinnati, in the middle of the Midwest, reveals its metropolitan allure from breathtaking heights as well as on the street. The Ohio River’s winding bends and the city’s ancient buildings create a skyline that invites both locals and tourists to see from a different angle: its fascinating rooftops. These high-altitude havens come to life once the sun sets, providing unmatched views, relaxing environments, and a dash of urban flair. Cincinnati’s rooftop venues capture the spirit of the city’s developing urbanity, offering everything from sophisticated lounges with expertly made drinks to tranquil terraces ideal for a calm evening. These rooftops provide a special ambiance and viewpoint, whether you’re wanting to celebrate a special occasion or just get away from the bustling below.
Overlook Kitchen + Bar
5345 Medpace Way, Cincinnati, OH 45227
513-527-9906
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Located inside The Summit Hotel, Overlook Kitchen + Bar offers a bright and airy setting for tourists and locals to indulge in tasty dishes and cocktails made with fresh, local ingredients. Its large outdoor patio connects to a vibrant bar with several TV screens. They also have live music every Friday evening. We usually start with their Fried Cheese and order their Seared Salmon with a Hummingbird or Old Nassau cocktail for dinner. Book your next reservation on a Tuesday night for their half-priced wine bottles.
AC Upper Deck
135 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-744-9900
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The first destination on my list of the top rooftop bars in Cincinnati, Ohio, is AC Upper Deck, nestled within AC Hotel by Marriot Cincinnati at The Banks. It has a few firepits, rentable couch sections, and a lovely view of the Ohio River and Great American Ball Park. Their menu offers plenty of tasty cocktails and tapas. Their Spicy Pineapple Margarita and Naked Strawberry Sangria taste great with a Veggie Wrap, Buffalo Chicken Dip, or Kielbasa.
Braxton Brewing Company Cincinnati
331 E 13th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-918-4804
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Next up on my list of the top rooftop bars in Cincinnati, Ohio, is Braxton Brewing Company Cincinnati, east of Ziegler Park. This decorative, funky bar has artwork displayed on its walls and offers patrons a homey setting for enjoying fresh brews. They offer a wide selection of beer on tap, wine, and liquor. Order their gourmet Hot Buffalo Pretzels, Parmesan Pretzels, or Cinnamon Crunch Pretzels if you’re in the mood for a small treat with your beer.
Pins Mechanical Co
1124 Main St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-964-7746
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If you’re near the Over-The-Rhine neighborhood, consider stopping by Pins Mechanical Co. for a wide selection of quality drinks. Their rustic rooftop patio and bar offer a lovely view of the city streets. It’s also a great place for playing foosball, ping pong, pinball, and bowling with your friends. Consider stopping by for their $2 drink deals every weekday until 7 PM. Our go-to cocktails are their Pinball Wizard, Blackberry Citrus Old Fashioned, Chipotle Pineapple Margarita, and Lisa Frank.
Rhinegeist Brewery
1910 Elm St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-381-1367
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You can find Rhinegeist Brewery in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, near the E19 Lounge Bar & Discothèque. Its rooftop patio offers a great view of the neighborhood on clear, warm days. They also offer tours of their historic taprooms. Their rooftop libations menu offers plenty of beer, cider, and cocktails to sample. I recommend their Wowie Fruited Ale, Zappy Hard Cider, or Strawberry Margarita. Although this bar doesn’t serve bar bites, you’re encouraged to bring outside food from nearby restaurants or your home.
The View at Shires’ Garden
309 Vine St 10th floor, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-407-7501
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Another one of the best rooftop bars in Cincinnati, Ohio, is The View at Shires’ Garden. You can find this chic eatery near the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, nestled on the tenth floor of City Club Apartments. We recommend sampling their Sea Scallops, Pesto Rigatoni, or Pan-Roasted Chicken with Yuca Fries or Smoked Veggie Succotash on the side if you stop by for dinner. These dishes taste great with a Tequila Sunslip or White Rabbit cocktail.
Top of the Park at The Phelps
506 E 4th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-651-1234
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After spending your afternoon at Lytle Park or Taft Theatre, the best place to stop by for a drink with a great panoramic view of the Downtown District is Top of the Park at The Phelps. It’s a stylish space that offers drinks and small bites by a fire pit. During our last visit to the city, we enjoyed their Acai Berry Mule and Mango Margarita with an order of Thai Chicken Flatbread, Sticky Kimchi Winglets, or Loaded Mediterranean Fries.
Bishop’s Quarter
212 W Loveland Ave, Loveland, OH 45140
Phone: 513-214-3882
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East of the Little Miami River, about half an hour from central Cincinnati, stands Bishop’s Quarter, a three-level bar with a cozy yet lively atmosphere. Their top floor has a rooftop bar with an industrial aesthetic and several TV screens for watching local sports. Don’t miss out on their wide selection of cocktails and bourbon flights if you plan on stopping by for a treat. Sample their Vanilla Old Fashioned with Loaded Tater Tots or a Blackened Grouper Sandwich.
Gaslight Bar and Grill
351 Ludlow Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45220
Phone: 513-861-3663
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Gaslight Bar and Grill’s rooftop terrace offers guests a nice view of the Clifton neighborhood and a laid-back atmosphere for browsing their extensive drink list or sampling Chef Kevin Worthington’s menu. You can find it near Burnet Woods. Their best dishes are Steak & Brie Sliders, Duck Confit Ravioli, and Salmon Linguine. They offer plenty of red and white wine options, but I usually order my meal with a Mockingjay, Sleepy Hollow, or Under the Volcano cocktail.
Incline Public House
2601 W 8th St, Cincinnati, OH 45204
Phone: 513-251-3000
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Located in the East Price Hill neighborhood, Incline Public House is your best option for American comfort food and creative cocktails. Its casual, laid-back atmosphere makes it a great place to visit with your family. Their rooftop dining area has a beautiful view of the Ohio River and most of the Downtown District. If you’re in the mood for a customizable pizza, consider ordering one topped with BBQ sauce, fresh mozzarella, chicken, bacon, and caramelized onions, and pair it with a Spiked Lemonade.
The Blind Pig
24 W 3rd St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-381-3114
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The Blind Pig is considered one of the best rooftop bars in Cincinnati, Ohio, because of its upbeat atmosphere, weekly drink specials, and spacious rooftop patio. They also host several events every week, including Wednesday trivia nights and live rotating DJs every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, making it a great option for hanging out with your friends. Consider sampling their Crown Apple cocktail with a Blind Pig Burger, Loaded Nachos, or a bowl of their signature Cincinnati Chili.
Via Vite
520 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-721-8483
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Can’t find any rooftop bars in Cincinnati, Ohio, offering quality Italian dishes and wine? If so, Via Vite is your best option for quality flavors and scenic views in the Downtown District. It has a contemporary vibe, ideal for winding down after a busy week. You can also get a nice view of Fountain Square from the outdoor patio. Consider trying their Bucatini Pomodoro with a Via Vite Negroni cocktail or one of their scotch or bourbon options.
Vista at Lytle Park
311 Pike St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-621-4500
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Last but not least on this list of dining destinations with rooftop bars in Cincinnati, Ohio, is Vista at Lytle Park, located on the top floor of The Lytle Park Hotel. Its stylish and sophisticated ambiance is a nice change of pace from the city’s excitement. I think its retractable glass ceiling, Downtown Cincinnati views, and outdoor fireplace enhance any night out. Their Crab Salad and Grilled Romaine offer some of the best flavors in the neighborhood when paired with a Pineapple Express or Fauxjito.
