Updated May 19, 2022. While the summer season marks a time of outdoor play for kids on break, it typically brings little change for the day-to-day schedule for us as adults. What it does bring, though, is happy hour deals on various rooftop bars in the Northern Virginia region. Here, we share this summer’s can’t-miss spots.
Buena Vida
The 4,700-square-foot rooftop, with room for 150 people and views of Wilson Boulevard, is home to two bars featuring margaritas, sangrias, and cocktails. Plus, the corn rib, queso fundido, and chicken skewer appetizers are to die for. 2900 Wilson Blvd., Ste. 103, Arlington
Dogwood Tavern
For pub fare and craft cocktails, turn to Dogwood Tavern’s Sky Bar. There’s a rotating cocktail of the week, plus a recent addition to the menu: the “Waterloo,” with gin, fresh watermelon, lemon, and basil, perfect for cooling down after a day in the heat. 132 W. Broad St., Falls Church
Wilson Hardware
Inspired by the hardware shop that once occupied the same spot, Wilson Hardware is a comfortable hub with contemporary American cuisine and specialty cocktails great for a refresher on a summer night. The rooftop, which won the Best Rooftop Bar category in our 2021 Best of NoVA issue, has table and bar seating and offers happy hour deals from 3 to 7 p.m. on weekdays. 2915 Wilson Blvd., Arlington
Vivify Burger & Lounge
Burgers get the upscale treatment at Vivify Burger & Lounge in Fredericksburg. With tater tots, poutine, and a bahn mi hot dog, as well as the establishment’s diverse selection of craft beer, this rooftop lit by string lights is kid-friendly and comfortable. 314 William St., Fredericksburg
The Yard at Le Meridien Hotel
The Yard Arlington, located on the fourth floor outdoor terrace of Le Meridien Hotel, features Mexican-inspired cocktails and tacos. The patio is also home to live music and weekday specials, like $6 margaritas on Mondays. 1121 19th St. N., Arlington
Cocina on Market
The team behind farm-to-table Market Table Bistro switched to Mexican food with Cocina on Market. The rooftop area, while small, is quaint and perfect for guests to try out the curated menu and cocktails that go with it while looking out over the streets of downtown. 7 W. Market St., Leesburg
Dudley’s Sports and Ale
In need of a spot to watch the Nats beat out their opponents on summer nights? Look no further than Dudley’s Sports and Ale in Arlington. From snack baskets that feature treats like pretzels and wings to its authentic stadium seats, it’s a close second to watching the game live at Navy Yard. 2766 S. Arlington Mill Dr., Arlington
Top of the Gate
With 360-degree views of DC, the Washington Monument, the Potomac River, and more, this cocktail bar has views galore. Sip on drinks from the refined cocktail menu and try out the Mediterranean small plates, like grilled octopus tentacles or beef meatballs, all while looking out over the harbor. 2650 Virginia Ave. NW, Washington, DC
The Wharf
The Wharf in DC has experienced a restaurant revolution, and that means a new array of rooftop bars that are consistently popping up. Looking to bar hop and try them all? We’ve got you covered with three listed below.
Whiskey Charlie
Perched atop the Canopy by Hilton, Whiskey Charlie boasts views of the Potomac River, setting the scene as you lounge on the couch with a specialty cocktail in hand, like “Mermaid Margarita,” made of altos blanco, strawberry, cardamaro, and lime. 975 Seventh St. SW, Washington, DC
12 Stories
From above The InterContinental Hotel at 12 Stories, one can observe boats pulling in and out of the harbor and sip on curated cocktails, such as the “Aren’t You A Fineapple,” which is a combination of hennessey, grand marnier, lemon juice, and pineapple. 75 District Sq. SW, Washington, DC
Canopy Central Cafe & Bar
For a more casual experience with the same unparalleled views of the harbor, head to Canopy Central Cafe & Bar. Out here, one can enjoy appetizers like the adult lunchable or burrata by the outdoor fire with a glass of wine in hand. 975 Seventh St. SW, Washington, DC
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