The Ultimate NYC Outdoor Event Space Guide

Emily Weber
SixPlus
Published in
14 min readJun 12, 2019

Here is our go-to list of the best outdoor event spaces in New York City, all available to book on SixPlus. From patios and gardens to rooftops and greenhouses, this extensive guide offers all the outdoor event possibilities you ever could imagine. Need help finding a venue for an upcoming event? Receive free guidance from our Concierge Team here.

Rooftops

The Polynesian’s Kirabati Lounge + Easter Island — Midtown West

The Polynesian, an island-glam tiki bar from Major Food Group situated in the Pod Times Square Hotel, is the perfect destination for a festive warm-weather affair. The chic venue boasts wraparound patios for sipping elevated Polynesian cocktails outside all summer long.

Mondrian Terrace at The Mondrian Park Avenue Hotel — Midtown East

This year round rooftop is an oasis perched above Midtown featuring an upscale lounge and an expansive open air patio that is fully tented and heated during the colder months. By day, the lounge provides an abundance of sunlight, offering a comfortable environment for guests to relax while admiring breathtaking views of Manhattan. As evening falls, the sweeping outdoor terrace beckons with uninterrupted vistas of the sunset over the downtown skyline.

The Press Lounge’s Rooftop + Roof Garden Chef’s Table — Hell’s Kitchen

The open-air private garden tucked away on The Press Lounge rooftop is surrounded by glass walls with panoramic views of the Hudson River. The beautiful garden provides herbs and vegetables for the kitchen and the chef’s table is the perfect spot for a spring or summer celebration.

Castell Rooftop Lounge — Midtown West

Perched high above the bustling streets of the Garment District, Castell Rooftop Lounge is the ideal rooftop hideaway. Soak in the iconic Manhattan skyline views, while you sip on retro cocktails and enjoy refined hors d’oeuvres. This spot one of our favorite hidden gems in Midtown.

Aretsky’s Patroon Rooftop — Midtown East

The casual Rooftop Terrace at Artesky’s Patroon offers guests ample space to mingle, featuring a zinc bar, teak-clad paneling and warm decor. There is space for 60 seated guests or 150 for a cocktail reception.

Mykonos Blue’s Rooftop — Chelsea

Mykonos Blue sits atop the Hotel Hayden and features chic outdoor lounges and open-air terraces with breathtaking Manhattan views. Evoking the Greek isles, the clean, white palette is accented by greenery and the skyline. A-list DJs add to the ambiance, making Mykonos a favorite nighttime destination.

Sky Room — Midtown West

Sky Room, the city’s highest rooftop lounge, boasts 360 degree views of the city and the Hudson River. Besides the views, this classy rooftop oasis provides comfy couches, casual eats and cocktails.

HGU New York’s Rooftop — Nomad

The intimate rooftop at HGU is the perfect space for a spring or summer event. The cozy couches and deck furniture make this rooftop space feel like an outdoor living room. Bask in the sun and fresh air while enjoying the

Cantina Rooftop — Hell’s Kitchen

Feel like a trip to Mexico? Head over to Cantina Rooftop, located atop Stage 48, for innovative, modern Mexican far and superior margaritas in a tucked away setting. This spacious rooftop is open year round and offers stylish decor and cozy lounge seating. Cantina Rooftop is the perfect casual place to plan a happy hour in the fresh air.

Nomo Soho Hotel’s Penthouse — Soho

The spacious and chic Penthouse at Nomo Soho Hotel offers dramatic, panoramic skyline views of downtown Manhattan from its north- and south-facing garden terraces. The impressive hotel is the tallest building in the neighborhood, offering guests breathtaking views through floor-to-ceiling windows and from the terraces.

Sir Henri Penthouse at Hotel Henri — Flatiron

An intimate penthouse bar with a lush, theatrical mix of cozy nooks, low lighting and drop-dead NYC skyline views, Sir Henri serves it all with a master-of-the-universe vibe 18 stories above the streets of Manhattan. Chic, stylish, a touch midcentury.

Ayza Events at Park Marmara’s Penthouse & Balcony — Midtown East

The Penthouse captures stunning views of Manhattan through both indoor and outdoor terraces. This space is fully stacked with amenities to customize your event, and can accommodate up to 20 seated guests or 60 guests for a standing cocktail reception.

Narcissa’s Penthouse — East Village

The Penthouse at Narcissa, located on the 21st floor of The Standard Hotel, has breathtaking panoramic views of the city and a wrap-around terrace that blends seamlessly with the indoor space via floor-to-ceiling glass doors that slide open. The modern space offers a canvas on which you can design your own unforgettable event.

The DL’s Third Floor Rooftop — Lower East Side

The Third Floor Rooftop is the crown jewel of The DL. With spectacular views of the Williamsburg Bridge, South Beach–esque decor, climate controlled space and a retractable roof, you are sure to indulge in a one of a kind experience that transports you away from the streets and offers an entirely new perspective of the Lower East Side. Add to that a relaxed atmosphere and DJs that set the ambiance, your senses will be invigorated.

Ayza Events at Tower 31’s Terrace — Midtown East

The Terrace offers an outdoor area with almost full panoramic views of the city, and is an ideal setting for cocktail receptions for large groups. The space is uncovered and dependent upon good weather. However, it includes the indoor Lounge area in case of poor weather.

Good Behavior at MADE Hotel — Nomad

The North Terrace

This lush little oasis on the 18th floor of MADE Hotel offers panoramic views of Midtown, including a stunning perspective of the Empire State Building. Lounge style seating on the outdoor deck blends seamlessly with the atrium-like space indoors, offering an ideal setting for cocktail parties and product launches where mixing and mingling are encouraged. Whether a day party or an evening soirée, Good Behavior ensures a good time.

Refinery Rooftop — Midtown West

The Atrium and Terrace

On the roof of the Refinery Hotel, a former hat factory adjacent to Bryant Park, you’ll find an industrial-chic oasis with unbeatable views of the Empire State Building. Refinery Rooftop is open year round but we recommend visiting in the summer months when you can relax in the open air lounge, soak in the sights and enjoy a strong drink and a light dinner.

STK Downtown Rooftop — Meatpacking

Main Dining Area

The horizon is always bright at STK Downtown’s Rooftop, where the lounge and dining areas are furnished with sun-exposed low-slung couches, summer foliage and oversized umbrellas. The space features a bar, lots of standing and sitting areas, twinkly string lights and incredible views of the Highline & Hudson River to create the ultimate atmosphere. It’s hard to find a better spot for an unforgettable summer gathering.

Spyglass Rooftop Bar’s Side Terrace — Midtown West

Spyglass Rooftop Bar sits 22 stories up from Charlie Palmer Steak in Midtown and boasts the best views of the Big Apple, framing both the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building. The Side Terrace invites guests outdoors for standing receptions amid the NYC skyline. This picture-perfect venue will have everyone talking days after the event is over!

Patios

Rock Center Cafe’s Patio — Midtown West

At Rock Center Cafe, the option to rent the entire venue for large scale events provides a stunningly classic New York City backdrop that will have guests talking for years. Seasonally, this option includes a section of the Patio area, which is ideal for a standing reception overlooking the Rockefeller Center Rink from October to April, and the Summer Garden & Bar from May to September.

Brasserie Ruhlmann’s Terrace — Midtown West

Spring through Fall, the large terrace at Brasserie Ruhlmann is an ideal place to gather for dining and cocktails al fresco, right in the heart of Rockefeller Center. Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann was a legendary French designer, whose concepts and craftsmanship epitomize the glamour of the French Art Deco era of the 1920s and continue to leave a lasting legacy. Brasserie Ruhlmann pays homage to the early 20th-century icon, as well as to the art-and-intellectualism era of the Parisian brasserie.

Charlie Palmer Steak’s Archer Patio — Midtown West

The Archer Patio opens up via glass garage doors from Charlie Palmer Steak, and offers a streetside setting perfect for standing receptions or casual, seated meals. Planters delineate the space and create a bit of privacy while still allowing you to enjoy the energy of the streetscape.

The Patio at STK Midtown — Midtown West

STK Midtown’s seasonal Patio space truly sits in the heart of it all. Just a stone’s throw from Bryant Park and the Theater District, it’s should be your go-to for a refreshing drink and a bite to eat in the shade while exploring Midtown. Because of the location, the Patio is also ideal for a group dinner or cocktail hour before the theater, or for a happy hour mixer post-work on a warm summer evening.

Oceana’s Patio Buyout — Midtown West

During the warmer months in the city, Oceana’s Café extends outside to a refreshing patio. The shaded space allows space surrounded by greenery allows you to dine under the stars in the spring and summer.

Naples 45’s Bar & Patio — Midtown East

A 75-foot long wine bar parallel to the ristorante’s entrance allows guests to access Naples 45’s spacious outdoor patio — a great location for group happy hour events after work. In the summer season, the Bar can be combined with the outdoor Patio. The Patio is an open-air space perfect for al fresco events or a casual cocktail reception. This is the perfect choice for summer celebrations amidst the bustle of the city.

Aureole’s Anita’s Way — Midtown West

Step through the doors of Liberty Room into Anita’s Way to find The Patio — an al fresco lounge covered by a breezeway roof and open rain or shine, serving several Rosés and sparkling wines by the glass, summer beers on draught, and a bar bites menu created specifically for sharing. This 600-square foot outdoor space is unmatched in Times Square, boasting a walled-in private ‘nook’ on the 42nd street side and a long communal center bar. The Patio can host 70 guests for a private outdoor cocktail reception.

Cafe Centro’s Patio — Midtown East

Café Centro’s expansive patio is the perfect venue for your summertime event. Complete with lively views of Midtown, elevated Mediterranean fare and vicinity to Grand Central, this spot is a great after-work choice. The spacious sidewalk patio seats 100 guests and can accommodate groups of up to 150 for a cocktail party.

Gardens

Vinegar Hill House’s Garden — Vinegar Hill, Brooklyn

A beautiful, secluded garden is the perfect setting for your next private event al fresco. Enjoy Vinegar Hill House’s delicious cooking under a cherry tree. In the case of poor weather, the Fireside Private Dining Room will be reserved as a back up space.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s Palm House — Prospect Park,

A catered event at the glass-walled Palm House, newly renovated by Rockwell Group and celebrating its 100th year, offers a gorgeous Garden setting for your ceremony, an outdoor terrace for cocktails, and an exquisite, one of a kind space. Celebrate your special day at the Palm House, and have the experience of a lifetime. Events at Brooklyn Botanic Garden are catered exclusively by Patina Restaurant Group, which manages restaurants and catering facilities at some of America’s most iconic venues.

Tarallucci e Vino at Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian’s Terrace & Garden — Upper East Side

With views of Central Park and the magnificent Carnegie Mansion, the newly restored garden offers a range of color and texture for seasonal interest, sophisticated lighting design, and an inviting green lawn for outdoor entertaining. The space can be tented and offers tremendous flexibility.

The Shakespeare at the William’s Garden Terrace — Murray Hill

The Garden Terrace offers a private, outdoor dining oasis where you might actually feel miles away from the city. Trellised walls with climbing greenery, a pergola with string lights overhead, and a combination of cushioned bench and chair seating create an intimate space ideal for seated dinners, cocktail receptions or delicious brunches.

Jue Lan Club’s Imperial Garden — Chelsea

Experience a different side of Jue Lan Club in the lush, outdoor Imperial Garden. Sitting just adjacent to the gothic revival church that was once home to the Limelight nightclub, there’s a moody atmosphere in this patio space. With plenty of shade and ornamental trees, it’s the perfect place to cool off when the summer heats up.

The Patio at ViceVersa — Hell’s Kitchen

A true hidden gem, The Patio at ViceVersa can be reserved for your next party for a mere $500, a staggeringly reasonable price for a chic oasis in the heart of the Theater District. Enjoy a tranquil private dinner on The Patio complete with an attentive waitstaff and excellent pasta dishes.

Huertas’s Back Dining Room — East Village

The elegant, wood-paneled back dining room features natural lighting from large windows and exclusive access to the outdoor patio. When it’s warm enough, open the doors to create a seamless flow with the outdoor space, complete with a rustic brick half wall and a pleasant mix of trees and charming old buildings. It’s a lovely backdrop for intimate events at Huertas.

Greenhouses & Atria

The Press Lounge’s Greenhouse — Hell’s Kitchen

The light-filled and minimal Greenhouse space at The Press Lounge is a beautiful venue for your event, rain or shine. The enclosed space with glass walls and ceilings looks out on Hell’s Kitchen and is adorned with impressive plants and comfortable yet chic seating.

Pera Soho’s Gazebo — Soho

Pera Soho, the elegant outpost of the Midtown original, offers intimate, outdoor spaces for all your summer party needs. The Gazebo, a secluded oasis that opens onto the garden, is perfect for al fresco dinners for small to medium sized groups. Pera’s atmosphere and delicious food will transport you away from the busy city to the heart of the Mediterranean.

NoMo SoHo Hotel’s Kitchen & Patio — Soho

Host your event at NoMo Kitchen space and discover a unique blend of vintage and cutting-edge decor inspired by Jean Cocteau’s 1946 French film “La Belle et la Bête.” This stunning space comes complete with an enclosed patio that’s dripping in sunlight year round.

Bobo’s Garden — West Village

The Private Garden at Bobo is located next to the Main Dining Room, offering a covered, climate-controlled space that feels like a garden no matter the time of year. Retractable roof means you can dine al fresco or under cover.

The Press Lounge’s Sun Room — Hell’s Kitchen

Situated atop of the Ink48 Hotel, the Press Lounge offers cocktails and light fare complemented by unobstructed views of Manhattan and the Hudson. The Sun Room is a unique space with a retractable floor to ceiling glass wall, allowing it to be an indoor or outdoor space depending on the weather. This is an ideal option for upscale events that need a back up plan should the weather not be favorable!

Il Gattopardo’s Atrium — Midtown West

The Atrium is a stellar venue for private events located in the heart of Manhattan, hidden within and behind the landmarked Rockefeller Townhouses on West 54th Street. The glass ceiling allows sunshine to permeate and, combined with the tall ceilings, creates a bright and airy indoor space that feels like you’re outside. The Atrium alone can be reserved alone or combined with the adjacent Cellar, offering plenty of room for large gatherings.

Mozzarella e Vino’s Garden Room — Midtown West

The private Garden room at Mozzarella & Vino, a Midtown destination for Italian wine and small plates, combines the open air feeling of a private garden with a glass roof, making it comfortable for events all year round. Book this sun soaked room for a casual gathering with a homey feel.

Jue Lan Club’s Graffiti Alley — Chelsea

Graffti Alley, Jue Lan Club’s hidden gem, is a speakeasy space known only to a select few, tucked behind the restaurant. It’s covered in a striking and constantly changing mural painted by Brooklyn’s most notorious graffiti artists. Graffiti Alley can only be accessed by venturing through the restaurant, past the bustling kitchen and through an unmarked door.

Want help booking a venue for your next event? Get in touch with a local Concierge Expert to receive free assistance in planning & booking corporate events in New York City and across the country.

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