I don’t know about you, but we’re always scouting out the best places to grab a drink. Salt Lake’s burgeoning nightlife scene has added a plethora of new bars to the mix and rooftops are at the top of our favorites (pun intended). Let’s face it, there’s nothing better than relaxing via rooftop with a cocktail in hand. Cue ultimate fun, relaxation, and killer mountain views on your next vacation to Salt Lake with seven of our favorite rooftop bars.
Kick Back and Watch the Sunset at Van Ryder
First up, and perhaps most notable on the list, is Salt Lake’s newest addition to the rooftop arena, Van Ryder. Located at the recently opened Le Meridian hotel in downtown Salt Lake, this is the perfect rooftop to get spectacular views of Salt Lake. Kick back on plush fur couches, sit by a blazing fire, and watch the sunset over the Oquirrh Mountain Range. Van Ryder also has a full menu of sustainability and locally sourced ingredients, from pork belly boa to short rib sliders, and of course carefully curated cocktails. Half indoor and half outdoor, this rooftop can be enjoyed year-round.
Killer Vibe and Killer Nachos at Gracie's
A Salt Lake classic is Gracie’s in downtown Salt Lake. Just minutes from the Salt Palace Convention Center, this is a great second story rooftop to take in the liveliness of bustling Salt Lake. Known by locals for their killer nachos or notorious brunch “Hangover,” this rooftop bar has some unexpectedly great food to accompany your rooftop drink. They also frequently have live music or a DJ so you can plan on dancing the night away.
Try Great Local Brews at Grid City
Grid City Beer Works is one of many outstanding breweries here in Salt Lake, but even better, at this brewery you can sit on the rooftop deck. They were even voted by Salt Lake City Weekly as one of the top rooftop patios in the city. Oh, as well as, best brewpub food, best vegan burger, and best seltzers—yeah this place is legit. Their rooftop deck is only open seasonally and only on weekends, so be sure to call or check their website before going.
Get Food Hall Variety with Rooftop Views at Drift Lounge at Woodbine
One of Salt Lake’s newest food halls, Woodbine, is also home to a snazzy bar and rooftop lounge, the Drift Lounge. Located in one of Salt Lake’s trendiest hotspots, the Granary District, this rooftop is sure to be bustling and full of energy—especially during the summer months when the Granary Live Concert Series is taking place. Concert goers can flow between the inviting outside concert space to the rooftop lounge and back, making it a unique one-of-a-kind Salt Lake experience.
A Salt Lake Classic Sports Bar—The Green Pig
Another Salt Lake staple is The Green Pig. You ask any local a good sports bar, and they’ll likely tell you Green Pig. Although we find the best part to be their second story rooftop patio that overlooks the Salt Lake City and County Building. You can sip a beer while looking at the beautiful manicured lawns of Washington Square Park and the famous clock tower of the city county building. There are also a wide variety of festivals and events that take place across the street from the pub, so it’s a great watering hole after events like Pride, Utah Arts Festival, and Living Traditions Festival.
Unique and Cool—The Crown Bar at evo
Located at evo Hotel, this third story rooftop bar is not just for hotel guests, but it’s also open to the public. At The Crown Bar You can lounge by a fire pit under hanging twinkle lights in one of Salt Lake’s up-and-coming areas, the Granary District. You could even get some bouldering in before your rooftop beverage at The Bouldering Project, a massive 26 thousand square foot indoor climbing gym located at the hotel.
Classy, Gorgeous, and Delicious—Mar Muntanya at the Hyatt Regency
This Northern Spanish culinary experience from chef Tyson Peterson is more than just a rooftop bar. You can enjoy some incredible tapas while looking out over the heart of Salt Lake’s downtown. Located on the sixth floor of the Hyatt Regency, accessible from right inside the convention center, making Mar Muntanya a perfect rooftop experience after attending a conference or convention (or really any other time). They also have a private rooftop globe dining experience where you can dine intimately with your friends right next to the pool terrace year-round.