The Absolute Best Rooftop Bars in Phoenix

This new and improved version of the beloved W Scottsdale Shade Lounge offers the same poolside fun and views of downtown Scottsdale, but with a refreshed look and even better cocktails. There’s more than a dozen to choose from, but this spring and summer we’ll be sipping something frozen, like The Vice—a sweet and simple cocktail crafted with Malibu coconut rum, strawberry purée, pineapple juice, and coconut cream.

This retro rooftop oasis is inspired by the ‘60s and ‘70s with an unforgettable lineup of highballs and spritzes you won’t find anywhere else. In its short time on Phoenix’s cocktail scene, it’s already become a favorite of locals and tourists alike thanks to its comfortable, laid back atmosphere and prime views of downtown and Camelback Mountain.

This swanky rooftop lounge proves that delicious cocktails, great views and mouth watering eats can seamlessly coexist. Bite into a juicy burger, share a hearty serving of burrata and sip a glass of sangria all while soaking in the stunning views of Phoenix’s Biltmore neighborhood and surrounding mountains.

Make your way to the 14th floor of Downtown Tempe’s Canopy Hotel and you’ll discover Alibi Rooftop Lounge. The full-service rooftop bar and lounge is complete with shaded cabanas, lounge-style seating, a crystal blue pool, and an expansive wrap-around bar with the likes of Mules and Mai-Tais. It’s a vacation away from the everyday, and you don’t even have to leave town.

The Downtown Phoenix arts districts are growing. A myriad of restaurants, bars, and hotels are moving in at an expeditious pace. And that includes the modern, mural-clad Cambria Hotel. Located at the tippy-top of The Cambria is From the Rooftop, or FTR. This open-air hotspot provides picture-perfect views of the cityscape and surrounding mountains. There’s plenty of room to spread out on the comfy couches or at the bar. And the sunset views here are unparalleled.

Gilbert used to be a sleepy farm town. Not anymore. This popular Phoenix suburb is buzzing with restaurants, shops, and bars like Sotol Modern Cocktail Kitchen. Notably the first rooftop bar to open in the area, Sotol brings an assembly of agave spirits and an Arizona-inspired menu consisting of nopales fritas, housemade fry bread, and forkable desserts like Meyer lemon tarts to Downtown Gilbert. And we have to say, this spot makes for a pretty solid spot to catch an iconic Arizona sunset. Drink in hand, of course. 

Have your brews, and views, too. Many people don’t know that Goldwater Brewing opened up a second story patio. The space complements their taproom and street-level seating options. Consult the beer list where you’ll discover Goldwater’s own lineup of craft beers. Whether you’re into lagers, sours, or saisons, there’s undoubtedly something for every palate here. When in doubt, order a flight and taste through your bartender’s recommendations.

Get up close and personal with the city skyline at Floor 13 Rooftop Bar. This rooftop bar is at the center of it all. Really, it’s in the heart of Downtown Phoenix. The spacious sundeck makes for a primo destination to snap a few golden hour selfies. And leave the superstitions at home because there’s certainly nothing unlucky about this thirteenth floor. 

If you’ve ever wanted to match your cocktail with an orange-hued sunset, Outrider Rooftop Lounge is here to make that very specific dream come true. With a lineup of handcrafted cocktails and shareable plates (hello, honey-glazed pork belly with queso fundido!), this Old Town Scottsdale rooftop bar sets the scene for serious hangs and sunset-watching. And really, what more could you ask for?

The extensive craft beer selection and 360-glimpses of Historic Downtown Chandler are pretty great. But it’s not the drink list or views that make this East Valley rooftop bar so unique. It’s the wildlife. The Perch’s tree-lined gardenesque patio is home to more than 50 rescued tropical birds. Make friends with the birds at brunch between bites of chorizo hash and consult that beer list, where you’ll find house-brewed wheat beers, blondes, sours, ales, and IPAs, to wash it all down. 

This elevated hangout at Downtown Phoenix’s Hotel Palomar checks all the boxes when it comes to rooftop bars. Panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains? Check. Snackable bites? Check. Open air bar? Check. Cabanas, shaded lounge chairs, and a wading pool? Absolutely. Lustre also has an unmissable weekday happy hour and the outdoor lounge hosts experiences like live shows and pool parties on the reg. 

This Old Town karaoke bar has been around since the early '70s. Ready to take the mic? Get yourself some liquid courage and add your name to the karaoke list. If not, you can always hit the rooftop for a round of beers where you can watch the comings-and-goings down below.