When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
The Rooftop at Pier 17
Why The Rooftop at Pier 17 is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Rooftop at Pier 17, located five stories above the East River at 89 South Street in Manhattan’s Seaport district, offers a unique and vibrant setting that makes it an exceptional spot to meet up with friends. This expansive 65,000 square foot venue boasts dramatic, panoramic views of New York City’s most iconic skyline landmarks, including the Brooklyn Bridge, Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and One World Trade Center. Its picturesque location, extending 300 feet out into the East River, offers a quintessential NYC experience, especially stunning during sunset golden hours. Known not only for its breathtaking vistas but also for hosting world-class live entertainment, The Rooftop provides the perfect atmosphere for social gatherings. It has earned accolades such as “Best New Concert Venue” by Pollstar and “Club All-Star” by VenuesNow. The venue’s flexibility allows it to host a variety of events ranging from concerts featuring top artists to wellness functions and seasonal festivities like Winterland ice skating. With its ample space, comfortable lounge seating, and easy accessibility, it remains a favored destination for locals and visitors alike seeking an impressive backdrop for memorable experiences with friends.
Here's what people think of The Rooftop at Pier 17
As of recent, The Rooftop at Pier 17 holds a 4.8-star rating based on 441 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise The Rooftop at Pier 17 for its spectacular views and unbeatable location overlooking the East River and Brooklyn Bridge, highlighting these as major draws that enhance the overall experience. Positive reviews frequently cite the venue’s vibrant atmosphere, comfortable seating options, and high-quality live performances, naming well-known artists like Billie Eilish and the Fugees, as well as enjoyable events ranging from concerts to seasonal activities. Customers appreciate the venue’s spacious layout, which accommodates large crowds without feeling cramped, and compliment the professionalism and helpfulness of the staff. Furthermore, many reviewers note the excellent sound quality and production value during shows, which contribute to an immersive concert experience. On the downside, some visitors mention challenges with entry logistics on busy event days and occasional high pricing for food and drinks. A few reviews comment on limited seating during general admission events and suggest improvements to restroom availability or lines. Despite these minor criticisms, the vast majority of feedback remains overwhelmingly positive, indicating that The Rooftop’s unique combination of scenic ambiance and top-tier entertainment far outweighs any drawbacks. Overall, patrons recommend The Rooftop at Pier 17 as a premier destination for social and cultural outings in New York City.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Nitiphum S.
I came here for the Bad Religion & Dropkick Murphys concert, and it was an amazing experience from start to finish. The venue is in a great location with stunning views—absolutely perfect for a summer event. One of the things I really appreciated was how well-organized the place was. There were plenty of restrooms, so there was never a long wait, and the facilities were clean. The food options were also solid—good quality and plenty to choose from, which made the night even better. Everything ran smoothly, from the entry process to the show itself. The atmosphere was lively and fun, and the sound quality during the concert was excellent. Overall, it was a fantastic night in a beautiful venue, and I’m already looking forward to coming back for the next event here.
Ash N. Patel
Hands down now my favorite venue in the city for live music. Absolutely fantastic views of the city and the Brooklyn bridge. The space is well laid out. The facilities are top notch and clean. Everything just works beautifully here. Can’t wait to see more band here again.
Lori Arfanis
Awesome venue. Greats views of the Brooklyn Bridge. Sound was on point. Staff was friendly and went out of their way to provide an exceptional experience. Peter in Security went above and beyond. He was so helpful and really made our night!!! Lots to do and see in the area. I can't wait to go again.
Bill Oas
Went to the Jessie Murph show tonight and she killed as always! The venue was awesome! Staff were great, sound was spot on and everyone was able to get drinks and such quickly. Prices are a bit stupid but they kind of have you stuck so they take advantage of that.
Mark Tobar
Saw Tennis’ farewell tour here. Beautiful venue. It gets chilly up there. It’s worth the view. The show was great, clean restrooms, it’s a ways up on the escalator but not bad. Ticket booth downstairs made it easy to pick up. I’d definitely be happy to return
How to reach The Rooftop at Pier 17
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Why The Rooftop at Pier 17 may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Rallying at The Rooftop at Pier 17 with your friends is an experience unlike any other in New York City. This stunning venue not only offers spectacular panoramic views of iconic landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge, Empire State Building, and Statue of Liberty but also creates an atmosphere designed for memorable social gatherings. Whether you want to kick back with a refreshing drink, enjoy live music, or simply soak in the dynamic skyline, The Rooftop at Pier 17 provides the perfect setting. Its expansive outdoor space, featuring cozy lounge areas, fireplaces, and an impressive bar, invites groups to relax and connect in a lively yet comfortable environment. Unlike typical rooftops, Pier 17 is renowned for its versatility, seamlessly adjusting to all seasons with an enclosed setup during colder months while maintaining an open-air vibe during summer. The blend of breathtaking views, vibrant social energy, and versatile event hosting makes it an ideal destination to bond with friends or family, creating memories alongside New York’s sparkling skyline.
What makes The Rooftop at Pier 17 a great place for group meetups and social activities?
The Rooftop at Pier 17 caters wonderfully to groups thanks to its vast and thoughtfully designed layout. The venue boasts multiple lounge areas where friends can gather comfortably whether near the outdoor fireplace, by the bar, or in shaded seating that overlooks the East River and Manhattan skyline. These diverse seating options mean groups can find their own perfect spot to socialize and enjoy privacy or be part of a buzzing crowd. The rooftop’s generous capacity ensures that large meetups don’t feel cramped, allowing groups to spread out and engage in conversations without noise overcrowding. The venue’s lively yet relaxed atmosphere is complemented by staff dedicated to providing attentive service, including a good selection of carefully curated drinks—with particular praise for their cold beers and specialty cocktails. Although food options have been noted as somewhat limited, the overall dining and drinking experience suits casual gatherings where sharing appetizers or drinks takes precedence. The rooftop’s scenic backdrop elevates every moment from casual hangouts to special celebrations, making it a top choice for group rendezvous in the city.
What types of activities and events can groups enjoy at The Rooftop at Pier 17?
The Rooftop at Pier 17 is widely celebrated for its concert series, which is a major draw for group outings. The venue has hosted recognized artists across many genres, from Billie Eilish and Lil Nas X to classic acts like Ringo Starr, offering an unparalleled concert atmosphere with the NYC skyline as a majestic backdrop. This makes it a perfect spot to rally with friends who share a passion for live music, combining entertainment with spectacular views. Beyond concerts, the rooftop is also an ideal location for casual lounging and socializing between events, with areas that encourage conversations over drinks. The seasonal adjustment to enclosure during colder periods allows year-round enjoyment, which is particularly valuable for planned gatherings regardless of weather. Additionally, there are premium experiences like the Liberty Club lounge offering enhanced seating and exclusive service, ideal for groups seeking a more intimate or upscale way to enjoy events. The combination of live performances, scenic relaxation, and social ambiance means that The Rooftop offers multiple avenues for groups to create enjoyable and lasting experiences.
How do the views and ambiance enhance a meetup at The Rooftop at Pier 17?
The views from The Rooftop are one of its most compelling features, setting it apart from other venues and making it an unforgettable place to meet up. The open-air deck provides panoramic vistas of New York City’s most iconic landmarks — Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, and the city skyline — creating a visually stunning environment that enhances the mood of any gathering. Imagine friends sharing laughs with the glowing skyline behind them, or toasting drinks while the sun sets over the East River, turning the sky vibrant hues. This backdrop offers a picturesque setting perfect for photos and making social media-worthy moments. The ambiance itself adjusts to the occasion; evenings can be intimate and cozy by the fire pits, while event nights pulse with energetic crowds. The venue’s architecture and layout amplify this ambiance by integrating lounge seating, fireplaces, and excellent lighting that highlight the views while fostering a welcoming atmosphere. Whether it’s a casual meetup or a special celebration, the views ensure everyone feels part of a truly unique New York City experience.
What should visitors expect regarding food and drink offerings at The Rooftop at Pier 17?
Visitors to The Rooftop at Pier 17 can enjoy a solid selection of drinks tailored to complement the venue’s social vibe. The drink menu emphasizes cold beers and specialty cocktails that suit the rooftop’s relaxed yet vibrant setting. Guests report friendly and diligent service from the staff, who work hard to maintain a positive experience even when the venue is busy. However, it’s important to note that while drink offerings receive praise, food options have received mixed reviews. The venue’s food is often described as limited, with some guests recommending eating beforehand due to the lack of extensive or high-quality meal choices on the rooftop itself. Snacks or light fare are sometimes available, but the venue’s strength lies more in its beverage program and entertainment rather than its cuisine. For groups focusing on drinks and atmosphere, this is less of a concern, but those planning full meals might consider pairing their rooftop meetup with dining elsewhere nearby in the Seaport district.
Why is The Rooftop at Pier 17 ideal for celebrating special occasions or hosting large gatherings?
With a capacity of around 3,500 people, The Rooftop at Pier 17 is designed to handle large groups comfortably, making it a superb choice for celebrations such as birthdays, reunions, or even corporate outings. Its expansive open-air venue combined with multiple seating configurations means organizers can find the right balance of spaciousness and intimacy for any size party. The stunning cityscape views and vibrant nightlife atmosphere elevate the experience beyond a typical event venue — guests enjoy not only the company of friends but also a spectacular urban backdrop. The venue’s flexibility between indoor and outdoor setups across seasons ensures consistent comfort and appeal year-round. Furthermore, the option to upgrade to premium spaces like the Liberty Club lounge provides additional exclusivity and tailored service for groups wanting a more curated experience. This versatility, combined with its iconic location on the waterfront, makes The Rooftop at Pier 17 an exceptional place to host meaningful and memorable gatherings with friends or family.
How accessible and convenient is The Rooftop at Pier 17 for visitors?
Situated in the historic Seaport District of Manhattan, The Rooftop at Pier 17 benefits from easy accessibility via multiple transportation options, including subway, bus, and taxi services. This central location makes it convenient for local residents as well as tourists exploring NYC. The venue itself is modern and well-maintained, with organized entry points and attentive staff supporting a smooth arrival experience. While some visitors have noted the possibility of queues, especially for special events or concert nights, the overall entry process is manageable, and pass holders can often access exclusive lounges that ease wait times. Nearby amenities in the Seaport area include restaurants, shops, and hotels, allowing visitors to extend their outing beyond the rooftop itself. This accessibility contributes to making The Rooftop at Pier 17 a practical and appealing option for groups planning meetups, ensuring everyone can arrive comfortably and enjoy the full experience without logistic headaches.
What is the overall reputation of The Rooftop at Pier 17 according to visitors?
The Rooftop at Pier 17 holds an impressive 4.8-star rating from over 440 reviews, reflecting a strong record of customer satisfaction and positive visitor experiences. Many patrons highlight the breathtaking views as a top feature, consistently mentioning how the scenery enhances their gatherings and events. The rooftop’s atmosphere, combining lively entertainment with comfy lounge spaces, is frequently praised for striking the right balance between energetic and relaxed. The concert series adds additional value and excitement, attracting diverse crowds and notable performers that keep the venue dynamic and fresh. However, some reviews point out shortcomings, particularly concerning food quality and pricing, which can sometimes detract from the overall experience. Nonetheless, the high ratings and recurrent praise for ambiance, service, and scenic beauty firmly establish The Rooftop at Pier 17 as an excellent venue for social meetups. It continues to be regarded as a top destination for making lasting memories with friends and family in one of New York City’s most iconic locations.