Free Chelsea Art and Manhattan Views from Above

Contemporary shows fill an open, brightly lit gallery on West 19th Street. Rooftop terraces overlook Lincoln Center. Visitors at another lounge often arrive before sunset to watch Manhattan's lights come on.

Ask Karpo about art and rooftops
David Zwirner
4.5 (777)
Tue – Sat, 10:00 – 18:00
533 W 19th St

At 533 W 19th St, David Zwirner offers free admission to a Chelsea gallery with an open, minimal interior and bright lighting. Its rotating program features contemporary names, with recent visitors singling out the Gerhardt exhibition, the Jasper Johns show upstairs, and Michael Armitage: Crucible. Visit Tuesday through Saturday, 10 AM to 6 PM.

View Details
The Empire Rooftop
4.3 (964)
Mon – Tue, Sun, 11:00 – 00:00 (+1); Wed – Thu, 11:00 – 01:00 (+1); Fri – Sat, 11:00 – 01:30 (+1)
44 W 63rd St, 12th Floor

The Empire Rooftop spreads across more than 8,000 square feet at Manhattan's Empire Hotel, with a Main Lounge, seasonal Sun Deck, open-air East Terrace and West Terrace with a retractable roof cover. Its terraces look toward Lincoln Center, while Chuck Bass photos, show clips and an XOXO cocktail carry the Gossip Girl thread. Try the server-recommended Ginferno with lobster tacos or truffle tater tots.

View Details
The Fleur Room
3.6 (1,089)
Tue, 17:00 – 00:00 (+1); Wed, 17:00 – 02:00 (+1); Thu – Sat, 17:00 – 04:00 (+1)
105 W 28th St, New York, NY 10001, USA

The Fleur Room divides its skyline outlook between two distinct viewing sections, including a view of the Empire State Building. Arrive before sunset to watch the city lights come on, then settle into a sophisticated lounge atmosphere that can build toward a lively, music-focused nightclub. Book in advance when you want a table.

View Details
Branch New York
5.0 (13)
Mon – Sun, 07:00 – 23:00
18 W 40th St

Branch New York serves botanical cocktails at the Park Terrace Hotel. The private club overlooks Bryant Park, with views stretching across Manhattan. Open communal areas, an outdoor deck and an all-weather pergola give entrepreneurs and thinkers space to gather. The club hosts cultural events. Access requires a membership application.

View Details

Ask Karpo for more information.