If you know the DMV (D.C., Maryland, and Virginia), then you know where the fun resides. Outsiders sometimes misinterpret the DMV as simply the Department of Motor Vehicles or the Motor Vehicle Administration. These locations feature some of the best spots to enjoy a drink, companionship, and breathtaking views. With the D.C. city center, Maryland sunsets, and Virginia landmarks. This area features rooftop bars and lounges that will light up the summer vibes. Here are 10 popular rooftops in the DMV to try this summer!
1. VUE Rooftop / D.C.
VUE Rooftop is a modern space situated 11 stories above Washington D.C. It is located at 515 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004. The rooftop bar showcases unmatched views of the White House and the Washington Monument. VUE Rooftop is noted for its vibrant energy and chic atmosphere. The rooftop bar serves fresh, creative, and handcrafted signature cocktails. It's popular among tourists as well as locals, providing a distinctive experience.
2. Hip Flask Rooftop Bar / Maryland
Hip Flask Rooftop Bar is a trendy and peculiar cocktail bar located at 7707 Woodmont Ave, Bethesda, MD 20814. It is Bethesda's highest rooftop bar, with views of downtown from floor-to-ceiling windows and an outside deck. The bar is noted for its customized drinks and light meals. Overall, Hip Flask Rooftop Bar provides a unique experience with its inventive cocktails and unparalleled views of Bethesda.
3. Top of the Gate Rooftop Bar / D.C.
Top of the Gate, the award-winning open-air rooftop bar, is located at 2650 Virginia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20037. It stands on the 15th-floor patio of the Watergate Hotel, the bar has stunning 360-degree views of the Kennedy Center, the Potomac River, the Key and Arlington Bridges, the Washington Monument, and the rest of the DC cityscape. It's the ideal spot for an after-work cocktail, a romantic night, or weekend drinks with friends.
4. Parc de Ville Rooftop Lounge / Virginia
Parc de Ville Rooftop Lounge is a delightful French bistro located at 8296 Glass Alley, Fairfax, VA 22031. The lounge has a carefully crafted wine collection to accompany their gourmet meals. The rooftop lounge is popular for its wine, drinks, and delicious small appetizers. Overall, Parc de Ville Rooftop Lounge provides an unforgettable experience with its innovative cocktails and panoramic views of Fairfax.
5. Buena Vida Gastrolounge’s Rooftop Bar / Virginia
Buena Vida Gastrolounge's Rooftop Bar is located at 2900 Wilson Blvd Ste 103, Arlington, VT 22201. The rooftop aims to provide astonishing views and great meals. The beautiful, Mexican-inspired rooftop bar is open all year. It has a retractable roof to protect you from the weather, so it is open rain or shine. You can eat freshly made and authentic Mexican specialties, drink margaritas, or try one of the handcrafted tropical house-made drinks.
6. 12 Stories Rooftop Bar / D.C.
12 Stories is a rooftop bar located at 75 District Sq SW in Washington, DC 20024. It rests atop The Wharf's lavish InterContinental Hotel. The bar is notable for its 13-foot floor-to-ceiling windows and outdoor terrace, which provide breathtaking panoramic views of the Washington cityscape and the Potomac. The bar features an industrial-chic and elegant indoor lounge with expansive windows, as well as a charming open-air terrace.
7. The Bygone Rooftop Lounge / Maryland
The Bygone is a rooftop lounge located at 400 International Dr, Ste 29, Baltimore, MD 21202. It hangs 29 stories above The Wharf's luxurious InterContinental Hotel and provides an exceptional dining and drinking experience. The Bygone is reminiscent of an old-school social club, combining the roaring elegance of the past with modern dynamism. The club is notable for its 13-foot floor-to-ceiling windows and outdoor terrace, which provide breathtaking panoramic views.
8. Smoke & Mirrors Rooftop Lounge / D.C.
Smoke & Mirrors Rooftop Lounge is located at 867 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20003. It's tucked between Capitol Hill and Navy Yard, with a view of the historic United States Capitol Building. The lounge was deliberately built to serve as your new favorite rooftop bar. The lounge features a diverse menu of unique artisan beverages as well as a delectable selection of shared foods. The ambiance is considered sophisticated, relaxing, and romantic, with beautiful scenery.
9. Wilson Hardware’s rooftop bar / Virginia
Wilson Hardware's Rooftop Bar is located at 2915 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201. The rooftop bar is lush and attractive, with a retractable canopy that gets used year-round. The site offers a variety of different experiences in both indoor and outdoor settings. "The prime spot is the top-floor rooftop bar. "
10. Whiskey Charlie’s rooftop lounge / D.C.
Whiskey Charlie's Rooftop Lounge is located at 975 7th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024. It stands atop the Canopy Washington DC in The Wharf, DC's premier lifestyle and leisure hub. The 10th-story rooftop features both an intimate outdoor rooftop deck and a beautiful indoor lounge called 'The Cabin'. You can watch the activity at The Wharf while enjoying panoramic views of the water and many of DC's famous monuments. The Whiskey Charlie rooftop bar offers an incredible assortment of handcrafted drinks, ranging from renowned hallmarks to reinterpreted classics.
Finally, summertime is here! Whether you're a tourist or a local, the DMV's rooftops are waiting for you to explore. For more engaging blogs, design tips, and real estate insights, connect with Mynor & Associates.
Written by: Lolita Tonle
Architecture & Real-Estate Student, University of Maryland
Intern at Mynor & Associates
