Does anything say sultry summer better than a high-spirited gathering at poolside? August is made for pool parties, so say “last one in’s a rotten egg” to all those chill rooftop pool decks at hip hotels across the land that offer craft cocktails, local microbrews and chef-driven bites. Those places where, as day gives way to evening, the celebration level always ratchets up a notch or two—and the views from on high become even more jaw-dropping. We pay tribute to a sampling of such properties…where being up on the roof is being at party central.
NOPSI Hotel New Orleans, Louisiana
Creative fare (Pickle Patch—chef-crafted pickled and marinated veggies—and Muffuletta Bruschetta—the N’awlins classic on sesame flat bread, for starters) await at Above the Grid, the dynamic rooftop pool and bar in the renovated, 1920s-elegant New Orleans Public Service Inc. Building. It’s open to the public come afternoon, making it a high-energy addition to the night scene.
Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix, Arizona
Lustre Rooftop Bar has got you covered—a social hub with poolside sun beds, lounge sofas and bar stools that boast views of the city skyline and South Mountain. Not to mention a locally sourced menu featuring temptations such as Forest Mushroom Flatbread (topped by savory herb goat cheese, truffle oil and bechamel) and St. Louis Pulled Pork Sliders.
The Statler, Dallas, Texas
On the 19th floor of this swanky, historic hotel in the Big D’s downtown, Waterproof is an indoor/outdoor space where guests can get a poolside pedicure by day, and locals and guests alike party by night. Creations from the full bar are accompanied by posh bites such as locally sourced beef tartare and foie gras chicken liver pate.
The London West Hollywood, California
Among the stunning Southern California rooftops dishing up the best of summer is this newly renovated space with panoramic vistas, luxury cabanas, fire pits and cozy couches. Plus concierge services that can swiftly supply such goodies as oxtail barbacoa tacos and crispy pork bao buns. Feeling virtuous? Then opt for one of the organic cold-pressed juices or teas.
