Wondering when the best time is to catch sunset at a rooftop bar in the Financial District? Finding a bar with a great view is one of the best ways to enjoy all three stages of a sunset.
From golden hour to watching the city come to life and enjoying a late night, a rooftop lounge is the perfect place to relax.
At Highwater Rooftop, our rooftop bar in the heart of the Financial District, is the best spot to take in stunning views, enjoy craft cocktails, and share small plates. Contact us today to learn more or make your event reservation.
Ultimate Guide to Sunset at Our NYC Rooftop Bar
Sunset progresses in three main stages, and a rooftop bar gives you front row access to the entire show.
At Highwater Rooftop, you can enjoy Manhattan from 25 stories above street level, giving you unobstructed views that other bars simply can’t offer.
Golden Hour
As the sun begins to set in Downtown Manhattan, it creates an atmospheric shift where the glass towers of the city begin to reflect the orange and pink hues of the sky. This golden hour typically lasts from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., depending on the season.
The light hits the 360-degree terraces of many buildings in the area, illuminating the surrounding skyline. It’s a prime time for photography and capturing Instagrammable moments in the glow of the light.
A rooftop bar is a great setting for after-work networking events, casual friend catch-ups, and any other social event. This prime sunset window is the best time to decompress and connect with friends. As the workday ends, the energy becomes lighter and upbeat.
City Lights
After the initial golden hour, the sun disappears and the city lights turn on. This short window is known as the blue hour, the moment when the sky turns a deep indigo. At this point, you’ll notice the architectural lighting of the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty begin to sparkle in the distance.
As the natural light from the sunset begins to fade, Highwater’s lighting takes over, creating a cozy, intimate indoor atmosphere.
Late Night
For the rest of the evening, a rooftop lounge allows you to enjoy the lights of the surrounding cityscape.
The Financial District and Downtown Manhattan transform into glittering lights, and the view becomes more dramatic. Photos focus on the silhouettes of the skyscrapers against the dark sky.
In addition, the rooftop bar visitors shift away from relaxing social events and more into sophisticated nightlife mode.
At Highwater Rooftop, our menu has something for all stages of the evening. Our Espresso Martini collection is perfect for a late evening outing. It includes twelve espresso martinis, made with different liquors and unique flavor twists. We also have a variety of signature cocktails to enjoy throughout the night.
Visit Highwater Rooftop Lounge for the Ultimate Sunset Views
Located in the heart of the Financial District, Highwater Rooftop is a chic rooftop bar on the 25th and 26th floors of the Indigo Hotel.
Our bar is known for our signature cocktails, small plates, and views of Manhattan. Our menu includes wraps, quesadillas, salads, burgers, and more.
Highwater Rooftop is a great spot to relax, connect, and take in the city. Whether you’re stopping in for happy hour, celebrating with friends, or hosting a corporate event, our bar is perfect for observing sunset in the city.
Want to learn more or see the sunset for yourself? Contact us online or make your reservation to visit Highwater Rooftop today!