Hot Tin The view
Pontchartrain Hotel, Lower Garden District · $$$
Photo: Angela Khan-Norton
Why it made the list: On top of the historic Pontchartrain Hotel, Hot Tin pairs the best skyline-and-river panorama in the city with a vintage, artist's-loft look and a serious cocktail list. It's the rooftop locals actually name first.
Above the Grid Downtown pick
NOPSI Hotel, CBD · $$$
Photo: Derra “Derra” Howard
Why it made the list: A sleek rooftop pool bar atop the NOPSI Hotel in the Central Business District, with skyline views on every side and a polished, hotel-bar ease. It's central, stylish and an easy walk from the Quarter.
Rosie's on the Roof History view
Higgins Hotel, Warehouse District · $$$
Photo: Autumn Girmscheid
Why it made the list: Atop the WWII Museum's Higgins Hotel, Rosie's serves period-leaning cocktails with a sweeping view over the Warehouse District. The 1940s theme is done with real charm, and the terrace catches a great evening light.
Catahoula Rooftop The hideaway
Catahoula Hotel, CBD · $$
Photo: Catahoula New Orleans
Why it made the list: A small, plant-draped rooftop above the boutique Catahoula Hotel, known for a Peruvian-leaning bar and a pisco program that's a genuine point of difference in this cocktail city. It's intimate rather than showy, which is the charm.
Monkey Board Easygoing
The Troubadour, CBD · $$
Photo: Carleigh Milton
Why it made the list: The rooftop of the Troubadour Hotel is a relaxed, all-comers spot with skyline views, fire pits, cornhole and a menu of easy drinks and bar bites. Less scene, more hang, which some nights is exactly what you want.
⭐ Bonus Pick: The Carousel Bar, at ground level
Not a rooftop, but essential: the Carousel Bar inside Hotel Monteleone in the French Quarter is a slowly revolving, merry-go-round of a bar that's been spinning since 1949. Order a Vieux Carré, the cocktail born here, and let the room turn around you.
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