Sure, we love the warm temperatures, greenery, and sunshine that are swept in with the arrival of spring. But in (and around) DC, everyone knows the season’s real draw is found in savoring the view from the top — with a festive drink in your glass, of course.

From dive bars that serve up sneakily great rooftops to swanky cocktail haunts perched high above the city, these are the best rooftop escapes in DC where refreshing weather, sunsets, and incredible views of our nation’s capital will never go out of style.

#1 Smoke & Mirrors

Set atop the AC Hotel Washington DC Capitol Hill Navy Yard, Smoke & Mirrors offers a sleek yet inviting retreat with stunning views of the U.S. Capitol. In the heart of the city’s most influential neighborhood, this rooftop spot serves up inventive craft cocktails alongside shareable bites like mumbo wings, pork belly deviled eggs, crab artichoke dip, and lamb skewers.

#2  12 Stories

You already know The Wharf is the place to be when the weather warms up — but make sure 12 Stories is on your list. Overlooking the InterContinental Washington, DC at The Wharf, this rooftop bar brings NYC cool to the District, courtesy of the team behind Mr. Purple. Expect sleek, modern design, sweeping views of the Washington Channel, and a menu of creative cocktails like the “Aren’t You a Fineapple” (Hennessy, Grand Marnier, pineapple, and lemon). Pair your drink with bites like grilled shrimp or pesto flatbread, and soak in the scenery.

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#3 El Techo

El Techo more lives up to its “adult treehouse” reputation, dishing out rooftop vibes, spicy margaritas, and bold Mexican street food right in the heart of Shaw. A lush, turf-lined escape above Rito Loco, this spot brings the energy with Spanish-inspired tapas, refreshing cervezas, and the perfect setting for a sunny happy hour.

#4 Ivy and Coney

This friendly neighborhood bar dedicated to all things Chicago and Detroit offers cheap eats and drinks with a view that is anything but low-budget. The roofdeck is a great place to take in the sights and sounds of the game (this is a sports bar, after all) — and you can never go wrong with a Detroit-style pizza washed down with a local beer.

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#5 Perry’s

No trip to Adams Morgan is complete without a stop at Perry’s, a neighborhood icon for over 30 years. Helmed by Chef Masako Morishita — winner of the 2024 James Beard Award for Emerging Chef — this spot delivers inventive Japanese cuisine that pushes boundaries. Pair your meal with a glass of wine, Japanese whiskey, or sake, and savor it all from the sleek bar or the rooftop terrace when the season’s right.

#6 Graham Rooftop

Take in panoramic views of historic Georgetown and beyond from the rooftop of The Graham Hotel. This stylish perch offers craft cocktails, flavorful bites (think pomegranate guacamole), and bottle service in a refined yet relaxed setting. With chic sofas and high-top tables, it’s the perfect spot to sip and unwind — just remember, seating is first-come, first-served.

Looking to make moves on your home search or sale in between stops? Whatever the season, we’ll keep your best interests top of mind. If you have real estate questions, get in touch today. Fill out the form on this page, call us at at 202.280.2060, or email us directly at jsmira@jennsmira.com.