Dallas offers one of Texas's most vibrant rooftop scenes, with panoramic terraces delivering breathtaking skyline views, signature cocktails, scenic pools, and elevated dining throughout the city. The best areas are Downtown, Uptown, Deep Ellum, Design District, and Lower Greenville.
Catbird, on the 9th floor of the Thompson Dallas hotel — considered one of the city's most elegant rooftops — is the definitive first Dallas rooftop recommendation. Waterproof, on the 19th floor of The Statler Hotel — one of the city's most famous rooftop pools — delivers one of the liveliest rooftop scenes in Dallas. And Gallery Rooftop Lounge at the Canvas Hotel — one of the most photographed terraces in the city — rounds out the trio of rooftops every Dallas evening should consider first.
This guide ranks the best rooftop bars in Dallas — covering the city's most iconic hotel terraces, its most essential pool scenes, and its most important neighborhood spots, plus a few worthwhile options nearby — with the honest context that helps you plan the perfect Dallas evening above the skyline. This guide ranks the 10 best rooftop bars in Dallas.
Quick Comparison: Best Rooftop Bars in Dallas
| Rooftop Bar | Neighborhood | Style | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Catbird | Downtown (Thompson Dallas) | Elegant Jewel-Box Lounge | Sunsets, romantic dates | Cocktails $18–25 |
| Waterproof | Downtown (The Statler) | Famous Rooftop Pool | Lively pool parties | Cocktails $16–22 |
| Gallery Rooftop Lounge | South Dallas (Canvas Hotel) | Photogenic Infinity Pool | Instagram-worthy views | Cocktails $15–22 |
| Sky Blossom Rooftop Bistro | Downtown | Asian Cuisine Rooftop | Dinner with a view | Cocktails $14–20 |
| HG Sply Co. | Lower Greenville | Local Favorite | Brunch, margaritas | Cocktails $12–18 |
| Happiest Hour | Near American Airlines Center | Lively Sports Rooftop | Game days, happy hour | Cocktails $12–18 |
| Upside West Village | Uptown/West Village | Elegant Pool Rooftop | Refined evenings | Cocktails $15–22 |
| RH Rooftop Restaurant Dallas | Design District | Refined Garden Rooftop | Romantic lunches, aperitivo | Cocktails $15–22 |
| Terilli's Upstairs Terrace | Various | Romantic Italian | Bellinis, fresh pasta | Cocktails $14–18 |
| The Henry Rooftop | Downtown | Trendy Modern | Sunday brunch | Cocktails $15–20 |
The 10 Best Rooftop Bars in Dallas: Full Reviews
1. Catbird — The Best Rooftop Bar in Dallas
Location: 9th floor, Thompson Dallas, Downtown | Price: Cocktails $18–25, champagne $100–400 per bottle | Best For: Spectacular skyline views, premium cocktails, a luxurious atmosphere, sunsets and romantic evenings
Catbird holds its position as Dallas's most elegant rooftop, occupying the 9th floor of the National Building, a 51-story downtown landmark home to the Thompson Dallas hotel, with a jewel-box design featuring floor-to-ceiling windows and plush velvet seating throughout. Chef Jeramie Robison's menu pairs genuinely well with the rooftop's sophisticated cocktail program, and live music plays Tuesdays and Wednesdays, with DJs taking over Fridays and Saturdays for a livelier late-night atmosphere.
The signature Catbird cocktail, blending tequila, Aperol, and grapefruit foam, alongside a genuinely excellent nitro espresso martini and classic Old Fashioned, demonstrate a drink program whose sophistication matches the rooftop's glamorous design. The open-air terrace delivers genuine skyline views over downtown Dallas.
The honest verdict: The best rooftop bar in Dallas — for guests who want the city's most elegant terrace with genuinely sophisticated cocktails, Catbird is the non-negotiable first recommendation.
2. Waterproof — The Best Rooftop Pool in Dallas
Location: 19th floor, The Statler Hotel, Downtown | Price: Cocktails $16–22 | Best For: One of the city's most famous rooftop pools, frozen margaritas, a genuinely young, lively crowd
Waterproof delivers the most famous rooftop pool experience in Dallas, perched on the 19th floor of The Statler, a historic hotel originally built in 1956 and beautifully redeveloped in 2017. The rooftop functions as a pool bar by day and a lively lounge by night, with DJs spinning Top 40, electronic, and Latin beats.
The refreshing frozen margaritas, well-composed mojitos, chilled rosé, and satisfying small plates demonstrate a menu whose tropical, poolside energy suits a genuinely festive afternoon or evening. Private cabanas are available for guests wanting a more secluded experience.
The honest verdict: The best rooftop pool in Dallas — for guests who want a genuinely lively poolside scene with skyline views, Waterproof is the outstanding choice. Arrive early on weekends, as it fills up fast.
3. Gallery Rooftop Lounge — The Most Photogenic Rooftop in Dallas
Location: Canvas Hotel, South Dallas | Price: Cocktails $15–22 | Best For: One of the most photographed terraces in the city, a genuine infinity pool, live music
Gallery Rooftop Lounge delivers the most photogenic rooftop experience in Dallas, its striking infinity pool and sweeping views over downtown having made it one of the most frequently featured rooftops on social media. The Canvas Hotel setting offers a genuinely distinctive vantage point south of the city center.
The dramatic infinity pool, sweeping downtown views, genuinely creative cocktails, and regular live music demonstrate a rooftop built around a truly memorable visual experience. The setting rewards a visit timed around sunset for the best possible photos.
The honest verdict: The most photogenic rooftop in Dallas — for guests who want a genuinely striking infinity pool and skyline views, Gallery Rooftop Lounge is the outstanding choice.
4. Sky Blossom Rooftop Bistro — The Best Rooftop Dinner in Dallas
Location: Downtown | Price: Cocktails $14–20, dinner $30–70 | Best For: A genuine rooftop dining experience with Asian cuisine, quality sushi, a Lychee Martini
Sky Blossom Rooftop Bistro delivers the most complete rooftop dining experience in Dallas, its genuine Asian-inspired menu offering a fuller meal than the city's more drinks-focused terraces. The rooftop's downtown setting and panoramic views make it a strong choice for both dinner and drinks.
The quality sushi, genuinely satisfying bao, well-composed Lychee Martini, and quality sake selection demonstrate a menu whose Asian culinary ambition distinguishes it from the city's more cocktail-only rooftops. The panoramic terrace makes it a strong choice for a full evening out.
The honest verdict: The best rooftop dinner in Dallas — for guests who want a genuinely complete Asian-inspired dining experience above the city, Sky Blossom Rooftop Bistro is the outstanding choice.
5. HG Sply Co. — The Best Local Favorite Rooftop in Dallas
Location: Lower Greenville | Price: Cocktails $12–18 | Best For: A genuine resident favorite, quality margaritas, craft beer, an excellent weekend brunch
HG Sply Co. delivers one of the most genuinely beloved local rooftop experiences in Dallas, its Lower Greenville setting and accessible pricing making it a favorite among neighborhood residents rather than just visiting tourists. The rooftop's relaxed atmosphere distinguishes it from downtown's more polished, upscale terraces.
The quality margaritas, genuinely excellent craft beer selection, popular weekend brunch, and satisfying gourmet burgers demonstrate a menu whose accessible pricing never compromises on real quality. The Lower Greenville setting keeps it within one of the city's most walkable neighborhoods.
The honest verdict: The best local favorite rooftop in Dallas — for guests who want a genuinely beloved neighborhood spot with real value, HG Sply Co. is the outstanding choice.
Explore Dallas Beyond Rooftops
A Dallas rooftop evening pairs naturally with the city's landmark sights, easily combined with a JFK Assassination and Sixth Floor Museum tour earlier in the day before a sunset drink downtown.
6. Happiest Hour — The Best Sports Rooftop in Dallas
Location: Near American Airlines Center | Price: Cocktails $12–18 | Best For: A massive rooftop, big screens for sports events, an excellent happy hour, a casual atmosphere
Happiest Hour delivers the most genuinely lively sports-oriented rooftop experience in Dallas, its expansive terrace and large screens making it a favorite for game days near the American Airlines Center. The rooftop's casual, high-energy atmosphere distinguishes it from the city's more polished, upscale terraces.
The massive rooftop space, dedicated screens for major sporting events, and a genuinely excellent happy hour demonstrate a venue built around genuine group energy. The casual setting makes it an easy, dependable choice before or after an event.
The honest verdict: The best sports rooftop in Dallas — for guests who want a genuinely lively atmosphere with big screens and a great happy hour, Happiest Hour is the outstanding choice.
7. Upside West Village — The Most Elegant Pool Rooftop in Dallas
Location: Uptown/West Village | Price: Cocktails $15–22 | Best For: An elegant rooftop with a pool, signature cocktails, quality sushi, champagne
Upside West Village delivers one of the most genuinely elegant rooftop pool experiences in Dallas, its polished West Village setting distinguishing it from the city's more casual, party-oriented pool venues. The rooftop's refined atmosphere suits a more sophisticated evening than Dallas's louder pool scenes.
The well-composed signature cocktails, quality sushi, and genuine champagne service demonstrate a rooftop whose elegance is matched by real culinary ambition. The West Village setting keeps it within easy reach of Uptown's broader dining and shopping scene.
The honest verdict: The most elegant pool rooftop in Dallas — for guests who want a genuinely refined poolside evening, Upside West Village is the outstanding choice.
8. RH Rooftop Restaurant Dallas — The Most Romantic Rooftop in Dallas
Location: RH Gallery, Design District | Price: Cocktails $15–22, dinner $40–90 | Best For: A genuinely refined rooftop garden, ideal for lunch and aperitivo, an elegant atmosphere
RH Rooftop Restaurant Dallas delivers the most romantic rooftop experience in the city, its genuinely refined garden setting inside the RH Gallery distinguishing it from the city's more energetic, nightlife-focused terraces. The rooftop's elegant design suits both a leisurely lunch and an intimate evening aperitivo.
The genuinely refined garden setting, well-composed cocktails, and quality dinner menu demonstrate a rooftop whose sophistication rewards guests seeking a quieter, more romantic experience. The Design District setting makes it an easy stop while exploring the neighborhood.
The honest verdict: The most romantic rooftop in Dallas — for couples who want a genuinely elegant garden setting, RH Rooftop Restaurant Dallas is the outstanding choice.
9. Terilli's Upstairs Terrace — The Best Italian Rooftop in Dallas
Location: Various | Price: Cocktails $14–18 | Best For: A romantic terrace with Italian cuisine, quality Bellinis, Italian wines
Terilli's Upstairs Terrace delivers the most genuinely Italian rooftop experience in Dallas, its dedicated Italian menu and romantic terrace setting distinguishing it from the city's more numerous cocktail-focused rooftops. The restaurant's fresh pasta program adds real culinary substance beyond the drinks.
The refreshing Bellinis, quality Italian wines, and genuinely fresh pasta demonstrate a rooftop whose Italian character suits a romantic, unhurried evening. The terrace setting rewards a reservation timed around sunset.
The honest verdict: The best Italian rooftop in Dallas — for guests who want genuine Italian cuisine paired with a romantic terrace, Terilli's Upstairs Terrace is the outstanding choice.
10. The Henry Rooftop — The Trendiest Rooftop in Dallas
Location: Downtown | Price: Cocktails $15–20 | Best For: One of the trendiest rooftops in the city, quality espresso martinis, a popular Sunday brunch
The Henry Rooftop rounds out this list as one of the trendiest rooftop destinations in Dallas, its genuinely stylish downtown setting and popular Sunday brunch making it a favorite among the city's fashionable crowd. The rooftop's espresso martini program has become a genuine signature.
The well-composed Espresso Martini, refreshing Spritz, and genuinely popular Sunday brunch demonstrate a rooftop whose stylish presentation is matched by genuine quality. The downtown setting makes it an easy stop during a day exploring the city center.
The honest verdict: The trendiest rooftop in Dallas — for guests who want a genuinely stylish rooftop with excellent brunch, The Henry Rooftop is the outstanding choice.
Rooftops Worth the Drive Near Dallas
If you have a car, several rooftops beyond the city limits are genuinely worth the trip. Atwater Alley in McKinney, roughly 50 km away, offers a rewarding day trip destination. Branch & Bird in Fort Worth, about 55 km away, delivers a genuinely spectacular view over the downtown Fort Worth skyline. Ático, also in Fort Worth, is a modern rooftop specializing in tapas and cocktails, offering a distinctly different atmosphere from Dallas's more numerous venues.
How to Choose the Right Dallas Rooftop Bar
By Occasion
For the single most elegant Dallas rooftop experience, Catbird's sophisticated design and cocktails are unmatched, drawing guests specifically for the atmosphere. For a lively pool party, Waterproof's genuine energy is unbeatable, especially on a warm weekend afternoon. For romance, RH Rooftop Restaurant Dallas and Terilli's Upstairs Terrace both deliver genuine intimacy away from the louder, more crowded venues. For sports and groups, Happiest Hour's massive space and screens are unmatched anywhere in the city.
Best Areas for Rooftops in Dallas
Downtown Dallas concentrates Catbird, Waterproof, and Sky Blossom within a genuinely walkable district packed with hotel terraces. Lower Greenville is home to HG Sply Co. and its beloved local following built over many years. South Dallas delivers Gallery Rooftop Lounge and its striking infinity pool, a genuine social media favorite. Uptown/West Village offers Upside and its elegant poolside setting, ideal for a refined evening. Design District is home to RH Rooftop Restaurant and its refined garden atmosphere, a quieter alternative to downtown's busier scene.
Price Guide
- Beer: $7–10
- Classic cocktails: $12–18
- Premium cocktails: $18–25
- Champagne: $100–400+
Insider Tips for Rooftop Bars in Dallas
- Arrive 30 to 60 minutes before sunset to secure the tables with the best views.
- Reservations are recommended on Fridays and Saturdays, especially for Catbird, Waterproof, and RH Rooftop Restaurant.
- If you're looking for an exclusive experience, choose Catbird; if you prefer a livelier atmosphere with music and sports, Happiest Hour is one of the best options.
- Many rooftop pools, including Waterproof, are 21-and-over venues, so plan accordingly if traveling with younger guests.
- Consider a car trip to Fort Worth for genuinely rewarding rooftop alternatives at Branch & Bird or Ático.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best rooftop bar in Dallas?
Catbird, on the 9th floor of the Thompson Dallas hotel, is widely regarded as the best rooftop bar in Dallas, known for its elegant design and sophisticated cocktail program.
What is the best rooftop pool in Dallas?
Waterproof, on the 19th floor of The Statler Hotel, is the city's most famous rooftop pool, known for its lively atmosphere and panoramic views.
What is the most photogenic rooftop in Dallas?
Gallery Rooftop Lounge at the Canvas Hotel is considered the most photogenic rooftop in Dallas, thanks to its striking infinity pool and downtown views.
What is the most romantic rooftop in Dallas?
RH Rooftop Restaurant Dallas offers the most romantic setting, with a refined garden atmosphere inside the RH Gallery.
Are there rooftop bars worth visiting near Dallas?
Yes, Branch & Bird and Ático in Fort Worth, and Atwater Alley in McKinney, all offer rewarding rooftop experiences for guests willing to drive.
Do Dallas rooftop bars require a reservation?
Reservations are recommended on Fridays and Saturdays, especially for Catbird, Waterproof, and RH Rooftop Restaurant.
What is the best rooftop for sports fans in Dallas?
Happiest Hour near the American Airlines Center offers the best sports-watching rooftop experience, with large screens and a lively atmosphere.
Is Dallas a good city for rooftop bars?
Yes — with an elegant rooftop at Catbird, a famous rooftop pool at Waterproof, and a striking infinity pool at Gallery Rooftop Lounge, Dallas offers one of the best rooftop scenes in Texas.
Final Verdict
Dallas's rooftop scene combines genuine skyline drama with Texas hospitality, anchored by Catbird's elegant design, Waterproof's famous pool energy, and Gallery Rooftop Lounge's striking infinity pool. The city's range extends from Asian-inspired dining at Sky Blossom to sports-watching energy at Happiest Hour, giving visitors genuine variety across every neighborhood and occasion, with a handful of worthwhile detours to Fort Worth and McKinney for guests with a car. Whether the goal is a sophisticated cocktail at Catbird, a lively pool day at Waterproof, or a romantic evening at RH Rooftop Restaurant, this list of the ten best rooftop bars in Dallas reflects a city whose skyline rewards a trip to the top.