The rooftops of New York shelter hidden worlds, teeming with activity and concealed from earthbound passersby. Yes, come summer, there are the ever-popular rooftop bars, from the lively poolside scene at JIMMY at the James to the romantic, lush garden at Gallow Green, at The McKittrick Hotel. But then there’s the unexpected—and a lot of it.
After a hot spell in the sauna at Brooklyn Banya, for example, visitors can head to the rooftop to sunbathe or, in winter, roll in the snow. In the Brooklyn Navy Yard, a commercial rooftop vineyard, Rooftop Reds, offers hammocks and wine tastings. And uptown, Rutherford Observatory at Columbia University opens its doors to the public every other Friday for free stargazing.
There is all of this and much more in Leslie Adatto’s new book, “111 Rooftops in New York That You Must Not Miss” (Emons, $19.90). Full of lore and tips, the book is an excellent guide to those ready to explore New York on a higher level.Following are excerpts from Adatto’s book:
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