Melbourne’s skyline is home to some of Australia’s most vibrant and atmospheric rooftop bars, offering an unparalleled experience where great drinks, stunning views, and a lively ambience converge. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s nothing quite like sipping a cocktail while soaking in panoramic views of the city’s iconic landmarks, buzzing streets, and ever-changing weather.
Among the city’s many rooftop offerings, one bar stands out as the ultimate destination for those looking to elevate their experience—literally and figuratively. Known for its stylish decor, creative cocktails, and vibe encapsulating Melbourne’s unique energy, this rooftop oasis is the perfect spot for unwinding after a long day or starting a night out on the town.
In this article, we’ll dive into what makes this rooftop bar the best in Melbourne, from its innovative drink menu to its unbeatable atmosphere, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy the city from a higher perspective.
Morris House
120 Exhibition Street, CBD
Sitting atop the stunning heritage 1920’s building, the spacious rooftop at Morris House has a chic neutral aesthetic with leafy accents, as well as a retractable roof. DJs play every Friday and Saturday night from 7pm.
The Hawthorn Hotel
481 Burwood Road, Hawthorn
Boasting a new, 160m2 rooftop extension to the existing space, The Hawthorn Hotel is the perfect inner-east pub to enjoy casual drinking and dining. There’s a mixture of high and low tables, festoon lighting and beer garden games, as well as a large LED screen airing all the sports.
Fargo and Co
216 Swan Street, Richmond
Fargo & Co’s rooftop sits atop a two-storey heritage Edwardian building, formerly a bank, complete with vintage vault doors and bartenders who are known as tellers. One of the most stylish spots in Richmond, the rooftop is a destination for those looking for a good time and famous for its bottomless brunch on Saturdays.
Harlow
447 Church Street, Richmond
Harlow’s rooftop offers the ultimate spot to perch, sip and snack with some of the finest Melbourne CBD views around. There’s classic pub food, delicious drinks, weekend bottomless brunch and pooch pals are welcome (on a lead).
Imperial Hotel Bourke Street
2-8 Bourke Street, Melbourne
Perched high at the top of The Imperial Hotel is a huge rooftop with breathtaking city views. Unrivalled in the Melbourne rooftop bar scene and a popular place to soak in the beauty of the city skyline, there’s something for everyone with delectable cocktails, tasty food and screens to watch the sports.
Richmond Club Hotel
100 Swan Street, Richmond
Richmond Club Hotel is an iconic Melbourne pub built in the late 1800’s boasting an incredible rooftop with epic views over Melbourne’s skyline. Every Saturday and Sunday lunchtime people gather to enjoy the bottomless brunch and the rooftop is a popular spot for pre and post game/concert drinking and dining.
State of Grace
27 King Street, Melbourne
State of Grace’s two level rooftop offers great views overlooking Melbourne city. Grazing plates, sourdough pizzas, delicious cocktails, wines and beers are enjoyed by guests from 12 noon until late Monday to Saturday.
The Duke of Wellington
146 Flinders Street, Melbourne
The Duke of Wellington is Melbourne’s oldest licensed pub – established in 1853. The rooftop bar offers epic views of the Forum, Fed Square and Flinders Street and it’s a popular spot for those heading to or from Melbourne Park.
The Provincial
299 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy
Perched above Brunswick Street, The Provincial rooftop is one of the most popular in Melbourne. The full menu is available, along with funky cocktails and an impressive beer & wine list.
Yarra Botanica
Southbank Promenade
Yarra Botanica is a two-level floating bar and eatery on the Yarra River, with the upper level ‘rooftop’ boasting a unique and stunning view of the city and South bank. Guests enjoy an all-local line-up of quality Victorian drinks, seasonal menu and live music on the weekend.
