Eight rooftop bars to take in the best of Canberra

Posted on
There’s something about a rooftop bar.
Different from a beer garden or casual picnic drinks, when the weather warms up the urge to go sky-high when catching up with friends quickly takes over.
Maybe it’s the vibe, maybe it’s the view. All we know is that with a hot summer predicted, cold drinks taste better at high altitudes.
All serving more than just stunning outlooks, here are eight rooftop bars so you can take in the best of Canberra.
Bar 59 (Belconnen)
A new rooftop bar has opened in Belconnen, just in time for some summertime sips. Bar 59 is the newest addition to Mercure Canberra Belconnen, bringing locals a luxe spot for a cold drink. Helping you kick off the weekend in style from 4 pm until late on Thursdays and Fridays, Bar 59 will be pouring everything from local spirits, beers, and wines to classic cocktails, all best enjoyed taking in the stunning views of Lake Ginninderra.
Level 11,59 Cameron Avenue, Belconnen | Thursday and Friday, 4 pm until late | mercurebelconnen.com.au
OHNO! (Griffith)
View this post on Instagram
If you’re looking for a relaxed atmosphere, you can’t go past the upstairs area at OHNO! With a cosy cocktail bar where you can drink and snack while listening to house DJs, with beautiful large windows that can be opened when the heat hits, nibbling on share plates and tasting your way through an extensive wine while enjoying a cool breeze is the ultimate way to spend summer.
13 & 15 Flinders Way, Griffith | Open Wednesday to Sunday, 12 pm until 11 pm | oh-no.com.au
Public (Manuka)
View this post on Instagram
Offering charming views overlooking the streets of Manuka, the upstairs dining room and cocktail bar at Public has an industrial luxe feel with a terrazzo bar, brass accent lights, curved wood tables, and velvet and leather chairs and sofas. And while it might be small, with a sharp menu and drinks list, sitting by the wall of windows is the perfect spot to enjoy a drink while looking out onto the goings on of the street below.
Manuka Arcade, 1/33 Flinders Way, Griffith | Open Monday to Sunday, 11 am until late | publicbar.com.au
The Inn (Ainslie)
View this post on Instagram
You might not expect to find killer views of Canberra at the Ainslie Shops, but that’s where The Inn proves you wrong. Perched upstairs to Edgar’s, not only is this drinking and dining destination refined, but it also offers a unique panoramic view of Telstra Tower and Mount Ainslie. Enjoy the view as you sip champagne with Sydney Rock oysters before digging into simple, wholesome, and flavorsome dishes.
Level 1, Edgar Street, Ainslie | Open Tuesday to Saturday, 5.30 pm until late | edgarsinn.com.au/the-inn
Leyla Bar (Barton)
View this post on Instagram
Overlooking sweeping skyline views of the city, Lake Burley Griffin, and beyond, Leyla Bar is the place to go if you’re craving a classic cocktail while watching the sunset behind some of Canberra’s most iconic buildings. And with breezy, coastal vibes and a menu packed full of delicious Spanish tapas, it’s (literally) an elevated drinking experience.
Level 7, Burbury Close, Barton | Open Tuesday to Sunday, 3 pm until late | leylabar.com.au
Yaki Boi (Braddon)
View this post on Instagram
Casual eats and views that can’t be beat – Yaki Boi in Braddon is often soaked with sunshine and packed with pizzas, burgers, and cocktails. A great location to kick off your day or end your night, with a Japanese fusion-inspired menu, perch yourself on this patio.
ORI Building, 72/30 Lonsdale Street, Braddon | Open Monday to Sunday, 12 pm until late | yakiboi.com.au
Howling Moon (Braddon)
View this post on Instagram
You can’t write a list of rooftop bars in Canberra without mentioning The Howling Moon. Located on top of the Rex Hotel, the views are just as vibrant as the cocktails and are spectacular no matter the weather. Watch the sunset while wolfing down (get it?) delicious snacks and dance under the stars long into the night.
150 Northbourne Avenue, Braddon | Open Monday to Sunday, 4 pm until late | thehowlingmoon.com.au
Highball (City)
View this post on Instagram
With a private, lush, greenery-filled terrace overlooking London Circuit and City Hill, Highball isn’t just a bar – it’s a destination. With a fresh and fun vibe (and a very, very extensive rum menu), even with the reminder just out the window, you’ll forget you’re in the heart of Canberra’s city.
Level 1, 75 London Circuit, City | Open Sunday to Wednesday, 4 pm – 12 am and Thursday to Saturday, 4 pm – 3 am | highball.bar
Feature image: Leyla Bar. Photography: Ashley St George, Pew Pew Studio.