Orlando’s skyline offers so much more than just theme park silhouettes. As the sun begins to set, the city’s rooftop bars come alive, offering the perfect escape that blends urban energy with a laid-back charm. Imagine sipping a creative cocktail, sharing delicious food, and watching the sky transform into a canvas of brilliant colors. It’s the perfect setting for a romantic evening or lively night out with friends.
This guide will walk you through the best rooftop happy hours in Orlando, with a focus on venues known for their stunning sunset views, great deals, and Instagram-worthy ambiance. Let’s find your new favorite spot to watch the sun go down and toast to another beautiful day!
Top 5 Rooftop Bars for Sunset Happy Hours
Whether you’re looking for upscale romance or a vibrant social atmosphere, Orlando’s rooftops offer the perfect place to sip, savor, and soak in the color of the sky.
AC Sky Bar
Location: Downtown Orlando, on the 18th floor.
Vibe: Modern, upscale, and vibrant.
Best For: Chic date nights and elevated group outings.
Perched high above the city, AC Sky Bar offers sweeping 360-degree skyline views and a stylish yet relaxed rooftop experience. Its west-facing terrace is the ideal spot to watch the sun dip behind the city, turning even a simple drink into a magical moment. With fire heaters for cooler evenings and a DJ on select nights, it sets the perfect mood for your sunset experience.
Happy Hour: “Wine Down Wednesdays” runs from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., with wine flights starting at $25.
Pro Tip: Make a reservation if you want a guaranteed sunset view from the terrace.
Bar 17 Bistro
Location: 17th floor of Universal’s Aventura Hotel.
Vibe: Sleek, modern, and relaxed.
Best For: Sunset drinks with theme park views.
Bar 17 Bistro is the kind of rooftop that wraps your evening in color. From its elevated perch, you can watch the sun settle behind the theme parks and even catch fireworks sparkling in the distance. The menu features delicious tropical cocktails and flavorful global-inspired bites, like their signature bao buns. On weekends, a DJ adds a smooth, lounge-like atmosphere to the space.
Happy Hour: A late-night happy hour begins at 10 p.m.
Pro Tip: It’s a fantastic spot to unwind after a day of park hopping in the Universal area.
illume
Location: 9th floor of JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek.
Vibe: Upscale, contemporary, and lively.
Best For: Celebrations and elevated date nights.
For some of the best sunset views in Orlando, look no further than illume. The west-facing terrace provides a front-row seat to the sky’s nightly show, followed by a fantastic view of the Disney fireworks. The menu shines with Japanese-inspired dishes like fresh sushi and savory sticky ribs, paired with handcrafted cocktails and a curated sake selection. A DJ often energizes the space, making it a top choice for a special celebration.
Happy Hour: While there isn’t a traditional happy hour, the experience is worth it.
Pro Tip: Reservations are highly recommended, especially if you want a table during sunset.
Capa
Location: 17th floor of the Four Seasons Resort Orlando.
Vibe: Michelin-star elegance and pure romance.
Best For: Special occasions and luxurious evenings.
Capa offers one of the most unforgettable rooftop experiences in Orlando. From its twin terraces high above the Four Seasons, you get an incredible view of the sunset and the nightly Disney fireworks. The atmosphere is a perfect blend of romance and luxury, featuring a Spanish-inspired menu with expertly prepared steaks, tapas, and exquisite cocktails. On certain nights, live Spanish guitar music adds even more charm to the enchanting evening.
Happy Hour: Offered on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Pro Tip: The dress code is “resort elegant,” so dress to impress. Reservations are strongly recommended.
Paddlefish
Location: Disney Springs, with rooftop views overlooking Lake Buena Vista.
Vibe: Nautical, chic, and family-friendly.
Best For: Waterfront sunsets and relaxed group gatherings.
If a sunset on the water is what you’re dreaming of, Paddlefish is a beautiful choice. Set aboard a charming steamboat, its rooftop deck provides 360-degree lake views that glow with soft orange and pink as the sun goes down. Although there’s no formal happy hour, the seafood-focused menu and creative cocktails make it a memorable place to unwind. It’s relaxed, family-friendly, and perfect for a peaceful, waterfront sunset.
Happy Hour: No designated happy hour, but the views are priceless!
Pro Tip: It’s a great spot to relax before or after exploring the shops and entertainment at Disney Springs.
5 More Sunset-Worthy Rooftop Spots
High Tide
Location: Downtown Orlando
Vibe: Fun, upbeat, and budget-friendly
Best For: Great drink deals and lively atmosphere
Famous for its incredible 3-for-1 drink deals on Wednesdays, High Tide is a go-to spot for anyone looking to have a great time without breaking the bank. This special makes it a popular, budget-friendly choice for students and young professionals. The bar consistently offers a fun, lively vibe, ensuring a memorable night out.
Happy Hour: All day 3-for-1 drinks on Wednesdays!
Pro Tip: Head there on a Wednesday to get the most bang for your buck.
Aero Rooftop Bar & Lounge
Location: Downtown Orlando
Vibe: High-energy, dance-ready party spot
Best For: Dancing, music, and stunning city views
Looking for a high-energy night out? Aero combines a lively, dance-friendly atmosphere with fantastic music, delicious cocktails, and stunning views of the city skyline, making it the perfect spot to unwind and celebrate.
Happy Hour: Check their website for daily specials.
Pro Tip: This is the spot for a vibrant, party-like atmosphere, so come ready to celebrate.
Wine Bar George
Location: 1610 E Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Vibe: Sophisticated and wine-focused
Best For: Wine lovers and gourmet pairings
For the true wine enthusiast, a visit to this Disney Springs terrace is a must. It boasts an impressive and extensive selection of over 200 wines, all meticulously curated by Master Sommelier George Miliotes. Whether you prefer a vintage from an old-world vineyard or a new-world discovery, you’ll find the perfect glass to enjoy alongside a variety of small plates and charcuterie boards.
Happy Hour: Check their website for daily specials.
Pro Tip: This is the spot for a vibrant, party-like atmosphere, so come ready to celebrate.
Grills Lakeside
Location: 4301 N Orange Blossom Trail, Orlando, FL 32804
Vibe: Sophisticated and wine-focused
Best For: Wine lovers and gourmet pairings
For a truly relaxed evening, head to Grills Lakeside on Lake Fairview. It’s the perfect casual spot to watch the sunset with friends, offering a laid-back atmosphere where you can unwind by the water. Enjoy good food and even better company in this ideal setting for a low-key night out.
Happy Hour: Look for special “by the ounce” offerings to sample rare wines.
Pro Tip: Ask the knowledgeable staff for a recommendation—you might discover your new favorite vintage!
Canvas Restaurant & Market
Location: 13615 Sachs Ave, Orlando, FL 32827
Vibe: Calm and scenic waterfront dining
Best For: Families or groups looking for a serene dinner experience
A vibrant dining spot offering a diverse menu of contemporary American cuisine with global influences. Located in a scenic area, Canvas combines a welcoming atmosphere with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The on-site market features unique artisan goods and gourmet items, making it a perfect destination for both a delicious meal and a bit of shopping.
Happy Hour: No official happy hour, but the dinner experience is a treat in itself.
Pro Tip: Make a dinner reservation around sunset for an unforgettable meal with a view.
Plan Your Perfect Rooftop Adventure
A little planning goes a long way in making your sunset evening even more magical. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Make Reservations: Popular rooftops like Capa, illume, and AC Sky Bar fill up quickly, especially around golden hour. Book ahead to secure your spot.
Check Dress Codes: While most venues are casual chic, upscale locations like Capa require “resort elegant” attire. It’s always a good idea to check before you go.
Arrive Early: For walk-in-friendly rooftops, arriving 30 to 45 minutes before sunset gives you the best chance to grab a prime seat with an unobstructed view.
Plan Your Transportation: If you plan on enjoying a few cocktails, using a rideshare service is a convenient and safe choice for getting to and from your destination.
Your Perfect Place to Unwind
After enjoying Orlando’s stunning rooftop sunsets, return to a space that feels relaxing and refreshing. FunStay Homes offers spacious vacation rentals with private pools, cozy living areas, and all the comforts you need to recharge for the next adventure. Make every part of your trip memorable.
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