Top 6 Rooftop Bars In Columbia, South Carolina

1. Al's Upstairs Italian Restaurant

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Al’s Upstairs Italian Restaurant has the perfect intimate setting for a beautiful date night, if you’re looking for some romantic things to do. It is also ideal for a night out with friends. Al’s, voted Columbia’s Most Romantic Restaurant, boasts a wonderful view of the Saluda River, with the Columbian skyline as a backdrop. Enjoy some top notch Italian fare, and pair it with cocktails or wines from the restaurant’s extensive drinks menu.

Al's Upstairs Italian Restaurant

Address: 300 Meeting St. West Columbia, SC 29169 Phone: 803-794-7404

Website: Al’s Upstairs Italian Restaurant

Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 5pm till late (closed on Sun & Mon)

2. Sheraton Downtown Rooftop Bar and Lounge

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

This bar and lounge is located at the rooftop patio on 17th level of the Sheraton Hotel, and overlooks downtown Columbia. It is the highest rooftop bar in the area, and a great place to socialize, both in the day and at night. Pro tip: head there just before sunset to enjoy beautiful views of the sun setting over the city while sipping on your cocktail or beer!

Sheraton Downtown Rooftop Bar and Lounge

Address: 1400 Main St Sheraton Columbia Downtown Columbia, SC 29201

Website: Sheraton Downtown Rooftop Bar and Lounge

3. Carolina Ale House Rooftop Bar

Carolina Ale House is located in the heart of The Vista. After a day of shopping and exploring, settle down at the rooftop bar, enjoy some hearty local fare, and choose from about 40 refreshing beers on tap. This sports bar is a great place to watch the game and soak in the fun atmosphere.

Carolina Ale House Rooftop Bar

Address: 708 Lady St, Columbia, SC 29201

Website: Carolina Ale House Rooftop Bar

Opening hours: 11am - 2am (daily)

4. Hendrix Restaurant

If you’re still wondering where to eat, consider heading down to Hendrix Restaurant. This wonderful place is located on the iconic 1649 Main Street, and has a rich history that dates back to over 140 years ago, when the grandeur of the building was first captured in an 1872 illustration. Enjoy unique, house-made cocktails at the rooftop bar while admiring the Instagram-worthy views. Fill your stomach with delicious seasonal fare that is locally and ethically-sourced.

Hendrix Restaurant

Address: 1649 Main Street, Columbia, SC 29201

Website: Hendrix Restaurant

Opening hours: Tue - Thu: 4pm - 12am; Fri: 4pm - 2am (closed on Sun & Mon)

5. Black Rooster

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Black Rooster dubs itself as “frenchish”, and it certainly shows from their menu! The restaurant serves traditional French cuisine, with dishes like quiches and croque monsieur, as well as a selection of French fusion food. The bar is top notch too, with classic cocktails, a great wine selection, and an extensive variety of local craft beers. From the roof, you will get a great view of Columbia. Stop by for brunch, and spend you Sunday morning relaxing on the rooftop with a Mimosa in hand.

Black Rooster

Address: 201 Meeting St West Columbia, SC 29169

Website: Black Rooster

Opening hours: Mon - Thur: 5pm - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 5pm - 11pm; Sun: 10.30am - 2.30pm

6. River Rat Brewery

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

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River Rat was named after the three rivers that run through the city, and set out to create craft beers that would satisfy anyone after a long day’s work. Sip on interesting brews like the Hazelnut Brown Ale or Raspberry Lemon Wheat. There are also specials and discounts on every day of the week, and the Happy Hour special from 4-6pm on Tuesdays through Friday. Brewery tours and tastings are available for those interested in how River Rat brews their beers. To schedule a tour, drop River Rat an email at events@riverratbrewery.com 24-48 hours in advance to ensure a spot!

River Rat Brewery

Address: 1231 Shop Road Columbia, SC 29201

Website: River Rat Brewery

Opening hours: Tue - Wed: 12pm - 9pm; Thur: 12pm - 10pm; Fri: 12pm - 11pm; Sat: 10am - 11pm; Sun 10am - 8pm; Brunch on Sat/Sun: 10am - 2pm

The sky's the limit

The next time you’re in South Carolina, remember to check out these gorgeous rooftop bars! Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a place to have a chill drink with friends, or even Sunday brunch, the bars in this list will be sure to meet your criteria. There are also great BBQ joints and casual restaurants nearby if you’re looking for more dining options.