Golden hour, skyline views, and an ice-cold cocktail in hand — there’s nothing quite like sipping your favorite drink while the sun dips below the horizon. And yep, it’s happening right here in Richardson. If you’ve been sleeping on the rooftop bar scene, it’s time to wake up and raise your glass. Whether you’re kicking things off for the night or winding down with a little buzz, these Richardson bars prove the best nightlife in Richardson hits just right when you're a few floors up.
Top Rooftop Bars in Richardson You Need to Visit Now
Planning your next happy hour or evening date? We’ve scoped out the top rooftop bars in Richardson where views meet vibes. Here's where to drink with some altitude:
1. The Fifth: Urban Roof Bar
The Fifth is the OG for rooftop chills with a city vibe. Located on US-75, this spot gives you laid-back glam with stylish lighting, cozy chairs, and killer skyline views – ideal for sunset snaps.
- Happy Hour: Mon–Fri, 4–7 PM
- Highlights: $5 drafts, $6 wine, and $2 off signature cocktails
- Live Music: Saturdays, 8 PM until close
- Must-Try: The Lavender Lemonade cocktail – sweet, sour, and dangerously smooth
2. Haywire Plano (Just Outside Richardson)
Haywire isn’t technically in Richardson, but it's so close — and so vibey — we’re letting it slide in. This three-level Southern fusion spot has a rooftop patio decked out with fire pits, couches, and seasonal cocktail menus that hit every time.
- Happy Hour: Mon–Fri, 4–6 PM
- Specials: Half-off signature cocktails and $7 apps including the smoked brisket queso
- Rooftop DJs: Friday and Saturday nights after 9 PM
3. Legacy Hall Rooftop & Box Garden
Legacy Hall isn’t just about food – it's home to one of the best rooftop patios in the area, with open-air seating, rotating craft beers, and live events all week long. Keep it casual with tacos in hand or hit up their Box Garden concert series under the stars.
- Happy Hour: Mon–Thurs, 3–6 PM
- Drinks: $5 beers, $6 frosé, $3 off cocktails
- Events: Trivia Tuesdays, Live DJs Fri–Sat
- Pro Tip: Grab a frozen sangria and snag a seat on the upper deck for peak people-watching
4. 3Eleven Kitchen & Cocktails
3Eleven is your go-to for classy rooftop cocktails with a downtown sparkle. Their drink menu leans into local flair with craft spirits, and the rooftop patio steals the show when the sun sets behind the city lights.
- Happy Hour: Daily, 4–7 PM
- Deals: Half-off house wine and select cocktails, $5 bites
- Ambiance: Lounge-worthy with string lights and a chill playlist
5. Green Gator
Green Gator serves up spicy Cajun eats with a rooftop view that’s fiercely underrated. Think New Orleans flair, live music, and strong cocktails sitting high above the city buzz.
- Happy Hour: Mon–Fri, 4–7 PM
- Weekend Brunch: Sat & Sun with bottomless mimosas till 2 PM
- Deals: $4 drafts, $6 hurricanes, $5 wings
6. The Warehouse Bar & Grill
The Warehouse keeps it industrial-cool with a rooftop patio that makes the perfect hangout after work or mid-week drinks. Casual enough to rock your favorite tee and just polished enough for a date night.
- Happy Hour: Mon–Thurs, 3–6 PM
- Specials: $2 domestic drafts, $5 craft cocktails, loaded nachos half-off
- Events: Trivia Thursdays, Open Mic Wednesdays
7. Sixty Vines
Sixty Vines is all about sipping sunshine. Known for its wine-on-tap and a breezy second-floor terrace, it’s straight-up gold for sunset hour with friends or a super chill date night.
- Happy Hour: Mon–Fri, 3–6 PM
- Wine Specials: $6 glasses, $10 flights
- Food: Must-try burrata board and truffle mushroom pizza
8. Rooftop Event Spot
Rooftop Event Spot is more lowkey public bar, more high-key private party hotspot. But they host regular public events on the roof and trust us, the view is worth RSVPing for. They're attached to the adjoining Venue Forty50 — keep an eye on their calendar for pop-ups and party nights.
- Events: Monthly themed parties and mixology events
- Capacity: Perfect for groups and big celebrations
What to Wear While Rooftop Hopping in Richardson
If you’re rooftop bound, your fit needs to be as cool as the breeze. Keep it comfy, but stylish – you're standing under string lights, not stadium lights. Here are our top Bar Life wardrobe picks that’ll have you looking like the rooftop royalty you are:
- Just Chillin Hoodie – For those breezy rooftop nights that sneak up on you
- Spritz & Giggles Tee – A fresh, flirty tee that keeps it playful
- The Hangover Hat (Black) – For when you don’t wanna do your hair (but still wanna look hot)
- Malt Muscle Tee – Because rooftop beers = gains, right?
- It’s Beer O’Clock Tee – You already know what time it is
Final Call: Rooftops, Cocktails, and Nightlife Goals
Whether you're looking for that perfect first date spot, planning a weekend turn-up, or just chasing down the best views in town, these Richardson bars are setting the standard for sky-high sips and unforgettable nights. With this list, you’re ready to find the best nightlife in Richardson and toast to it in style.
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FAQs
What time do rooftop bars in Richardson usually open?
Most rooftop bars in Richardson open in the late afternoon (around 4–5 PM) and stay open until midnight or later on weekends. Check individual bar websites for exact hours.
Are rooftop bars in Richardson good for groups?
Absolutely. Spots like Haywire, The Fifth, and Green Gator are super group-friendly with plenty of seating and party vibes. Just call ahead if you’ve got a crew.
Which rooftop bar in Richardson has live music?
Legacy Hall and Green Gator regularly host live music, especially on weekends. The Box Garden at Legacy Hall is a full-on concert venue disguised as a patio.
