Let's start our journey with Ophelia Lounge NYC, a place that redefines the concept of relaxation in the big city. Located on the 26th floor of the Beekman Tower building, Ophelia offers a stunning 360-degree view of the Manhattan skyline. It's not just a bar, it's a real stage on which New York itself takes center stage. The art deco interior takes guests back to the Prohibition era, creating a unique atmosphere of luxury and mystery.

Ophelia is famous for its unique cocktails, which are true works of art. The drinks menu is carefully thought out, offering both classics and proprietary concoctions that push the boundaries of mixology. Prices are commensurate with the location and quality - you'll pay around $21-28 for a cocktail (as of 2024). It's worth remembering, however, that we're paying not just for the drink, but for the whole experience.

Let's now move on to Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge, which offers a completely different kind of entertainment. Located on the rooftop of the Moxy Times Square Hotel, this urban amusement park for adults is the largest of its kind in New York City. Magic Hour stands out for its fun, sometimes even kitschy atmosphere, which contrasts with Ophelia's elegance.

Magic Hour offers a variety of spaces, including a revolving stage with mini-golf, carousels and colorful decorations that create the perfect backdrop for photos on Instagram. The cocktail menu is as creative as the decor, with drinks served in unusual vessels. Prices are comparable to Ophelia, but Magic Hour offers more entertainment options.

Comparing the two venues, Ophelia is ideal for those looking for an elegant, quiet evening overlooking the city. Magic Hour, on the other hand, attracts guests who want a more energetic atmosphere and unusual attractions. Both venues offer great views of the city, but each has its own unique character.

The next stop on our tour of New York relaxation spots is The Delancey Rooftop. It's a place that combines elements of a rooftop bar with a club atmosphere, offering a unique blend of relaxation and entertainment. Located on the Lower East Side, The Delancey attracts locals and tourists alike with its eclectic atmosphere.

The Delancey Rooftop features tropical decor that makes guests feel like they're on a vacation island in the middle of New York City. Palm trees, wooden furniture and cozy nooks create the perfect place to relax after a long day. On warm evenings, the roof is open, allowing guests to enjoy the fresh air and the view of the Williamsburg Bridge.

Pricing-wise, The Delancey ranks in the mid-range, offering drinks at affordable prices, especially compared to more luxurious options like Ophelia and Magic Hour. This makes it a popular destination for younger professionals and artists. The Delancey often hosts live music events, which adds to the venue's charm.

Now let's move on to Castell Rooftop Lounge, which offers a more sophisticated experience. Located in the heart of Midtown, Castell impresses with its sleek, minimalist decor inspired by Catalan architecture. It's the perfect place for those looking for a quieter atmosphere to relax in after work.

Castell is famous for its excellent cocktails, especially their interpretation of the classic Martini. The drinks menu is carefully curated, with an emphasis on quality and precision. Prices are higher than at The Delancey, but still affordable by Midtown standards. The view from Castell includes the iconic Empire State Building, which adds to the charm of the place.

Comparing the two venues, The Delancey offers a more casual, energetic atmosphere, ideal for those who want to combine relaxation with the opportunity to dance and listen to live music. The Castell, on the other hand, is a better choice for those looking for a more refined, quieter environment to chat and enjoy great cocktails.

Both venues have their own unique characteristics: The Delancey attracts a more diverse audience and offers more entertainment, while the Castell focuses on elegance and a high-quality mixological experience. Choosing between the two depends on your mood and the type of relaxation you're looking for after a hard day in the city.

To conclude our tour of ideal places to relax in New York, we'll visit RT60 Rooftop Bar & Lounge. It's a place that combines all the best of New York rooftop bars: spectacular views, great drinks and a unique atmosphere.

RT60, located on the 34th floor of the Hard Rock Hotel New York, offers panoramic views of the iconic Manhattan skyline. What sets RT60 apart from other rooftop bars is its unique design inspired by New York's musical history. The bar's interior combines modern elements with a hint of rock and roll flair, creating a space that is both stylish and full of character.

The cocktail menu at RT60 is impressive, offering a wide selection of classic and original drinks. Prices are comparable to other upscale rooftop bars in the city, but the quality and presentation of the drinks fully justify the cost. Worth mentioning is their specialty - cocktails inspired by music legends, which not only taste great, but also tell a story.

RT60 also stands out for its culinary offerings. Unlike some rooftop bars that only offer basic snacks, RT60 has a full menu with a selection of dishes that pair perfectly with drinks. This makes it a great place not only for a drink, but also for a full evening meal overlooking the city.

When comparing RT60 with the previously discussed venues, one can see that it offers a unique combination of all the best features. Like Ophelia, RT60 provides a luxurious experience and spectacular views. However, unlike Ophelia's more formal atmosphere, RT60 has a more casual, though still sophisticated, vibe.

Compared to Magic Hour, RT60 is less about 'Instagram-ability' and fun, and more about an authentic New York nightlife experience. At the same time, like The Delancey, RT60 offers live music, but in a more elegant setting.

Price-wise, RT60 ranks in the upper echelon, similar to Ophelia and Magic Hour, but offers more culinary options, which may justify the higher prices. This is the perfect place for those who want to end the day in style, enjoying great food, drinks and views all in one place.

In conclusion, each of the places discussed offers a unique way to relax in New York. From the elegant Ophelia to the fun Magic Hour, the casual The Delancey, the sophisticated Castell to the versatile RT60, each of these places has its own character and attributes that attract different guests. Choosing the perfect spot depends on your personal preferences, mood and the type of experience you're looking for after a hard day in the Big Apple. Regardless of your choice, each of these places guarantees unforgettable moments of relaxation overlooking one of the world's most beautiful cities.