Los Angeles has no shortage of rooftop bars, but most visitors only see the obvious ones. The real magic happens above unmarked elevators, behind quiet hotel lobbies, and on rooftops that don’t advertise themselves loudly. That’s why travelers and residents keep searching for the best hidden rooftop bars in Los Angeles that locals love.
This guide reveals the best hidden rooftop bars in Los Angeles that locals love—places known for atmosphere, views, and low-key vibes rather than tourist crowds and influencer chaos.
Why Hidden Rooftop Bars Are Better in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is spread out, creative, and discreet. Locals value privacy and ambiance, which is exactly why the best hidden rooftop bars in Los Angeles that locals love stay under the radar.
What makes them special:
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No long tourist lines
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Relaxed dress codes
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Better sunset and night views
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Strong local crowd
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Less noise, more vibe
If you want the real LA nightlife experience, the best hidden rooftop bars in Los Angeles that locals love are where you should be.
What “Hidden” Really Means in LA
When locals talk about the best hidden rooftop bars in Los Angeles that locals love, they usually mean:
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Rooftops without street-level signage
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Bars inside boutique hotels
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Rooftops known mostly by word of mouth
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Places with subtle entrances
Hidden doesn’t mean secret—it means intentionally low-profile.
Perch
Perch is technically well-known, but locals still count it among the best hidden rooftop bars in Los Angeles that locals love because tourists often miss how to use it properly.
Why locals love it:
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French-inspired rooftop
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Live jazz nights
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Stunning DTLA skyline views
Pro tip: Go on a weekday evening before 8 PM for the calmest experience.
Broken Shaker
Broken Shaker is one of the strongest answers to best hidden rooftop bars in Los Angeles that locals love, especially for those who enjoy tropical energy without chaos.
Why it stands out:
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Hidden inside a hotel
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Creative cocktails
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Chill crowd, no loud club vibe
It feels like a private rooftop party rather than a public bar.
Mama Shelter Rooftop
Locals often whisper about Mama Shelter when asked about the best hidden rooftop bars in Los Angeles that locals love.
What makes it special:
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Cozy rooftop layout
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Hollywood sign views
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Eclectic, artsy crowd
It’s fun, colorful, and never feels corporate.
Cara Cara
Cara Cara is elevated—literally and stylistically—and earns its place among the best hidden rooftop bars in Los Angeles that locals love.
Why locals keep it quiet:
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Open-air rooftop
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Calm, design-focused atmosphere
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Ideal for conversations
It’s a favorite for after-work drinks and low-key dates.
Spire 73
Spire 73 is one of the highest rooftops in the city, yet it still qualifies as one of the best hidden rooftop bars in Los Angeles that locals love because many visitors never make it up.
Why it’s special:
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Panoramic city views
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Surprisingly relaxed crowd
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Best at sunset and night
Dress warm—wind picks up at this height.
The Roof on Wilshire
Beverly Hills rooftops are often flashy, but this one stays subtle. Locals include it when listing the best hidden rooftop bars in Los Angeles that locals love.
Why it works:
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Clean, minimalist design
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Calm music levels
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Strong cocktail menu
Perfect for a refined but casual evening.
Bar Lis
Bar Lis blends elegance with discretion, making it one of the best hidden rooftop bars in Los Angeles that locals love for nightlife without chaos.
Why locals choose it:
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European-style rooftop
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Stylish but not loud
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Consistent crowd quality
It’s a go-to for late-night rooftop energy without club overload.
Harriet’s Rooftop
Harriet’s feels exclusive without being unwelcoming, earning its spot among the best hidden rooftop bars in Los Angeles that locals love.
Why it stands out:
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Sunset skyline views
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Controlled entry
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Relaxed DJ sets
Locals prefer it for weekend evenings before crowds peak.
Best Nights to Visit Hidden Rooftop Bars in LA
Timing matters when enjoying the best hidden rooftop bars in Los Angeles that locals love.
Best times:
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Tuesday to Thursday nights
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6:30–8:30 PM for sunset
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Sunday evenings for calmer vibes
Avoid Friday nights if you want the true local feel.
Dress Code Tips (Very Important)
Most of the best hidden rooftop bars in Los Angeles that locals love follow an unspoken rule:
Look polished, not flashy.
Best choices:
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Clean sneakers or dress shoes
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Neutral or dark tones
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Simple jackets or button-downs
Overdressing is just as noticeable as underdressing.
How Locals Find These Rooftops
The best hidden rooftop bars in Los Angeles that locals love aren’t found through big ads.
Locals rely on:
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Word of mouth
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Hotel staff suggestions
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Quiet social media tags
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Neighborhood reputation
If a rooftop feels “too promoted,” locals usually move on.
Common Mistakes Visitors Make
When searching for the best hidden rooftop bars in Los Angeles that locals love, avoid:
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Showing up too late
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Expecting nightclub energy
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Ignoring weekday options
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Being overly loud or flashy
Hidden rooftops reward subtlety.
Are These Rooftops Expensive?
Drinks aren’t cheap, but value matters more than price at the best hidden rooftop bars in Los Angeles that locals love.
What you pay for:
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Views
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Atmosphere
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Space
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Crowd quality
Many locals would rather pay slightly more for a calm rooftop than deal with crowded bars.
Final Thoughts
Los Angeles rewards those who know where to look. The best hidden rooftop bars in Los Angeles that locals love offer skyline views, relaxed energy, and real city culture without the noise and crowds. These rooftops aren’t about being seen—they’re about enjoying the city from above, at your own pace.
If you want to experience LA nightlife the way locals do in 2026, skip the obvious spots and seek out the best hidden rooftop bars in Los Angeles that locals love. The view—and the vibe—will be worth it.
