This Charlotte rooftop bar ranks among the best in the US. Why folks love it
A Charlotte lounge known for serving signature cocktails and small bites against the dazzling backdrop of the city’s skyline is among the nation’s best rooftop bars, a new report says.
Aura Rooftop, perched on the 5th floor of the JW Marriott in uptown Charlotte, was ranked No. 5 on Mandoe Media’s list of the Top 10 overall best rooftop bars in the U.S. for 2025.
It was the only North Carolina lounge on the list of top-notch venues recognized for combining “world-class service with uniquely American experiences,” the digital signage company said.
Drawing on the “regal aura of Queen Charlotte herself,” Aura Rooftop is decorated with lush greenery and florals, CharlotteFive previously reported. Plus, there’s a pool for the ultimate tropical vibe.
Here’s why it’s so popular among locals and visitors alike.
Aura: A ‘botanical rooftop experience’
Aura Rooftop’s lush garden design sets it apart as “Charlotte’s premier botanical rooftop experience,” Mandoe Media said in its report, published Sept. 29.
The bar had an overall score of 0.6878 and a 4.9/5 star rating, the report said. It earned high marks for its spectacular views of uptown Charlotte, garden-style setting and poolside dining options.
Other “don’t miss” features included Aura’s botanical-inspired cocktails and small plates such as ahi tuna tacos, spicy guacamole and brisket sliders, just to name a few.
For the list, Mandoe Media said it analyzed rooftop bars across the U.S. and scored each based on multiple factors including “world-class service, uniquely American experiences, and distinct personality that captures each city’s character.”
It’s not the first time Aura has earned high praise. The lounge was an OpenTable Diner’s Choice Award recipient in 2024 and was voted Best in the Nest by Queen City Nerve that same year, according to its website.
CharlotteFive reached out to Aura Rooftop for comment Tuesday and was awaiting a response.
Aura Rooftop
Location: 124 E Brooklyn Vlg Ave, Charlotte, NC 28202
Cuisine: Signature cocktails + light bites
Instagram: @aurarooftop
This story was originally published October 22, 2025 at 8:30 AM with the headline "This Charlotte rooftop bar ranks among the best in the US. Why folks love it."