About The Crown
The Crown is a sleek rooftop bar and lounge perched on the 21st floor of Hotel 50 Bowery (a 229-room boutique hotel) in Lower Manhattan’s Chinatown (hospitalitydesign.com ). It offers unusually wide-ranging skyline views – in fact, guests enjoy a 360-degree panorama including Lower Manhattan and the Brooklyn skyline (www.therooftopguide.com ) (ra.co ). The venue spans roughly 5,000 sq. ft. (www.thecrownnyc.com ) with two outdoor terraces (often called the “Downtown” and “Uptown” decks), an indoor bar/lounge, and a semi-private VIP room. Interior design blends gritty New York industrial style with subtle Asian-inspired accents (a nod to Chinatown’s heritage) (hospitalitydesign.com ). Notably, the bar was refreshed in a 2020 renovation for a bright, modern lounge feel (www.therooftopguide.com ).
Inside, the layout is open and airy. Floor-to-ceiling windows and open walls let in plenty of light, so even the indoor seating feels connected to the city (hospitalitydesign.com ). Lounge areas are furnished with comfy sofas, chairs and barstools (www.therooftopguide.com ) arranged to take full advantage of the sweeping views. One side of the far wall is a long copper-accented bartender’s counter (ra.co ). The Crown’s cocktail program is creative and globally inspired (edgevenues.com ) (www.partyslate.com ) (often using Asian flavors as a tribute to the neighborhood), and the menu focuses on elevated shareable bites. Guests can sip signature drinks like the “Mint to Be Majestic” while sharing plates such as pan-fried dumplings, spring rolls or pastrami bao (www.therooftopguide.com ) (www.partyslate.com ). (Cocktails run about $18 each (www.theinfatuation.com ), and bottle service starts around $500 for groups.)
This rooftop also ties into Chinatown’s history – the hotel hosts a second-floor “Heart of Chinatown” exhibit of artifacts from old local taverns and even the 19th-century Atlantic Garden beer hall that once stood here (hospitalitydesign.com ) (edgevenues.com ). In summary, The Crown stands out for its unique blend of panoramic city views, stylish lounge decor, creative Asian-tinged drinks, and ties to local culture. It has become a noted new destination on NYC’s nightlife map, earning praise in guides like The Infatuation and TimeOut for its party vibe and rooftop vistas (www.theinfatuation.com ) (www.therooftopguide.com ).
Events and Programming
The Crown functions primarily as a nightlife venue. Thursday through Saturday nights are the busiest, often featuring live DJ sets and dance music. A typical night has a DJ spinning hip-hop, Top-40 and other upbeat genres so people can mingle and dance on the rooftop as well as inside (www.theinfatuation.com ). The atmosphere evolves with the evening: early in the evening it’s more of a chill lounge, but after dark (especially on weekends) it turns into a high-energy party. As one reviewer notes, “you and a few friends can dance while a DJ spins some Southern hip hop,” capturing the club-like edge (www.theinfatuation.com ). Crowds peak on holiday weekends, so expect lines if you arrive late on a Friday or Saturday.
Occasionally The Crown hosts special themed events and date-night parties. For example, it has thrown ticketed New Year’s Eve celebrations complete with open bar hours and champagne toasts (one recent NYE lineup featured DJ DB of Sway in the Morning fame) (ra.co ). Holiday gatherings (like July 4th) have also been offered. Note that these special parties can carry a cover charge: a Twilight-zone reviewer complained of $100 tickets for a Fourth of July event where the view was partially blocked (www.tripadvisor.ie ). In general, the bar is walk-in on most days, but major holidays or promoted parties often require advance tickets – so buy early if possible. Bottle service and group table packages are available on request. (Keep in mind that while normal nights usually have free entry, weekend covers around $20–$40 are common, and holiday events can run $40–$100 per person.)
In short, The Crown’s programming is centered on nightlife and private events rather than fixed show schedules. It caters to local young professionals, hotel guests and tourists looking for an upscale dance bar. There’s no rough concert schedule to track – instead, watch the venue’s website or social media for DJ nights, holiday parties or special tickets when planning your visit.
Tickets and Booking
For most evenings, you do not need to purchase a ticket in advance – The Crown typically operates like a regular bar from 4pm–midnight. Regular guests can usually walk in without a reservation (though Friday and Saturday nights may have a cover charge after a certain time). Table reservations can be made by phone or online if available (some popular reservation platforms show The Crown as “bookable” for dinner service). These are recommended for larger groups or reservations during busy weekends. If there is a high-profile event or party (New Year’s Eve, holiday celebrations, etc.), tickets will be sold through the venue or affiliated ticketing partners – those tickets can sell out, so check early and purchase directly from the organizer. We recommend signing up for The Crown’s announcements or following their social posts to know when any major events go on sale. Pricing varies: on a typical weeknight there may be no cover, whereas busy weekends often add a cover fee (usually $20–$40) when the place is packed. Bottom line: for a normal visit, just show up or make a casual dinner reservation, but for special event nights plan to buy tickets in advance.
Seating and Layout
The Crown’s layout is divided into several distinct areas. Indoors you’ll find a main lounge with the long bar, plus an adjacent covered “breezeway” connector. Outside there are two rooftop terraces: the (south-facing) Downtown Terrace and the (north-facing) Uptown Terrace. For private events, staff notes capacity of roughly 65 seats indoors and 40 in the breezeway; the downtown deck holds about 55 and the uptown deck 100 (www.thecrownnyc.com ). PartySlate confirms the total max capacity is about 250 seated or 300 standing (www.partyslate.com ). On a walk-in visit, seating is lounge-style rather than formal tables. Small parties often grab lounge couches or barstools near the back windows, while larger groups might spread out on the terraces. The best views are from either terrace edge – for example, seating on the Downtown side looks straight toward the Empire State and Financial District. The indoor area provides AC and a bit more room to talk, while the outdoor decks give you the full open-air experience. If you want to dance or grab quick drinks, the indoor space has more room to move. In very cool weather the HVAC keeps the lounge warm, but the outdoor decks are open to the elements (so dress accordingly or step inside when it’s chilly).
Getting There and Parking
The Crown’s address is 50 Bowery, New York, NY 10013 (the rooftop of Hotel 50 Bowery, at Bowery & Canal Street). Public transit is the easiest way to reach it. According to TripAdvisor, the nearest subway stations are Grand St and Canal St , each about a 5-minute walk away (www.tripadvisor.ie ). (Grand St station serves the B and D lines; Canal St on Bowery serves the 6 and J/Z lines; nearby Canal–Broadway has N/Q/R/W trains as well.) Many bus routes also run on Bowery or East Broadway nearby. If you drive, note that The Crown has no on-site parking – but there are several commercial parking garages within a few blocks (www.tripadvisor.com ). Street parking is very limited and metered. Taxi and rideshare drop-off can be done right in front of the hotel on Bowery (traffic can be heavy, so allow extra time in evening). A popular alternative is Citi Bike: you’ll find docking stations on Bowery and nearby streets, making biking a viable option in good weather.
Inside the Venue
Once inside, expect a typical upscale lounge check-in. You’ll encounter a host/door staff who check IDs (make sure to bring a valid photo ID – The Crown is 21+ after sundown) and bags. They enforce a smart-casual dress code (www.therooftopguide.com ) (no athletic gear or flip-flops). Large backpacks or outside food/beverages are not allowed. Coat check is available for a fee (www.partyslate.com ), so guests usually check coats on chilly nights. Inside the lounge you’ll find ceiling fans and air-conditioning for comfort. The bar counter is copper-oriented and gear; music from the DJs and house system plays both indoors and outdoors. Wi-Fi isn’t officially advertised to guests (you may rely on strong cellular service in the heart of Manhattan). Restrooms are located on-site near the entrance lobby – typically one restroom for men and one for women (plus one ADA stall). During busy times there can be a short wait for facilities, so you may want to go during a lull if possible.
The bar menu is at your service early: the bartenders serve cocktails (classic, seasonal and Asian-inspired) and draft beers right off the bat (www.partyslate.com ). Cocktail prices are around $18 each (www.theinfatuation.com ). If you're hungry, you can order small share-plates from the kitchen: options include things like chicken dumplings, spring rolls, and steamed bun sliders (www.partyslate.com ). These are appetizer-sized, perfect for sharing. There is no full dining menu or insistent table service – it’s a bar environment. Remember to tip your server (20% is customary in NYC) when settling your bill. Payment is typically by credit card; some bars are cashless these days. The staff accepts card and mobile payment; always check if there’s a cover charge, pre-autorization or fee on special nights. Otherwise, you just sip your drink, enjoy the skyline, and take in the unique rooftop vibe.
Nearby Amenities
The Crown sits in a vibrant section of Chinatown/Lower East Side. For pre- or post-bar meals, you have many choices within a few blocks. Quick snacks and dessert spots nearby include Alimama Tea and Taiyaki NYC (uBE ice cream waffles) (www.tripadvisor.com ). Numerous classic Chinese restaurants are on surrounding streets: Shanghai 21 (excellent soup dumplings) and Tasty Hand-Pulled Noodles are just minutes away (www.tripadvisor.com ). Also in the immediate area are La Garden (a French bistro), Tomino (Spanish tapas), and the upscale Capital Grille steakhouse (www.tripadvisor.com ). If you’re craving late-night ethnic food, the famous Wo Hop (24-hour Chinese diner) on Mott Street is a short walk south (www.tripadvisor.com ).
There are also plenty of bars close by. The Whiskey Tavern is right across the street, The Dorian is down a block on Bowery, and Piano’s live-music bar is a block away on Ludlow Street. Speakeasy-style lounges like Apotheke (just east on Doyers) add to the nightlife options. In terms of hotels, guests often stay right below at Hotel 50 Bowery itself. Other convenient lodgings include the nearby Bowery Hotel (13th & Bowery), the Ludlow Hotel, NoMo SoHo (the former Nomo Bowery), and the Moxy Lower East Side – all walking distance. For late-night transit home, note that the Manhattan subway runs 24/7; most visitors take the 6 train at Canal St after last call, or a taxi/Uber from Canal or Bowery if needed.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several features set The Crown apart from NYC’s many rooftops. Architecturally it offers one of the few true panoramic 360° views in the city (www.therooftopguide.com ), allowing you to see both the Empire State and One World Trade within a single vista. The party atmosphere – complete with DJs and a lively crowd – is a distinctive contrast to the neighborhood’s traditional scene. While many Manhattan rooftops face only one direction, The Crown’s dual-terrace design means you can literally walk around to see different parts of the skyline. The blend of upscale nightlife with Chinatown character is unique: for example, customers note that the bar’s cocktails (some Asian-inspired) and the wall art are a playful nod to the local culture (edgevenues.com ) (www.partyslate.com ). Press outlets like The Infatuation emphasize that “anything goes” here – people show up in Met Gala attire or even novelty NASA suits (www.theinfatuation.com ), reflecting the laid-back vibe. It has been listed among NYC’s top rooftop bars for dancing and city views, so it carries a certain cachet in the local nightlife world.
Additionally, The Crown’s opening was part of the recent revitalization of the Bowery/Chinatown area. The venue literally crowns a cultural project: the hotel hosts a Museum of Chinese in America exhibit downstairs, and the space itself honors the neighborhood’s history (hospitalitydesign.com ). In other words, it isn’t just a bar that happens to be in Chinatown – it actively embraces the area’s story while providing a fresh, modern nightlife experience. For both artists and audiences, The Crown feels like a new inversion of old and new – a dazzling rooftop playground that still has depth of local flavor.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Crown is listed as handicap accessible (www.partyslate.com ) (there is an elevator up from the 1st floor). The indoor lounge and patios have level flooring, though a small threshold exists at the rooftop exit. An ADA restroom is available. If you have any mobility concerns, calling ahead can ensure staff assistance upon arrival.
Dress Code and Age: The venue’s dress code is smart-casual (www.therooftopguide.com ). Jeans and a nice shirt are fine; athletic wear or beachwear are discouraged. No uniforms, flip-flops or gym clothes. Patrons must be 21+ after sundown, so bring valid photo ID. Expect bouncers to check IDs and enforce capacity limits on busy nights.
Bag Policy: Avoid large backpacks, coolers or outside snacks/drinks – these will be turned away at the door. Professional camera equipment (extra lenses, tripods) may also be asked to stay outside. Phone cameras are fine, and many guests take photos of the view or DJ set.
Smoking: Like all NYC bars, smoking is not allowed indoors by law. However, guests are welcome to smoke on the outdoor terraces. (Vaping is similarly allowed only outside.)
Coat Check: There is a coat check service (www.partyslate.com ). It’s a good idea to use it on chilly nights so you’re not juggling coats up on the roof. The fee is small (typically a few dollars per item).
Payments: The Crown is generally cashless. Major credit/debit cards are accepted for all tabs. Standard New York courtesy ~20% tip will typically be added when you pay the bill. Don’t forget to tip your bartenders and servers if service charge isn’t already included on special menus.
Quiet Times and Crowds: To avoid lines and crowds, plan to arrive by 8pm on busy nights. Weekday afternoons and early evenings are usually much calmer. On very crowded nights, the bar may limit new entries at peak hours, so having a reservation or arriving early is wise. If you do show up later, know that entry may require waiting. Also watch the weather: if there’s heavy rain or cold, the roof may be closed (the indoor space often remains open). The Rooftop Guide even notes The Crown is not open year-round in severe weather (www.therooftopguide.com ), so check ahead in winter.
Fireworks & Special Events: Although The Crown throws its own fireworks parties, be cautious about expecting unobstructed 4th of July views. One patron reported that a building blocked the official fireworks sightline (www.tripadvisor.ie ). If viewing fireworks or other skyline events is your goal, remember that the downtown view is better for NYE (city lights), while certain fireworks (East River shows) may require a different vantage. In general, trust the advertised view only with eyes open, and consider planning for a backup if you really need a clear shot.
Transportation at Night: Subways run through the night, so generally you can count on trains to get back. The 6 train at Canal St runs 24/7 and is convenient for many visitors. After midnight, buses thin out, so expect to rely on R, N, 6, or bus shuttles. Taxis and rideshares are abundant but can surge in late hours; always allow extra time if streets are busy. The area is safe and well-lit, but as in any city at night, staying aware of your belongings is wise.
Do I need to purchase tickets to enter The Crown on a normal night?
No. On a typical evening, The Crown is open to the public like a regular bar, and no advance ticket or cover is required to enter (aside from a possible cover charge on very busy weekend nights). It’s usually first-come, first-served after publishing its 4pm opening. Ticketed entry only applies for special parties or events; normal nights require no reservation.
When should I book or buy tickets for special events at The Crown?
When The Crown hosts a special event (like a holiday party or themed night), tickets are usually sold in advance through affiliated websites or the venue itself. These sell out fast, so check The Crown’s official announcements or social feeds early. For example, New Year’s Eve and 4th of July events often require $40–$100 tickets. If planning to attend one of those parties, buy tickets as soon as they’re announced to secure your spot.
How much do drinks and bottle service cost at The Crown?
Cocktails at The Crown typically run around $18 each (www.theinfatuation.com ), which is in line with many Manhattan rooftop bars. Beers and wines are similarly priced for premium venues. If you opt for bottle service, there are minimum spending requirements; one reviewer mentioned $500 as a starting point for a bottle package (www.theinfatuation.com ). Tax and tip are added on top, so expect a significant total tab for a large party. Always check the current menu or ask staff for the exact pricing if in doubt.
Does The Crown charge a cover fee or have table minimums?
For most evenings there is no set cover charge; you can usually just show up, get a drink, and enjoy the night. On very busy weekend nights the bar may enforce a cover (often around $20–$40) once it’s near capacity. If you reserve a table or bottle service in advance, expect a spending minimum (the minimum can be several hundred dollars for a bottle package). The safest approach is to arrive early if you prefer to avoid any door fee, and to check if any special arrangements apply for your group.
What is The Crown’s address, and which subway stations are closest?
The Crown is located at 50 Bowery in Lower Manhattan (between Canal and Hester Streets). The closest subway stops are Grand St (serving the B and D lines) and Canal St (serving the 6 and J/Z lines), each only a 5-minute walk away (www.tripadvisor.ie ). Other nearby lines include the R and W (at Canal-Broadway) and the N and Q (a bit farther plus a short walk). Multiple downtown buses and the MTA’s overnight service also run along Bowery and nearby SoHo streets.
Is there parking or valet service at The Crown?
No, there is no on-site parking or valet at Hotel 50 Bowery. The hotel’s management explicitly notes they have no private lot, but that “several garages in the area” are within easy walking distance (www.tripadvisor.com ). If you drive, plan to use a nearby paid garage (or street meters, which tend to fill up quickly). Ridesharing (Uber/Lyft) or subway is usually a more convenient option in Chinatown due to limited parking and heavy traffic.
Where should I be dropped off by taxi or rideshare for The Crown?
Rideshares and taxis can pull up on Bowery right in front of the building’s entrance (the hotel’s main door). The solid address is 50 Bowery, so gp to that exact point. Note that Bowery is a busy street, so drivers might prefer to pull over slightly farther up or down the block if it’s very crowded. It’s also common to meet at Canal Street and walk up, which is only a couple of minutes away and may be faster if nearby streets are jammed.
How many people can The Crown hold?
The Crown’s total capacity is roughly 250 seated or 300 standing (www.partyslate.com ). This includes all seating inside and on the terraces. In practice, a few hundred people cab fit comfortably when it’s packed. The indoor lounge area seats about 65 and the adjacent breezeway about 40 (www.thecrownnyc.com ); the Uptown Terrace seats ~100 and the Downtown Terrace ~55 (www.thecrownnyc.com ). In general, it’s one of the larger rooftop bars in manhattan, but still can feel full on weekend nights.
What’s the difference between the Downtown and Uptown terraces?
The two terraces face opposite directions of the city. The “Downtown” terrace (often called the south terrace) provides a direct view toward Lower Manhattan’s skyscrapers (Financial District, Empire State, etc.), while the “Uptown” terrace (north terrace) looks toward Midtown and Brooklyn. The Uptown side is slightly larger (about 100-person capacity) and the Downtown smaller (around 55 seats) (www.thecrownnyc.com ). Both offer great views – you can actually walk from one to the other on the roof to take in the entire panorama.
Does The Crown have indoor seating? Will it stay open in winter?
Yes. In addition to the open-air decks, The Crown has a fully enclosed indoor lounge and covered breezeway (www.thecrownnyc.com ). This indoor area is heated/cooled seasonally, so the venue remains open even on cold nights. In practice, the outdoor patios may close on extremely cold or snowy days, but the bar and lounge stay in operation. Check the website or call ahead during winter for any special holiday hours, since a rooftop guide notes The Crown isn’t open year-round (www.therooftopguide.com ) in inclement weather.
What is The Crown’s dress code?
The Crown enforces a smart-casual dress code (www.therooftopguide.com ). This means neat casual attire (nice jeans or pants, blouses, dresses, loafers, etc.) is fine. Avoid athletic gear, tank tops, flip-flops, or anything too beachy. On busy nights the doorman can turn away overly casual outfits. In short: dress as though you’re going out to a stylish city lounge rather than a gym or beach.
Are children or minors allowed at The Crown?
This is primarily a 21+ venue. After dusk, expect strictly no minors inside (ID checks are routine). The rooftop setting and liquor license mean it’s not set up for families. If you have a daytime or very early event, clarify with management, but generally plan to come without children and be prepared to show ID for all adults.
What items are not allowed inside The Crown?
You cannot bring outside food or drinks. Large bags, coolers or small fridges are also prohibited for safety. No illegal substances or weapons, as with any city bar. Cameras and phones are allowed for casual photos – just be discreet with any professional gear. In wet weather, umbrellas are fine, but large packages won’t. Basically, only personal small bags and jackets are OK; you may be searched on entry.
Is there a coat check at The Crown?
Yes. The Crown provides a staffed coat check (www.partyslate.com ). For a small fee (typically a few dollars), you can check jackets, coats and small items when you enter. This is very handy in winter so you don’t have to carry bulky outerwear up to the roof.
What kind of food and drinks does The Crown serve?
The bar is cocktail-focused, offering a rotating selection of classic and seasonal drinks (www.partyslate.com ). Prices are around $18 per cocktail (www.theinfatuation.com ). They also carry craft beers and a wine selection. For food, expect elevated bar bites: examples include pan-fried chicken dumplings, spring rolls and specialty buns (www.partyslate.com ). These dishes are small-share portions, not full entrees. The menu has Asian-global inspirations, but it’s primarily bar snacks. (Vegetarian and meat options are available among the shareables.)
Does The Crown have free Wi-Fi?
No official guest Wi-Fi network is provided for the general public. As part of a hotel, staff and registered guests can access the hotel’s Wi-Fi, but as a walk-in bar patron you should plan to use your cellular data connection. In Man hattan’s Chinatown, coverage is generally good (and the rooftop is unobstructed, so phone signals work well).
Is The Crown wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Crown is in a modern hotel with elevator access to the 21st floor and is listed as handicap accessible (www.partyslate.com ). Once on the rooftop level, the indoor lounge and outdoor decks are on a single flat area. One restroom is ADA-compliant. If you need assistance getting to the elevator or seating, staff are usually accommodating – just let the host know your needs.
What are The Crown’s hours of operation?
The Crown is open every day from 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM (midnight) (www.therooftopguide.com ). It closes promptly at midnight, so plan to arrive before then. The bar is open later on weekends (by last call) but formally closes at midnight Monday through Sunday as listed. If there’s a special event, hours may extend – always double-check prior to arrival if you’re attending a late party.
Is smoking allowed at The Crown?
Indoor smoking is not allowed, in compliance with New York law. However, guests may smoke on the outdoor terraces. So feel free to smoke or vape out on the deck, but you must step outside (onto the terrace) to light up. Common sense and local laws apply – no smoking is permitted inside the building's enclosed areas.
Can I reserve the VIP lounge or specific tables?
Yes, The Crown takes private bookings and VIP reservations. You can contact the venue’s events team to reserve the private lounge or specific areas for a party. These usually come with a food/beverage minimum or bottle service minimum. Even on regular nights, you can sometimes book a section through services like OpenTable for a fixed number of guests. (On casual nights without a reservation, seating is on a first-come basis.)
Can I see the city fireworks from The Crown’s rooftop?
Not reliably. While The Crown offers great skyline views, its sightline to many firework displays can be blocked by nearby buildings. In fact, a reviewer noted purchasing tickets to a Fourth of July event there only to find part of the view obstructed (www.tripadvisor.ie ). If watching fireworks (like on Independence Day) is your goal, plan ahead: it may be better to view from an open area or a location known for clear views of that specific fireworks show. The rooftop parties are fun, but don’t count on an unobstructed fireworks sightline.
