September 25, 2025
Level7 Rooftop Bar: Raleigh’s Elevated Escape in North Hills
When locals talk about the best things to do in Raleigh, one destination consistently rises to the top—literally. Level7 Rooftop Bar, a stylish lounge perched atop the AC Hotel in North Hills, has become a go-to gathering spot for cocktails, tapas, and sweeping skyline views.
As a Best of Raleigh Gold Founding Partner, Level7 is more than just a rooftop bar—it’s a cultural landmark that has helped define Raleigh’s evolving nightlife scene.
Who They Are: A Rooftop with a Raleigh Soul
Level7 is Raleigh’s answer to the question: where do you go when you want atmosphere, flavor, and city views in one place? Located in the vibrant North Hills district, the rooftop lounge combines European-inspired tapas with locally sourced craft cocktails and wines, all served in a chic indoor-outdoor space.
Unlike many rooftop bars that feel tucked away for travelers, Level7 was designed with Raleigh residents in mind. It’s a place where after-work happy hours turn into sunset rituals, weekend brunches come with skyline backdrops, and date nights feel just a little more elevated.
The Origin Story: Bringing Rooftop Culture to the Triangle
When Level7 Rooftop Bar opened in March 2017, rooftop culture in Raleigh was still in its infancy. The concept was bold: create a social hub inspired by European lounge life, infused with Carolina artistry and flavors. From day one, the vision was clear—Level7 would be a bar that looked outward, embracing its city instead of keeping the view to itself.
Carolina artists were tapped to shape the design, sculptures, and décor, giving the bar a sense of place. The menu leaned into Spanish traditions while incorporating North Carolina’s growing craft beverage scene. The result was a lounge that felt both international and unmistakably Raleigh.
What They Do Today: Tapas, Cocktails, and Events with a View
Today, Level7 is known not just as one of the best rooftop bars in Raleigh, but as a versatile destination for dining, drinks, and events:
- Tapas & Small Plates – Spanish-inspired charcuterie, shared plates, and seasonal bites perfect for groups.
- Craft Cocktails & Local Spirits – A menu that rotates seasonally, featuring local distilleries and breweries alongside European wines.
- Sunday Brunch – A favorite for locals who want a more elevated weekend brunch in Raleigh.
- Private Events – With 5,100 sq. ft. of space, Level7 can host everything from intimate gatherings to large celebrations overlooking Midtown Raleigh.
The accolades speak for themselves. Level7 has been voted Best Rooftop Bar by Raleigh Magazine and continues to be spotlighted in local media as one of the city’s must-visit experiences.
Fun Facts & Behind the Scenes
- The Name: Level7 refers not only to the floor but to the elevated lifestyle the lounge represents.
- Local Meets Global: Cocktails like a white tempranillo sangria infused with North Carolina berries showcase their blend of European inspiration and Raleigh pride.
- Raleigh Regulars: While visitors love the views, most of the bar’s loyal crowd are locals who treat Level7 as their neighborhood escape in the sky.
Why Raleigh: Rooted in Community
Level7 could exist in any city—but it belongs in Raleigh. By sourcing local spirits, showcasing Carolina artists, and centering itself in the growing North Hills neighborhood, Level7 is deeply woven into Raleigh’s cultural fabric. It’s not just a spot for tourists—it’s part of daily life for those who call the Triangle home.
Level7 offers a third space—somewhere between work and home—that fosters connection, conversation, and community.
Looking Ahead: Staying at the Top
As rooftop bars multiply across the Triangle, Level7 continues to set the standard. Expect rotating seasonal menus, new collaborations with local makers, and more live entertainment designed to keep Raleigh’s skyline lively well past sunset. With each season, the team reinvents the experience, ensuring Level7 remains at the center of Raleigh’s social calendar.
Experience Level7 Rooftop Bar
Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, a Sunday brunch with friends, or simply want to watch the city glow at golden hour, Level7 offers one of the most memorable things to do in Raleigh. As a Best of Raleigh Gold Founding Partner, it represents the city’s best mix of sophistication, community, and elevated living.
Ready to experience Level7 Rooftop Bar? Here’s where to find them:
AC Hotel Raleigh North Hills, 101 Park at North Hills Street, Level 7, Raleigh, NC 27609
level7roofbar.com
Instagram: @level7rooftopbar