Best of Cleveland 2015: Rooftop Bar

From the moment the concierge lifts the velvet rope to escort us 150 feet up to Azure Sun Lounge, it's like we've been let in on a stunning secret. With a 360-degree view that includes Public Square, Lake Erie and Playhouse Square, the top of the Swetland Building, which anchors The 9, offers treats too good to keep to ourselves. "As soon as you walk out, you get to take all of that in and be part of the vibrant downtown scene," says Keith Halfmann, chief operating officer at the Geis Hospitality Group. A cabana-like retreat by day and disc jockey-spinning social lounge by night, the 8,500-square-foot space makes going out downtown classier with imported Italian leather white couches, handcrafted cocktails, an inventive tapas menu and metropolitan events such as the ultra-trendy Halloween party, which caps off its inaugural season. "You have such a short season to enjoy the outdoors," Halfmann says. "Let's try to give something to downtown to maximize the outdoor experience." 2017 E. Ninth St., Cleveland, 216-239-1200, azure9cle.com