NYC public bathroom a surprise finalist in national ‘best restroom awards’ — but there’s a catch

This New York City bathroom is on a roll.

The 2025 America’s Best Restroom Awards by Cintas Corporation has narrowed the competition down to nine finalists — and the stunning bathroom at The Rooftop at Pier 17 in lower Manhattan has made the cut.

As any New Yorker knows, it’s tough to find a clean, decent bathroom here. Well, the venue’s restrooms are far beyond clean and decent — they’re described as “expansive” and “luxurious.”

Before you get too excited thinking this will become your go-to bathroom stop when in lower Manhattan, since The Rooftop at Pier 17 is a scenic concert venue — its bathrooms are only open to the public when events and performances are happening.

But if you find yourself in the area when the bathrooms are open, they’re worth checking out.

Situated at 89 South St, Pier 17 — these restrooms have stunning panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline and natural light that blares through the oversized windows.

Long bathroom lines begone — this bathroom, nice enough to hang out in, has 75 stalls and smooth concrete walls, soft lighting and “clean, modern atmosphere,” as noted by the competition’s judges.

The restroom’s accessibility was also praised, featuring well-maintained family-friendly facilities and ADA-compliant sinks.

Considering the other bathrooms that made it into the top 9 were selected based on “cleanliness, visual appeal, innovation, functionality and unique design elements,” according to Pix 11 — it’s no surprise that Pier 17’s restrooms were included.

When describing these bathrooms — judges said it offers “a thoughtful extension of the rooftop’s upscale experience,” adding that it has an “airy, open feel.”

The public can vote for the bathroom they believe should be the winner up until Friday, August 15, at 11:59 a.m. ET.

“We’re searching for restrooms that offer more than just functionality, but deliver a memorable, hygienic and innovative experience for guests,” Emily Ramos, Director of Marketing at Cintas, said in a press release.

“For more than 24 years, this contest has recognized businesses nationwide that set a high standard for restroom cleanliness, design and overall experience.”

Other bathroom finalists included: Bear Head Lake State Park (Ely, Minnesota); City of Fruita (Fruita, Colorado); Footprints (Lawrence, Kansas); Little America Hotel (Salt Lake City, Utah); Moderne Bar (Orlando, Florida); Rosebrook Lodge (Bretton Woods, New Hampshire); Tatsu (Dallas, Texas); and Tecolote Shores (San Diego, California).