NYC Friends - rooftop question

I'm sure this has been asked somewhere in here before, but I didn't see it.

For someone who doesn't live in NYC (I'm over in Jersey), is there an easy way to gain access to a rooftop for photos or portraits?

I'm going to assume the obvious, that after 9/11 security has been stepped up, and i'd like to avoid safety rails like those at the top of the Empire State Building (nothing says incredible skyline portrait like some prison bars out of focus).

My first instinct is to just go up and ask the doorman, but are there any specific locations or buildings you know of that wouldn't be a hassle to get to?

Cheers!

Make friends with someone who lives there!

Seriously, yeah, in this day and age, roof-top access to a skyscraper would be almost impossible (or very expensive). Not just security concerns, but fear of litigation if something should happen to you. That said, there are several hi-rise (15 - 20 story) rooftop bars/restaurants/clubs around -- you might be able to get access there during the day or on an slow night. Roof access to 5-10 story apartment buildings is much easier -- IF you know someone.