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New York After Dark - Exploring New York’s Nightlife blog image

New York After Dark - Exploring New York’s Nightlife

May 13 2024

As you would expect from the City That Never Sleeps, New York’s nightlife scene is some of the best in the world. As the sun sets on New York, the city comes alive - whether it’s nightclubs, bars, concerts, or speakeasies, there is something for everyone to enjoy after dark. 

With over 25,000 bars, clubs, and late-night restaurants in the city, what are the best ways to experience New York’s world-famous nightlife? 

Barman wearing all black creates a signature cocktail

Nightclubs 

New York’s nightclub scene is legendary - no matter what type of music you’re into. You can find almost any type of club in the city, whether you’re looking for a wild, all-night party, or something more laid-back and casual. 

It’s not uncommon to bump into celebrities and rub shoulders with the stars in many different New York nightclubs - particularly, Studio 54, Soho House, 1 OAK, Le Bain, and Somewhere Nowhere. For the best DJs head to Marquee in Chelsea, for the best views head to Output in Brooklyn, and for the best place to dance don't miss Avant Gardner in East Williamsburg. 

Live Music

Nothing goes together better than live music and New York. From ballrooms to jazz clubs and concert halls to speakeasies you can find great live music all over the city. The Bowery Ballroom and Brooklyn Steel are both great places to find a wide range of live music with both indie bands and mainstream artists. 

If you’re looking for a traditional New York jazz experience don't miss Blue Note in Greenwich Village or Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola at the Lincoln Center. 

Speakeasies

Once upon a time, during the prohibition era, the only place you could find a good cocktail was in one of the many speakeasies across the city. Of course, nowadays alcohol is legal and readily available in most places but if you know where to look you can still find speakeasies in New York. 

If you’re looking for a traditional speakeasy experience, head down to the Dead Rabbit in the Financial District, for something more modern and trendy, Please Don’t Tell in the East Village is accessed through a phone booth inside a hot dog restaurant. 

Person drinks a bar on a rooftop overlooking New York

Rooftop Bars

One of the best things about New York is the number of rooftop bars and viewing platforms. New York is home to over 7000 skyscrapers and after the sun sets the buildings light up - providing some of the best views of the city. 

There are plenty of bars and restaurants located on rooftops across the city - whether you’re looking for a relaxed chill atmosphere or something more high-end and luxurious. 230 Fifth in Midtown is one of the most popular rooftop bars in Manhattan, while the Standard High Line’s rooftop bar offers the most unique experience with great views and a plunge pool to enjoy.

Broadway and Beyond

The theatre district in New York, better known as Broadway, is the most famous in the world. Broadway is open till late, and afterward, if you head to Sardi’s or Joe Allen, you might even meet some of the stars of the shows. 

From chic, rooftop experiences, to dive bars with an amazing crowd, you can find just about anything in New York City after dark. 

If you’re visiting New York this summer and want to stay in the heart of the action, The Hotel Beacon is the perfect base for your trip.