Having grown up in New York and lived in New York City during my early 20s, I definitely know the best things to do in New York at night!
My motto during this era of my life was “you can sleep when you’re dead” – so trust me, I’ve had my fair share of sleepless nights in the city that never sleeps.
NYC at night is truly something magical as you walk through streets lined with skyscrapers with so much life and lights. There’s so many unique things to do!
Now when I go back from my full-time travels every year to visit friends and family, night time in New York City is still my favorite, but it looks a liiittle different than my sleepless nights.
No matter what chapter of life you’re in (New York nightlife for adults, New York nightlife for tourists etc.) and what your preferences are, there are so many fun things to do for everyone.
Continue reading for the BEST things to do in New York City at night time – and keep scrolling towards the end for a list of things you can do for FREE!
Rooftop Bars
One of my favorite things to do in New York is go to rooftop bars. The vibe is simply unlike any other city!
My favorites are 230 Fifth for an amazing view of the Empire State Building, Press Lounge on the west side where you see the entire New York skyline, and Le Bain at the Standard Hotel in Meatpacking.
Many rooftop bars also have live DJs and cozy seating areas, especially during the winter time when all the heated snowglobes come out!
Broadway Shows
Broadway is ICONIC and attending a world-class show at night is a must do, especially if it’s your first time in New York.
Hamilton, Lion King, Wicked, and Harry Potter are some of my favorites, all located in the Theater District in Midtown.
Catch the magic of Broadway by attending a world-class show at night. From classic musicals like “The Phantom of the Opera” to modern hits like “Hamilton,” there’s a show for everyone. For budget-friendly tickets, enter the Broadway lottery or check out rush tickets to experience iconic performances without breaking the bank.
Insider Tip
If you’re on a budget, enter the Broadway lottery or check out rush tickets for heavily discounted tickets, sometimes front-row! I’ve won this a few times.
For the lottery, you enter online for a chance to win and there is a random drawing where winners are offered discounted tickets.
Depending on the show, you usually find out the day before whether you win or not.
For rush, you go to the theater in person to stand in line and they give you discounted tickets to the first people in line. You can find out more about the lottery policies for shows here.
Obviously, the more popular shows are always more difficult and the easier shows can be super easy!
Go Clubbing
Dancing the night away was something I loved doing while living in Manhattan, the club scene is so much fun. There’s a club for every music preference from deep underground techno to EDM.
Marquee is a popular club with world famous DJs coming in regularly, and others with more lounge vibes are Loosies and The Palace.
If you’re female or traveling with a group of girls, it’s easy to find promoters to get you free dinners and at their tables for free food and drinks all night long.
Otherwise, it also makes sense to book a table with your friends so you don’t have to be dancing in the middle of a sweaty crowd.
Cruises on the Hudson
From booze cruises to classy nighttime cruises, there’s a fun night out for everyone!
It’s beautiful to be able to see Manhattan’s skyline from the Hudson River (the river to the west side of Manhattan neighboring New Jersey). Most cruises pass by the Statue of Liberty illuminated as well.
Most cruises offer dinner, drinks, and live entertainment, starting from 90-minutes up to a few hours for a memorable evening on the water.
Top of the Rock Views at Rockefeller
The Top of the Rock Observation Deck offers unparalleled nighttime views of NYC.
With fewer crowds and the city lights illuminating the night sky, it’s such a romantic and serene way to end your evening.
Be sure to bring your camera to capture the panoramas of iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building!
One World Observatory
If you’re in the Financial District, One World Observatory has the best views of Manhattan from downtown, and is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.
Visiting the Financial District in Lower Manhattan can be a deeply moving and memorable experience, especially for first-time visitors.
And if you’re a history and finance enthusiast, you can also walk around Wall Street, check out the New York Stock Exchange after hours, and visit the Charging Bull at night.
Take a Night Bus Tour
If you don’t feel like walking, Ubering, or taking the subway at night, consider booking a Night Bus Tour!
You can hop on a double-decker night tour to see landmarks like Times Square, the Empire State Building, and the Brooklyn Bridge illumniated.
Guided tours provide insights into the city’s history and architecture, is scenic, and super convenient especially if you’re traveling with kids or elderly people.
I recommend booking your tickets for Big Bus Tours in advance!
Helicopter Tour
If you get the chance, see the sights of New York city from up in the air on a nighttime helicopter tour of the city!
See the Statue of Liberty, Rockefeller Center, and Times Square all lit up, and then pass over the George Washington Bridge, one of the busiest bridges in the world.
Usually these tours take around 25-30 minutes and you’re able to take incredible photos from above.
For peace of mind while traveling, I use and recommend SafetyWing for comprehensive travel medical insurance in case of any trip delays, interruptions, and medical emergencies.
St. Mark’s Place
St. Marks Place is a funky and eclectic street in the East Village, known for its late-night eats, quirky shops, and tattoo parlors.
I got my belly button pierced here as a teenager (underage lol) and it’s also where I got my first tattoo!
There are vintage stores, Japanese street food vendors, and literally surprises around every corner. You have to check it out at night!
You can see exactly where St. Mark’s Place is on this map below:
Live Jazz
If you like jazz, there are many jazz clubs in the city like Blue Note or Smalls to enjoy the music in an intimate setting.
These venues provide an authentic New York City night time experience steeped in history and soul, with so many talented musicians.
Speakeasies
Speakeasies in New York City trace their origins to the Prohibition Era in the 1920s and 1930s, a time when the sale, production, and transportation of alcohol were banned under the 18th Amendment.
Of course, there were illegal, hidden bars that popped up as a way for New Yorkers to drink, often hidden behind unmarked doors and secret codes.
Today, you can find many speakeasies modeled after the original concept that replicate the era’s charm with hidden entrances, vintage decor, and creative cocktails.
My favorite one is Please Don’t Tell, which is located behind a telephone booth in a hotdog joint called Crif Dogs.
Other amazing speakeasies with the best cocktails are Death and Co, Raine’s Law Room, and Employee’s Only. Finding these spots is part of the adventure!
Comedy Shows
New York City is where many big-name comedians got their start, from practicing in small bars on stand up nights to connecting with famous people that landed them their big break.
Comedy clubs like The Comedy Cellar or Caroline’s on Broadway are must-visits for comedy lovers, and places like The PIT also have new and aspiring improv comedians performing as well.
It’s always a fun time in a laid-back environment!
House of Yes
Located in Bushwick, Brooklyn, the House of Yes was originally founded in 2007 and began as an experimental art and performance space. Now, it has evolved into a venue celebrated for immersive experiences and inclusivity.
Attending an event at the House of Yes at night is an unforgettable adventure from the vibrant decor to the mesmerizing acts.
They often host themed dance parties, circus performances, drag shows that bring together a diverse crowd celebrating individuality.
Madison Square Garden
Catch a Knicks game, concert, or other major event at Madison Square Garden. The iconic venue buzzes with energy every night, and there’s always something happening here whether you’re a sports fan or a music lover.
Madison Square Garden is often called “The World’s Most Famous Arena” and has been a centerpiece of New York City entertainment since its original opening in 1879.
Located in the heart of Manhattan, MSG is home to the New York Knicks and Rangers and a must-visit destination for fans of live events.
Carnegie Hall
For a more refined evening, attend a concert at Carnegie Hall, known for its exceptional acoustics and world-renowned performers. The venue offers a diverse range of shows from classical symphonies to contemporary music.
Carnegie Hall is one of the world’s most prestigious concert venues, has been a cornerstone of New York City’s cultural history since its opening in 1891.
Built by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, the hall quickly gained renown for its exquisite acoustics and has hosted legendary performances by artists like Tchaikovsky, Ella Fitzgerald, and The Beatles.
The golden-hued main hall, Stern Auditorium has AMAZING sound quality and is a must-go for live music lovers.
Lincoln Center
Another favorite night time activity is to enjoy ballet, opera, or orchestral performances at the Lincoln Center, one of NYC’s most prestigious cultural institutions located in the Upper West Side.
It was established in the 1960s as part of an ambitious urban renewal project championed by John D. Rockefeller III and is home to world-renowned institutions like the Metropolitan Opera, New York Philharmonic, and New York City Ballet.
The plaza, with its iconic fountain against the backdrop of elegant modernist architecture, sets the stage for an unforgettable evening.
Whether enjoying an opera, a symphony, or a ballet, the world-class performances captivate audiences in an atmosphere of sophistication and creativity.
Check their calendar for special events and performances.
Karaoke Bar in Korea Town
When I visited Seoul, I realized just how big the karaoke culture was in Korea. It’s such a fun experience with friends where you rent out a karaoke room to yourselves and order delicious food and drinks like soju.
Korea Town, also known as K-Town, is an ethnic Korean enclave in Midtown Manhattan, New York City, centered on 32nd Street between Madison Avenue and the intersection with Sixth Avenue and Broadway.
Not only will you find so many Korean businesses and restaurants, you’ll also find lively karaoke bars where you can sing and drink your heart out until the early hours with private rooms and extensive song selections.
Steakhouses
New York City has amazing steakhouses like Peter Luger, Del Frisco’s, Gallagher’s, Keens, and The Capital Grille.
These iconic spots are perfect for celebrating special occasions or treating yourself. Be sure to download OpenTable and make a reservation in advance!
Beer Tasting in Brooklyn
If you like beer and the hipster vibe, you can visit craft breweries in Brooklyn like Other Half Brewing or Threes Brewing to sample unique beers.
Many breweries also host trivia nights, live music, and food trucks. It’s a great way to connect with friends or meet locals!
Michelin Star Restaurants
As of 2024, there are 74 starred restaurants on Michelin’s guide to New York City.
Treat yourself to a meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant such as Le Bernadin or Eleven Madison Park.
All of the restaurants redefine dining and make for an unforgettable experience!
Iconic Pizzerias and Street Carts
If something quick and easy is more your style, grab a late-night slice at iconic spots like Joe’s Pizza, offering the classic New York Slice for over 47 years, or Artichoke Basille’s Pizza.
One of my favorite street carts is Halal Guys on 53rd and 6th, serving beef and chicken over rice. I’ve been coming here since I was a teenager and the food always hits the spot!
Dyker’s Heights Christmas Lights
During the winter months, Dyker’s Heights in Brooklyn has the most elaborate Christmas light displays that are like nothing else. They attract visitors from all over the world!
Many homeowners go all out with decorations and it’s a magical way to get into the holiday spirit.
If you’re planning to visit New York during Christmas, read Christmas in New York: Top Things to Do.
Ice Skating at Bryant Park or Rockefeller
If you’re visiting during the holiday season, going ice skating at Bryant Park or Rockefeller Center is also a must-do – a quintessential NYC winter activity!
I try to make it back and ice skate every year because it’s just so nostalgic and beautiful under the city lights.
Of course, this activity is seasonal but make sure to add it to your bucket list.
Radio City Music Hall
Radio City Music Hall is an iconic New York City landmark and is part of the Rockefeller Center complex in Midtown Manhattan.
Over the decades, it has hosted countless legendary performances, from movie premiers to concerts by artists like Frank Sinatra and Lady Gaga.
The annual Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring the famous Rockettes is a must-see during the holidays!
Its Art Deco interiors are as stunning as the performances, and is a true gem in NYC’s entertainment scene.
Catacombs by Candlelight
Go behind-the-scenes and deep underground at the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral, with the only Catholic catacombs in New York City. See parts of the church that are otherwise off-limits to visitors.
As you explore with the help of a guide, learn all about the landmark’s place in New York history and discover the final resting place of some famous New Yorkers.
Explore the catacombs and other areas that most visitors miss, and learn all about the history of the church from your guide!
Concerts and Festivals
New York City’s top music venues are Bowery Ballroom and Terminal 5.
From indie bands to international superstars, there’s always a concert or festival happening at night.
The Brooklyn Mirage
The Brooklyn Mirage is an open-air venue in East Williamsburg with state-of-the-art sound systems and themed events.
It’s where people go to party and rave, so if that is your scene, check out their event calendar.
Staten Island Ferry
Take the Staten Island Ferry at night for stunning, free views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline. It’s a peaceful yet unforgettable way to soak in the city’s beauty.
The ferry runs 24/7, and is completely FREE.
Travel time in either direction between St. George and Whitehall is approximately 25 minutes.
Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge is one of New York City’s most beloved landmarks and was completed in 1883. Designed by John A. Roebling, it was the first steel-wire suspension bridge and connected Manhattan and Brooklyn.
Walking along the Brooklyn Bridge is a magical experience, offering views of the Manhattan skyline and East River below.
The bridge has iconic Gothic-style towers, cars passing below the pedestrian pathway, and boats gliding beneath you in the water.
It’s a peaceful yet iconic experience for visitors and locals alike.
Times Square
I used to have to walk through Times Square on my way to work and although I hated it for my commute back then, gosh do I miss the energy of it now!
Fun fact: Times Square was originally known as Longacre Square, and was renamed in 1904 when the New York Times moved its headquarters to the area.
Soon after, it became a hub and icon for theaters, entertainment, electric signs, and a world-famous tourist destinatino.
Exploring Times Square at night is a sensory overload in the best way possible with neon billboards and LED screens. Street performers, crowds, and the glow of Broadway marquees bring an energy that is uniquely New York.
Head over to the TKTS booth where you have a chance to score discounted Broadway show tickets, or take a seat on the Red Steps to take in all the Times Square energy!
DUMBO
DUMBO is just a short train ride away from Manhattan and is beautiful at night!
DUMBO stands for “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass” and is located along the East River waterfront in the borough of Brooklyn, New York City.
Brooklyn Bridge Park is to its north, the Brooklyn Bridge is to the west, Brooklyn Heights to the south, and Vinegar Hill is to the east.
Stroll through DUMBO for cobblestone streets, waterfront views, and the illuminated Manhattan Bridge at nighttime. The area is also home to trendy boutiques and art galleries.
At night, the skyline reflections on the water create a breathtaking scene and sets for beautiful photos!
Want to check out the iconic DUMBO Manhattan Bridge View? Read all about it here.
Grand Central Terminal
Grand Central Terminal is one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks, and I would often stop by at night inadvertently after getting back to the city by train.
The terminal has soaring ceilings with murals and creates a magical atmosphere.
I recommend wandering through the grand concourse, where it gets significantly less crowded at night. It features intricate Beaux-Arts architecture, marble staircases, and the Whispering Gallery.
They also have a dining concourse if you’re hungry, and cocktails at the historic Campbell Bar.
Walk Around Central Park
This used to be one of my favorite things to do after work when I lived by Central Park, which is take a stroll after the sun set.
Keep in mind the sun sets super early in wintertime, so it’s not like I was walking around at midnight! Most days after I got off work, the sun would be gone already.
It’s essential to be mindful of safety and stay in well-lit, busier areas, but I would say for the most part walking around at night is nothing to worry about!
The park transforms under streetlights and skyscrapers, especially near Bethesda Terrace and Bow Bridge.
You can also walk to popular spots like Columbus Circle where there are so many people around and things to do. Just stick to the paths and you’ll be okay!
The High Line
The High Line is a walkable park area above the streets on the west side of Manhattan. It has city views, art installations, lush greenery, and is open at night.
Personally, I think the city lights and quieter ambiance at night makes it the perfect spot for an evening stroll to decompress and reflect.
It’s a favorite for both locals and visitors seeking a little escape from the bustle of the city!
What To Do Next
Stay Connected
Buy an eSIM card so you are immediately connected as soon as you land! I always purchase an Holafly eSIM which gives you unlimited data. Use WANDERLOVER For 5% off!
Travel Medical Insurance
Buy travel medical insurance so you are fully covered in case anything goes wrong. I use SafetyWing on all my surf trips and recommend them!
Final Thoughts
I may be biased, but I truly think the nightlife in New York City is unlike anywhere else and is among the best in the world. There’s something to do every single night and something for everyone of all ages, from any corner of the world.
Tag me @thewanderlover on Instagram if you end up visiting any of my suggestions so I can repost you.
Wishing you the best night time experiences in New York City for your perfect vacation!
Read Next
The Perfect 3 Days in New York City Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
Christmas in New York: Top Things to Do
How to Travel from Boston to New York City
100+ New York City Instagram Captions
DUMBO Manhattan Bridge View: All You Need to Know
Couple’s Vacation Guide to O’ahu, Hawai’i
Ocean Club West Resort Turks and Caicos
Hotel Square Louvois Paris Review
5 Day Tokyo Itinerary: How to Spend 5 Days in Tokyo Japan
