If New York’s nightlife scene were a keg, it’d never get kicked. NYC overflows with options no matter the day: dance the night away inside a Brooklyn warehouse, slide into a speakeasy-style cocktail joint, or applaud burlesque performers who bare it all for rowdy crowds. Beer buffs sample flights at local breweries, socialites sip Manhattans in swanky surrounds, and there are numerous venues showcasing exceptional live performances, making it hard to know where to begin.
Attaboy
Best for craft cocktails and speakeasy-style
Lower East Side $$$
Don’t get thrown off by the “Tailors and Alterations” sign in front of this hidden gem. The metal door, simply marked “AB,” leads to a slender pseudo-speakeasy where expert mixologists whip up bespoke cocktails. Rather than a menu, simply let the bartenders know your flavor preferences and watch them work their magic. This spot is arguably NYC’s best for intoxicating concoctions. Due to their no-reservations policy, expect a wait unless you arrive early. You can pass the time at Attaboy’s sister bar, Good Guy’s, which offers summery spritzes and tasty snacks.
Talea
Best for fruit-forward beer flights
Williamsburg $$
The beer industry might be male-dominated, but good brews aren’t only for bros, especially at Talea – NYC’s first and only women-owned brewery. Since opening in 2021, the spacious Williamsburg flagship boasts juicy, wine-style sours and traditional fare, like the Al Dente pilsner. For those hungry for local brews, join fellow beer lovers at nearby establishments.
Nowadays
Best for outdoor dancing and audiophiles
Ridgewood $$
No need to wait until sundown for dancing – just head to the seasonal Mister Sunday party at Nowadays (3pm-11pm, May-October), where house music fills the air under a shimmering disco ball. This club, straddling the border of Ridgewood, Queens and Bushwick, Brooklyn, features a vast backyard with picnic tables and hammocks where dancers can relax while enjoying delicious food and drinks. To avoid long lines, consider purchasing tickets in advance through the Resident Advisor app.
Bemelmans Bar
Best for old-school sophistication
Upper East Side $$$
Bemelmans Bar, tucked into the Carlyle Hotel, has been a hidden bourgeois bastion since 1947. Its ceiling adorned with 24-karat gold leaf, this venue is perfect for fans of cinematic decadence and classic cocktails. The bar features bartenders in red smoking jackets, jazz pianists playing timeless standards, and whimsical murals by illustrator Ludwig Bemelmans. While cocktails are priced steeply at $25 and up, the ambiance and live piano music make it a unique experience.
3 Dollar Bill
Best for LGBTIQ+ events
East Williamsburg $$
When you’re looking to enjoy a lively atmosphere with the queer community, head to 3 Dollar Bill, the largest LGBTQ+ venue in Brooklyn. This inclusive space hosts various events, from drag performances to comedy nights. Be sure to check the schedule to catch your favorite acts and consider purchasing tickets in advance for popular events to avoid missing out.
The Slipper Room
Best for titillating variety acts
Lower East Side $$
At The Slipper Room, you’ll find a cozy venue showcasing burlesque, aerial acts, magicians, and comedy. With varied performances, grab a prime seat on the main floor to catch all the action. Pre-purchase tickets for certain nights to ensure a spot, especially during weekends when general admission applies.
Elsewhere
Best for indie jams and rooftop breezes
East Williamsburg $$
Post-industrial Brooklyn is filled with transformed warehouse music venues. Among them, Elsewhere shines with its versatility—a former furniture factory now features interconnected rooms, each offering a unique sonic experience. Whether you dance to the main hall’s tunes or relax on the rooftop, expect a mix of indie and underground sounds from various performers.
Ear Inn
Best for local history and divey decor
SoHo $
Unlike trendy SoHo, Ear Inn has maintained its charm since opening in 1817. With memorabilia from bygone eras peppering the interior and a warm atmosphere, this dive bar appeals to a diverse selection of New Yorkers. Don’t miss the live jazz on Sunday nights, which enhances the bar’s rich history.
Lincoln Center
Best for world-class performing arts
Upper West Side $$$
Lincoln Center stands as a cultural cornerstone of the Upper West Side, hosting renowned performances at its various venues. From the Metropolitan Opera, adorned with Marc Chagall murals, to the New York Philharmonic at David Geffen Hall, visitors can immerse themselves in world-class music and art. Be sure to check the schedule for upcoming shows and consider dining at Tatiana, an Afro-Caribbean restaurant that resonates with patrons seeking culinary delights before a performance.
