After dark · New York City, United States

15 Best Bars & Nightlife Spots in New York City

230 Fifth Rooftop Bar leads the night. The rest of New York City's best pours follow, by real review volume.

Order reflects real review volume, out of 169 tracked New York City places. Refreshed monthly.

  1. 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar

    Bar

    Perched atop a building in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar offers one of the most expansive open-air views of New York City's skyline, including the Empire State Building and…

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  2. The Dead Rabbit

    Bar

    The Dead Rabbit is not just a pub; it's an experience. Located near the South Street Seaport, this establishment has earned global acclaim for its exceptional cocktails and authentic Irish hospitality.

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  3. Fraunces Tavern

    BarFree entry

    Fraunces Tavern, located at the corner of Pearl and Broad Streets in Lower Manhattan, is one of New York City's most storied establishments.

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  4. Birdland Jazz Club

    Bar

    Birdland Jazz Club is a legendary venue located on West 44th Street in the heart of Manhattan's Theater District.

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  5. Dutch Fred's

    Bar

    Dutch Fred's is a popular Irish pub located on West 47th Street, just off Broadway in New York City.

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  6. The Campbell

    Bar

    The Campbell is a sophisticated cocktail bar located in a beautifully restored former office within Grand Central Terminal in New York City.

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  7. Haswell Green's

    Bar

    Haswell Green's is a beloved neighborhood bar in the heart of Manhattan's Theater District, just off 52nd Street.

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  8. Jimmy's Corner

    Bar

    Jimmy's Corner is a legendary dive bar located just off Times Square in New York City, a stone's throw from the bright lights of Broadway.

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  9. Death & Co East Village

    Bar

    Death & Co East Village is a seminal cocktail bar that has shaped New York City's modern cocktail renaissance.

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  10. Old Town Bar

    BarFree entry

    Old Town Bar in Manhattan's Flatiron District is a quintessential New York saloon that has been serving drinks since 1892.

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  11. The Ivory Peacock

    Bar

    The Ivory Peacock is a sophisticated cocktail lounge tucked away on West 26th Street in New York City's NoMad neighborhood.

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  12. Dear Irving on Hudson Rooftop Bar

    BarFree entry

    Dear Irving on Hudson Rooftop Bar is a glamorous rooftop venue perched atop the Aliz Hotel in Midtown Manhattan.

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  13. Dizzy's Club

    Entertainment

    Dizzy's Club is a premier jazz venue located in Lincoln Square, New York City, at Broadway and 60th Street.

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  14. Top of the Strand Rooftop Bar

    Bar

    Top of the Strand Rooftop Bar sits on the 18th floor of the Hilton Garden Inn on West 37th Street, providing sweeping views of the Empire State Building and the Manhattan skyline.

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  15. Albert’s Bar

    Bar

    Albert’s Bar is a timeless New York City institution located just steps from Grand Central Terminal on East 41st Street.

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How we pick these

Bars, pubs and nightlife in New York City ranked by how highly people rate them, drawn from the 169 places we track. Updated monthly.

Good to know

When it gets going

Most bars in New York City fill up later in the evening rather than right after work.

Dress codes

A few rooftop and cocktail spots have a smart-casual door policy.

Getting home

Check the last metro or line up a ride before a late night out.

Common questions

Where is the nightlife in New York City?+

This list ranks the best-rated bars and nightlife spots in New York City so you can find the right area for the night you want.

What time do bars close in New York City?+

Closing times vary by venue and neighborhood; late-night spots are noted where we have hours.

Is New York City good for a night out?+

Yes — from relaxed pubs to late bars, the highest-rated options are all here.

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