Manhattan. The name itself conjures images of bright lights, iconic landmarks, and a nightlife scene unlike any other. While the cliche of NYC being the “city that never sleeps” holds true, it’s Manhattan where that energy feels most concentrated. If you’re planning on going out in Manhattan, prepare for an electrifying experience. From world-class dining and innovative cocktails to legendary music venues and hidden gems, this island offers endless possibilities for every taste and mood after dark. Let’s dive into the best ways to experience the vibrant pulse of Manhattan nights. The choices when going out in New York City are vast, but Manhattan truly stands out.
Experiencing the Best Bars When Going Out in Manhattan
New York is one of the world’s gastronomic capitals, and that reputation extends effortlessly to the bar and cocktail scene. Manhattan, in particular, is a breeding ground for mixology talent, attracting or cultivating some of the planet’s finest bartenders. These artisans open venues that are not just places to drink, but destinations for adventurous palates, crafting intriguing and visually stunning drinks with creative presentations and flavors that tell a story.
Manhattan is home to several establishments consistently ranked among the world’s elite bars. Venues like Katana Kitten, Dante, and Attaboy are celebrated globally for their innovation and execution. Others, such as Death & Co and Dead Rabbit, hold legendary status within the city itself. Beyond these world-famous spots, countless other bars across Manhattan neighborhoods – from the Lower East Side’s cozy hideaways to Midtown’s sleek lounges – serve exceptional drinks in beautifully designed environments, making bar-hopping a prime activity for going out in Manhattan.
Two yellow cocktails on a bar, representing the diverse drink options when going out in ManhattanSipping on a tasty and creative cocktail is the perfect way to start a night in Manhattan!
Dance the Night Away: Clubbing Options While Going Out in Manhattan
New York City has a storied clubbing scene, tracing its roots back to the end of Prohibition when spaces for music, drinks, and dancing boomed. While some of the city’s most massive venues might be located in other boroughs today, Manhattan still boasts a dynamic landscape for those looking to dance until dawn. The experience of going out in Manhattan to a club can range from intimate lounges with top-tier DJs spinning electronic beats to larger venues hosting acclaimed international acts.
Manhattan’s club scene is diverse, catering to different musical tastes and vibes. You can find everything from underground spots focusing on house and techno in areas like the Lower East Side or Meatpacking District, to upscale venues in Midtown or Chelsea known for celebrity sightings and bottle service. While places like House of Yes or Avant Gardner are famous across the city, Manhattan offers its own unique pulse for partygoers.
Where to Hear Live Music While Going Out in Manhattan
If your idea of a perfect night involves settling in with a drink and letting live music wash over you, Manhattan will not disappoint. The borough is a magnet for musical talent across all genres, offering stages both legendary and intimate for artists to connect with their audiences. It’s a core part of the cultural fabric when going out in Manhattan.
Jazz lovers are particularly well-served, with historic and acclaimed venues like Birdland, Mezzrow, and the Flatiron Room offering nightly performances by renowned musicians. These spots provide a classic New York experience: cozy seating, quality drinks, and the soulful sounds of piano, saxophone, and trumpet.
Beyond jazz, Manhattan hosts live music in countless bars, clubs, and concert halls. From rock bands in Greenwich Village to indie artists on the Lower East Side, there’s a live show almost every night to fit any musical preference.
A person with hands raised at a live music concert, a popular way of going out in ManhattanSee an unforgettable concert during your time in Manhattan! There are also many famous places to eat in New York that offer live music.
Test Your Knowledge at Trivia Nights When Going Out in Manhattan
A popular and engaging way to spend an evening is testing your wits at a trivia night. Many bars across Manhattan host these events on specific weeknights, attracting crowds eager for a friendly competition, often with fun prizes for the winners. Going out in Manhattan for trivia is a great option for groups, offering a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy drinks and snacks while pooling your collective knowledge.
Bars like B61 Bar and numerous others frequently dedicate evenings to trivia, covering a wide range of topics from pop culture and history to science and geography. It’s a fantastic way to socialize, challenge yourself, and potentially discover your group’s hidden expertise, adding a touch of intellectual fun to your night out.
Reach New Heights: Rooftop Views When Going Out in Manhattan
Experiencing the Manhattan skyline is essential for any visit, and doing so from a rooftop bar or restaurant is a quintessential part of going out in Manhattan. The city’s density of towering buildings provides unique opportunities to enjoy drinks, food, and music high above the bustling streets, offering picture-perfect views of the iconic cityscape.
Many buildings host uniquely designed rooftop venues that sparkle and shine over the island. The Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge at the Moxy Hotel offers stunning panoramic views of Times Square, combining dinner and cocktails with vibrant decor and lively performances. For a more club-like atmosphere with unparalleled views, spots like Le Bain in the Meatpacking District provide penthouse party experiences with acclaimed DJs. These elevated locations offer a distinct and memorable way to enjoy Manhattan nights.
Night view of the Manhattan skyline from a rooftop, showcasing a popular option for going out in ManhattanRooftop bars provide a perfect photo op of Manhattan’s skyline.
Revisit Childhood Fun: Arcades for Going Out in Manhattan
Who says you have to grow up when you’re going out in Manhattan? Tapping into that inner child is easy at one of the borough’s vibrant arcades, many of which offer late-night fun. These aren’t just places for kids; many combine classic and modern video games with a lively bar scene.
Barcade, with locations in Manhattan, is a prime example, featuring dozens of vintage arcade machines alongside a curated selection of craft beers. It’s a place where you can challenge friends to beat high scores on classic games like Pac-Man or Donkey Kong while enjoying a drink. It’s a fun, casual, and nostalgic alternative to the typical bar or club experience.
Interior of a retro arcade with video games, a fun alternative activity when going out in ManhattanPlaying retro video games can be a fun way to spend the night.
Laugh Till You Drop at Comedy Clubs While Going Out in Manhattan
Manhattan has long been a crucible for comedic talent, drawing aspiring and established comedians alike. One of the most enjoyable ways to spend an evening going out in Manhattan is catching a stand-up show at one of its many comedy clubs. These venues offer a chance to see potential future stars or seasoned veterans in an intimate setting.
Greenwich Village, particularly around MacDougal Street, is famous for its concentration of legendary comedy clubs. The Comedy Cellar and Greenwich Village Comedy Club are iconic spots known for surprise drop-ins by famous comedians. These clubs typically feature a lineup of several comics per show in a classic, no-frills setting with brick walls and a spotlight, providing hours of genuine laughter.
Explore Themed Bars: A Unique Way of Going Out in Manhattan
Manhattan is an ideal playground for those who enjoy themed experiences. A fun way of going out in Manhattan is to embark on a themed bar-hopping adventure. The borough’s rich history and diverse neighborhoods lend themselves perfectly to this.
You could spend an evening exploring Manhattan’s numerous speakeasy bars, hidden behind unassuming facades, transporting you back to the Prohibition era with vintage cocktails and decor. Alternatively, you could focus on the abundance of authentic Irish pubs, sports bars, or uniquely quirky concept bars scattered across the island. Planning your own route allows you to explore different neighborhoods and enjoy a curated night tailored to your interests.
Martini with lemon peel on a bar, symbolizing the diverse themed bars one can explore when going out in ManhattanSpend an evening exploring the 20s-inspired speakeasies of Manhattan.
Sing Your Heart Out: Karaoke Spots for Going Out in Manhattan
Karaoke is a global phenomenon, but Manhattan offers a distinct experience, particularly with its concentration of Korean-style karaoke bars in Koreatown. Unlike the typical bar setup with a single stage, these venues provide private, often elaborately decorated rooms where you can sing with just your friends, making it a more intimate and less intimidating experience.
In Manhattan’s Koreatown, you’ll find numerous options for this style of karaoke, such as Maru Karaoke Lounge, Chorus Karaoke, K-One, and Gagopa Karaoke. These spots often feature futuristic designs, comfortable seating, and extensive song selections in multiple languages, offering a unique and incredibly fun way to spend a night going out in Manhattan with a group.
Experience Broadway: Iconic Shows When Going Out in Manhattan
No discussion of going out in Manhattan is complete without mentioning Broadway. Located in the Theater District, Broadway is the pinnacle of live theatrical performance and a must-do for many visitors and locals alike. Attending a Broadway show is an immersive experience, captivating audiences with elaborate sets, incredible talent, and compelling storylines.
Beyond the famous Broadway theaters, Manhattan is also home to a thriving Off-Broadway and Off-Off-Broadway scene, offering a wide range of productions from experimental theater to intimate plays and musicals, often at more accessible prices. Checking the theater listings for what’s playing during your visit is highly recommended to ensure you don’t miss a world-class performance.
Night view of Broadway in Manhattan with the Hamilton marquee, a classic experience when going out in ManhattanA Broadway show should be on everyone’s bucket list when going out in New York.
Seek Out Unique and Hidden Experiences When Going Out in Manhattan
Part of the thrill of going out in Manhattan is the possibility of discovering something truly unique or hidden. Despite being one of the most famous places on earth, Manhattan still holds secrets – from speakeasies hidden behind laundromats or candy stores to exclusive, members-only clubs. While finding these requires some local knowledge or a bit of luck, the payoff is an unforgettable experience.
Beyond the hidden, Manhattan also offers explicitly unique, though sometimes pricy, experiences you won’t find anywhere else. The Box, for example, is famous for its unpredictable and often provocative performance art shows. Other venues might host rotating events featuring everything from burlesque and circus acts to live music and comedy, often announced only shortly beforehand. These unusual spots offer a peek into the avant-garde side of Manhattan nightlife and are perfect for those seeking something completely different. For more unconventional ideas, check out unusual things to do in Manhattan.
From raising a glass at a world-renowned cocktail bar to dancing until dawn or catching a legendary performance, going out in Manhattan offers an unparalleled adventure. It’s a place where every night can be a unique story, filled with discovery, excitement, and connection. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, dive into the energy of Manhattan’s nightlife and create unforgettable memories.