Manhattan Bars That Give You a True NYC Experience

Whether you like your drink shaken, stirred, neat, on the rocks, uncorked or on tap, you'll find an obliging bartender ready and waiting for you at any of the best bars in Manhattan.

Bars With the Best Views

Skip the long lines and pricey tickets for the observation deck on top of Rockefeller Center and take the elevator to Bar SixtyFive instead. You'll enjoy the handiwork of clever mixologists and magnificent views from this swanky establishment's wrap-around deck high in the sky for about the same price you'd pay for the tourist route up.

Less lofty but filled with natural beauty, your view from the Bar Room in the historic Tavern on the Green is the perfect backdrop for an afternoon beverage. If your favorite views include people in their busy, native environment, there's no better place than the bar in Michael Jordan's The Steak House N.Y.C.. Perched on a balcony inside Grand Central Station, you'll see all the hustle-and-bustle below, a huge mural above and stunning architecture all around.

Best Bars From the Movies

Lights, action, music—all the elements of musical romantic comedy swirl into place when you walk into Coyote Ugly Saloon. The film of the same name was a big hit back in 2000, and the fun-loving, boot-scooting, sweet and sassy vibe is still very much alive here. Sit yourself down at the bar for happy hour any weekday afternoon, or mosey in later for the nightly special. In keeping with the spirit of the movie, the special might include beer, bourbon or Jager Bombs.

If you prefer a little drama with your drinks, head to Mulberry Street Bar in Manhattan's Little Italy neighborhood. Sit where scenes from The Sopranos and the movie Donnie Brasco were filmed. The wallet-friendly menu of traditional Italian dishes makes a fine accompaniment to your choice of beer or wine.

Bars with the Best History

Step back in time at Fraunces Tavern—the hottest spot in town back when George Washington, Alexander Hamilton and John Adams were busy becoming the country's Founding Fathers. If you feel a chill up your spine, it may not be from one of their ghosts, but paranormal activities have been recorded in the building. Warm up with your pick from over 200 whiskeys, or cool down on a hot summer day with one of 130 types of beer and cider.

Revel in both history and the NY Irish pub experience at the Landmark Tavern. Glance up at the old-fashioned, hammered tin ceiling with a frosty ale in hand and thank the luck of the Irish that this gem of a place survived Prohibition—even if it had to operate as a secret speakeasy on the third floor for a while.

Best Bars to Kindle Romance

Snuggle with your sweetheart on a big, velvet-covered couch in the dimly lit, lushly decorated rooms of the Auction House. The old-world charm of this chic Upper East Side bar sets the perfect tone for romance. You're not likely to be interrupted by rowdy behavior because management doesn't let anyone under 25 in the door and the staff is dedicated to tactful service. Take the sweet route to your partner's heart at Ayza Wine & Chocolate Bar. Delicious pairings of wine with artisanal chocolate id enough to set any heart aflutter. Or go straight for the chocolate martini—classic style or spiked with flavorings and accompanied by a melt-in-your-mouth truffle.

Ready to travel? Find hotels in New York City.