Top 5 Places to Go in Manhattan Once the Sun Goes Down
So what exactly do people do at night in the city that never sleeps?
Manhattan nightlife ranges from relaxing to rowdy, and the city has just about as many bars as restaurants. Here are a few niche bars you won't want to miss when you’re trying to figure out what to do in Manhattan at night.
A Nod to Nostalgia
Take a break from “adulting” and get your game on at Barcade (148 W. 24th St., New York)—video games, that is. Arcade games from the 80s and 90s line the bar from wall to red brick wall. Reacquaint yourself with old favorites like Donkey Kong or Galaga while sipping Chelsea Checker Cab Blonde or any of the other many craft beers on tap.
A Whole New Meaning to "Dive Bar"
Grab a Mai Tai and immerse yourself in the nautical theme at the Rusty Knot (425 West St., New York). Neon beer signs and faux Tiffany lamps mix with Antonio Varga sailor pin-ups for a kitschy yet comfortable ambiance. Try one of the carefully curated specialty drinks, or just stop in for a beer special. If you get hungry, sink your teeth into a fish po’boy, a fish taco or one of the best pretzel dogs around.
Tunes and Games
Jazz legends mix it up along with amateurs at Fat Cat’s (75 Christopher St., New York) nightly jam sessions. The fun lasts until 5 a.m., but there’s more to do at the Cat than sip suds and groove to the tunes. The bar has billiards and games galore. Whether you’re a foosball fan or you want to summon your inner grandparent with a rousing game of shuffleboard, you’ll find it all at this underground hot spot.
Hang Out in History
You’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time when you step through the doors of the Ear Inn (326 Spring St., New York). Originally opening in 1817, the bar has seen many Manhattan nights—it’s the longest continuously operating bar in NYC. Built in 1770 for George Washington’s African aide, James Brown, the Ear Inn still has a homey feel. Enjoy a beer and listen to live music downstairs, or head upstairs for poetry readings.
Behind Closed Doors
Although Prohibition is a distant memory, New Yorkers have never lost their taste for speakeasies. Bar Centrale (324 W. 46th St., 2nd floor, New York) tucks behind a nondescript door on the second floor of a Victorian brownstone. Sip selections from the extensive wine and beer menu, or feast on fish tacos or chickpea fries. Listen to jazz that’s unobtrusive enough to allow conversation, or the collective gasp when a Broadway star drops in after the curtain falls.
Ready to travel? Find hotels in Manhattan.
More to Explore
New York City Shopping
Specialty shopping in the “city that never sleeps” is a true adventure sport.
Best Brunch Spots in New York
When it's too late for breakfast but too soon for lunch, you might as well have both.