As the sun sets behind the famous skyline, New York transforms into a world of endless possibilities that come to life after dark. New York City is truly the City that never sleeps and that means activities from bars to Broadway. Of course, there are things you’ve already heard about, but there are even more fun ones you haven’t heard of yet. Whether you’re on the hunt for world-class entertainment, the next best culinary delight, lively dance floors, or simply just the magic of the night, New York City will promise you an unforgettable time. So mix up your usual night-out routine and try something new experiencing the hustle and bustle going on after hours.
1. Go to a Broadway Show or Concert
Experience the magic of a true Broadway production on your next night out in the heart of NYC. Dress up and immerse yourself in the city’s glitz and glamour as you make your way to legendary theaters like the Majestic Theatre, home to the iconic The Phantom of the Opera, or for a bit more vibrant liveliness, head to the New Amsterdam Theatre for Disney’s The Lion King and Aladdin. Get your cultural fix with a show or concert at venues such as Lincoln Center, Radio City Music Hall, and Carnegie Hall, to name just a few. Whether you’re a theater aficionado or a general music lover, the dazzling lights and electrifying performances will surely create an unforgettable night.
2. Discover a Speakeasy and Go Dancing
New York City is an entertainment mecca with some of the most lively nightclubs and most secretive speakeasies. Dance the night away at Marquee where world-renowned DJs spin every danceworthy beat imaginable, or Little Sister Lounge for the ultimate luxurious and seductive dance experience. Looking for some Latin flair, S.O.B.’s (Sounds of Brazil) brings a fusion of salsa, reggae, and more. Feel like the ultimate cool girl once you get into the iconic speakeasy culture at Please Don’t Tell (PDT), where you enter through a phone booth inside Crif Dogs. Our other favorite is UES which is an ice cream shop by day and a unique bar speakeasy by night. So what are you waiting for? Get ready because dancing your heart out at the city’s nightlife delights and drinking meticulously crafted cocktails awaits.
3. Go to a Sporting Event
Feel like a true part of the NYC community by enjoying a night out watching one of New York’s famous sporting teams. Whether you’re a Giants, Knicks, Rangers, Yankees, or Mets fan, we can all agree that the crowd’s roaring cheers and the team’s fast-paced prowess will keep you on the edge of your seat. Normally at the end of summer, we’d be all gas and no brakes for our favorite baseball boys, but now and for the next two weeks it’s time for the most exciting NYC sporting event the US Open! Any event is worth the watch for a die-hard sports fan or someone simply looking for an adrenaline-filled night. Also, if you’d rather play than watch, check out Chelsea Piers on the water driving range for a fun TopGolf-like vibe!
4. Check out the City’s Lights
See the city lights at night. It’s the city that never sleeps and it is mesmerizing. Go to the top of the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center, and One World Observatory at the World Trade Center to see the city we all know and love from a new perspective, especially during the beautiful sunset-to-night transition. See the city’s beauty in a different light with the twinkling lights of the skyline, illuminated bridges spanning the rivers, and the iconic landmarks all glowing to create a breathtaking panorama that completely and effortlessly captures the essence of New York’s allure.
5. Try Out a Night Cruise
Want a change of scenery from the streets? Try out the water and view the skyline from the river on one of the many ferry rides, with or sans booze. You can take one of the more luxurious ones around the city or a quick and inexpensive ride on one of the ferry lines to the putter boroughs or New Jersey. And in case seasickness takes over, you can also ride the sky tram from midtown to Governors Island.
6. Experience an Iconic Horse-drawn Carriage Ride
Live out your ultimate princess fantasy by going on a horse-drawn Carriage ride in the iconic Central Park. The horse and pedicab rides are easy to find along Central Park West. You can also grab a ride around other parts of the city and customize your experience to be perfect for you and your night out.
7. Laugh at a Comedy Club
Want to feel like you’re at the beginning of a Seinfeld episode? Stop by one of New York’s many comedy clubs and get ready to laugh so hard, that you’re practically getting a core workout. For a more casual and lively vibe, stop by the Comedy Cellar for hilarious stand-up acts and a cozy bar. Looking for a modern and intimate ambiance showcasing both established comedians and rising stars, well look no further because The Stand is for you. Laugh your head off and enjoy the smiles throughout your night out.
8. Check out a Ghost Tour
Want to get into the spooky spirit for Halloween? Try a ghost tour throughout the various neighborhoods to hear spooky stories and legends about NYC’s history. Ghost Tours of New York will teach you about historical sites with a spooky twist. Their “Haunted Broadway Ghost Walk,” explains the haunted history of Broadway theaters and the legends that have been passed down. Boroughs of the Dead will spook you out with a walking tour that dives into the unsolved mysteries, supernatural occurrences, and the eerie past of places. And to make sure your heart skips a beat, Ghosts, Murders, and Mayhem Walking Tours takes participants through the spine-chilling stories of haunted locations, ghostly encounters, and infamous crime scenes which will absolutely give you goosebumps.
Now that we’ve got your night covered, spend your day at Soho’s best shopping locations.