Nightlife in New York is an entirely different experience – it’s a city that never sleeps after all. There are so many excellent places, some great for families and couples, while others offer a fun evening with friends. Award-winning musicals, dramas, and comedies take place at Broadway’s theatres. Some of the city’s most popular theatres include Broadway Theatre, New Amsterdam Theatre, and Shubert Theatre. Meanwhile, the Lincoln Center regularly hosts classical performances by the New York Philharmonic orchestra. 

If you want to enjoy some laughs, Times Square has dozens of comedy clubs where icons like Jay Leno, Jim Carrey and Jerry Seinfeld kickstarted their careers. Fancy seeing the city at dusk? The Empire State Building offers panoramic views of New York from its observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors. Time your visit just before sunset to see the city in a dazzling display of colour and movement. 

New York has a thriving jazz scene, with Harlem housing a high concentration of jazz clubs and concert halls. This vibrant neighbourhood is where you can bop along to swing, Latin, Bebop, and cool jazz all year round. Bill’s Place, Minton’s Playhouse, and Showman’s Jazz Club are must-visits for music lovers in New York. You can learn about the history of jazz at the National Jazz Museum. It hosts interesting exhibits, photographs, audio and film archives. More jazz clubs can be found at Greenwich Village, keeping the music going well into the night. If you want a typical night out (with drinks and dance music), head over to the Meatpacking District to enjoy innovative restaurants, hip bars, and trendy nightclubs. 

Best nightlife in New York

Featured stories & fun stuff

Where to stay in New York

Start planning your trip

Also popular in United States of America

Keep exploring

United States of America

Back to top
Sorry, this page hasn’t been translated in your language yet…