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December 18, 2024
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Welcome to the after-hours adventure guide of the concrete jungle! NYC is that one city that never sleeps! It is full of surprises and hidden gems, just waiting for you to discover them. So, grab a cup of coffee for you as we walk you through the glittering lights of New York City at night. From late-night shows, Broadway shows, night markets, comedy shows, and bar crawls to late-night shows, there are many things to do in NYC at night for everyone in the Big Apple. Keep reading to discover the many things to do in NYC at night, with categories to help you decide, such as observation desks, quirky experiences, and more.
Things to Do in NYC at Night
The truth is that only a few cities in the world can match such nightlife, charm, scenic beauty, culinary delights, creativity, and liveliness. Well, NYC has so much to experience, eat, enjoy, see, and it all can be overwhelming. Without any further ado, let's see some of the best things to do in New York at night:
1. Top Observation Decks in NYC
Ask any tourist what they love about New York City, and their answer will be the city’s skyline. And what better way to admire the city’s lit-up skyline than from one of Manhattan’s observation decks? Have a look at three of the best observation decks in NYC, which are some of the best things to do in New York at night:
1. The Edge
Timings: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Pricing: $40
Address: 30 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001, United States
Located at Hudson Yards, The Edge offers breathtaking views of New York City from a glass-floor observation deck suspended 100 floors above ground, making it the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere, and one of the most exciting things to do in New York at night.
2. SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Timings: 9:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Pricing: $43
Address: 45 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017, USA
The list of things to do in NYC at night is incomplete without SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. This immersive experience blends art, nature, and innovation, offering stunning views from its mirrored observation deck on top of One Vanderbilt, near Grand Central Terminal.
3. Top of the Rock
Timings: 9:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Pricing: $40-$60
Address: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112, United States
Perched atop the iconic Rockefeller Center, Top of the Rock provides panoramic views of the New York skyline, including landmarks like Central Park and the Empire State Building. For someone who loves heights, this is certainly one of the best things to do in New York at night.
2. Unique And Quirky Experience
New York is nothing if not quirky. In addition to having a million things to do and see, New York also has several quirky places to visit, which have their own unique charm. These places are super enjoyable and promise a memorable experience. In our comprehensive list of things to do in NYC at night, let’s have a look at some unique experiences to consider:
1. Drunk Shakespeare Society
Timings: Wednesday to Sunday, with shows starting between 7 PM and 10 PM, depending on the day.
Pricing: $45
Address: The Ruby Theatre, 35 W 39th St, New York, 10018
Rating: 4.7/5
Drunk Shakespeare takes the classic works of Shakespeare and adds a fun, chaotic twist by having one cast member down several shots of alcohol before the performance. The quirkiness of this performance is what makes it one of the most exciting things to do in NYC at night.
2. The Cauldron NYC
Timings:
Monday–Thursday: 4 PM–10 PM
Friday: 4 PM–11 PM
Saturday: 12 PM–11 PM
Sunday: 12 PM–10 PM
Pricing: $49.99
Address: 127 W 26th St, New York, NY 10001, United States
Rating: 4.4/5
The Cauldron NYC offers a magical experience where guests can channel their inner wizard with immersive cocktail-making classes. Using wands and potion-like ingredients, patrons brew their own drinks in an enchanting, fantasy-inspired pub setting, making it one of the most exciting and fun things to do in NYC at night.
3. Seasonal Activities
Whether you're enjoying winter's twinkling holiday lights, savoring a springtime rooftop cocktail, basking in summer's outdoor movie screenings, or exploring fall’s haunted tours, the city has something unique for every season after dark. No matter when you visit, there's always a seasonal activity to make your night in NYC unforgettable. Here are some of the best:
1. Christmas Lights Tour
Timings: Late November through December, with evening slots between 5 PM and 9 PM.
Cost: $25 to $60 per person.
Address: Dyker Heights in Brooklyn and Midtown Manhattan.
The Christmas Lights Tour is a magical way to experience NYC's festive spirit, with dazzling holiday displays lighting up neighborhoods like Dyker Heights. These guided tours take you to some of the city's best-decorated spots, immersing you in a world of twinkling lights, oversized ornaments, and spectacular holiday décor.
2. Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center
Timings: 9:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Cost: $21–$54, Skate rentals: $15.
Address: 600 5th Ave, New York, NY 10020 (Rockefeller Plaza).
Ice skating at Rockefeller Center is one of NYC's most iconic winter activities. Skating under the towering Rockefeller Christmas Tree, surrounded by the sparkling lights of the plaza, offers a magical, postcard-worthy experience.
3. Shakespeare in the Park
Timings: 8:00 PM onwards
Cost: Free (tickets are required and distributed via a lottery system or in-person line).
Address: Delacorte Theater, Central Park, 81st Street and Central Park West, New York, NY 10023.
Shakespeare in the Park offers free, world-class performances of Shakespeare’s plays in Central Park, combining the magic of live theater with the natural beauty of the outdoors. The open-air Delacorte Theater provides a stunning backdrop, with the city's skyline twinkling in the distance.
4. Nightlife Attractions
When discussing things to do in NYC at night, you must consider visiting the rooftop bars and nightclubs. When the sun sets, New York City becomes a colorful playground with an unparalleled nighttime atmosphere. Its chic rooftop bars and buzzing nightclubs, where the city skyline serves as your backdrop and the enthusiasm is contagious, are among the best experiences. Here are some of the best ones to visit:
1. The Rooftop Cinema Club (Seasonal)
Address: Skylawn Embassy Suites, 60 W 37th St, New York, NY 10018
Rating: 4.8/5
Entry Costs: Tickets generally start from $20, with upgrades for premium seating.
What Sets It Apart: With its distinctive fusion of outdoor cinema and urban nightlife, Rooftop Cinema Club, one of the best things to do in NYC at night, lets you enjoy both new and classic films against the stunning backdrop of the city skyline.
2. Top Rooftop Bars in NYC
New York City is known for its iconic rooftop bars, where breathtaking views meet exceptional drinks. Here are a few of the top rooftop bars you must visit, when considering things to do in NYC at night:
1. 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
Address: 1150 Broadway, New York, NY 10001, USA
Rating: 4.3/5
Entry: Free
Famous for: Views of the Empire State Building
2. Le Bain at The Standard, High Line
Address: 848 Washington St, New York, NY 10014
Rating: 3.4/5
Entry: $20-$30
Famous for: Panoramic views, a plunge pool, and a lively dance floor
3. The Ready Rooftop Bar
Address: 112 E 11th St, New York, NY 10003
Rating: 3.7/5
Entry: No cover charge, but drinks are priced from $10 to $20
Famous For: Impressive views of the East Village.
3. The House of Yes
Address: 2 Wyckoff Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11237
Rating: 4.6/5
Entry Costs: $20 to $60, depending on the night and theme.
What Sets It Apart: House of Yes is celebrated for its wild, avant-garde parties where guests are encouraged to express themselves through costumes and dance. With aerial performances, immersive art, and a community-focused vibe, it stands as one of the most interesting things to do in NYC at night.
5. Sports Events in NYC
New York City is a paradise for sports fans, offering a wide array of thrilling events that light up the night. Sports events in NYC bring out the energy and passion of the city, making them a perfect way to spend an unforgettable evening. Here are some you should definitely not miss!
1. Baseball at Yankee Stadium
Address: 1 E 161 St, Bronx, NY 10451, United States
Website to Book Tickets: https://www.mlb.com/yankees/tickets
New Yorkers live and breathe Yankees. With a record of 27 World Series wins, it’s not hard to see why. When in New York, don’t miss out on the chance to watch a game for as little as $10.
2. Basketball at Madison Square Garden
Address: Madison Square Garden, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10001
Website to Book Tickets: www.msg.com
Known as "The World's Most Famous Arena," Madison Square Garden has been the backdrop for countless historic sports moments.
6. More things to do in NYC at night
1. Jazz Cruises
Address: Various departure points depending on the cruise, with popular options leaving from Pier 62, Chelsea Piers, New York, NY 10011.
Website to Book Tickets: www.sail-nyc.com
Jazz cruises combine live performances of classic jazz with breathtaking views of NYC landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and more.
2. Helicopter Night Tours
Address: Downtown Manhattan Heliport, 6 East River Piers, New York, NY 10004.
Website to Book Tickets: www.flynyon.com
When wondering about things to do in New York at night, Helicopter tours offer a thrilling and unparalleled view of New York's skyline, showcasing the glowing cityscape after dark. You can’t miss this experience if you’re looking for the best things to do in NYC at night.
3. Speakeasy and Bar Night Tours
Address: Tours begin at various locations depending on the operator. Popular tours often start in Lower Manhattan or Midtown.
Website to Book Tickets: www.speakeasytournyc.com
These tours offer a fascinating look at NYC’s nightlife history while sipping on craft cocktails in venues with old-world charm, making it one of the best things to do in NYC at night.
4. Sex and the City Night Out
Address: The Plaza Hotel, 768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019.
Website to Book Tickets: www.onlocationtours.com
As one of the best things to do in NYC at night, this tour takes you through Carrie, Charlotte, Miranda, and Samantha’s favorite NYC haunts, giving you the chance to sip cosmopolitans and snap photos at famous filming locations from the beloved series. For die hard fans, this is one of the best things to do in NYC at night.
5. Photography Tours at Night
Address: Tours typically meet at Times Square or the Brooklyn Bridge, depending on the route.
Website to Book Tickets: www.nyphototours.com
Led by professional photographers, these tours not only guide you to the best locations but also offer tips on how to shoot nighttime cityscapes, making it an excellent addition to our list of things to do in New York at night.
6. Candlelight Concerts
Address: Various venues, including The Williamsburg Hotel, 96 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249.
Website to Book Tickets: www.feverup.com
With enchanting candlelit settings and talented musicians performing anything from Beethoven to modern pop. This is truly one of the best things to do in New York at night time.
7. Harlem Soul Food and Jazz Evening Tour
Address: Tour meets at various points in Harlem, typically near 125th Street.
Website to Book Tickets: www.harlemspirituals.com
This tour immerses you in the vibrant jazz scene that Harlem is known for, while also treating you to some of the best Southern-style cuisine in the city. When visiting this city, don;t forget to explore this exceptional experience of things to do in New York at night.
8. Aire Ancient Baths
Address: 88 Franklin St, New York, NY 10013.
Website to Book Tickets: www.beaire.com
Aire Ancient Baths offers a unique spa experience with a serene, candlelight ambiance. Their thermal baths, massages, and exclusive treatments make it one of the best things to do in NYC at night.
9. Broadway Shows
Address: W. 45th St. (No. 222), W. 44th St. (No. 235), W. 53rd St & Broadway (No. 1681), W. 50th St. (No. 235)
Website to Book Tickets: https://www.broadway.com/shows/tickets/
Broadway shows will offer you unforgettable entertainment for 2 hours, allowing you to get swept away by the performance. This is certainly a must-have on your list of things to do in NYC at night.
10. Late-night Show’s Live Tapings
Address: Ed Sullivan Theater, 1697 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
Another addition to our list of things to do in NYC at night is catching a live recording of TV shows. You might assume tickets to these shows cost a fortune, but you are wrong about that. The tickets can be booked online! Here are some shows that you can check out:
2. The Late Show with Stephen Colbert
3. The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon
4. Late Night with Seth Meyers
11. Night at the Museum
Address: 11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019, United States
Who doesn’t love a bit of history and culture? New York boasts a large collection of museums full of exhibitions that you wouldn’t want to miss out on. These are some of the museums that you can wander around late into the evening when you’re looking for things to do in NYC at night.
1. MoMA
The Museum of Modern Art offers “Free Fridays”, opening at 5:30 and staying open until 9 pm. For tourists, this is certainly one of the best things to do in New York at night.
2. The Met
The Metropolitan Museum of Art extends its opening hours to 9 pm every Thursday and Friday. If you’re lucky, you might be able to catch one of their late-night concerts or drawing classes.
3. The Whitney
This museum lets visitors in until 10 pm on Fridays and offers a spectacular collection of artifacts to marvel at once the sun has set. So why not spend a night at the museum as one of the best things to do in New York at night? If you’d like to learn more about the city’s secrets, check out our guide to New York City.
12. Staten Island Ferry
Address: Staten Island, NY 10301, United States
Where To Book Tickets: https://siferry.com/
A pocket-friendly alternative to taking a cruise to see the city’s attractions is taking the Staten Island Ferry. The ferry runs 24/7 and provides service every 30 minutes, with its frequency increasing during rush hours. This is one of the best things to do in New York at night for free as you get to witness the beauty of the city.
13. Explore Grand Central Terminal
Address: 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017, United States
Explore Grand Central Terminal, one of New York's greatest landmarks, known for its celestial ceiling and secret ‘whispering gallery’. This is truly one of the best night attractions NYC to explore with your friends.
Where Students Can Stay In New York City?
Students visiting here have plenty of great places to stay in New York to choose from for their stay. Each with unique attractions and convenient locations for you to reach all the things to do at NYC at night. Whether you choose the centrally located Flatiron District, the relaxed Upper West Side, or the vibrant borough of Brooklyn, you'll be close to the city's endless activities and iconic sights. Here are some top recommended places to stay in New York City:
1. Flatiron District
- Highlights: Iconic Flatiron Building, Madison Square Park, original Shake Shack.
- Proximity:
- North: 10 blocks to the Empire State Building, 20 blocks to Times Square.
- South: Short walk to Greenwich Village, Union Square, NoHo, and SoHo.
- Center of Manhattan: Quick access to the High Line and Chelsea.
2. Upper West Side
- Vibe: Relaxed neighborhood feel.
- Green Spaces: Close to Central Park and Hudson River Waterfront Greenway.
- Amenities: Great restaurants, bagel shops, grocery stores.
- Attractions: American Museum of Natural History.
- Transportation: 1, 2, and 3 trains running under Broadway for easy access to other parts of Manhattan.
3. Brooklyn
Williamsburg:
- Vibe: Exciting, with distilleries, wineries, and vibrant nightlife.
- Events: Smorgasburg market on summer Saturdays.
- Views: Stunning views of Manhattan from the East River shore.
Dumbo:
- Meaning: "Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass".
- Vibe: Historic charm with cobblestone streets and factory buildings.
- Views: Iconic views of the Manhattan Bridge.
- Accessibility: Easy access to other parts of Brooklyn and Manhattan.
So, there you have it! The perfect list of things to do in NYC at night so you don’t spend the evening wandering the city cluelessly. Whether you're a "King Kong" fan searching for towering experiences or a "Sex and the City" devotee looking for a cosmopolitan night out, New York City has something for everyone, along with a mindblowing list of things to do. As the "Empire State of Mind" reminds us, the city that never sleeps never disappoints either. So, grab your dancing shoes and let's hit the town for a night to remember in the city that never sleeps! If this city feels like home, you can consider moving here. Here’s a housing guide to help you get started!
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