52 Exciting Things to Do in NYC at Night: The City Made for Night Owls

New York comes alive as darkness descends and the lights flicker to life. 

There’s an energy in the city that never stops, even deep into the night. 

It’s very much a city full of night owls. I should know, I used to be one of them. 

I can’t help but smile as I think back on all the crazy evenings that I’ve had in the city. The nights spent out dancing until 4 am, and the beautiful cab rides home along the East River watching the sunrise. 

The friends I’ve made and adventures I’ve had will always hold a special place in my heart. There’s a fresh opportunity around every corner to discover something or someone new, at any hour. 

Venture out to see some of my favorite things to do in NYC at night.

2. Live From New York…

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A post shared by Ally Gibson (@ally1600) on Jan 25, 2020 at 11:06pm PST

It’s Saturday Night!

SNL is the city’s most well known late show. They always have A-list hosts and performers, you never know who may show up.

People wait in the standby line sometimes for days to get the chance to be a part of their studio audience.

I was lucky enough to get to be an audience member this past season when Adam Driver and Halsey hosted.

My mom and I were both fascinated by the behind-the-scenes vantage point we experienced.

To score tickets, you’ve got two options. The easier is to apply during their lottery each August.

You send an email to [email protected] and explain why you want to be in the audience (make sure to include that you’re a fan).  

You can’t request a specific date. If you win, be grateful and do whatever it takes to get to the city on your assigned Saturday. 

If you didn’t win or forgot to enter in August, don’t stress because there’s another way to get in.

Unfortunately, it involves waiting in that massive standby line that I mentioned earlier.

3. Head to The Moth

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A post shared by The Moth (@mothstories) on Sep 18, 2019 at 2:28pm PDT

I know what you’re thinking—what the hell is “The Moth”? 

I thought the same thing when I heard about it. The Moth is a society that hosts story competitions.

Members of the audience can put their name in a hat if they have a true on-topic story.

If they pick you, you’ve got 5 minutes to get on stage and tell your story.

At the end of the night, a panel of judges (pulled from the audience) will pick a winner. 

They now even have a podcast and YouTube channel with some of their best stories streaming on them.

4. Catch a Hidden Concert

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A post shared by Sofar Sounds (@sofarsounds) on Jan 2, 2020 at 12:37pm PST

Shhh….. It’s a secret! 

Imagine being in the know about a secret concert taking place tonight in a random office, or rooftop.

There’s no way of knowing where the next one will be or who the performer is.

Most evenings it’s probably a band you’ve never heard of, but occasionally it’s someone like Ed Sheeran.

Sofar Sounds is super popular, so book your tickets early!

Sofar Sounds

Each concert features three mystery performers in a surprise location. Book early to guarantee entry!

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5. Drink at a Historic Bar

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A post shared by Fraunces Tavern (@frauncestavern)

Ever think you’d drink in the same bar as George Washington?

Raise a glass to freedom at Fraunces Tavern. It’s one of the oldest bars in the city where a lot of the Founding Fathers partied back in the day. 

McSorely’s is the oldest Irish Saloon. Okay, so they don’t have bragging rights about our forefathers.

They can gloat that Houdini used to drink there.

Keep an eye out for a pair of Houdini’s old handcuffs that are still connected to the bar rail.

6. Not Your Standard Bingo

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A post shared by pɹɐpuɐʇs ǝɥʇ (@thestandard) on May 15, 2020 at 11:52am PDT

The Standard Hotel hosts an epic party every Sunday night.

Notable past guests have included Rhianna, Zac Efron, and Cameron Diaz.

You’ll play Bingo, sing “Balls” karaoke (you replace words in the song with the word “balls”), and dance the evening away.

8. Go to Luna Park

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A post shared by Ally Gibson (@ally1600) on Jul 28, 2019 at 9:44pm PDT

Luna Park at Coney Island is open late and is just a subway ride away from the city. It’s a mix of modern and old school amusements.

You’ll be spending the evening riding roller coasters and racing go-karts. Not to mention all the delicious fried food on the boardwalk you can have for dinner.

Local’s Tip: Skip the Sideshow. When I went last, the acts weren’t that fascinating and it felt like a sad cabaret.

It’s not worth the price of admission. I’d still stop by the building for a quick drink and to browse their souvenirs.

9. Learn to Swing Dance

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A post shared by SWING46 Jazz & Supper Club (@swing46nyc) on Mar 26, 2019 at 7:30am PDT

Foxtrot into your Friday night at Swing 46 in midtown. Every evening at 9 pm they host a dance class in the dining room.

You’ll learn dances from the Swing Era like the Lindy Hop, Jitterbug, Waltz, and Foxtrot. 

One of my best friends used to bar tend here, and we always had a brilliant time learning new steps over cocktails.

11. Listen to the Symphony

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A post shared by New York Philharmonic (@nyphilharmonic) on Aug 12, 2019 at 7:11am PDT

Honestly, I always thought the symphony was a bit pretentious and dull until a few years ago. 

I know it isn’t for everyone, but it’s become one of my favorite ways to escape for a few hours. 

Grab a dinner and drinks on the Upper West Side then get lost in the beautiful music of the NY Philharmonic.

Let your mind wander with the music—it’s super relaxing!

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12. Go Glamping

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A post shared by Collective Retreats (@collectiveretreats) on Aug 14, 2019 at 6:44pm PDT

How many people can say they’ve been glamping in “The Big Apple”?

Head to Governors Island Collective Retreats and be among the few who can brag about it.

They have live music on the weekends, plus complimentary breakfast and yoga. Most hotels don’t even offer this many perks.

Not to mention the killer view of the city—go ahead and book it, you know you want to.

13. Go to a Comedy Club

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A post shared by Ally Gibson (@ally1600) on Jan 12, 2020 at 4:59pm PST

When I was living in New York, my boyfriend and I used to see comedy at least once a month as a date night.

Our favorite spot was The Stand. They have delicious cocktails and snacks.

We love getting the Spicy Pepperoni Pizza and their “One-Liner” cocktail. 

15. Stroll the Brooklyn Bridge

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A post shared by Brooklyn Bridge Park (@brooklynbridgepark) on Feb 21, 2020 at 1:24pm PST

The Brooklyn Bridge is magical at night. You’ll see all the city lights and spot Lady Liberty lit up in the distance.

I love to start my stroll across around dusk. By the time you arrive in Brooklyn, you can gaze across the entire cityscape all lit up.

Local’s Tip: Plan ahead and book a lovely late dinner in Brooklyn near the bridge. My personal favorites are The Osprey and The River Cafe.

16. Witness Law and Order

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Are you one of those people who’s obsessed with TV shows about the New York legal system?

Well, you might be into the real thing, too. 

If you find the thrill of watching our legal system in action too good to pass up, sit in on a case at the Manhattan Criminal Court (Night Court). 

After sitting in as a jury member, I can tell you the cases this court listens to are rarely dull.

It’s engrossing to watch how they unfold. Who knows, you may even catch a famous face.

Either way, you’ll walk away with an interesting story. Night Court is in session between 5 pm and 1 am and members of the public have a full entry.

18. Sail Around the City

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A post shared by Classic Harbor Line (@classicharborline) on Jan 17, 2020 at 2:35pm PST

Champagne and city lights on a 1920s inspired motor yacht, what could be better?

Book a ticket, and set sail at sunset to see the city as it lights up and comes alive.

You’ll even sail by The Statue of Liberty. Classic Harbour Line even has a jazz option if you want to make it an extra moody evening.

Check out some of these popular evening cruises around the city!

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20. Immersive Yourself in Theater

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A post shared by Sleep No More (@sleepnomorenyc) on Oct 2, 2016 at 12:57pm PDT

Spend your evening following Alice down the rabbit in Then She Fell.

Or pop on a mask and lose yourself in the world of Shakespeare’s Macbeth at Sleep No More. 

My favorite is Sleep No More. It’s different every night since you choose which characters to chase.

Either way, you’ll be spending your evening lost in another world.

21. Go on a Ghost Tour

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A post shared by Haunted Manhattan (@hauntedmanhattan) on Sep 23, 2019 at 11:09am PDT

In the city’s almost 400-year-old history, it’s had its fair share of ghosts.

You never know what’s around the corner in this city.

It could be the dead poets at The White House Tavern or the ghost train at Astor Place station.

Book a walking tour with Haunted Manhattan to hear all the city’s ghost stories.

They have 4 different tours to choose from. Each one focuses on a different city neighborhood.

Pre-book one of these popular and spooky night tours!

24. Take a Helicopter Tour

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A post shared by New York Helicopter ? (@newyorkhelicopter) on Jan 20, 2020 at 4:35am PST

Take in the city lights with a bird’s eye view from a helicopter tour.

It’s something I’ve been wanting to do for ages.

Obviously this is a bit of a splurge, but why not go all out for a special night in the city. 

It’ll be a tour you’ll never forget.

25. Make a Great Escape

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Spend your evening locked in a room. I know what you’re thinking, but it’s more fun than it sounds.

I had never done an escape room before and ended up having a wonderful time at The Escape Room.

My friends and I did the Gold Rush room and all agreed we’d be planning another night out there again soon.

27. See the Sunset at One World Trade

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A post shared by Ally Gibson (@ally1600) on Jun 24, 2019 at 3:55pm PDT

Anyone who knows me can tell you that I’m obsessed with a stunning sunset.

The view you get from the observation deck at One World Trade is out of this world.

Seriously, it will take your breath away.

The elevator ride even gives you an historic overview as it climbs up to the 94th floor. It’s all animated and shows the transformation of the city from the ground up.

Local’s Tip: Plan to get there about 30 minutes before sunset. You’ll arrive at the top in time to see nightfall and the city light up.

Plan ahead and book one of these popular tours!

29. Go Dancing

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A post shared by Circus • Performance • Club (@houseofyesnyc) on Feb 10, 2020 at 3:01pm PST

“The City That “Never Sleeps” naturally has a happening club scene.

If you want to get lost in a performance fueled nightclub head to The House of Yes.

They throw epic parties that’ll make you feel like you’re in another world. 

Local’s Tip: Check ahead to see if they have a ticketed themed night planned.

30. Play Pinball in a Laundromat

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A post shared by @sunshinelaundromat on Oct 31, 2019 at 10:22pm PDT

Yes, you read that right — you can play pinball in a laundromat.

At Sunshine Laundromat and Pinball you can drink beer and play pinball all night.

Don’t worry if pinball isn’t your thing (it isn’t mine), they also have plenty of board games.

31. Head to a Poetry Slam

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A post shared by Nuyorican Poets Cafe (@nuyoricanpoetscafe) on Oct 14, 2019 at 10:10am PDT

For an edgy night out on the town, look no further than The Nuyorican Poets Cafe.

I know some of you may be rolling your eyes.

I used to be one of you but after seeing a show here, I can say it’s fun.

The vibes are welcoming and the poets are a blast to watch and listen to.

32. Play Broadway Roulette

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A post shared by Broadway Roulette (@broadwayroulette) on Aug 19, 2019 at 3:42pm PDT

Want to see a show but don’t know where to start? Then play Broadway Roulette. 

First, you let their website know the date and number of tickets you’re looking for.

Then select your preference for a play, musical, or no preference.

Last, let them know up to 4 shows that you don’t want to see. 

From there, you’ll get a text morning that lets you know what show you’ve landed on along with the address of the theater.

Pick up your tickets and you’ll be good to go.

33. Party on a Barge

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A post shared by The Brooklyn Barge (@thebrooklynbarge) on Apr 22, 2019 at 4:49pm PDT

Head to Greenpoint and board the Brooklyn Barge for a great time.

You can have a drink or snack while partying with a stunning view of Manhattan’s skyline.

They have live music and even games.

The best part is you can order all your food and drinks online through their app!

34. Play a Round of Mini Golf

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A post shared by Pier 25 NYC (@pier25nyc) on Jul 7, 2019 at 5:58am PDT

Tap into your competitive side with a game of mini-golf. The city has a bunch of different courses to choose from.

You can play on Pier 25 with a beautiful view of the Hudson.

Or indoors in Brooklyn at an island-themed Shipwrecked.

If you’re a movie buff, go to Turtle Cove. It’s the same location that Jake LaMotta takes his soon to be wife Vikki in “Raging Bull”.

The Moxy Hotel even has a rooftop mini-golf course called Foreplay, I am sure you can guess the theme.

35. Take the Perfect Photo

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A post shared by Ally Travels (@allytravelsofficial)

Brighten up your evening at The Color Factory. It’s an interactive art exhibition.

I recently got to explore this place, and it was an absolute blast!

You’ll wander through about a dozen colorful rooms.

In each room, you get the opportunity to take photos via their pre-set photo booths.

All photos taken get emailed to you after your visit.

You’ll be sure to leave with lots of Instagram options.

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38. Attend a Concert in a Catacomb

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A post shared by Death of Classical (@deathofclassical) on Jan 14, 2020 at 8:32am PST

Why just tour the catacombs of New York, when you could be having burgers while listening to Bach in them? 

This is one example of the many events “Angel’s Share” at Greenwood Cemetery hosts.

It’s located in one of the oldest structures in the cemetery from the 1850s.

Seriously, this might be one of the coolest things to do in the city. 

Local’s Tip: Book tickets early, I’ve yet to score tickets for this because it sells out quickly.

39. Go to an Interactive Magic Show

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A post shared by Steve Cohen ? Chamber Magic (@chambermagic) on Oct 12, 2019 at 7:00am PDT

Chamber Magic is a show that’s hosted by a man known as the “Millionaire’s Magician”. 

He’ll have you believing in magic as soon as you see his “think a drink” illusion.

During this trick, he’ll pour any drink you name out of his magic silver kettle.

Everything from iced coffee to cocktails has poured out of it. 

He always hosts these in hotels, so arrive early and grab a cheeky pre-show cocktail in the hotel bar.

It’s a formal event, so wear a cocktail dress.

41. Play Shuffleboard

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A post shared by royalpalms (@royalpalms) on Dec 7, 2016 at 8:42pm PST

Don’t worry if you have no idea how to play shuffleboard. I had never even heard of it until my friends brought me here.

It’s easy to pick up, and there are plenty of people there willing to help you learn.

The Royal Palms Shuffleboard Club in Brooklyn is chic and has plenty of courts.

Oh, and the best part is they have a bar and feature a different food truck every night.

42. Head to the Top of The Empire State

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A post shared by Empire State Building (@empirestatebldg) on Apr 22, 2020 at 11:34am PDT

Is there anything more iconic than the Empire State Building?

I’ll never forget my first time traveling to the top. It’s one of the best views in the city.

Be prepared to wait at least an hour unless you splurge on Express Pass tickets.

Skip the line with one of these highly rated tours!

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46. See a Burlesque Show

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A post shared by ??????? ??? (@companyxiv) on Apr 16, 2018 at 12:27pm PDT

Company XIV in Brooklyn hosts epic baroque burlesque shows. It’s a seriously unique NYC experience.

They are all based on either fairy tales or ballets and are nothing short of creative.

The shows are popular with locals, and always sell out.

Company XIV

After seeing Company XIV’s amazing production of Nutcracker Rouge, I’m dying to catch their new production, Cocktail Magique. If it’s as sexy as the other production, you’re in for one very steamy date night.

Use code ALLYTRAVELS and receive 10% off ticket prices!

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47. Head to The Summit

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A post shared by SUMMIT One Vanderbilt (@summitov)

Chances are you’ve probably seen The Summit featured on Instagram by now, since bloggers are obsessed with the mirrored details of this observation deck.

The mirrored walls, flooring, and ceiling make the room extra stunning at night, since they reflect the city lights.

You’ll absolutely by dying to take photos of the skyline, especially if you go at sunset.

My favorite part (besides how pretty it is), is that they’re home to Danny Meyer’s latest bar/cafe called APRÈS.

Grabbing a drink with this view is super romantic, and the perfect way to start off any date night!

Get your tickets early for this popular destination!

48. Attend a Sports Game

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A post shared by New York Yankees (@yankees) on May 15, 2020 at 2:28pm PDT

Okay, so this is something I’ve yet to do, but I hear our sports games can be a great time.

Apparently basketball and hockey games both take place in the evening.

I think football may even be a nighttime thing?

Either way, I hear we have wonderful teams. So if you’re a sports fan, maybe check them out.

50. See a Show at The Apollo

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A post shared by Apollo Theater (@apollotheater) on Jan 26, 2020 at 7:41am PST

Venture up to Harlem and attend a show at The Apollo.

It’s been around for 85 years and is a world-renowned landmarked theater.

Plenty of legends have gotten their starts at the Apollo, including:

• Ella Fitzgerald 
• Billie Holiday
• Sammy Davis Jr. 
• Etta James
• Nat “King” Cole
• Ray Charles

Conclusion

When the lights of the city flick on as the sun is setting, the real New York emerges. 

There’s laughter in the streets, dancing in clubs, and lots of conversations in our bars and restaurants. 

The beginning of a night out in this city is always filled with endless possibilities. New York has a magic all its own—magic that will transport you if you let it. 

Check out some of these popular night tours while you’re in NYC!