Bars & Nightlife - New York, New York

Bars & NightlifeGuide was updated: November 15, 2025

It's a cliché to say that New York is the “city that never sleeps,” but that couldn't be farther from the truth. No matter what you’re looking for – karaoke, live music, dancing – you can find it at all hours.

The Long Island Bar

Originally established in 1951 as a humble haunt for dockworkers, the Long Island Bar is a Brooklyn landmark steeped in history and nostalgia. After being closed for seven years, this iconic spot underwent a remarkable revival by legendary bartender Toby Cecchini (creator of the Cosmopolitan) and partner Joel Tompkins, who have preserved its Art Deco charm and vintage floral wallpaper. Come here to sip on expertly crafted cocktails, each as smooth as they are flavorful, while indulging in local favorites like the updated Reuben sandwich or the Long Island burger with a bacon wheel.

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Avant Gardner

Step into the pulsating heart of New York City's nightlife at Avant Gardner, a sprawling indoor-outdoor events complex nestled in East Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Formerly a warehouse turned rave haven, Avant Gardner hosts some of the most renowned DJs and electronic dance music artists. From the open-air Brooklyn Mirage during the summer months to the year-round allure of the Great Hall and Kings Hall, this music venue leaves nothing to be desired.

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Elsewhere

Elsewhere is a colossal live music venue in Brooklyn that has been a cornerstone of New York City's nightlife for years. Split into three main rooms (and during the summer, The Rooftop), Elsewhere offers an eclectic array of music and atmospheres to suit every taste; from intimate sets by underground DJs to electrifying performances by A-listers. Remember to secure your ticket in advance through their website and Instagram page.

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Brooklyn Brewery

Brooklyn Brewery helped kickstart the borough’s craft beer scene and still draws a steady crowd to its Williamsburg taproom. The lineup usually includes house favorites like Local 1 and several seasonal or experimental brews. Weekend tours are short, free, and a fun way to see where it all started before grabbing a pint in the tasting room.

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SOB’s

SOB’s, aka "Sounds of Brazil," is a live music venue in SoHo that aims to introduce guests to (and supply old-timers with ever-increasing servings of) music other than tired pop hits, which ranges from hip-hop to Brazilian, Caribbean, Haitian, and Latin music, as well as tunes from all across the world.

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The Bowery Ballroom

The Bowery Ballroom is a historic venue in the Lower East Side that hosts a mix of up-and-coming bands and established acts. The space is intimate, so you feel closer to the stage than in a typical arena, and the balcony offers a great view if you want to step back.

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The DL

The DL is a three-story venue on the Lower East Side with a restaurant on the ground floor, a lounge on the second, and a rooftop bar with skyline views on top. The rooftop has a retractable roof, so it works even if the weather isn’t perfect, and the crowd tends to pick up in the evenings and on weekends. Dress neat and plan ahead if you want a spot on the rooftop.

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Bars & Nightlife in New York, New York

The Long Island Bar

Avant Gardner

Elsewhere

Brooklyn Brewery

SOB’s

The Bowery Ballroom

The DL