New York City Nightlife

Experience the magic of the Great White Way with world-class shows in the grand old theaters surrounding Times Square.

The go-to spot for classical and contemporary symphony, dance, jazz, opera, and theater hosts companies like the Metropolitan Opera and the New York City Ballet.

Home to the Rockettes, it’s worth catching a show here just to see this intimate and prestigious Art Deco venue in Rockefeller Center.

Smooth jazz and blues resonate from this legendary Greenwich Village club, which books top-rate acts like John Scofield, Chris Botti, and McCoy Tyner.

You just might run into the girl (or guy) from Ipanema in this elegant space, where Brazilian and other Latin music is the specialty on the large dance floor.

The city’s original Irish pub (opened 1854) has a sawdust-strewn ground and historic wall photos. Be prepared to drink beer – only dark or light ale is available.

Historically, gay nightlife centered on Chelsea and the West Village, but it has recently spread to Hell's Kitchen. This trendy bar’s popular 11pm to midnight happy hour draws a friendly crowd.

See where legends like Billie Holiday, James Brown, and Lauryn Hill got their start at this landmark 1914 theater in the heart of Harlem. Amateur Night Wednesdays, a long-time tradition, is still popular.

Given the enduring (and deserved) popularity of this snug West Village wine bar, dropping by...more

Breathe in the electric Manhattan energy from the city's swankiest and most spacious rooftop garden bar. A summer pilgrimage point for tourists and locals alike since its inception in 2006, this Chelsea hot spot draws the crowds largely for its stellar views – soak in the skyline while sipping on signature cocktails and sampling made-to-share appetizers from their Malaysian-inspired menu. Open year-round, 230 Fifth responds to the chillier months with flaming drinks, heaters, and hooded robes on their rooftop patio, or invites guests to retreat to the luxe penthouse lounge one floor below. The lounge, which exudes a 1940s modernist mood, touts floor-to-ceiling windows, lacquered red ceilings, rare ebony walls, and designer sofas that have played host to fashion and showbiz hot shots (think Luis Vuitton and The Sopranos cast). Chelsea; 230 Fifth Ave. at 27th St.; 212-725-4300; www.230-fifth.com