New York City has so many awesome activities to do during the day, but there are just as many amazing things to do in New York City at night. This city really is the city that keeps on giving. There are so many things to do and uncover that you will never be bored. My NYC Bucket List proves this because it is filled with fun ideas and must-visit spots you have to see while in New York City.
Some fun things during the day could mean visiting Greenwich village or popping in to see the Empire State Building, or even heading down to the AIRE Ancient Baths. But, some of the best discoveries and activities that New York has to offer are at night.
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The Best NYC Activities You Have To Do
Free Things to do in NYC at night
Brooklyn Bridge – Brooklyn Bridge, New York, NY 10038
A New York Landmark that you definitely should visit at night is the Brooklyn Bridge. Taking a walk down the bridge during the day is beautiful in its own right, but strolling down the bridge at night is breathtaking and magical. The Brooklyn Bridge at night has a gorgeous view of the Manhattan cityscape completely lit up. And the best part about it is that it is completely free! Who doesn’t love that word?
Using the bridge to get to Manhattan opens up so many possibilities of different things to do and see. It is honestly the start of an awesome nighttime adventure.
Don’t forget that if at any point you find yourself on the Upper East Side and you need a little caffeine-pick-me-up, then you have to visit some of the Best Coffee Shops on the Upper East Side.
Don’t forget to do one of the most popular and fun things to do in New York City at night, especially while on the bridge is to take your picture. Whether it’s for Instagram or just for yourself you will want to capture the experience to look back on.
Fun Brooklyn Bridge History Facts
Construction of the bridge began in 1869 and was completed in 1883. At the time of completion, this was the longest suspension bridge in the world. Then it was reconstructed between 1944 – 1954 to strengthen the structure. Eventually, in 1964 the Brooklyn Bridge was designated a National Historic Landmark. The most recent construction to take place is that in September of 2021 a 2-way protected bike lane opened up along the bridge to accommodate the rise in cyclists.
Bryant Park – New York, NY 10018
Bryant Park is located in Manhattan and is considered to be one of the world’s busiest public spaces. There is always something to do there day or night. There are over 1,000 free events annually, but some of the best free activities at night are: 
- Movie Nights -usually starting around 5 PM
- Picnic Performances -starting at 7 PM
- Shakespeare in the Park
- The Rink- open daily until 10 PM
- Admission is free, but rentals do cost money
- Not open year-round and only opened seasonally
As you can see Bryant Park is filled with so many free activities at night, that you can’t go wrong. This location should be on everyone’s top things to do in New York City at night.
If you want to make sure that you are doing NYC right, then you should definitely use my Complete Guide to New York City.
NYC Bryant Park History Facts
Bryant Park has gone through many iterations throughout its history, but one of the most notable changes is how it went from a crime-infested landscape to a beautiful family-friendly park. In 1979, it had seemed like all hope had been lost for Brant Park due to the high crime rate, but by the 1990’s they were able to turn things around.
The way this was accomplished is through the Bryant Park Restoration Corporation (BPRC). The BPRC was created in 1980 and they created a master plan to turn the park around by experimenting with different methods to bring people back to the park and generate revenue.
This went on for 7 years and through park maintenance and public event they increased the number of annual park visitors. Over the next decades, the park has only continued to improve and welcome even more park visitors than the BPRC ever thought possible.
Have you been wanting to check out all must-see things in NYC but it’s just too much? Tripadvisor offers this tour that will guide you through it all! It even includes an observatory ticket!
Shows to catch at night in New York City
Broadway Theater – 400-1000 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013
One of the most famous spots in New York City is the Theater District, which runs through the Times Square region. The Theater District is also commonly known as Broadway. Yes, the Broadway that is featured in hundreds of movies and shows. Due to its massive imprint on society and media, even if you have never visited New York, you are sure to recognize Broadway the moment you see it. It’s kind of hard to miss.
Broadway comprises 41 professional theaters. Each theater has over 500 seats and is home to some of the most famous plays ever seen. Some of the most famous Broadway shows are:
- Hamilton
- Wicked
- Dear Evan Hansen
- Hairspray
- Chicago
- The Phantom of the Opera
- And so many more. .
Dying to see a broadway show? Check them all out here! Tripadvisor (my fave) gives you an overview!
Regular tickets can range anywhere from $20 – $150 depending on the show. Though this can quickly turn into one of the most expensive options on this list, it is definitely a great option for theater lovers. So, if you consider yourself a theater geek, remember to add this to your list of top things to do in New York City at night.
You can also check out my new list of the best things to do in NYC in fall. It’s full of fun activities, original ways to spend Halloween, and free options (but equally enjoyable!)
Comic Strip Live Comedy Club – 1568 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028
Now if you want a more affordable show that you can catch at night in New York City then you have to visit the Comic Strip Live Comedy Club. Though production value isn’t like Saturday Night Live (SNL) it is still one of the most popular comedy clubs in NYC. It is also probably the funniest thing to do in New York City at night.
Most shows start after 8 PM and the club is open every night. The starting price range is around $20, which is definitely a fair deal for the amount of fun and laughter you are sure to have!
Interesting NYC Comedy Club Facts
Along with being one of the most popular comedy clubs, The Comic Strip Live is the oldest stand-up comedy club in New York City. The two founders, Richard Tienken and Robert Wachs opened the club in 1976. Surprisingly the comedy club didn’t start that way and originally featured singers, magicians, and other types of talented acts.
Eventually, the club became exclusively for stand-up comedians to showcase their skills. The Comic Strip Live along with being the oldest comedy club has also been the humble beginnings of some of the most well-known comedians to date, like Chris Rock, Jerry Seinfield, and Adam Sandler. That sure is an impressive alumni list.
Best Date Night Activity to do in NYC
Staten Island Ferry – New York Harbor
The Staten Island Ferry is one of the most beautiful sights and things to do in NYC at night. This makes it possibly the most romantic date night activity. The ferry is open 24 hours 7 days a week, but it is definitely special at night when not only the ferry is all lit up, but so is the city skyline. It’s Magical.
Get your tickets and other ones in the area here at Tripadvisor!
The ferry’s route goes between the New York Harbor and the different New York City boroughs of Manhattan and Staten Island. The route in its entirety is 5.2 miles and overall the trip is 25-30 minutes long. Because of how short it is, it can definitely be the opener or closer of a great date night!
I would personally recommend ending your date night with a ferry trip as a way to relax and wind down, especially if you have been walking all day.
If you need any more date ideas, why not try a DIY Dessert Tour of NYC Desserts you are sure to fall in love with.
Cool Things To Do At Night In NYC
Le Boudoir – 135 Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11201
When thinking of New York City at night the image that immediately comes to mind is that of a speakeasy, the epitome of after hours. Le Boudoir is this and so much more. Le Boudoir is a cool craft cocktail night bar that is styled after Marie Antoinette’s chambers.
This hidden away cozy bar serves some of the best drinks you have to try. And to go along with the Marie Antoinette theme many of the drinks are inspired by her, such as the deadly sweet The Guillotine. It is also home to an extravagant burlesque show. The Burlesque show start at 9:30 and 11:30 on Fridays and Saturdays. It is one of the best shows and some of the best fun you are sure to have.
Le Boudoir is the perfect blend of the French Renaissance aesthetic and the feel of a historic NYC underground secret bar. If you want to feel sophisticated and get a little tipsy this is the place to be.
Final Thoughts…
New York City during the day is amazing and spectacular but at night it’s enchanting and otherworldly. You have to wonder how it is even in the same city. The overall vibe can’t be described and is something you definitely have to experience for yourself.
So whether you decide to follow this list or not (though I highly recommend that you do) it is just the start of what New York City has to offer at night. With so many things to explore and see you can’t go wrong.
XO,
Anna
Anna is a traveler, blogger, and entrepreneur who can’t keep herself still. She’s always on the move, whether working hard on a new passion project or exploring a new city as a part-time digital nomad. Dare to keep up? Check out The Tatted Nomad for everything digital nomad, social media marketing, mental health, and travel (and to see her latest addition, Novah, her service dog and travel companion). As a psychotherapist (to be) she also offers insights about your mental health related questions – anything you see that isn’t covered but you have questions about? Let her know!
I love that you included something free to do! NYC sounds exciting
One of my favorites is the Brooklyn Bridge but never thought to do it at night. Thank you for all the great suggestions.