Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City at Night near the Empire State Building
Top Things to Do in New York City at Night near the Empire State Building
1. Empire State Building Observatory
Ride up to the iconic observatories for twinkling skyline panoramas and close-up views of Midtown’s neon. Night visits amplify the city’s energy while reducing daytime glare for photographers.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the quintessential NYC night view and you’re already in the neighborhood—nothing beats seeing Manhattan glow from above.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
After 9 pm on weeknights for thinner crowds; arrive around sunset to watch the skyline shift from gold to glitter.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a light layer—winds can be brisk even in summer—and scan south for Flatiron and One World Trade contrast shots.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests call it unforgettable, romantic, and surprisingly calm later at night despite the landmark’s fame.
2. 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
Sip cocktails on a sprawling rooftop with a front-row view of the Empire State Building’s nightly light show. In winter, heated igloos keep things cozy; in summer, the breeze is unbeatable.
✓ Why Go:
It’s one of the city’s classic rooftops with unobstructed ESB views—perfect for night photos and a celebratory drink.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Sunset through late night; weeknights are more relaxed than Fridays and Saturdays.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head straight to the rooftop line, not the restaurant line, and ask staff which side currently frames the best ESB angles.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love the skyline drama and festive vibe, noting efficient service even during prime hours.
3. Madison Square Garden
Catch a nighttime game or concert at the ‘World’s Most Famous Arena’ just west of the Empire State Building. The buzz spills into the streets before and after events.
✓ Why Go:
From headlining artists to pro sports, MSG brings marquee nights within a short walk of Midtown’s hotels.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Evening events typically start around 7–8 pm; arrive 45 minutes early for security and merch browsing.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use the Moynihan Train Hall entrance after shows for wider corridors and quicker post-event escapes.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Fans rave about acoustics, atmosphere, and the thrill of ticking off a bucket-list venue.
4. Bryant Park
A leafy Midtown oasis that shines at night with string lights, lawn lounging, and seasonal programs like movie nights or the winter rink. The Empire State Building looms beautifully nearby.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a serene, central spot to unwind after dinner, with plenty of seating and skyline backdrops.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early evening through late night; summer nights for lawn events, winter nights for the rink and market.
✓ Insider Tip:
Grab a hot drink from kiosks along the park’s perimeter and aim for the southwest corner for ESB-forward photos.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers praise its safe, welcoming vibe and year-round programming that enlivens the neighborhood after dark.
5. Macy’s Herald Square
America’s flagship department store turns into a glowing night landmark with elaborate window displays and late-hour shopping, especially during the holidays.
✓ Why Go:
It’s retail history and NYC theater rolled into one, with plenty of dining nearby for a post-shopping bite.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early evening on weeknights for fewer crowds; November–December for spectacular windows.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use the Broadway-side entrances to catch the best window vignettes in sequence before heading inside.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors admire the scale, window artistry, and convenient location steps from the Empire State Building.
6. Gagopa Karaoke
Dive into Koreatown’s late-night spirit with private karaoke rooms set just a block or two from the ESB. It’s lively, welcoming, and perfect for groups.
✓ Why Go:
K-Town’s energy peaks after dark—sing, snack, and celebrate without leaving Midtown.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
10 pm–1 am on weeknights for easier room availability; weekends book ahead.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pair your session with a dessert run on 32nd Street—bingsu or coffee at nearby cafes keeps the party going.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests highlight friendly staff, fair pricing, and a fun, no-judgment atmosphere.
7. Keens Steakhouse
A storied chophouse dating to 1885, famous for its clay-pipe ceiling and mutton chops. At night, the wood-paneled rooms glow with old New York ambiance.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a time-capsule dinner near the ESB—great for special occasions or a post-show nightcap at the bar.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
After 8 pm for a quieter late seating; bar opens late for cocktails and a steak sandwich.
✓ Insider Tip:
Reserve the pub room if you prefer a more casual setting and faster service.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Diners praise the historic atmosphere and consistent, classic fare in the heart of Midtown.
8. Spyglass Rooftop Bar
Perched atop the Archer Hotel, this intimate rooftop frames the Empire State Building so close it feels touchable. Craft cocktails and skyline selfies abound.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a romantic, less sprawling alternative to the mega-rooftops, with postcard-perfect ESB views.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Dusk through late night; aim for blue hour for the best photos.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for a spot by the east-facing windows for the closest ESB sightline.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests love the views-to-size ratio and attentive staff, calling it a Midtown sleeper hit.
9. Swingers Crazy Golf - NoMad
Play whimsical, adults-only mini golf with DJs, street-food-style bites, and cocktails in a sprawling underground venue south of the ESB.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a playful, high-energy alternative to bars and clubs—perfect for groups and date nights.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
7–10 pm on weeknights for shorter waits; reserve weekend slots in advance.
✓ Insider Tip:
Finish your round, then grab a booth to linger—food vendors rotate seasonal specials worth trying.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors describe it as unexpectedly immersive and an easy Midtown crowd-pleaser.
10. AMC 34th Street
Catch a late screening at this multiplex a short walk from the ESB. It’s convenient, comfortable, and surrounded by post-movie snack options.
✓ Why Go:
A classic big-city night out—blockbusters, indie hits, and reclining seats steps from your Midtown base.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late-night weeknight showings for calmer auditoriums; weekend evenings for buzzy opening-night energy.
✓ Insider Tip:
Choose a seat mid-rear for the best sound and stop by nearby 32nd Street for dessert after the credits.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Moviegoers appreciate the central location and variety of showtimes for spontaneous nights.
