The 13 Best Clubs in New York City
Nightlife in New York City
New York City is known as the city that never sleeps and for good reason. Its nightlife is as active and fast-paced as the city itself. The club that is the hottest spot today can be old news tomorrow. Therefore, it’s obviously good to know which are the best clubs in New York City if you want to go during your trip.
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That’s why we’ve curated a list of the best nightclubs in NYC to dance, sip cocktails, and make unforgettable memories. For those looking for the ultimate clubbing experience what better place than the city that never sleeps?
Table of Contents
ToggleThe Best Clubs in New York City: Our Favorites
You will find some of the world’s best clubs in NYC and you will not regret spending a night out clubbing. Don’t be afraid to go out during the week – New Yorkers have mastered the art of partying all night and then going to work the next morning and some of the best parties are on Tuesdays and Thursdays!
1. Nebula, Midtown
Times Square is home to a new club in NYC, Nebula. It will be the largest nightclub in the city and extends over 3 floors. The head behind the Nebula is no stranger: Richie Romero runs, among others, the 1Oak Club, which has attracted many celebrities for years.
Address: 135 West 41st Street, near Times Square
2. Elsewhere, Bushwick
Located in Bushwick you’ll find the extensive Elsewhere club, in a converted Brooklyn warehouse. Here people let off steam at one of the club’s various music rooms spread across its three stories, which include a plush cocktail room and a large rooftop bar. There is an independent vibe about Elsewhere, echoed in its dedication to underground music, attracting people looking for a fun yet uplifting night out.
Dress code: Casual, with people encouraged to dress in a way that expresses their style.
Address: 599 Johnson Ave, Brooklyn
3. Marquee: Back to the Beginning
Marquee was thought to have lived through its heyday when it closed in 2012. It was a shock to the New York party scene as the club was considered one of the best in New York City. It was decided however that the club would undergo a complete, $3.5 million renovation, including the installation of the latest in music and lighting technology.
In 2013, Marquee was officially reborn. The doormen are strict here and men without a female companion are not usually allowed inside. The club in West Chelsea is back and many say that it is better than ever now.
Music genres: Wednesdays depending on the event, Fridays: Underground House & Saturdays: Commercial House.
Dress code: “Upscale and trendy” – no shorts, no baseball caps for men
Address: 289 10th Avenue in West Chelsea
4. SILO, East Williamsburg
Silo started as an underground party in a garage and is now one of the best nightclubs in NYC. Located in a converted aircraft hangar, Silo has a 500-person capacity and hosts dance parties four nights a week with an occasional Sunday rave thrown in. Silo is a safe space for people to dance, let loose and express themselves offering multi-sensory experiences for dance music enthusiasts.
Dress code: Casual, come dressed in what makes you feel comfortable.
Address: 90 Scott Ave, Brooklyn
5. Electric Room, Chelsea
The Electric Room is located in the basement bar of The Dream Hotel in Chelsea. The space isn’t too big, but it makes it a very intimate spot. It fits about 100 people. The spot has a full-service bar that serve high-end spirits and cocktails. The atmosphere gives it a London punk feel with Union Jack flags everywhere.
Music genres: Rock N’ Roll
Dress code: Business casual – no shorts, no hats for men
Address: Dream Downtime lower level, 355 W 16th St, New York, NY 10011
6. Le Bain, Meatpacking District
Le Bain Rooftop Bar New York City is located on the 18th floor of the The Standard Hotel – while the bar should probably be mentioned in the category of rooftop bars, Le Bain has firmly established itself in the New York club scene and therefore has also earned its rightful place on the list of Top Clubs in NYC. Le Bain is also one of the cheaper options in the city.
While cocktail prices are fairly reasonable there is also no cover charge which is unusual for good clubs in NYC. You can definitely party at Le Bain for less money than many other clubs.
What makes this location even better are the 360° views of New York City from the main floor and rooftop terrace (one floor above). On Fridays during the summer, you can also relax on the rooftop during the day and watch the sunset. Another highlight is the club pool, which is open for parties. The most popular DJs play their favorite music here every week and you will find yourself partying in the midst of many New Yorkers.
Music genre: House
Dress code: chic & stylish, no sneakers
Address: 848 Washington Street in the Meatpacking District
7. Good Room, Greenpoint
Good Room is a well-known nightclub on the NYC dance scene, with a collection of well-spaced rooms. It is home to DJ Josh Houtkin who has created a welcoming space for people looking to dance to the very best in house, disco and techno. The sound systems at the Good Room are impeccable creating relaxed vibes.
Dress code: Dress casual, but not too casual. Avoid flip-flops, tank tops and beachwear.
Address: 98 Meserole Ave, Brooklyn
8. Somewhere Nowhere, Chelsea
This uber-chic club is located in the trendy Chelsea area of NYC, and is one of the best clubs to see New York City at night. With a luxurious rooftop pool area Somewhere Nowhere has a cool aesthetic with a garden-inspired lounge and panoramic views of Manhattan. The music ranges from relaxing jazz nights to hedonistic dance parties.
Dress code: Dress up and don’t wear sportswear, team logos or beach sandals. Shorts are only allowed during Daylife events.
Address: 112 W 25th St, New York
9. PHD: A Club with a View in Chelsea
You can party every day of the week at PHD. Although this club might also be categorized as a rooftop bar, PHD, like LeBain, fits in better with the New York club scene. The views from PHD are grand – while dancing you can look north and get a full amazing view of the Empire State Building.
This is a very popular spot with the Wall Street crowd who like to party where there are tables with views over the Manhattan skyline. The decor at PHD is a product of its environment – it is reminiscent of a 80’s penthouse filled with the stylish New Yorkers of the present.
Music genre: Commercial House
Dress code: “Downtown Chic”
Address: 355 West 16th Street
10. Harbor New York City, Hell’s Kitchen
Harbor located in the ultra-trendy Hell’s Kitchen area of New York is an upscale club playing hip-hop, dance and electro music. Harbor is split across two floors, with the rooftop nightclub offering stunning views of the Hudson River. The sound systems at Harbor are perfect, with climate-controlled air conditioning to ensure everyone’s comfort.
Dress code: Dress up and don’t come wearing sportswear, or trainers. Beach shoes are also not permitted (flip flops, sliders)
Address: 621 W 46th St, New York
11. Avant Gardner, East Williamsburg
This expansive venue is often ranked as one the best clubs in NYC, thanks to its 80,000 sf size and state-of-the-art KV2 sound system. This massive Brooklyn venue is the ultimate dance club in NYC attracting big names from the electronic dance scene, such as Oliver Heldens and Jamie Jones. With three concert halls and a food court, spanning the entire block, you can easily party here until dawn.
Dress code: Tops, trousers and shoes must be worn, however, the style is relaxed.
Address: 140 Stewart Ave, Brooklyn
12. Nowadays, Ridgewood
Famous for its all-night raves, Nowadays club is considered one of the best dance venues in New York. Nowadays hosts events that take enthusiastic ravers from day to night, pumping the very best in-house disco to its outdoor tree-lined dance floor. The chilled atmosphere is a big draw, with the only rule being no phones on the dance floor, meaning people come here to spend the night dancing.
Dress code: The dress code is relaxed with a cool vibe.
Address: 56-06 Cooper Ave, Brooklyn
13. Black Flamingo, Williamsburg
By day Black Flamingo is a trendy vegan Mexican restaurant, however, by night it transforms into a chic club with electro and house music. Upstairs clubbers can enjoy a relaxed lounge area, whereas downstairs in the basement is where the party can be found. Expect sets from in-demand artists such as Arianna Danae and Kieth Charles to keep you partying all night.
Dress code: Smart casual. Avoid wearing sportswear, team logos and open-toed shoes.
Address: 168 Borinquen Pl, Brooklyn
Additional tips for the best clubs in New York City
Williamsburg in Brooklyn is also popular with young New Yorkers. Students, artists, and musicians live here among old industrial buildings and warehouses. There are lots of restaurants and bars and places to go party at night. The Williamsburg nightlife, as well as its trendy shopping and fashion scene, makes a trip across the Williamsburg Bridge very worth it.
With respect to the club scene, Williamsburg is currently hotter than any other area. Here the New York party crowd lives up to its name every weekend. We scoped it out recently and uncovered the top clubs in Williamsburg for you. You can find something for everyone here – check it out!
Also, if nightclubs aren’t your thing, you can check out some of the best bars or rooftop bars in NYC. Clubs can be quite loud especially with the music, but we understand it’s not for everyone.
FAQ
What is the dress code for clubs in NYC?
Check the venue and dress accordingly. For raves and dance halls, the dress code is relaxed whereas clubs in Manhattan expect you to dress up, or you won’t get in. Avoid wearing sportswear, beach sandals and tank tops. Some high-end clubs may have stricter dress codes, so it’s always a good idea to check the specific club’s guidelines before you go.
What time do clubs in NYC usually open and close?
NYC clubs typically open between 10-11 PM and stay open until 4 AM. The busiest times are usually between midnight and 2 AM. It’s common for people to arrive later, so don’t worry if the crowd seems sparse when you first get there.
What ID do I need to enter NYC clubs?
To enter NYC clubs, you must be at least 21 years old and have a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport. International visitors will need their passports, as some clubs may not accept foreign driver’s licenses or IDs. Clubs are strict about age verification, so make sure your ID is valid, current, and in good condition.
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Steffen
I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide. Also check out my hotel finder for New York!