New York City is known as the city that never sleeps, and for good reason. The nightlife in NYC is unlike anywhere else in the world, offering an endless array of bars, clubs, live music venues, and late-night eateries. Whether you’re a local looking for a night out on the town or a visitor wanting to experience the true spirit of the city, here is a nightlife guide to New York.

Start your night out by grabbing a drink at one of New York’s many iconic bars. For a classic NYC experience, head to the speakeasy-style bar, PDT (Please Don’t Tell), where you enter through a phone booth and are greeted with inventive cocktails. If you’re in the mood for a rooftop experience, check out 230 Fifth, offering stunning views of the city and a wide selection of craft cocktails. For something with a bit more history, visit McSorley’s Old Ale House, one of the city’s oldest bars, serving up cold beers and a lively atmosphere since 1854.

Once you’ve wet your whistle, it’s time to hit the dance floor at one of New York’s many clubs. For a taste of the city’s electronic music scene, check out Output in Brooklyn, known for its state-of-the-art sound system and top-notch DJs. If live music is more your scene, head to the Bowery Ballroom, a legendary venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in music.

If you’re still going strong in the late-night hours and looking for a bite to eat, NYC has you covered. Head to the Lower East Side for a late-night slice of pizza at Joe’s Pizza, a New York institution that has been serving up delicious, no-frills slices for over 40 years. If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, head to The Meatball Shop, known for its customizable meatball dishes and late-night hours.

Of course, no visit to New York City would be complete without experiencing the city’s iconic late-night food carts. From hot dogs to pretzels to halal street food, the options are endless and the experience is quintessentially New York.

When the sun starts to rise and the party is finally winding down, don’t forget to catch a glimpse of the city as it wakes up. Head to the Brooklyn Bridge for a stunning sunrise view of the city skyline, or take a stroll through Central Park to enjoy the peaceful early morning hours.

Experiencing the nightlife in New York City is a must for anyone looking to truly understand the energy and vibrancy of the city. From trendy cocktail bars to legendary music venues to late-night street food, there’s always something happening in the city that never sleeps. So grab your friends, put on your dancing shoes, and get ready for a night to remember in the Big Apple.