New York City is famous for its nightlife, and for good reason. With a city that never sleeps, the options for an evening of drinks are endless and diverse. Whether you’re after a classy cocktail at a historic bar, a sail with onboard cocktails, or a lively drag show, NYC offers something for every kind of night owl. We particularly enjoy tours like the NYC: Bar, Lounge and Rooftop Nightlife Tour, which expertly combines the city’s top spots with skip-the-line VIP treatment—perfect for experiencing the city like a true local.
If you’re craving something more adventurous, the NYC Statue of Liberty Day Sail with Onboard Bar offers a unique way to enjoy the harbor with a cocktail in hand and stunning views of the Statue of Liberty. For those interested in NYC’s rich Prohibition past, tours like the Night Out Prohibition History Bar and Speakeasy Tour and the Speakeasy and Hidden Bar Night Tour NYC take you inside the city’s secret bars and share stories of its glitzy, gritty past.
Below is a comprehensive list of the 16 best drinking tours in New York City, each with its own unique flavor and experience.
1. NYC: Bar, Lounge and Rooftop Nightlife Tour
At number 1 on our list, this NYC: Bar, Lounge and Rooftop Nightlife Tour stands out for its insider access to Manhattan’s top nightlife venues. For just $36, you get a 3-hour journey through historic bars, chic cocktail lounges, and a stunning rooftop. The tour is led by a local concierge who knows where to find the best drinks and the most authentic scenes. What makes this tour especially appealing is the skip-the-line privilege, allowing you to skip the long waits and dive straight into NYC’s vibrant nightlife. Guests praise the VIP treatment and the chance to experience the city like a true insider. If you want a relaxed yet lively evening with a mix of history and modern flair, this tour is hard to beat.
Bottom line: Perfect for anyone wanting a guided, seamless night out with guaranteed access to Manhattan’s favorite spots.
2. NYC: Statue of Liberty Day Sail with Onboard Bar
Number 2 takes you away from the concrete jungle to enjoy the harbor aboard the tall ship Clipper City. For around $68, this 1.5-hour sail includes onboard drinks and panoramic views of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and NYC skyline. What makes this experience unique is the opportunity to participate in raising the sails and even take a turn at the helm, blending a bit of adventure with your cocktail. The sailing on NYC’s largest sailboat offers an entirely different perspective on the city, especially if you love the water. Guests appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to combine sightseeing with drinks.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a scenic, interactive cruise with a social bar atmosphere.
3. Greenwich Village Literary Pub Crawl
Rating 5/5 with just 43 reviews, this Greenwich Village Literary Pub Crawl offers a 3-hour stroll through one of NYC’s most storied neighborhoods. For $49, you’ll explore historic bars where writers like Dylan Thomas and ee Cummings drank and wrote. Your guide shares fascinating insights into the literary giants who once haunted these streets, making this more than just a pub crawl. Guests love the expert commentary and the relaxed stops for drinks, which give you time to soak in the neighborhood’s artistic history. This tour is perfect for literature lovers or anyone wanting a culturally rich drinking experience.
Bottom line: A literary-themed tour that combines history, culture, and a laid-back pub atmosphere—great for bookworms and curious travelers alike.
4. NYC West Village Pub Crawl
For $19.20, the NYC West Village Pub Crawl is a budget-friendly way to explore Greenwich Village’s legendary drinking scene over about 3 hours. This guided tour takes you to four iconic bars, with stops for free shots, drink deals, and fun games like ping pong and karaoke. The tour design makes it easy to find your way through this historic neighborhood, perfect for solo travelers or groups seeking a lively night with a social twist. Guests rave about the fun atmosphere and the chance to learn more about the area from knowledgeable guides.
Bottom line: Best suited for budget-conscious travelers wanting a fun, interactive night out in a historic NYC neighborhood.
5. NYC: Night Out Prohibition History Bar and Speakeasy Tour
For $36, this 3-hour tour offers a deep dive into NYC’s Prohibition-era nightlife. Visiting three Midtown bars, including hidden speakeasies and historic pubs, the tour provides free and express entry into each venue. Guides share captivating stories about immigration, politics, and the secret world of illegal bars that once thrived in NYC. This experience is perfect for history buffs or anyone interested in the city’s clandestine past. Guests appreciate the insider knowledge and the chance to enjoy NYC’s legendary cocktail scene.
Bottom line: An engaging tour that mixes history and drinks, ideal for those fascinated by Prohibition tales.
6. Speakeasy and Hidden Bar Night Tour NYC
Rated 5/5 from 35 reviews, this Speakeasy and Hidden Bar Night Tour is a 3-hour journey through Midtown Manhattan’s most secretive bars. Visiting three historical venues, it offers skip-the-line access, making the experience seamless. The tour is both fun and educational, with guides sharing stories of Prohibition and NYC’s cocktail culture. It’s great for travelers who want to discover hidden gems without the hassle of planning.
Bottom line: Perfect for fans of hidden bars and NYC’s secret history, with easy access to some of the coolest speakeasies.
7. Bar, Lounge and Rooftop Tour NYC
Priced at $36, this Bar, Lounge and Rooftop Tour offers a 3-hour journey into the city’s nightlife with skip-the-line entry to various venues. Depending on availability, you might visit a rooftop lounge with panoramic views, a live music hall, or a trendy dance club. The tour includes a brief neighborhood walk between stops, offering a glimpse of local life. Guests enjoy the flexibility and personalized recommendations from the guide.
Bottom line: Recommended for those seeking a flexible, social evening with diverse venue options and great city views.
8. Best of NYC Drag – Drag Bar Crawl with Drink
At number 8, this 2.5-hour Drag Bar Crawl is a lively, colorful experience capped at 10 people. Starting in Hell’s Kitchen, you’ll enjoy a welcome drink, then take in a spectacular drag show before continuing to other venues. The tour emphasizes fun, entertainment, and a chance to see NYC’s fabulous drag scene up close. Guests love the intimate setting and the energetic performances.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting an energetic, night of entertainment with a small group and a splash of glamour.
9. NYC Pub Crawl Tour
Rated 5/5 from 11 reviews, the NYC Pub Crawl Tour runs for about 4 hours in the East Village and Lower East Side. It’s designed for those who like to explore multiple bars with a group, enjoying games, live music, and free shots. The tour ends at a lively nightclub, making it perfect for night owls. The focus on local favorites and a friendly guide makes it a top choice for social travelers.
Bottom line: Great for those who want an authentic, social experience exploring NYC’s iconic neighborhoods.
10. Private Pub Crawl with a Local
This personalized experience, costing $175, is tailored for groups or individuals seeking a bespoke NYC night. Led by a local ex-stand-up comedian, the tour covers historic bars, jazz spots, and even a comedy club. It features stops at notable places like Marie’s Crisis and the city’s oldest jazz bar. The flexible itinerary and intimate setting make it perfect for those who want a customized, fun-filled evening with storytelling and laughs.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who prefer a private, personalized tour with a lively, humorous guide.
11. New York City: Guided Brooklyn Craft Brewery Tour
Rated 4.8/5, this Brooklyn Brewery Tour for $99 offers a behind-the-scenes look at Brooklyn’s craft beer scene. Over 3.5 hours, you’ll sample up to 12 beers, enjoy a snack, and gain VIP access at top breweries. This tour is perfect for beer lovers wanting to explore Brooklyn’s hip breweries and learn about the local brewing culture.
Bottom line: Ideal for craft beer aficionados seeking a comprehensive, VIP brewery experience.
12. NYC: Greenwich Village Pizza, Beer, and History Tour
For $99, this 2.5-hour tour combines pizza, history, and beer. Exploring Greenwich Village, you’ll taste three different pizzas, visit historic sites, and toast Village legends. The guide shares stories of NYC writers and musicians along charming streets. This tour offers a delicious and cultural way to experience the neighborhood.
Bottom line: Great for foodies and history enthusiasts wanting a flavorful, story-rich walk.
13. Secret Bars and Speakeasy NY Experience
At $35, this 3-hour tour uncovers NYC’s hidden drinking spots. You’ll skip lines, enjoy expertly made cocktails, and learn about the Prohibition era. With visits to three secret venues, it’s perfect for those who want an immersive experience with a touch of mystery and history.
Bottom line: Best for fans of secret bars and cocktail culture who love a bit of adventure.
14. NYC: Bar Tour: Gangsters, Heroes + Bright Lights of Broadway
This 3.5-hour tour of Hell’s Kitchen weaves together stories of gangsters, Broadway stars, and legendary locals. For $32, you visit iconic pubs, enjoy free entry, and learn about the neighborhood’s colorful past. It’s perfect for those interested in NYC’s gritty, glamorous history and lively pub scene.
Bottom line: Ideal for history lovers and those curious about NYC’s lawless, colorful past.
15. NYC Pub Crawl Experience
For just $18, this 3-hour pub crawl covers four popular bars, with games, DJs, and free shots included. It ends at a lively club, making it a good choice for travelers who want a straightforward, fun night out in the city’s top nightlife spots.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers looking for a quick, lively introduction to NYC’s bar scene.
16. Glitz Glamor and Gangsters Hell’s Kitchen Bar Tour NYC
This 3-hour 30-minute tour costs $32 and offers a walk through Hell’s Kitchen’s gangster and Broadway history. It includes visits to secret bars, storytelling about infamous characters, and panoramic city views. Perfect for those wanting a mix of history and nightlife with a theatrical flair.
Bottom line: Great for history buffs and lovers of NYC’s notorious, glitzy past.
How to Choose Your Drinking Tour in NYC
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you have. For a quick, budget-friendly intro, the NYC Pub Crawl Experience offers great value at just $18. If you’re into history and cocktails, the Prohibition Tour is a solid pick. For craft beer lovers, the Brooklyn Brewery Tour is perfect at $99 with VIP access. Those wanting a personalized night should consider the Private Pub Crawl, especially if celebrating a special occasion or traveling with a group.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the Greenwich Village Literary Pub Crawl or the Drag Bar Crawl, which often sell out.
Final Thoughts
New York City’s drinking scene offers a remarkable variety of experiences—from historic speakeasies and lively pub crawls to scenic sails and craft brewery tours. For those interested in history, the Prohibition tours deliver engaging storytelling, while the Rooftop Tour combines stunning views with a social vibe. If a splash of glamor appeals to you, the Drag Bar Crawl provides an unforgettable night of entertainment.
Whatever your style or budget, New York City’s drinking tours promise lively nights filled with stories, fun, and great drinks. Booking early and choosing a tour matching your interests will help you make the most of your night out in the Big Apple.