The Honorable William Wall

It takes a bit of a hop, skip and a jump to make it to the Honorable William Wall. Or in this case, a skipper, as the barge anchored near Ellis Island is only accessible by boat—two boats if you decide to float in from Manhattan. Once you've made it to this double-decker dive on the water, don't be surprised if you instantly want to chart a second visit. 

The Honorable William Wall, known as Willy Wall to locals and those who have made the trek, is one of the coolest ways to party on the river. While the bi-level bar includes an enclosed bottom level with leather couches, the majority gather topside to take in the festivities and to stave off any seasickness—it is a barge after all, and it does rock, physically and figuratively speaking. On the blue-carpeted top level, maritime flags continually flap overhead while excited sailors who arrive by the half hour fill up metal tables and stools. Post a golden-hour photoshoot (seriously, the NYC skyline views here are incredible), Willy Wall turns into a party at sea with friendly staff continually cracking beers and shaking cocktails, as the tunes bounce from house music to Whitney Houston.

Willy Wall is here to keep your cup full but not your belly—there is no food served on board. But BYOF (bring your own food) is heavily encouraged. In fact, picnicking at sea is kind of the appeal here, as tables feast on sandwiches and chips to sushi and full-on catering trays. While the weekends are an easy sell, we say play a bit of hooky and come Tuesday through Thursday to watch sailing races float by. Don't be afraid to chat up the race committee onboard—they will be more than happy to share the joys of sailing with you. 

Time Out tip: We aren't gonna lie, getting here can be a bit confusing, particularly if you are a first-timer. If you are leaving from New Jersey, you can take the ferry from the Manhattan Yacht Club (140 Dudley St, Jersey City, NJ 07302). If you'd rather depart from Manhattan, there is a special Manhattan ferry, the Little Lady ferry, that leaves from Brookfield Ferry Terminal. If you go the Manhattan route, all you have to do is take the ride one stop to Warren Street and you can walk to the Manhattan Yacht Club just a few minutes away. Regardless of what route you choose, the price stays the same: $25 during the weekdays, $35 on the weekends.