Let me tell you—these 10 venues prove NYC is still the city that never sleeps

“Let Me Tell You” is a series of columns from our expert editors about NYC living, including the best things to do, where to eat and drink, and what to see at the theater. Last time, Things to Do Editor Rossilynne Skena Culgan shared why she’s more thankful than ever for NYC’s free events.

Hear that sound? Is it the rumble of the subway? Someone’s stereo booming? Or wait, is it snoring? Yes, New York City has been a little sleepier since the pandemic with some 24/7 venues deciding to close earlier and some city-dwellers opting for Sleepytime tea at home rather than shots at the club.

But, despite what the many headlines and forums might tell you, New York City is still the city that never sleeps. These 10 venues prove it. And I’m not talking about bars and clubs here; lots of cities have late-night watering holes. Instead, we’re highlighting the quirkier things to do after dark in NYC, places that truly make this a late-night city. If you want to have a unique night out that keeps going until sunrise, you absolutely can. Let the naysayers stay at home under the covers. 

1. Play Ping-Pong 24/7 

Need to burn off some energy after dark? PingPod is the spot. The table tennis gym offers nine locations across the city, from Astoria to the Upper East Side to Williamsburg, where you can play 24/7/365. 

Here’s how it works: You pick your location, reserve a time online and then get access to your table, balls and paddles. The whole process is totally automated, though a security firm monitors each pod in person. All are welcome, from beginners to pros. Pricing ranges from $15 to $50 per session.

2. Practice pickleball after midnight 

Maybe pickleball is more your thing than table tennis. Gotham Pickleball in Long Island City is open until 1am daily with automated entry through an app. Booking a court online is super easy, and you can pick your time, date and number of guests. 

Pricing ranges from $80 to $110 per hour; paddles and balls are available to borrow free of charge.

3. Shop for nuts and bolts at all hours

Perhaps you need to hang that new artwork at three in the morning. Don’t worry, there’s a store open 24/7 for all your hardware and tool needs. Nuthouse Hardware located in Kips Bay keeps the lights on at all hours for customers. This massive store is so stocked it feels almost like a suburban Walmart. 

4. Cruise by the Statue of Liberty at night

Fancy a late-night cruise? You can treat yourself to a nighttime excursion for free because the Staten Island Ferry runs 24/7. On the journey, admire the city’s glittering lights and even wave hello to the Statue of Liberty. 

5. Treat yourself to a 24/7 spa experience 

Pampering yourself knows no hours at Juvenex Spa, a 24/7 spa open in Koreatown with soaking tubs, scrubs, massages, facials and more. One section of the spa is reserved for women only during the daytime, while other areas are co-ed 24/7. It’s a popular late-night spot for Broadway actors and dancers winding down after a performance, per NYC Tourism officials.  

6. Eat empanadas anytime 

After a night out in Hell’s Kitchen or the Lower East Side, Empanada Mama is an oasis. Its red sign serves as a beacon luring the tipsy to come inside for a hearty snack. Fillings range from basic (plain cheese or rice and beans) to ultra creative (ham, cheese and pineapple) and sweetly addictive (banana and Belgian chocolate, or figs, caramel and cheese). But it’s not just drunk food. Even if you’re sober, this Colombian spot satisfies 24 hours a day.

7. Do karaoke till 4:30 in the morning 

At Space Karaoke Bar & Lounge in Koreatown, you can belt it out until 4:30am. Whether you’re scream-singing Coldplay’s “Viva la Vida” with your friends or sobbing through an Adele ballad solo, Space offers well, the space for that. Book a private room for a party of four for $50 per hour.   

8. Stroll Little Island after dark 

There are plenty of NYC parks that we wouldn’t recommend visiting after dark, but Little Island is an exception. This riverside green space is full of beautiful vistas, lush gardens and performance venues that stay open until midnight. So go catch a show, then smell the flowers on your way out. 

9. Play pinball all night 

Walk through Sunshine Laundromat in Greenpoint, past the humming washers and dryers until you find a secret door at the back. Pull it open to reveal a pinball paradise with cool retro machines that you can play until 2am. Maybe bring a load of a laundry while you're at it. 

10. Go all the way up to see city lights

One of the most beloved attractions in the city, the Empire State Building stays open until midnight. Not only are late-night prices a bit cheaper (around $46 per adult), you’ll also endure fewer crowds and get an stunning view of the city lights.