New York City is known as the city that never sleeps for good reason, because it rarely does! As a New Yorker, I am often asked what time do bars close in NYC? The answer is that bars are permitted to stay open till an astounding 4am, even on weeknights. New Yorkers always find it strange when they travel as they expect bars to be open late, which they are not in all places. Also, it is easy to get used to the free pour of alcohol in NYC bars, which tends to be more of a measured pour in most places outside of New York.
However, not all bars choose to stay open till 4am, so it is best to check before planning a night out in town.
What time do bars close in New York?
New York City is well known for its vibrant nightlife, with a multitude of options for bars, taverns, clubs and speakeasies to choose from. Their opening – and closing times – have to fall within the permitted regulations.
During both weekdays and weekends, bars in New York City are generally allowed to remain open until 4:00am.
On weekdays, restaurants and bars are allowed to sell alcohol starting at 8:00am, and on Sundays they can start at 10:00am.
However, it is important to note that some bars may choose to close earlier, so it is always advisable to check the specific closing times for the bars you plan to visit.
It is commonly believed that there would be an extra hour of drinking when the time changes in the winter, but speaking from personal experience bars close at 3am, which would have been 4am without the time change.
What time can you buy alcohol at liquor stores in New York?
It is interesting to note that liquor stores in New York have different permitted hours for selling alcohol compared to bars and restaurants. Liquor stores are permitted to sell alcohol from 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM on weekdays, and 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM on Sundays.
It is important to keep in mind that the drinking age in New York is 21.
