Gastro Traveling

Empire State Pub Crawl

I’ll admit it….it’s not always easy to find the best nightlife that matches your expectations and personality here in NYC.  If you’re a tourist, it’s even more of a challenge.  Uncle Sam Tours‘ pub crawls take the guesswork out of hunting down a favorite neighborhood bar or historic brew pub that you may not discover on your own.  Go with a tour outfit that’s completely run by locals.

A great example is the East Village Pub Crawl covering the Old Town Bar, Pete’s Tavern, Cooper Union, and McSorley’s Old Ale House.  Guides weave stories, some of them personal accounts, as a narration while visiting these watering holes once frequented by cultural icons ranging from O. Henry to Woody Guthrie. 

Or perhaps you’re staying near the Empire State Building, planning to take in a few sights before heading to the top observation deck.  Maybe you want to check out a local bar or two.  With so many options and so much to see, why not do both? Their Empire State Pub Crawl held every Saturday at 5:30pm begins at Heartland Brewery located at the base of this iconic skyscraper.  Try one of their seasonal ales brewed onsite like the Summertime Apricot Ale  Then it’s across 33rd Street to Jack Dempsey’s.  Originally opened in 1935 by the reigning world heavyweight champ from 1919-1926, you can sample a Guinness or spot of Jameson before heading to one of the best rooftop bars in town simply named 230 5th.  This bar’s plush rooftop patio offers one of the best, free views you can have of the Empire State Building with a drink in hand.

Here’s where the value kicks in…..for the sticker price of $90, the Empire State Pub Crawl includes admission to the Empire State Building’s virtual roller coaster, NY SKYRIDE, fast-tracked access to the world famous observation deck and one drink at each of the three bars you’ll visit.  Individually, these activities would cost close to $70, so for a little extra, you get your own private guide for 4.5 hours.

Other nighttime tours include the Hell’s Kitchen Pub Crawl taking you through the Theatre District to bars where famous stars and playwrights used to relax and talk shop. From there you’ll head west to the infamous headquarters of the Westies gang members.  Or if it’s glam nightlife you’re craving, take the Chelsea Nightclub Tour with VIP admission and no lines to some of the hottest clubs on the circuit.