An NYC Bachelor Party Itinerary

Whether you live in the area or are planning a guys’ trip, there’s nothing quite like a NYC bachelor party. Yes, there’s a reason why it’s called “The City That Never Sleeps”—there’s no shortage of activities for party animals. But if you and your crew would prefer a more laid-back bachelor party, or one that’s focused on food, culture, or sports, you’re sure to find lots to do in the Big Apple.

Start planning your NYC bachelor party with this guide to everything there is to do (and eat!).

What to Do

If you’ve never been to the Big Apple before, the first step of your NYC bachelor party should be to see some of the sites. From the Empire State Building to the Statue of Liberty, you can hit the landmarks yourselves or hop on a double-decker bus for ease. For an unparalleled view of the city, take a helicopter tour to view the buildings from high above the streets!   

For the athletic types, there are plenty of opportunities for sports-themed activities during an NYC bachelor party. Of course, depending on when you’re visiting, you can hit up a professional sports game featuring one of NYC’s many teams (for an extra-luxe experience, rent a private suite at Madison Square Garden or the Barclays Center). If you prefer playing sports to watching them, head over to Chelsea Piers to enjoy everything from golf to bowling, batting cages, rock climbing and more. You could also head to Central Park for running, biking, and more.

If the groom is enjoying his bachelor party with his childhood buddies, he might enjoy a bit of nostalgic fun. Two of our favorites are Modern Pinball NYC, an arcade with all of your old favorites, and SPiN, a table tennis club set in a modern lounge.  

After spending the day out and about, get ready to party when the sun goes down. There are a few different ways to get your drink on in the city. Of course, there’s the traditional party cruise with tours around New York Harbor. Or, if your NYC bachelor party is taking place between May and October, you can kick off the night at The Frying Pan, a docked Coast Guard lightship-slash-happening bar.

Other lively bars and clubs that are favorites with bachelor parties include the Iron Horse downtown, the 40/40 Club (yes, Jay-Z’s own), Whiskey Tavern in Chinatown, and McSorley’s Old Ale House in the East Village. And yes, if you’re interested in some, ahem, adult entertainment, NYC has that, too.

Not into the bar/club scene but still want to imbibe? Brew your own beer at Bitter & Esters in Brooklyn, or enjoy one of New York’s many relaxed beer halls and beer gardens, including the Harlem Tavern, Houston Hall, or Studio Square.

Where to Eat

Whatever cuisine you desire, you can certainly find it in NYC. Our recommendation? Start with a New York bachelor party favorite: pizza. Whether you’re looking for an upscale pizzeria or the perfect spot for a hangover slice, NYC has it all. Some of our favorite pizza spots include Roberta’s and Di Fara in Brooklyn, John’s in the West Village, Patsy’s Pizzeria uptown, and Joe’s Pizza, with several locations around the city.

If there’s one food that’s synonymous with bachelor parties, it’s steak. And fortunately there are lots of famous steakhouses in the NYC area. Of course, Peter Luger is a must-visit, but other spots like Keens Steakhouse and Bowery Meat Company are also worth a visit. And if you and your crew are into something a bit more offbeat, check out Sammy’s Roumanian Steak House, with its Jewish cuisine and side of unique entertainment.

Foodies will love the numerous food halls in the NYC area, where you can sample a variety of cuisines from different vendors. This is also ideal if you and your crew have wildly different tastes in food. Eataly is perhaps the most famous food hall in the city, specializing in Italian cuisine, but there are many others, including Union Fare Gastrohall, Turnstyle, Chelsea Market, The Pennsy, and Canal Street Market.

Of course, any NYC bachelor party isn’t complete without an amazing hangover brunch. A few beloved brunch spots include Upland, with its California cuisine, Sadelle’s, featuring riffs on deli favorites, and Jacob’s Pickles, known for its delicious food and lively atmosphere. Or go for something different, a dim sum brunch at Jing Fong in Chinatown. For something quick, grab a NYC bagel from Black Seed Bagels or Russ & Daughters.

Where to Stay

There is no shortage of hotels where you can stay for your New York bachelor party—the trick is choosing the right one that combines a great location with the right amenities. The Standard High Line is located in the trendy Meatpacking District, and the views are not-to-be missed.   

The Dream Midtown is ideal for a crew that doesn’t want the party to end—there are three lounges on site, plus a crazy-luxe presidential suite that’s an incredible splurge (starting at $2,000 per night!). And the Ace Hotel, also in Midtown Manhattan, has a variety of rooms and suites to choose from, plus a cool hipster vibe.