Just because the weather is getting colder doesn’t mean we need a night on the town any less. While some may be content to hibernate for the whole of winter, there’s no reason not to get out and have fun even when the weather is a little unfriendly. The key to an awesome winter night out is to be strategic about where you go. Avoiding the long queues and limited food options of many West Village bars requires some preparation, but it is definitely possible.
As one of the city’s most iconic party destinations, there’s always something cool happening in the West Village. However, the neighborhood’s enduring popularity also means that sometimes you have to fight the crowds, wait in lines, and endure less-than-stellar menu options. None of that is appealing, even less so in the cold. We’re here to guide you on how to get the most out of any New York visit, no matter the weather.
The short answer is yes. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, the New York winter scenery is a must-see, especially over Christmas and New Year’s. We’ll reiterate that the secret lies in being prepared.
That doesn’t just mean an appropriate wardrobe – although you’ll need it, especially if you want to stroll through a snowy Central Park. Looking up seasonal events and must-dos before the season arrives will help you make the most of your New York winter. If giant Christmas trees bring out your inner child, there are a few you can visit – starting, of course, with the iconic Rockefeller Center ice rink.
If you prefer your winter entertainment indoors, then New York’s wealth of museums, art galleries, and theatres should be on your list. It’s impossible to fit everything into a single trip, so pick your favorites – many places even offer free entry if you choose the right day. And when night falls, the city’s clubs, bars, and taverns spill warmth and music onto every sidewalk. And there’s nowhere better to spend your evening than the bars in the Village.
This is a place to enjoy conversation and the companionship of new and old friends.
The charming West Village is home to some of the best nightlife in New York, for those who want to get wild or have a sophisticated get-together. Whether you prefer to warm up on the dancefloor or with some smooth liquor, the bars in the Village will have you feeling cozy in no time. There are plenty of places to visit within quick walking distance, making it ideal for bar-hopping even in colder weather. It has deep historical roots as the city’s favorite watering hole – as the city’s second-oldest pub, the White Horse Tavern has welcomed generations of diverse drinkers.
With alcoholic beverages to warm you up from the inside out, a night at a West Village bar can lighten those winter blues. There’s a good reason that New York’s finest have gathered here over the years, from Welsh poet Dylan Thomas to the Beatnik generation – and even Bob Dylan. Get inspired and order a classic whiskey, or treat yourself to one of our tasty White Horse Originals. Another perk of being an old bar is the well-insulated walls, keeping the winter chill well at bay.
While alcohol can take the edge off, it doesn’t stop the colder weather from making us hungry for comfort food. Many bars offer only small bar-food menus, which might not be enough to scratch the itch, not to mention often excluding those with dietary restrictions. At the White Horse Tavern, we hope everyone at the table can find a mouth-watering meal from our hearty gastropub menu, bringing top-quality food to the relaxed bar atmosphere.
Honoring the traditions of our long history as the second-oldest bar in NYC with a contemporary update, our food is simple and unpretentious but packed with flavor. Join us at Happy Hour for a beer and a burger, a real deal at only $25, or tuck into chicken wings for the whole table. Ward off the weather with our no-nonsense American classics served with flair.
Rain, shine, snow, or sleet, West Village bars are where it’s at for a great night out. It’s proof that New York nightlife truly never sleeps. There really is no reason to let the chilly weather keep you from a good time. The bracing air will soon be replaced by the warm, welcoming atmosphere that brings friends and family together.
The White Horse Tavern offers the perfect wintery New York bar experience in a uniquely historic bar. Shake off the winter blues and indulge yourself in a drink or two and some sensational food. We recommend you make a reservation ahead of time to make sure we save you a table. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, plan a late lunch or visit us earlier in the week on an off-peak day.