Bars and Nightlife near Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York: Hidden Gems, Craft Cocktails, and Late-Night Vibes You Can’t Miss

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New York City is known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse bar scene, and if you’re heading to Madison Square Garden (MSG) to catch a game, a concert, or any other event, why not elevate your pre-show or post-show plans? From sports pubs to rooftop lounges, this curated guide to the ten best local bars near MSG will help you find the perfect spot for great drinks, tasty food, and unforgettable vibes—all within walking distance of the arena.

The Top 10 Bars Near Madison Square Garden

Each of these bars brings something unique to the table, whether you’re looking to grab a quick drink, enjoy a sit-down meal, or immerse yourself in a local neighborhood vibe. Here’s the breakdown:

1. Mustang Harry’s

Address: 352 Seventh Ave (between 29th & 30th St.)
Distance from MSG: Approximately 0.4 miles
Average Price: Drinks: $8-$15; Meals: $15-$30
Food Availability: Yes, a wide range of Irish and American cuisine is offered.
Atmosphere: A premium two-floor Irish sports bar featuring over 20 HDTVs—perfect for pre- or post-game excitement.
Website: Mustang Harry’s

2. The Liberty

Address: 29 W. 35th St (between 5th & 6th Ave.)
Distance from MSG: Approximately 0.4 miles
Average Price: Drinks: $10-$18; Meals: $15-$30
Food Availability: Yes, featuring a wide variety of American cuisine.
Atmosphere: A stylish two-level bar with lively vibes and a chic ambiance.
Website: The Liberty

3. Jack Demsey’s

Address: 36 W. 33rd St (between 5th Ave. & Broadway)
Distance from MSG: Approximately 0.3 miles
Average Price: Drinks: $8-$12; Meals: $12-$25
Food Availability: Yes, they offer both Irish and American dishes.
Atmosphere: A sports-friendly Irish pub, great for mingling with fellow fans before heading to MSG.
Website: Jack Demsey’s

4. Legends

Address: 6 W. 33rd St (between 5th & 6th Ave.)
Distance from MSG: Approximately 0.3 miles
Average Price: Drinks: $8-$12; Meals: $12-$25
Food Availability: Yes, offering classic pub-style food.
Atmosphere: A cozy sports bar with a strong sense of community.
Website: MurphGuide listing

5. Smithfield Hall

Address: 138 W. 25th St (between Sixth & Seventh Ave.)
Distance from MSG: Approximately 0.6 miles
Average Price: Drinks: $7-$10; Meals: $10-$20
Food Availability: Yes, they have an outstanding selection of snacks and pub staples.
Atmosphere: A sports-focused joint with an impressive craft beer selection.
Website: Smithfield Hall

6. Local

Address: 1 Penn Plaza (33rd St. & 8th Ave.)
Distance from MSG: Approximately 0.1 miles
Average Price: Drinks: $9-$14; Meals: $12-$25
Food Availability: Yes, their bar menu is perfect for pre-event bites.
Atmosphere: An exciting rooftop bar offering breathtaking city views (weather permitting).
Website: Local-NYC

7. Stout

Address: 133 W. 33rd St (between Sixth & Seventh Ave.)
Distance from MSG: Approximately 0.3 miles
Average Price: Drinks: $8-$12; Meals: $10-$20
Food Availability: Yes, they specialize in classic Irish pub fare.
Atmosphere: One of NYC’s largest Irish bars, always bustling and full of energy.
Website: StoutNYC

8. American Whiskey

Address: 247 W. 30th St (between Seventh & Eighth Ave.)
Distance from MSG: Approximately 0.3 miles
Average Price: Drinks: $9-$15; Small plates: $10-$15
Food Availability: Yes, southern-inspired dishes dominate the menu.
Atmosphere: A whiskey bar with over 150 American whiskeys for the connoisseur.
Website: American Whiskey NYC

9. Molly Wee Pub

Address: 402 Eighth Ave. (30th St.)
Distance from MSG: Approximately 0.2 miles
Average Price: Drinks: $7-$10; Meals: $10-$20
Food Availability: Yes, offering traditional Irish pub dishes.
Atmosphere: Authentic and lively, for those craving an Irish pub experience.
Website: MurphGuide listing

10. The Distinguished Wakamba Lounge

Address: 543 Eighth Ave (between 37th & 38th St.)
Distance from MSG: Approximately 0.6 miles
Average Price: Drinks: $7-$10; limited snacks.
Food Availability: Mainly snacks available.
Atmosphere: A classic NYC dive bar with a retro vibe.
Website: MurphGuide listing

Conclusion

The next time you’re near Madison Square Garden, skip the usual tourist spots and check out these vibrant bars. From Irish pubs like