A guide to NYC’s most unique party venues

Madame Tussauds was founded by Marie Grosholtz (later known as Madame Tussaud), an art tutor for King Louis XVI’s sister, Madame Élisabeth. During the French Revolution, Grosholtz was slated for execution due to her ties to the royals — only evading her fate by agreeing to make death masks of those who had been murdered by the revolutionaries.

First opening in London in 1835, Madame Tussauds burned down in 1925 and was hit during a German bombing in 1940. Today, Madame Tussauds operates 26 locations across Europe, Asia, North America, and Australia.

Featuring over 200 wax figures scattered across 16 themed spaces, Madame Tussauds NYC incorporates blacked-out ceilings and studio lighting to maintain a set-esque environment fitting for its special guests. Party with Beyoncé, The Rock, Andy Cohen, and other prominent celebrities at this over 85,000 sq. ft venue in Times Square.

Madame Tussauds can host up to 1,200 guests and offers four private event spaces, including their Glow Gala, World Leaders Gallery, and more for your star-studded evening. The venue also includes A/V services, event manager access, and complimentary admission to all spaces for your guests on the day of your event.

Sporting 16 bowling lanes and two bars, Brooklyn Bowl uses brick walls, hardwood flooring, and dim lighting to establish a retro feel that embodies the spirit of classic bowling alleys. Menu highlights include rock and roll fries, ribs, and an oyster po’boy alongside an extensive selection of beer, wine, and cocktails to set the tone.

For private events, this 23,000 sq. ft venue can host up to 900 guests and features a DJ booth, dance floor, and A/V equipment to get the party started. Additional amenities include projector access, microphones, and coat check services for your special event in the Big Apple.

Nestled between the Empire State Building and Bryant Park, Rooftop Cinema Club incorporates greenery and lawn chairs for a refreshing escape from the breakneck pace of city life. Concession highlights include a Bavarian soft pretzel twist, Hillshire salami and meat tray, and a margherita pizza alongside other moviegoing staples.

Rooftop Cinema Club can host up to 110 guests and features in-house catering and beverage services for your private watch party in Midtown South. The venue also offers microphones, wireless headphones, and DJ access alongside an attentive event staff to maximize the occasion.

Dating back to 1888 and serving as one of NYC’s most iconic delis, Katz’s Deli’s metal-sided tables and wood-paneled walls coated in memorabilia extend a traditional deli feel optimal when craving pastrami on rye. Menu standouts include knishes, brisket, babka, and other deli essentials.

The venue can host over 300 guests and offers additional private (max. 30) and semi-private (max. 50) spaces for events. Katz’s also features three unique food packages alongside open bar access and a private carving station to fuel your evening of spectacular Jewish cuisine.

Featuring three nine-hole “crazy” golf courses and six cocktail bars, Swingers NoMad incorporates chandeliers, greenery, and dim lighting for an upscale mini golf experience perfect for sparking friendly (or intense) competition among your guests. Menu offerings from the venue’s three on-site food vendors include burgers, tacos, soft serve, and various specialty cocktails alongside other alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages.

For private events, Swingers features five private and semi-private event spaces and can host up to 525 guests. The venue also offers on-course beverage services, DJs, and a 3D photo podium for a one-of-a-kind mini golf-themed party in the city that never sleeps.