The Upper East Side is often overlooked when people think of bars and nightlife, but the neighborhood has some great local establishments that offer more than just a place to drink. From pool tables to Skee Ball and even arcade basketball, there’s no shortage of bars with games and activities on the Upper East Side.
These aren’t all your typical Manhattan dive bars either, although you’ll certainly find those too if that’s what you’re looking for. Some bars feature high-quality cocktails and craft beers, along with an extensive food menu.
Check out our list of the top 6 bars with games and activities on the Upper East Side below!
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Ryan’s Daughter
Board Games, Arcade Basketball, Pool, Darts
More than just your typical Irish Bar, Ryan’s Daughter on East 85th Street between First and Second Avenues has it all— a Hoops Fever arcade basketball, pool table, darts and a wide assortment of board games, including Jenga— basically everything you need to forget your work woes.
Did we mention the free chips?
Treadwell Park
Ping Pong, Pinball Machines
Basically your neighborhood rec room, this Upper East Side beer hall offers plenty to do for activity seekers— just head over to the ping pong tables for a match or give the pinball machines behind them your best shot.
Serving a long list of beers and tasty bites from the kitchen, Treadwell Park at the corner of East 62nd Street and First Avenue promises to be ‘your new favorite hangout.’
Biddy’s Pub
Darts, Board Games, Bingo
This neighborhood bar located on East 91st Street near Second Avenue is one of those places that you can’t help but love once you step inside.
Biddy’s Pub is dimly lit, offers a good selection of beer and spirits, and on any given night you can try your hand at darts or one of the board games in their collection— including Checkers, Connect Four and Guess Who.
By the way, Wednesday’s are Bingo Night at Biddy’s.
American Trash
Skee Ball, Pool
NOTE: American Trash has permanently closed as of January 2022.
Located on First Avenue near East77th Street, this establishment is a quintessential NYC dive bar. With cheap drinks, an awesome atmosphere, and plenty of things to do, it’s no wonder American Trash is always busy! Start with the Skee Ball machines in the back, then make your way over to the pool table to show off your skills— or lack there of.
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Craft + Carry
Skee Ball
If you find yourself craving craft beer but tired of hitting sports bars, head to Craft + Carry on Second Avenue between East 84th and 85th Streets. This taproom is a fun place to grab a cold one and play a few rounds on the Skee Ball machine in the back.
This no frills place isn’t trying to be anything other than a chill, neighborhood hangout spot—and that’s fine by us.
Hex & Company
Board Games
This is a spot for serious gamers. Located on First Avenue at East 76th Street, Hex & Co. offers unlimited tabletop board games for just $10 per person.
The walls of ‘Uptown’s only board game cafe’ are lined with every game you can imagine stacked to the ceiling— from Scrabble and Guess Who to Catan and Magic the Gathering, there’s something for everyone.
If you get hungry, comfort foods are on the menu– hot dogs, mac n’ cheese and tater tots will leave your belly feeling happy. Be sure to check out the craft beers on tap.
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