When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Amsterdam Billiards Club
Why Amsterdam Billiards Club is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Amsterdam Billiards stands out as New York City's original upscale billiard club, located in the vibrant heart of Union Square. Since its founding in 1990, this club has grown into an iconic venue that perfectly blends an inviting social atmosphere with a deep passion for billiards and entertainment. The club offers an impressive array of games including 25 Brunswick pool tables, ping pong, darts, foosball, pinball, and beer pong. This vast selection caters to both casual players and competitive leagues, hosting the largest co-ed pool leagues in the country, alongside dart and pinball leagues. Its spacious venue, capable of accommodating up to 500 guests, makes it an ideal place for social gatherings, from casual meetups with friends to private events like corporate parties, birthdays, and bachelor parties. The venue provides semi-private party areas that can include private bars and buffet stations, ensuring a tailored, enjoyable experience for groups of all sizes. Open 365 days a year from 11 AM to 3 AM, it welcomes all ages before 6 PM and transitions to a 21+ crowd in the evenings. With its classy ambiance, a beautiful zinc bar serving an extensive drink menu, and a full food menu available for lunch and dinner, Amsterdam Billiards is a compelling destination for both gaming enthusiasts and those looking to enjoy a lively night out with friends.
Here's what people think of Amsterdam Billiards Club
As of recent, Amsterdam Billiards Club holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1452 reviews.
Reviews of Amsterdam Billiards highlight its status as a beloved and well-established billiard club in New York City. Patrons consistently commend the club's upscale atmosphere and diverse entertainment options, appreciating the combination of a classy environment with the fun and competitive spirit of billiards. Positive reviews often mention the attentive and knowledgeable staff who contribute to creating a welcoming environment, the extensive game offerings, and the venue's excellent location in Union Square. The opportunity to participate in co-ed pool leagues and other game leagues also receives high praise for adding a vibrant community element to the club. Additionally, many guests enjoy the bar and food service, noting the quality drinks and varied menu options enhancing their overall experience. On the downside, some reviews point out that the hourly rate for table play can be considered steep compared to traditional pool halls, which might deter more casual or cost-conscious players. A few users have expressed that the upscale focus and pricing might make it feel less like a typical neighborhood players' room and more geared toward a trendy crowd. Despite these minor criticisms, the general consensus is very positive, celebrating Amsterdam Billiards as a premier venue for both serious players and social gatherings, known for its longevity and consistent quality. The combination of great staff, a wide range of activities, and a lively atmosphere solidifies its reputation as one of America's most famous pool halls.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Alon Grinshpoon
This place is a fantastic place for pool enthusiasts! đą Amsterdam Billiards Club offers a super fun đ time of unrestricted pool playing. They serve great drinks đš - definitely get the Apple đ Old Fashioned! đĽ Service is super quick â˛ď¸ and the staff is friendly and welcoming! I wish I came here sooner and more often!
BuenaJay
One of my favorite pool halls in NYC. Iâve been coming here since I was in high school from 98- current. This place never disappoints. Staff is always great and tables are very very well maintained.
Nate Clement
Stopped in for the first time and was a wonderful Wed visit 12-2. Outstanding, understated elegance and a very welcoming staff. Was offered a 9ft Brunswick with 4.25in pockets and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Parking nearby was EZ, but Manhattan prices. 2 hrs pool was $32 parking was $55. Will come again when in town. Thank you!
O R
Great place to hang out after work. I usually come once a month, and we love Crystalâsheâs always an amazing attendantâand Juan the bartender is great too. However, the other girl with the afro came off a bit rude and made my guest uncomfortable by being overly pushy about âbuying from her.â Other than that, everything else was great. Solid spot overall.
Sasha Arijanto
Very fun activity for a cold day in NYC! It was ~$18 per person per hour and they have drinks and snacks you can get too. Everyone was very nice, we went early on a Sunday so it was mostly very serious pool players. We thought they would be judgy and mean but everyone was welcoming and chill
How to reach Amsterdam Billiards Club
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Why Amsterdam Billiards Club may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Amsterdam Billiards Club with your friends?
Gathering your friends or family for a fun, engaging outing can sometimes be a challengeâwhere to go, what to do, and how to make sure everyone has a great time. Amsterdam Billiards Club in New York City offers a vibrant, inclusive, and lively environment that is perfect for social meetups. With its upscale yet relaxed atmosphere, this venue blends classic billiards with a full bar experience, creating a space where you can unwind, compete, or just enjoy great company. Whether youâre a seasoned pool player or just in it for the laughs and drinks, Amsterdam Billiards has something to offer everyone. Its location just below Union Square, combined with long hours of operation (open every day from 11 AM to 3 AM), means itâs accessible and convenient. On top of that, the venueâs reputation, reflected in its solid 4.3-star rating from over 1400 reviews, attests to its quality and repeat visitor enthusiasm. The spirit here is all about good times, friendly competition, and making memoriesâa great reason to rally your crew and head to this classic billiard haven.
What activities does Amsterdam Billiards Club offer for group meetups?
At its core, Amsterdam Billiards Club centers around the game of pool, boasting a wide selection of tables so you and your friends can enjoy uninterrupted play without long wait times. But the fun extends far beyond classic billiards. The venue offers multiple games including ping pong, darts, giant Jenga, Connect Four, and even beer pong, catering to different interests and group dynamics. This variety of games means your meetups stay engaging and fun, with options to rotate activities and keep everyone involved. The club also has a full-service bar offering a range of craft cocktails, beer, and non-alcoholic options, perfect for socializing between games. Their menu features American bar fare, which can satisfy hunger pangs during long sessions of play. This combination of games, food, and drink under one roof makes for a great interactive experience where everyone, regardless of skill level or age (up to evening hours), can find something enjoyable to do. The lively, yet laid-back vibe is ideal for celebrating occasions or just having a casual night out.
Why is Amsterdam Billiards Club the perfect place for group events?
For meetups involving larger groups or special occasions, Amsterdam Billiards is exceptional thanks to its flexible and dedicated party spaces. The club regularly hosts private events such as corporate parties, birthdays, bachelor parties, and holiday gatherings. They can accommodate parties ranging from a dozen to as many as 500 guests, with all party areas semi-private to give your group some exclusivity. Within these spaces, guests can have access to private bars, buffet stations, and personalized setups for the games you want to play. The venue uses curtains and ropes to set apart your area, ensuring that your group can enjoy its own space without interruption from the public. This makes it a great choice when privacy and comfort are important while still benefiting from the social energy of the main club. Furthermore, the staff provides attentive service tailored to your event needs, ensuring smooth coordination and a festive atmosphere. The rental rates are reasonable and depend on timing and party size, making it accessible for different budgets.
What are the operating hours and accessibility details you should know?
Accessibility is a major factor when choosing a gathering spot, and Amsterdam Billiards scores well here. The club opens daily from 11 AM and stays operational until 3 AM, accommodating early lunches, after-work hangouts, late-night festivities, and everything in between. This wide time window means that groups have large flexibility in planning meetingsâwhether an afternoon catch-up, an evening party, or a late-night social. The location in East Village, just below bustling Union Square, is easy to reach by public transportation and car, making it simple for your entire group to convene. While the venue is welcome to all ages until 6 PM, it operates as a 21+ club after that time with ID checks, which is helpful for groups planning around families or adults. This blend of rules ensures a safe and comfortable environment suited to varied social needs. The environment remains inviting and engaging throughout the day, avoiding the overcrowded or unfriendly atmosphere some nightlife spots can have.
How does the atmosphere and ambience contribute to a great meetup?
The atmosphere at Amsterdam Billiards balances upscale sophistication with casual friendliness, setting it apart from ordinary bars or pool halls. The club features leather couches and classic wood pool tables that evoke a timeless feel, inviting patrons to relax and enjoy their time without rushing. Lighting is designed to create an inviting glow, bright enough for games yet warm enough for intimate conversations. The sound level strikes a balance between lively music and the hum of socializing, avoiding overwhelming noise. This mood encourages both spirited competition and genuine connection, making it ideal for friends catching up, team bonding, or family fun. Moreover, the staffâs friendly and professional demeanor enhances the atmosphere by quickly addressing any needs without interrupting the flow of fun. The club has cultivated a community feel over decades, which is evident in repeat visitors and a diverse crowd that keeps the energy dynamic yet comfortable.
What makes Amsterdam Billiards Club stand out from other venues?
Unlike typical bars or pool halls, Amsterdam Billiards is New York Cityâs original upscale billiard club, established in 1989 by comedian David Brenner. This heritage gives it an authentic charm and a proven track record in providing excellent experiences. It has been recognized by national publications and regularly praised by patrons for its cleanliness, well-maintained equipment, and attentive staff. Unlike cramped or noisy bars, this venue offers a sophisticated, spacious layout that still retains an intimate bedside manner conducive to social engagement. The diversity of games combined with the ability to host large private events all year round is unmatched by many competitors. Furthermore, the pricing strikes a good balance between quality and value. The fact it welcomes guests every day, including holidays, reinforces its reputation as a reliable go-to spot for regular meetups or special occasions. This blend of history, quality, and versatility makes it uniquely positioned to serve a wide audience with varying interests.
How do reviews reflect the experience at Amsterdam Billiards Club?
Customer reviews consistently highlight Amsterdam Billiards Club as a great place to enjoy pool with friends while also appreciating the comfortable setting and friendly vibe. Many reviewers note the abundance of pool tables, which means much shorter wait times compared to similar venues. The combination of accessible games, reasonable pricing, and good food and drink options earns high marks. Some patrons praise the clubâs accommodation of private parties, noting that it is perfect for everything from casual meetups to large celebrations. The 4.3-star rating across more than 1400 reviews demonstrates a solid level of satisfaction, with comments often focusing on the excellent service and overall fun atmosphere. Of course, no venue is perfectâsome reviews mention occasional noise and crowd sizeâbut these are typical of popular nightlife spots and generally do not detract from the overall enjoyment. This strong positive feedback suggests that most guests find Amsterdam Billiards a reliable and enjoyable place to meet with friends and family.
What should you expect when planning your meetup at Amsterdam Billiards?
When planning your meetup at Amsterdam Billiards, expect a straightforward and helpful process supported by a well-organized events team. Reservations can be made easily for groups large and small, with a clear communication channel via phone or email to the Special Events Manager. You can tailor your experience with options for food, drinks, game preferences, and private space arrangements. The venueâs attentive staff guides you through setup and event flow to ensure your party runs smoothly. Attendees will find parking and transit access convenient, and the venueâs central location makes it easy to coordinate meeting points. Expect a welcoming environment with a mix of casual fun and upscale comfort, so your group can focus on socializing and enjoying the moment. The flexibility in times and party sizes, combined with the variety of entertainment choices, guarantees that your meetup will be memorable, engaging, and hassle-free. Whether itâs a casual catching up or a festive celebration, Amsterdam Billiards offers a uniquely rich experience.