Last call is at 4 a.m. in New York City, rather than 2 a.m. as in most other areas of the U.S. This is often attributed to the historically high density of industrial facilities and the demand of second and third shift patrons. It is also because New York law allows bars to be open until 4 a.m. (However, local municipalities can override it to an earlier time.)
Several distinct and thriving nightlife districts have grown around clusters of bars and nightclubs in the city.
The drinking age, along with the other 49 states, is 21 years of age.
Beer and other beverages with a low alcohol content can be found in supermarkets, while hard liquor and wine can be found in liquor stores. Liquor stores, by law, are not allowed to sell beer and champagne.
State law stipulates that bars must close at 4am, although individual counties and municipalities may set an earlier closing time; outside of New York City, Albany and Buffalo, bars tend to close much earlier. Alcohol cannot be sold before noon on Sundays in most counties.
Driving while intoxicated is a criminal offense in New York state. The blood-acohol limit is 0.08, although you can be cited for DWI at as low as 0.05 if you are blatantly impaired. Minors under 21 have a BAC limit of 0.02.
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