We're in the thick of it, and we're not just talking about the muggy part of the season either.
It's halfway through the summer and one of the most common utterances heard through the sweat on the street right now is most likely, "I need a drink."
August serves as the reminder of summer's ticking clock, but there's still plenty of time to check out some of New York City's most tried and true watering holes.
So pop in a grab a stiff, cold one at one of these boozy summer hideaways.
1. Gotham City Lounge (1293 Myrtle Avenue - Brooklyn)
A veritable comic book shrine of a bar, this place does its name justice and them some, starting with the huge Batman and Superman mural painted outside of it. Posters and memorabilia of everything from Star Wars to Bruce Lee can be found hanging all over the walls.
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But it doesn't stop with the decor. They have a mighty menu of themed drinks such as The Green Lantern, made with Zubrowka, apple schnapps and Sprite. If you're not feeling quite as adventurous, you can grab a $3 PBR & Old Crow whiskey combo to accompany all your geeking out.
2. e's BAR (511 Amsterdam Avenue)
The Upper West Side has quickly become the place to go when you want to find the balance of a nice night out but still find some serious party time too. At e's BAR, the party gets started with their after-work happy hour at 5pm with a $5 e's burger and $6 well drinks, along with a beer and a shot for $9.
The bar also celebrates Summer Mondays all throughout this month with $7 margaritas and red or white sangria. They also have trivia nights on Tuesday nights beginning at 7pm and the bar makes sure the weekend party is poppin' with a live DJ every Sunday starting at 1 p.m.
3. Vu Bar (17 West 32nd Street)
Summer isn't summer in NYC without some rooftop drinking! But if you want to dodge the Midtown crowds, not to mention dealing with judgy doormen, head on over to La Quinta Inn on 32nd Street. Don't let its humble facade fool you, because on the 14th floor lies a rooftop bar you'd never expect.
This cozy outdoor hideaway offers a cool escape from the heat of midtown with their specialty cocktails like the aptly named On The Roof, a mix of Malibu, peach schnapps, orange and pineapple juice. You'll also get a killer view of the Empire State Building that any tourist would die for.
4. Hank's Saloon (46 3rd Avenue - Brooklyn)
You can't miss this corner dive when you're walking by, from the hellfire flames that frame the outside walls to the aluminum-siding-covered carbuncle on the second level. Step through the darkened doorway into this semi-notorious dive bar for a truly unique experience.
Even though the outside gives off that feel of an intimidating biker bar, once inside it gives way to what can only be described as "ramshackle honky-tonk." And on almost any given night, you can find a live band playing a variety of rock-n-roll hits, not to mention an eclectic local crowd.
5. Corkbuzz Wine Studio (13 East 13th Street)
If you're looking to indulge your inner oenophile, head down by Union Square for an experience in wine that's all about the palette with none of the pretension. Part restaurant, part wine bar and part education center, Corkbuzz does much more than merely pour you a glass of vino.
Its chic design gives off the affluence of a top wine mecca while the friendly and welcoming staff can help you find just the right wine for your taste buds from their 35 by-the-glass options and over 250 different full-bottle vintages.
6. Union Hall (702 Union Street - Brooklyn)
This bi-level brewfest in Boerum Hill was once a gentleman's-only club back in the day, with many remnants still seen on the top floor like Soviet-era globes, paintings of fez-capped men... you get the idea. Head over to their indoor clay bocce courts and get in on some friendly competition.
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Downstairs is where the real show is at, with a rotating roster of live talent such as bands, comedians, and even a monthly science night. The microbrew has a great selection of beers on tap and their food menu is nothing to sneeze at. Take a crack at their beer-battered corn dogs and see for yourself.
7. Village Pourhouse (64 Third Avenue)
Celebrating its 10th Anniversary this year, this is the place to come and get your beer on this month. In the spirit of their anniversary, the bar is throwing out crazy happy hour beer steals with $1 beers from 12 to 7pm and $2 beers from 7pm until closing all summer long.
They're also hosting the Beer Olympics on Saturday, August 13th where you can take on other competitors in games like Ultimate Beer Pong, Flip Cup and Drunk Jenga for a chance to win a gold medal grand prize of one hour of a free open bar. Let the games begin! You can get tickets here.
[via Instagram]