The iconic sports arena Madison Square Garden attracts thousands of spectators for a variety of sports, including basketball, boxing and hockey, and there’s no better way to get ready for the game than a few drinks. There’s a great selection to choose from, with many bars that offer happy hour prices, which is perfect for the run up to the game.
Rock Reilly’s
This is a rooftop bar within sight of the stadium, and is definitely one of the classier Madison Square Garden bars to visit while you’re there. The Irish rooftop bar is large and sports huge flat screen TVs, and they stock some of the finest ales and whiskeys, not to mention the great ribs and ice cream on the menu.
Haymaker Bar and Kitchen
Another great place for a pre match drink, with an impressive array of draft beers to suit every taste and if you are into fine wines or cocktails, this is the place to spend a few hours prior to the start of the game. If you fancy dinner after the game, they have an extensive menu with a daily special that never fails to impress.
Blarney Rock Pub
Literally a few minutes’ walk from MSG, this is the place for Rangers fans to meet up before the game, and with a pleasant rooftop bar that serves a good selection of beers. The atmosphere is always charged on game days and the massive TV screens mean you won’t miss out on the action.
The Sky Room
The highest rooftop bar in Manhattan, the Sky Room is actually a double rooftop environment, and with comfortable lounge chairs and a resident DJ, this is a great place for after game cocktails. Recently opened, the view from the 33rd floor really makes it a must visit watering hole, and the extensive drinks menu has something for everyone.
Over a Barrel
This establishment is for vintage whiskey fans, and with more than 200 varieties, you are really spoilt for choice. The timber redwood décor complements the extensive drinks menu, and with massive TV screens, showing all the major sporting events, you can watch your favourite team in pleasant surroundings, and the food is also worth sampling.
Sid Gold’s Request Room
If karaoke is your thing, you really should pay Sid’s place a visit, and with stylish décor and piano accompaniment, you can sing all your favourite songs. The drinks menu is very extensive with a fine selection of popular beers on tap, and the unique dome shaped cavern style seating gives the place an underground feel. Early evenings sees piano jazz playing, while after 9pm, its karaoke time.
MSG is surrounded by many classy drinking establishments of all styles and sizes, and if you arrive a little earlier than normal, you’ll have plenty of time to sample some of the best before the game starts. Whether you are looking for a pre or post game drink, there’s something for everyone in this busy city district.
Conrad Armer 
Rocko Berry 
Clare Louise