12 of the Most Iconic New York Nightclubs

The Cotton Club, 1923 - 1936

Located within the heart of Harlem, the exclusive club was known for their highly accredited blues and jazz performers such as Billie Holiday, Cab Calloway, Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington.

Copacabana, 1940 - 1992

One of the oldest and most historic nightclubs in NYC, the Latin themed night club oozed with Old Hollywood glamour and sophistication.With performances from some of the largest acts in show business this establishment has stood the test of time.

Pictured: Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz at the legendary nightclub.

CBGB, 1973 - 2006

Known for the sticker clad walls and prominent rock performances, this venue founded by Hilly Kristal helped to usher in new American music genres and revolutionize culture in downtown Manhattan.

Pictured: Debbie Harry on the stage before a performance.

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Palladium, 1976 - 1995

Located on East 14th street, the downtown club founded by Studio 54's Steve Rubell was known as one of New York's largest rock venues and dance clubs—with iconic music stars such as Madonna making appearances.

Studio 54, 1977 - 1991

Studio 54 was the pillar of the New York club scene for many years. Founded by Steve Rubell and Ian Schrager. Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, Bianca Jagger and Brooke Shields and Diane von Furstenberg are only a few of the notable faces that graced the dance floor through the years.

Danceteria, 1979 - 1986

Founded by Rudolf Piper and Jim Fouratt, Danceteria served as Madonna's "birthplace" in 1982, making the discotheque the It place to be.

Pictured: The Rolling Stones at Danceteria promoting their album Emotional Rescue.

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Limelight, 1983 - 1990s

With the club opening hosted by Andy Warhol, this nightlife attraction was destined for greatness. Owned by Peter Gatien, the church turned nightclub was at the center of the punk and disco scene in the '80s.

The Tunnel, 1986 - 2001

Located in Chelsea, the once warehouse terminal was transformed into an epic nightclub where a who's who of Hip-Hop came to party.

Bungalow 8, 2001 - 2009

Founded by New York City nightlife tycoon Amy Sacco, Bungalow 8 was the club of the early aughts. Full of California style decor and Hollywood Glamour this nightclub soon became the NYC playground for the A-List including Kate Moss, Lindsay Lohan, Nicole Richie and more.

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Beatrice Inn, 2006 - 2009

This famous club founded by Paul Sevigny, located in the West Village serving as the fashion sets go-to spot, had a short yet impactful tenure. It's been said that New York City nightlife died with this club, which felt more like a living room where Chloe Sevigny, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Kirsten Dunst and more came to dance.

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