New York City has been, and continues to be, a hotspot for writers from around the world. With its rich history, mixed with the never-ending hustle and bustle of city life, NYC offers the perfect environment for creativity and inspiration. Thus, it’s no surprise that the city is home to some of the best writing venues and hangouts in the world.
Whether you are an aspiring writer looking for places to meet like-minded people and find support, or a published author searching for a spot to read your latest works, read on to discover the best places to meet and write in New York City.
Writing Groups
Nothing reinforces your writing more than being part of a supportive writing community. Writing groups provide the perfect environment to hone your skills and promote your latest works. Some of the most popular writing groups located in NYC are:
• The Gotham Writers: This non-profit writing workshop located in midtown Manhattan has been entertaining the New York City writing community since 1993. They offer inspiring and encouraging workshops for all levels, from beginners to more experienced authors.
• The Institute for Writers: If you are looking for a real community, look no further than The Institute for Writers. This writing institution offers delightful workshops and a sense of camaraderie that will enhance your writing significantly. Their workshops vary from fiction, poetry, and lyrics, to narrative writing, marketing and more.
• Throw Poetry Slams: This organization has been guiding poets and writers’ dreams for more than 20 years now. They invite everyone to come and share their written works for a unique and delightful potential audience.
Writers’ Cafes
The best thing about living in a city like New York is the variety of places to choose from. Thus, many writers love to explore the rich culinary spots while they write. Here are some of the most popular writers’ cafes in NYC – perfect for writers and readers alike.
• Café Grumpy: This small yet cozy cafe offers wrap-around windows ideal for watching the hustle and bustle of New York City life while you write. It’s also the perfect spot to enjoy a great cup of coffee while you read your latest favorite novel.
• Brooklyn Roasting Company: With plenty of seating and free Wi-Fi, this is the perfect spot for some uninterrupted writing and editing. Most say their coffee rival anything you’d find in Manhattan, and you even purchase your favorite blends to go.
• Cafe Zaiya: Located in the heart of midtown Manhattan, Cafe Zaiya attracts all kinds of travelers, authors and readers. With fresh pies, lunches and dozens of mini desserts and treats, this cafe is ideal for short, sweet writing sessions and brainstorming ideas.
Open Mic Nights
Open mic nights are the perfect opportunity to share your written word with other passionate writers and readers. Though popular during big events, some hangouts host weekly or monthly open mic nights – giving you plenty of chances to read aloud your works and even get some feedback. Here are some of the best open mic spots in NYC:
• KGB Bar & Lit Journal: This chic and quirky spot has hosted some of the most renowned authors, and they also have some open mic events that often go deep into the night.
• Nuyorican Poets Café: This is the leading spot for literary performance. With a rich history and some of the most dedicated delivery artists, the Nuyorican Poets Café offer one of the best open mic nights in NYC.
• Groove: Located in the heart of a vibrant city, Groove offers open mic nights every Thursday, giving you plenty of chances to show off your written works.
Bookstores
What is a better place to explore and meet fellow writers than the bookstore? NYC is home to some of the most remarkable bookstores and libraries in the world. Here are some of the must-visit spots for authors and readers alike.
• The Strand Bookstore: This famous and iconic bookstore Hosts in-store events with some of the most popular authors to date, and you can even hear them discuss and share their latest works.
• McNally Jackson Books: This independent bookstore is located in the vibrant neighbourhood of SoHo. Ideal for exploration and readings, help yourself to a book and spend an afternoon between its stocked shelves.
• The Word Bookstores: Located in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, The Word is a book-lover’s paradise. They offer everything from fiction to nonfiction books and facilitate regular readings and book clubs.
Libraries
NYC is home to some of the world’s most outstanding libraries, offering countless titles and the perfect environment to explore something new. Here are some of NYC’s top libraries that are perfect for writers and researchers alike.
• The New York Public Library: This world-famous library at Bryant Park is one of the most iconic spots in NYC. Providing researchers and authors with knowledge and inspiration since 1895, The New York Public Library is a must-visit spot.
• Brooklyn Public Library: Many authors, both aspiring and experienced, consider the Brooklyn Public Library one of the best spots to write in NYC. They offer a variety of events and great resources to write and publish your works.
• Queens Public Library: With 62 locations around Queens, the QPL has everything from free WiFi and great collections, to regular events and workshops. They also two dedicated reading areas, perfect for those looking for a cool spot to sit and write.
Writing in New York City can be an appealing and highly rewarding experience as the city offers plenty of resources for authors and aspiring writers alike. Whether you are looking for a supportive writing group or a cozy cafe to write and edit, you can certainly find what you’re looking for in the captivating city of New York.
