In the vibrant mosaic of New York City’s social landscape, the most exclusive private members’ clubs stand as bastions of luxury, tradition, and discretion.
Tracing their origins back to 18th-century Britain, these clubs were initially established as exclusive enclaves for the social elite, offering a private setting for the affluent to socialize away from the public gaze. Over centuries, this tradition crossed oceans and evolved, embedding itself into the fabric of New York society.
These prestigious clubs provide refuge to the crème de la crème across various industries, including tech tycoons and Hollywood celebrities. This is where you spend your days dining on rooftops, indulging in spa treatments, networking with industry moguls and sharing your talent with fellow creatives.
Where do we sign up?
From soaring initiation fees and rigorous selection processes to secret club rules and time-honored traditions, membership often remains an invitation-only affair.
That being said, we may not make the list, but we do have the inside scoop. Here is a peek into where The Big Apple’s one-percenters choose to hang out.
Aman Club
Distinguished as the most exclusive (read: expensive) private members’ club in New York City, Aman Club has an outrageous initiation fee of $200,000.
Located in the center of Manhattan in the iconic Crown Building, the covert club whispers tales of alluring accommodation (Aman is known the world over for its pristine places of pure peace, after all), innovative dining concepts, and extensive wellness facilities spanning three floors. The celebrity-worthy spa is the ultimate urban sanctuary, featuring tranquil treatment rooms, a hammam steam room, and a banya sauna.
While specific membership requirements aren’t mentioned anywhere, the exorbitant joining fee says it all. This is an elite club for the highest members of society.
Best for: Marrying the serenity of Aman with the vibrant energy of Manhattan.
| Membership fees: | $200,000 joining fee |
| Membership requirements: | Undisclosed |
| Location: | Crown Building at 730 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10019 |
| Opened: | 2020 |
| Website: | aman.com/hotels/aman-new-york |
Core Club
Positioned as an “international community of minds, mavericks, and leaders”, Core Club is one of the most sought-after private social clubs in NYC.
Core Club is more than just a private social club, it aims to provide spaces for transformation and conversation. It’s an environment where new ideas and intellectual challenges are encouraged, featuring a highly curated collection of books and art.
Amenities include a library, theater, opulent dining rooms, private meeting rooms and eleven suites for overnight guests, as well as a gym, spa beauty salon and health bar. Basically, it has everything you need to flourish mentally, emotionally, and physically.
Best for: Igniting transformation.
| Membership fees: | $100,000 joining fee, plus $15,000 annual fee |
| Membership requirements: | Showcase unique and interesting perspectives across different industries, from architecture and design to sports and technology |
| Location: | 66 East 55th Street, New York, NY 10022 |
| Opened: | 2005 |
| Website: | thecoreclub.com/nyc |
ZZ’s Club
Nestled in the heart of New York City’s Hudson Yards, ZZ’s Club redefines exclusivity and luxury. A brainchild of Major Food Group, this private membership club is named after the group’s co-founder Jeff Zalaznick’s nickname, “ZZ.”
Inspired by its Miami counterpart, ZZ’s Club in New York opened in 2023 and is a lavish sanctuary of unparalleled opulence and hospitality. Designed by renowned interior designer Ken Fulk, the secret oasis is a nod to the hush-hush glamor of old-school Hollywood, adorned with painted walls and grandiose chandeliers.
As one of the most exclusive clubs in New York, ZZ’s Club houses a modern Japanese restaurant, a cigar terrace, and a glamorous lounge with diverse music programming. A standout feature is the world’s sole private CARBONE location, making it a much-coveted culinary gem.
Best for: Gourmet and glamorous.
| Membership fees: | $50,000 initiation fee, plus $10,000 annual dues |
| Membership requirements: | Specific requirements beyond the financial commitment are not detailed publicly. |
| Location: | 37 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001 |
| Opened: | 2023 |
| Website: | zzsclub.com |
Knickerbocker Club
The Knickerbocker Club, also known informally as “The Knick,” is one of New York City’s most exclusive and aristocratic gentlemen’s clubs. Founded in 1871, it is known for its stringent membership requirements and privacy, catering to a highly selective membership drawn from the social elite.
Throughout its rich history, the Knickerbocker Club has attracted illustrious members, including early Hollywood star Douglas Fairbanks, scion of the famous Astor family John Jacob Astor, financier JP Morgan, and former US President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Notably, the NYC club maintains a men-only policy. With no website, no women, and a rumored code of secrecy, very little has changed over the past centuries.
The Knickerbocker Club maintains its privacy and exclusivity by not having a public website or disclosing detailed information about its operations, members, or activities online.
Best for: A long-lived legacy of exclusivity.
| Membership fees: | $50,000 initiation fee, plus $10,000 annual dues |
| Membership requirements: | Men only. Sponsorship by existing members. |
| Location: | 2 East 62nd Street, New York, NY |
| Opened: | 1871 |
| Website: | No website |
Nexus Club
Nexus Club redefines private social clubs in New York City from its illustrious perch on the seventh floor of 100 Church Street. With a discerning eye, it curates a membership that values family and community as much as luxury, evidenced by its steep $20,000 initiation and $12,500 annual fees.
Since its inception in 2019, this enclave has been a beacon for the elite seeking to elevate the everyday. Famous members include Justin Timberlake and Tiger Woods.
At its core, the club features a state-of-the-art wellness center and a high-end spa. The dining experience at Nexus is unparalleled, with gourmet options crafted by renowned chefs, spanning fine dining to casual eateries and sophisticated bars. The club also boasts well-appointed meeting spaces for business and social gatherings, alongside family-friendly facilities that ensure a welcoming atmosphere for members of all ages.
Best for: A family-first philosophy.
| Membership fees: | $20,000 initiation fee, plus $12,500 annual fee |
| Membership requirements: | Formal application process |
| Location: | 100 Church Street, Seventh Floor, New York, NY 10007 |
| Opened: | 2019 |
| Website: | nexusclubny.com |
Classic Car Club Manhattan
Located at Pier 76, a scenic waterfront location on the Hudson River, Classic Car Club Manhattan is one of the most exclusive automotive clubs in New York.
Founded in 2005 by Zac Moseley and Michael Prichinello, this club transcends the ordinary, offering members unparalleled access to a curated collection of exotic and classic cars. However, it’s not just about the cars; the social club also features a luxurious clubhouse, state-of-the-art simulators, a riverside terrace, and a gourmet restaurant, providing a sophisticated backdrop for social and professional gatherings.
Catering to a clientele that appreciates the finer aspects of motoring and lifestyle, the club is rumored to attract many famous members, though specifics are kept secret to maintain members’ privacy.
Best for: Living life in the fast lane.
| Membership fees: | $15,000 initiation fee, plus $2,400 annual dues |
| Membership requirements: | Formal application process with an emphasis on a community for car enthusiasts |
| Location: | 1 Pier 76, 408 12th Ave |
| Opened: | 2005 |
| Website: | classiccarclubmanhattan.com |
The Ned NoMad
The Ned NoMad, an extension of the London-based hospitality and members’ club concept, is a blend of luxury and history located in New York City’s NoMad neighborhood. Opened in 2021 by Soho House & Co and Sydell Group, it occupies the historic Johnston Building.
While the club’s membership list is discreet, it’s known to attract a mix of creatives, entrepreneurs, and celebrities, reflecting its founders’ ethos of fostering a dynamic professional community.
The Ned NoMad offers extravagant amenities, including a rooftop terrace, an array of dining options featuring world-class cuisine, bespoke bars, and opulent bedrooms, alongside access to unique events and spaces designed for networking and leisure.
Best for: Old-school glamor redefined by modern comforts.
| Membership fees: | $5,000 annual fee, plus $1,500 initiation fee |
| Membership requirements: | Formal application process showcasing influence in society |
| Location: | 1170 Broadway in Manhattan |
| Opened: | 2021 |
| Website: | thened.com |
The Metropolitan Club
The Metropolitan Club, one of New York City’s most storied private members’ clubs, stands majestically at One East 60th Street, overlooking Central Park. Founded in 1891 by J.P. Morgan and a cohort of America’s Gilded Age elite, the club was established as a response to Morgan’s rejection from other clubs of the era.
With its illustrious beginnings, the Metropolitan Club has long been the domain of society’s upper echelon, including notable figures such as Ronald Reagan, Gerald Ford, and Richard Nixon.
A symbol of success and prestige, the club boasts lavish amenities such as opulent dining rooms, a grand ballroom, libraries, and fitness facilities, all housed within a historic, architecturally significant building.
Best for: Gilded elegance with a traditional ambiance.
| Membership fees: | $5,000 annual fee, with unknown initiation fee |
| Membership requirements: | Sponsorship by existing members |
| Location: | 1 East 60th Street, New York, NY 10022 |
| Opened: | 1891 |
| Website: | metropolitanclubnyc.org |
The Union Club of the City of New York
Founded in 1836, The Union Club is recognized as the oldest private club in New York City, established by a group of prominent New Yorkers as a gentlemen’s club. Throughout its history, the Union Club has been the social ground for many famous individuals, including politicians, business leaders, and cultural icons.
The club’s classical interior celebrates its storied past and tradition with richly decorated rooms, ornate ceilings, and exquisite furnishings. Exclusive membership provides access to luxurious dining rooms, a library filled with volumes of literature and history, guest rooms for overnight stays, and a variety of social events that underscore its role as a cultural hub.
The NYC club also features a fitness center, squash courts, and art collections, catering to the leisure and intellectual pursuits of its distinguished community.
Best for: Subscribing to high society.
| Membership fees: | $5,000 annual fee, with unknown initiation fee |
| Membership requirements: | Sponsorship by existing members |
| Location: | 101 East 69th Street, New York, NY 10021 |
| Opened: | 1836 |
| Website: | theunionclub.com |
Casa Cipriani
Casa Cipriani, situated within the iconic Battery Maritime Building, was founded in 2021 by the Cipriani family, known for their global hospitality empire. Merging Italian elegance with art deco elements, the design of the club pays homage to its maritime heritage.
Carefully curated by the Cipriani family, the interior features sumptuous furnishings, elegant décor, and breathtaking views of the New York Harbor. The club’s amenities are equally decadent, offering its members and guests access to world-class dining experiences, a wellness center with spa and fitness facilities, and a meticulously curated cultural program. The club also features luxurious accommodation options, private meeting spaces, and an outdoor terrace.
Best for: Harboring away in luxury.
| Membership fees: | $3,900 annual fee, plus $2,000 initiation fee |
| Membership requirements: | Formal application process, highlighting cultural diversity |
| Location: | 10 South Street, New York, NY 10004 |
| Opened: | 2021 |
| Website: | casaciprianinewyork.com |
Zero Bond
Zero Bond, one of the most exclusive modern NYC clubs for young adults, is nestled in the heart of NoHo at 0 Bond Street. This private social club, founded in 2020 by entrepreneur Scott Sartiano, quickly became a coveted destination for the city’s elite, including A-list celebrities, like Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran.
The club’s design is a masterful convergence of contemporary elegance and industrial chic, featuring exposed brick walls, plush seating, and artful lighting. This aesthetic is complemented by bespoke artworks and a sophisticated architectural layout that encourages social interaction while also allowing for intimate gatherings.
Amenities at Zero Bond cater to the discerning tastes of its members, offering exclusive access to a gourmet restaurant, private event spaces, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and spa services. The club also hosts a dynamic calendar of cultural events, talks, and performances, reflecting its commitment to nurturing a vibrant community of informed influencers and thought leaders.
Best for: Rising to the top—Swiftly.
| Membership fees: | $3,850 per annum, plus a one-time initiation fee of $1,000 |
| Membership requirements: | Formal application process |
| Location: | NOHO, New York, at Zero Bond Street, New York, NY, 10012 |
| Opened: | 2020 |
| Website: | zerobondny.com |
NeueHouse
NeueHouse, a refuge for international artists and creative professionals, reimagines the modern luxury workspace in the heart of New York City, with additional locations including Los Angeles and soon more globally.
Founded in 2013 by Joshua Abram and Alan Murray, this private workspace and cultural home caters to those in the arts, design, fashion, and media industries, offering an environment that fosters creativity and collaboration.
Blending functionality with contemporary aesthetics, NeueHouse is incredibly stylish and beautifully designed, while in-house dining experiences rival any of the city’s top restaurants. Additionally, NeueHouse provides unique amenities such as private studios, broadcast and podcast facilities, conference rooms, screening rooms, private phone booths, wellness rooms and so much more.
For the creative elite seeking inspiration and networking opportunities, NeueHouse is the epitome of cultural and professional synergy.
Best for: Providing fertile ground for creativity and commerce.
| Membership fees: | $3,000 annual fee, plus $200 initiation fee |
| Membership requirements: | Formal application process highlighting creativity and innovation |
| Location: | 110 E 25th St, New York, NY 10010 |
| Opened: | 2011 |
| Website: | neuehouse.com/houses/madison-square |
Soho House
SoHo House NYC, an outpost of the globally renowned members-only club for creatives, is situated in the heart of Manhattan’s Meatpacking District. Founded in 1995 by Nick Jones in London, the New York location opened its doors in 2003, extending its unique blend of hospitality and exclusivity across the Atlantic.
Housed in a converted warehouse, SoHo House NYC retains elements of its industrial past, seamlessly integrating them with luxurious, contemporary design. The interiors are a testament to eclectic sophistication, featuring plush furnishings, exposed brick, and bespoke artworks, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that encourages creativity and connection.
Amenities at SoHo House are tailored to the lavish lifestyles of its elite members, offering everything from a rooftop pool with stunning views of the city skyline to a screening room, spa, and gym. SoHo House membership also includes several dining venues, alongside spaces for work, relaxation, and socializing.
Best for: Relying on rooftop views as a muse.
| Membership fees: | $2,830 annual fee, plus $1,088 initiation fee |
| Membership requirements: | Active in a creative industry with sponsorship from an existing member |
| Location: | 29-35 9th Ave, New York, NY 10014 |
| Opened: | 2003 |
| Website: | sohohouse.com/houses/soho-house-new-york |
Central Park Club
Situated atop Central Park Tower, the Central Park Club stands as the world’s highest private club, spanning 50,000 square feet of luxury, meticulously curated by lifestyle guru Colin Cowie.
This pinnacle of exclusivity features hotel-style service, a 60-foot outdoor pool, a private park, and a residents’ lounge complete with billiards and a screening room. The fitness suite offers personal training and spa treatments, while the highest Grand Ballroom and restaurant cater to refined tastes with Michelin-starred chefs like Alfred Portale.
A sky lounge with a wine cellar and cigar humidor offers breathtaking city views, making the Central Park Club a haven of sophistication and leisure in the heart of Manhattan.
Best for: Towering over the city with sophistication.
| Membership fees: | Available upon application |
| Membership requirements: | Residents of Central Park Tower only |
| Location: | 225 West 57th Street in Midtown Manhattan |
| Opened: | 1836 |
| Website: | centralparktower.com/club |
Frequently asked questions about private members’ clubs in New York
Aman is widely regarded as one of the most exclusive members’ clubs in New York. With an initiation fee of $200,000, the elite club caters to an elite clientele seeking a sophisticated and intimate escape in the heart of Manhattan.
The most exclusive private members’ club in the world is Annabel’s in London, UK. Founded in 1963, Annabel’s has been a sanctuary for aristocrats, celebrities, and high-net-worth individuals. It boasts opulent decor, impeccable service, and an invite-only policy.
Joining a private members’ club can be worth it for individuals seeking exclusive amenities, networking opportunities, and a luxurious social environment. These social clubs often provide access to high-end facilities, events, and a sense of belonging to an elite community.
Core Club is one of the most expensive social clubs to join in NYC. It involves a $100,000 initiation fee and an annual fee of $15,000 to maintain membership privileges. This investment grants members access to a luxurious and well-curated social and networking environment in the heart of New York City.
