Nightlife in New York City can get a bit expensive. All those cover fees and drink prices can really add up, so we decided do a little research on where to score some free booze and save a little money. Trust us, your wallet will thank you later.

[More added 1/17--check the last slides] With bars open until 4am and politicos ready to party, there will be a lot going on to celebrate Obama's second Inauguration. Even if you missed out on the official ball tickets from the Presidential Inauguration Committee, there are still a lot of events you won't want to miss (in fact, most of the ones here will be better parties, period)! Balls come and go every 4 years, so pay attention to learn what's hot and what's not for 2013.

The Obamas and Bidens have been invited to basically all of the events listed here. They are only obligated to show up to the two official balls but just might pop in when you least expect them to...

Let's face it, getting older kinda sucks. You can make it suck a little less by treating yourself to a bunch of freebies on your birthday! From dinner to drinks and dessert, we've compiled the best zero-dollar birthday specials around the city. Check 'em out next time that special day comes around- just don't forget your ID! More»

During the summer, rooftop bars quickly get populated by New Yorkers who are looking for some relief from sweaty, stuffy clubs. In contrast, the colder months are about getting out of the chilly winds and enjoying drinks that will warm you up. So to highlight this change, we have picked 7 bars that are the exact opposite of a rooftop bar, in that they're all below ground. More»