The list in my order
18 I’d go back to. 5 cost nothing. My verdict on every one, and the ones nearby from my other lists.
Bemelmans Bar
- Address35 E 76th St, New York, NY 10021
One of my most unforgettable date nights in New York City was an evening spent at Bemelman’s Bar. Located in the posh Carlyle Hotel, the bar is known for hand-painted murals, celebrity sightings and live piano music.
The aged leather banquettes offer an air of sophistication few bars can emulate well (and not for lack of trying). Peel your eyes away from the handsome murals and let your eyes settle on the bar, watch generous pours of perfectly-executed drinks make their way from one table to the next. The cocktails are excellent, but the dirty martini is where Bemelmans Bar shines, can’t recommend it enough.
P.S. The murals were hand-painted by the famed author and illustrator of the Madeline Books, Ludwig Bemelmans. They were commissioned in the 1940s to depict Central Park in all four seasons.
Featured in15+ Best Things to Do on the Upper East Side
Good to know The bar upholds a smart dress code policy (men are required to wear collared shirts, and casual attire such as shorts and hats are not allowed).
#17. Take a Cooking Class at Pier 57
Remember during the pandemic when everyone was taking up new hobbies (DIY haircuts, anyone?), well, a rainy day in NYC is a perfect excuse to keep learning new skills. My favorite spot for cooking classes is the Platform by the James Bear Foundation at Pier 57.
The James Beard Foundation is like the Oscars of cooking, so it’s a huge deal when a restaurant or chef earns one of these prestigious awards. The Platform at Pier 57 hosts events and classes with award-winning chefs that are so much fun! Sign up (here’s the event’s calendar) to enjoy a meal made by famous chef, or, better yet. Take a cooking class instead. This a great date idea for a rainy day in New York City.
#16. Spend a Slow Morning in the West Village
The West Village is the most charming neighborhood in New York City, so take advantage of the vibe. There’s a tons of quaint corner cafes where you can grab a great drink (and small bite to eat) while watching the world go by.
If you’re looking for romantic things to do in New York City that even locals enjoy, spending a slow morning at a cafe fits the bill. I suggest making reservations at Buvette, they have great French cuisine and the most welcoming atmosphere!
Platform by the James Beard Foundation at Pier 57
Buvette
Bryant Park
Bryant Park is perfectly tucked into the shadow of towering office buildings that make up the heart of Midtown Manhattan. Located right behind the breathtaking New York Public Library, it’s not uncommon to find all the chairs and benches full during sunny days.
Clocking in at 9.6-acres, thisn’t the largest park in New York City by any stretch of the imagination, but it often feels the most full. It’s a hub for the folks that work in the office buildings that surround the park. The park benches swell with locals during the busy lunch hour most seasons of the year.
My favorite season to visit Bryant Park is summer because of the free movies hosted on the lawn. The entire field is filled with cheery folks on picnic blankets, it’s the epitome of joy. In terms of romantic things to do in New York City, this one is hard to beat.
#14. Get Lost at the MET
With more than 2 million pieces of art spanning 5,000+ years, the Met is the largest museum in the country and the fifth largest museum in the world. Averaging 6 million visitors per year, it’s also the most visited museum in New York City.
Strolling past world-renowned art is definitely one of the most romantic things to do in New York City. When else will you have the change to discuss your hopes and dreams while staring at van Gogh’s self-portrait. Also, make sure to swing by the museums’ rooftop garden for panoramic views of Central Park.
Helpful Guide20 EPIC Things to See at The MET
#13. Get Cocktails at the Best Bar in the World
Dante dates back to 1915. It served as a staple for the community before slowly fading into oblivion before two Australians decided to breathe new life into the historic institution in 2015. The result was striking, within a few years of opening, Dante was named the best bar in the world in 2019 and appeared on the list again 2020.
And I dare ask, what better way to cap off a romantic day in the New York City than by getting a drink at the best bar in the world? Bonus points if you make it to happy hour (runs daily from 3-6pm), nothing better than a financially savvy date!
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
- Address1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028
Dante
- Address551 Hudson Street & 79-81 MacDougal Street
Central Park
- Cost$20 per person
You probably already know that Central Park is a masterpiece. There’s a reason Central Park is on everyone’s must-see list when visiting New York City. Spanning more than 840 acres, the park is an architectural feat that few can resist falling in love with.
If you’re looking for active date ideas in New York City, sign up for a yoga class in Central Park. Strike a pose and get your stretch on while the epic NYC skyline roots you on. Classes are 75-minutes long and cost $20 per person (making this one of the most affordable date ideas in New York City). You need to reserve your time in advance and bring your own mat.
Feeling a bit less flexible? I got you. Grab a picnic blanket and spread out at Sheep Meadow for a picnic instead. This a favorite summer pastime for locals because it’s one of the most romantic things to do in NYC!
There are so many iconic spots to see in Central Park, if you’d like some guidance during your first visit I suggest reading 15 ICONIC Things to Do in Central Park (our most popular post!).
The High Line
The High Line opened in 2009 and became an instant success. The distinctive promenade stretches 1.5 miles and gets 8 million visitors a year. The distinctive tracks this park was built on were originally used by freight trains delivering cargo to the city (a practice that became moot with the rise in trucking). For ages, the railroad was abandoned and neglected, until Mayor Bloomberg approved a plan to transform the derelict train tracks into a public park.
If you’re into stargazing, partake in the stargazing events hosted every Tuesday at sunset from April through October at the High Line. Read more here. I mean, can you think of a more romantic date night activity than stargazing?
Featured Guide15 Famous New York City Parks (That Locals Love)
Top of the Rock
- Address30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY
I dare you to show me a more mesmerizing skyline than New York’s. And if you’re looking for the absolute best views of New York City, it’s hard to beat the Top of the Rock NYC Observation Deck. The large glass panels offer unobstructed views the NYC skyline, unlike some of the other observation decks in town.
From the Top of Rock, you’ll see the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, Flatiron Building and the One World Trade Center. Sometimes it’s fun to play tourist in your own town. So, if you’re looking for famous New York City date night ideas, taking in the sweeping views of Manhattan at sunset should fit the bill.
Featured in18 Jaw-Dropping Views of NYC (For All Budgets)
#9. Rent a Rowboat in Central Park
We can’t discuss the most romantic things to do in New York City without mentioning Central Park. The Lake in Central Park is as romantic as you can imagine. Rent a rowboat and serenade your special someone amidst the spring blooms or fall leaves while admiring the dramatic New York skyline.
Does it get any better than this? I don’t think so.
There’s 100 boats available for rent at the Loeb Boathouse on a walk-up basis (first come, first served). At $25 per hour (credit card or Apple Pay only), they’re actually reasonably priced. Interested? Read more here.
Loeb Boathouse
- Cost$25 per hour
Jazz Club
I’m not big on jazz (sorry!) but even I know better than to pass up an opportunity to plan a fun date night in NYC centered around a historic jazz club! If you’d like to make an occasion feel special, I suggest making reservations at a jazz club for a romantic NYC experience you won’t soon forget.
Helpful Guide If you’d like some suggestions, here’s a roundup of the 15 best jazz clubs in NYC (based on personal experience).
Brooklyn Bridge
- CostFree
When I asked my husband for advice curating this list of romantic things to do in New York City, he chimed in with one suggestion, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. Considering we’ve spent the last 10 years exploring NYC together, I found it quite telling that this activity sticks out to him, but I can’t disagree. I’m a sucker for this famous NYC experience myself.
The bridge spans 1.1 miles and takes about 30 minutes to cross (at a leisurely pace). I think the views are better when walking towards Manhattan (starting in DUMBO). You’ll see the Statue of Liberty and Freedom Tower in their full glory, it’s a remarkable experience.
Helpful Guide20 Best Things to Do in DUMBO, Brooklyn
Brooklyn Promenade
Make your way to Brooklyn Heights and take a lovely stroll along the Brooklyn Promenade at sunset. This promenade offers the best free views of the city, making it a great option for those looking for fun NYC date ideas on a budget.
Walk up Willow Street while admiring the charming streets of Brooklyn Heights, as you slowly make your way to a local bar to warm up with an afternoon drink. I suggest Bohemian Bar, Inga’s Bar or The Long Island Bar.
Bonus Points When you’re ready to get back to Manhattan, pop on the ferry! Soak in the twinkling lights of the skyline, at $4 per person, this one of the most affordable date night ideas in NYC.
Helpful Guide 15 Best Things to Do in Brooklyn Heights (Local’s Guide)
Lincoln Center
- AddressLincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY
Here’s the thing, if you’re visiting NYC during Christmas, you can’t afford to miss the breathtaking Nutcracker performance at the Lincoln Center. Here’s the other thing, if you’re NOT visiting during Christmas, you’ll still have an opportunity to participate in this romantic NYC activity.
Founded in 1950, the Lincoln Center is home to the Metropolitan Opera House, New York Philharmonic, New York City Opera, New York City Ballet, the School of American Ballet, Julliard School of Music, the Chamber Music Society and the Film Society.
In other words, the Lincoln Center is the cultural capital not only of the Upper West Side, but of NYC as a whole. This the place to go to see world-class opera, theater, ballet and jazz. So if you’re looking to impressive someone with an unforgettable date night in New York City, this would be my suggestion.
Featured in20 Fun Things to Do on the Upper West Side
Gramercy Tavern
- Cost$$$$
- Address42 E 20th St, New York, NY
Did you know New York City home to 70 Michelin-starred restaurants? That’s a big deal. What better way to take advantage of the world-class cuisine in the Big Apple than by treating your special someone to some fine dining.
One of my go-to spots for fine dining is Gramercy Tavern. This famous NYC restaurant dates back to 1994 and is known for its commitment to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurants has earned nine James Beard Awards, including “Outstanding Restaurant” and “Outstanding Chef in America.” All this to say, it’s hard to go wrong with a fancy meal here for a fun date night in NYC.
If you’re looking to splurge, opt for the 5-course tasting menu. I did this for my 30th birthday and was very impressed! Feeling more casual? Enjoy a meal in the Tavern instead, Gramercy Tavern makes some of the best burgers in NYC!
Broadway Show
Yes, Broadway Shows are expensive, but the experience is unforgettable and so romantic. Something I wish I knew earlier was that certain Broadway Shows have a lottery system where you can apply to win free tickets in advance. Seems like a long shot, but one of my coworkers won two tickets to Hamilton! Maybe you can get lucky too? Imagine scoring affordable tickets to see a show, it’s be an incredible date night!
Helpful Guide10 Brilliant Broadway Shows in New York City (For All Interests)
#2. Grab Drinks at a Rooftop Bar
I’m not the mushy type, but even I’ll admit that there’s something magical about rooftop bars. Watching the stunning skyline light up for the night while sipping a delicious cocktail and making small talk with a new date, it’s a great feeling!
So, whether it’s a first date or you’re hitting you 30 year anniversary, why not invite your special someone to linger at a rooftop bar with you for the evening? There’s SO many great rooftop bars to choose from, but one of my go-to spots is Bar Blondeau in Greenpoint.
Helpful Guide12 Memorable Rooftop Bars in Brooklyn
Bar Blondeau
Balthazar
- Address80 Spring St, New York, NY
Warm and inviting, Balthazar exudes romantic vibes ideal for memorable brunch dates. Whenever someone plans to visit, the first thing I do is make reservations at Balthazar because the place never fails to impress.
The decor and tantalizing smells have a way of transporting everyone to Paris. The food always hits the spot and the picked wine list only adds to the romance. If you’re looking for a romantic thing to do in New York City, make brunch at Balthazar a priority.
I suggest lingering for a while, don’t rush the meal (or experience). Settle in and whisper sweet little nothings until your cheeks get sore from smiling. Isn’t that what the weekend is for?
Featured in20 Best Restaurants in SoHo
NYC First Date (FAQ)
What is a good first date in NYC?
For an famous NYC first date, swing by a farmers market and make your way to Central Park for a picnic at Sheep Meadow. There’s a great farmers market on the Upper West Side (near the American Museum of Natural History) that takes place every Sunday, that’d be my recommendation!
Is New York good for couples?
Absolutely! There’s no shortage of romantic things to do in NYC (as this list illustrates). But the magic of living in Big Apple is the spontaneous and serendipitous moments that lead to memorable and romantic evenings in NYC. You’ll never have a reason to be bored while living in NYC as a couple.
