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The Best of New York · See and do · Things to do

The best romantic things to do in New York City

Updated September 2026. 18 places.

New York City, the fast-paced Concrete Jungle, is known for ambitious locals that walk too fast and smile too little. Seldom is the city mistaken for romance, which is a pity, because there’s tons of romantic things to do in NYC.

In fact, after living in the city for 10 years, I’m still finding new date night ideas in New York. From Broadway shows and fine dinning to cozy jazz clubs and exciting exhibits, let’s cover everything you need to know.

Antonina PattizWriter and photographer · how I decide
Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

Best romantic things to do in New York City, 2026

  1. BalthazarRestaurant · SoHoIf you’re looking for a romantic thing to do in New York City, make brunch at Balthazar a priority.
  2. Bar BlondeauBar · Greenpointone of my go-to spots is Bar Blondeau in Greenpoint.
  3. Bemelmans BarBar · Upper East SideThe cocktails are excellent, but the dirty martini is where Bemelmans Bar shines, can’t recommend it enough.
  4. Brooklyn BridgeLandmark · DUMBOI think the views are better when walking towards Manhattan (starting in DUMBO).
  5. Bryant ParkPark · MidtownMy favorite season to visit Bryant Park is summer because of the free movies hosted on the lawn.
  6. BuvetteCafe · West Village
  7. Central Park (Yoga Class / Sheep Meadow)Park · Central Park
  8. DanteBar · West VillageDante was named the best bar in the world in 2019 and appeared on the list again 2020.
  9. Gramercy TavernRestaurant · GramercyAll this to say, it’s hard to go wrong with a fancy meal here for a fun date night in NYC.
  10. Lincoln CenterTheater · Upper West SideSo if you’re looking to impressive someone with an unforgettable date night in New York City, this would be my suggestion.
  11. Platform by the James Beard Foundation at Pier 57Other · Chelsea
  12. The High LinePark · High Line
  13. The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)Museum · Upper East SideStrolling past world-renowned art is definitely one of the most romantic things to do in New York City.
  14. Top of the RockLandmark · MidtownIf you’re looking for famous New York City date night ideas, taking in the sweeping views of Manhattan at sunset should fit the bill.
  15. Broadway ShowTheater · Times Square
  16. Brooklyn PromenadeLandmark · Brooklyn HeightsThis 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.
  17. Jazz ClubBar · MidtownIf 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.
  18. Loeb Boathouse (Central Park rowboats)Other · Central ParkAt $25 per hour (credit card or Apple Pay only), they’re actually reasonably priced.

On the map

Where they are

13 neighborhoods, Midtown and Upper East Side most of all.

Midtown

Central Park

Upper East Side

West Village

Brooklyn Heights

Chelsea

DUMBO

Gramercy

Greenpoint

High Line

SoHo

Times Square

Upper West Side

Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

The Best of New York 2026

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 20 (Non-Cheesy) Romantic Things to Do in New York City.