Seeking a Little Romance in The Big Apple? You’re in luck—this metropolitan city is a wellspring of fun activities to do with a plus one (or someone you’re courting), making it one of the best places in North America for dating. Scrounging for ideas ahead of your next date?
Swipe right on this list of things to do in New York; you’re sure to find an idea that’ll no doubt sweep them off their feet.
Iconic NYC Landmarks
Romcoms and New York City seem to go hand in hand, don’t they? Create movie magic of your own by visiting some of these iconic NYC landmarks with your significant other.
Take a Romantic Stroll in Central Park
Take a romantic stroll around Central Park—like Harry and Sally in When Harry Met Sally. Whether you visit during spring with nature in full bloom or peak autumn as the leaves tumble or in winter, when the first fall of snow glistens, the park is the perfect spot for a special date night.
The park feels like a never-ending world to discover: The Central Park Zoo, the Central Park Carousel, and the Bethesda Terrace.
Not really into “doing” stuff? Even the people-watching is sure to entertain you. Or find a spot on Umpire Rock and catch the mighty Midtown skyline in all its glory. Just being outside in the heart of the city will fuel your passion. You can enjoy the sunset from the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. Honestly, we’re feeling the love already.
💡 Did you know? In Central Park, you can forage wild carrots, burdock root, dandelion greens, and Szechuan peppers, to name a few. You can end the date by bringing home your bounty and whipping a hearty, home-cooked meal. We bet you’ll savor it even more knowing you hunted these ingredients yourself!
Check out the Views from Brooklyn Bridge
Stroll or pedal across the Brooklyn Bridge, and you’ll be rewarded with glittering views of the breathtaking Manhattan skyline. While this iconic spot is breathtaking any time of day, we find it most magical at sunset or in the evening. Picture yourself standing beneath its cables, looking out at the East River as the city lights sparkle on the water’s surface.
Could this be the perfect spot for that first kiss? Maybe a wedding proposal? No matter your intention, the Brooklyn Bridge is the perfect backdrop for creating a sentimental moment you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Admire Art at the Museum of Modern Art
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is where we come when we need a creative reset. The works here have a way of inspiring us and challenging us to look within ourselves.
Though New York City boasts nearly 300 museums across its five boroughs, MoMA is a favorite we come back to again and again. Probably because it feels brand new every time. For these reasons and more, it’s a great visit for art-loving couples or first dates.
Tour the museum’s many floors as you gaze upon works by Warhol, Dali, or Picasso. Charm your date with a trip to the MoMA gift shop! Its shelves are replete with oddities and curiosities, not to mention art books that would elevate any coffee table. Consider an afternoon here, an afternoon well spent.
💡 Fun fact: If you and your date love exploring museums, then The Museum of Interesting Things is a must. Like a speakeasy for art lovers, this roaming museum offers private tours of its collection—a vast assortment of quirks and eccentricities like antique toys, bizarre inventions, and old school scientific equipment.
Experience the Joy of Broadway Shows Together
When in New York City, experiencing Broadway shows together is a must! We’re biased, because we prefer life on the stage and in the spotlight, but attending a Broadway show is an unforgettable evening waiting to unfold.
There are anywhere between 30-50 shows on Broadway every night, so you’ve got options. Iconic productions like Chicago, Wicked, or The Lion King are classics for a reason—each combines powerful songwriting meets gripping storytelling.
Newcomer like Hamilton or Sunset Boulevard will teach you a thing or two. If you’re looking for a little levity, The Book of Mormon or Oh! Mary will have you and your date in stitches.
Tour the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
Embark on a tour of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island if you’re looking to explore historic landmarks on your next date. Ellis Island is a federally owned island in the New York City harbor.
It was once the largest immigration inspection station. Now, the island houses a national museum of immigration, educating visitors on the country’s history of immigration.
Wander through these historic landmarks as a pair, learning about immigration, freedom, and the history of America, all while taking in gorgeous views of the Manhattan skyline. It’s a date that’s certain to be as memorable as it is meaningful, especially if you and your plus one are history buffs.
Circus Fun Awaits You!
Why juggle plans when you can watch the pros? Discover amazing circus shows in New York Amazement guaranteed!
NYC's Vibrant Dining Scene
Dating can work up an appetite. Luckily, New York City is considered a food capital, with almost 50,000 restaurants in the five boroughs. Though we don’t have space in this article to cover them all, we did want to highlight some of our coups de coeur (that’s French for “our favorites”).
Dine at Chelsea Market for Diverse Cuisine
The Chelsea Market, located in the West Side neighborhood of the same name, is one of the best places to eat in New York City if you and your date are looking to explore different cultures and culinary options.
With the motto of “building community through food,” the Chelsea Market welcomes folks from all walks of life to indulge in what bridges communities: food. It houses over 55 merchants and vendors—which means you’re bound to find something that satisfies your cravings here.
And, even if you and your date don’t have the same taste in flavor, the food hall’s numerous kiosks mean you can sit face-to-face (or side-by-side) enjoying the meal you want to eat.
Savor Dinner at Iconic NYC Restaurants
New York is home to many icons—and yes, we mean its many restaurants. A sure-fire way to impress your date is by bringing them to any of these famed institutions. Whether you’re keen on classic or modern cuisine, dining out in New York City means the meal and the experience are sure to be memorable. Some notable mentions:
The Russian Tea Room, which first opened in 1926, is a high society destination. Serving brunch, lunch, dinner, and cocktails, the Russian Tea Room has served cultural luminaries, celebrities, and folks from all spheres of society.
Setting foot here is like taking a trip back in time—its turn-of-the-century Art Deco décor hasn’t changed one iota since it first opened, evoking the kind of opulence you can expect to find in an Edith Wharton novel.
The Ritz Carlton New York, Central Park, overlooks Central Park. Just a stone’s throw from some of New York City’s major attractions, the hotel is synonymous with luxury. Though room service is never a bad idea (especially if you’re a newlywed honeymooning here), you ought to check out the Contour Gastro Bar & Lounge—a gourmet experience that lets you taste the lavishness with every bite.
The Plaza, A Fairmont Hotel has appeared in many of your favorite movies based in New York City, including Hitchcock’s North by Northwest, Sleepless in Seattle Home Alone 2: Lost in New York.
💡 Fun fact: According to Open Table, it would take over 22 years to eat at every single NYC restaurant—that’s longer than some marriages last!
Sip Cocktails at Trendy Manhattan Bars
Channel your inner Carrie Bradshaw and sip a cosmopolitan (or drink of your choosing) at any of Manhattan’s trendy bars. There’s one on seemingly every corner, whatever neighborhood you’re exploring. Raise a glass, enjoy the ambiance, and make it a night to remember—because in Manhattan, behind every sip, there’s a story waiting to be told.
Taste Wine at Local NYC Wine Bars
Visit any of New York City’s numerous wine bars for a bottle of wine tasting experience like none other. Too many spots to choose from? Wine-loving couples will be bubbling with delight to learn about a Wine Tasting Guided Tour, which lets you sample different appellations. It’s unique, romantic, and a special way to spend some time together.
Unique Experiences
Turns out “Unique New York” is more than just a tongue twister—this major metropolitan city is chock-full of interesting, peculiar, and exciting activities that go beyond the definition of a “normal” date. Really want to impress? These experiences are worth exploring.
Cruise the Hudson River at Sunset
Dinner and drinks are lovely, but sometimes all you need is a good view of New York. One of our favorites? Peering up at the mighty Manhattan skyline from the comfort of a boat tour careening across the Hudson River.
Check out all that Event Cruises NYC has to offer, which has different departure times, dinner options, and much more at various price points. Call it a different kind of date night.
Wander the High Line for Scenic Views
Sure, the High Line might sound like the kind of tight rope our trapeze artists would gracefully walk across, amazing audiences. The High Line is much more accessible than that: it’s actually a 1.45-mile-long elevated park-slash-walkway located on the West Side of Manhattan.
The High Line was built on an unused railway that ran the same distance, but in the mid-2000s was transformed into one of the city’s most beloved outdoor walks.
To access the High Line, head to the Chelsea Market, then turn to 10th Ave. and 16th street, head up the steel stairs. It’s open every day from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.—and if you’re looking for a great spot for a first kiss, this might just be it.
The High Line is part-public art space, part city trail. As you trek along, you’ll encounter public art works. At various points, you’ll see stairs—head down them and you’ll probably encounter some great restaurants, cafés, or wine bars.
Not only is the High Line a great spot for a date, but it’s also been named as one of the top spots in New York for meeting people. Who knows, your soulmate could be strolling alongside you as you sightsee?
💡 Fun fact: The High Line is for more than just summer days. Summer nights here are an even more romantic experience. Between the months of April and October, park-goers enjoy coming here to engage in some serious stargazing—high-powered telescopes along the path let you look out at the stars above and imagine worlds away.
Attend Live Music Events in the City
If you and your significant other are fans of live music, then New York is a city that will not disappoint. It should come as no surprise that a city buzzing as brightly as this one is a great spot for catching live music performances on just about every block.
There are literally endless options—on every block, you’re sure to encounter live music in a dim-lit room, whether you’re searching for a low-key jazz club or a high-energy country bar. If classical music is more your tune, be sure to check out an online resource like Bachtrack to find out classical music, opera, or ballet performances happening in town.
Explore Bryant Park's Seasonal Activities
Bryant Park is located in the heart of New York City and hosts numerous must-see events all year long. You’ll find this park right behind the New York Public Library. It’s a popular spot, welcoming more than 12 million visitors across its 10-acre grounds.
During winter, the Bryant Park Corporation (the organization that maintains the sanctity of the park) sets up an admission-free ice rink. Be sure to visit during the holidays—you’ll find plenty of holiday shops set up, which are great for buying a special someone a special something.
Naturally, the park transforms in spring and summer: fitness classes, book clubs, and tons of other activities are held here. Beyond that, the park hosts numerous cultural events including, on occasion, live performances like classical musicians, opera singers, or theatrical performances.
It’s a great spot for a spontaneous date because, like romance itself, you never know what you’ll find wandering through Bryant Park.
Cultural and Historical Attractions
New York City is a treasure trove of culture and history, offering countless spots for couples who love to learn and explore together. Whether you're admiring architectural marvels or uncovering the city's literary and artistic past, these destinations make for memorable and enriching date ideas. Perfect for couples interested in learning together.
Visit the Empire State Building for Skyline Panoramic Views
The Empire State Building is a great way to take your dating game to new heights (and we mean that literally). Ride the elevator up to the 102nd floor observatory for breathtaking views that offer a backdrop straight out of a movie (like the climax in the Sleepless in Seattle).
Whether you bring your date here to catch the sunset or to enjoy the night glow of the skyline, visiting this landmark is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of date. Because until you see New York City from way, way up, you haven’t quite seen New York City.
Explore Rockefeller Center's Many Attractions
Rockefeller Center is one of the city’s most popular attractions—from its sweaty-palm-inducing “Top of the Rock” observation deck to its ice rink (which happens to be one of the most famous in the world), there’s plenty to do and see in this historic attraction. Take a guided tour of NBC Studios or catch a show at the iconic Radio City Music Hall—it’s all here.
💡 Fun fact: Did you know the famous Lunch atop a Skyscraper photo—that renowned image of 11 men sitting on a steel beam hovering over the city—was a staged photograph to promote Rockefeller Center’s imminent opening to the public?
Discover History in Greenwich Village
Take a stroll through the charming streets of Greenwich Village, a neighborhood steeped in history and culture. Explore its past, a past that helped bring American icons like Bob Dylan and Jack Kerouac to the mainstream. In Greenwich Village, every step you take tells a new story—every building, every street corner deserves to be learned about.
💡 Fun fact: Lovers of literature, take note: The Literary Pub Crawl in Greenwich Village allows you to hear stories, poems, and prose of famous writers who shaped American Literature.
Tour the New York Botanical Garden
The New York Botanical Garden is worth exploring, especially in the summer. Here, visitors are invited to escape the action of the city and instead, surround themselves in natural beauty. It’s a peaceful retreat in a romantic setting—yes, we might have just given you your next Valentine’s Day date idea.
Your date will adore being surrounded by bright flowers and lush greenery. Make sure to check out what seasonal exhibits are on. The New York Botanical Garden is a great destination for nature-lovers.
Outdoor Adventures
No city does the outdoors quite like New York.
Enjoy Outdoor Movies in NYC Parks
Nothing beats the charm of watching movies under the stars in NYC's parks. Pack a blanket, grab some snacks, and cozy up for an evening of cinematic magic with your loved ones—all for free!
Take a Scenic Walk Along Fifth Avenue
Iconic and full of charm, Fifth Avenue offers the perfect combination of historic landmarks and luxury shopping. Wander through its bustling streets hand-in-hand, discovering the city's timeless appeal.
Experience Outdoor Art Installations in NYC
Turn your strolls into a cultural journey by exploring NYC's stunning outdoor art installations. These creative expressions bring the city's streets to life and offer a unique way to connect with its artistic heartbeat.
Tips for Planning NYC Dates
Planning a perfect date in NYC requires a little creativity, a touch of magic, and knowing what your partner enjoys. Our date ideas are a start, but planning accordingly takes a little effort.
Whether you’re exploring the city for the first time, or you’re a born-and-raised New Yorker, setting the right tone is the key to a successful date.
Make sure your partner is a fan of what you’ve got planned—they might not enjoy attending a Knicks game if they’ve never watched basketball before. Similarly, the time of year and your budget are all factors to consider so make sure you plan activities that fit with you and your date’s budget and lifestyle.
Find Budget-Friendly Date Ideas in NYC
Though you may want to secure reservations at that hot new restaurant in Tribeca, don’t worry: There are plenty of things to do in New York City that won’t break the bank.
Take a stroll along the High Line, plan a picnic in Central Park, or look out for pay-what-you-can nights at the city’s numerous museums. Budget-friendly doesn’t have to mean boring.
Discover Hidden Gem Date Spots in NYC
Trying to keep a low profile? NYC’s many hidden gems have you covered. The city is filled with speakeasies like Please Don’t Tell (PDT) in the East Village, Attaboy in the Lower East Side, or Bathtub Gin in Chelsea.
Plan Seasonal Date Activities in NYC
Not all cities can claim this, but NYC reinvents itself every season. Come during spring to admire the cherry blossoms at Brooklyn Botanic Gardens. Enjoy rooftop pools during the summer. Enjoy the changing leaves strolling through one of the city’s sprawling parks during the fall and hit the ice rink at Rockefeller Center in winter.
Whatever time of year you visit, you can be sure that there’s no shortage of seasonal activities you and your date can enjoy together.
Choose Intimate Settings for Romantic Evenings
When the mood calls for something more romantic, NYC has plenty of intimate settings to choose from. Vibe, on a date, is everything. Luckily for you, we consider ourselves to be excellent curators of vibe. Some additional date night suggestions for setting the mood include:
A candlelight dinner for two at the famed NYC institution, One if by Land, Two if by Sea (called one of the “most romantic restaurants in the world”), a gondola ride in Central Park, or drinks at the RH rooftop in the Meatpacking District are just what we mean by setting the mood.
These venues and activities are each intimate and romantic in their own unique ways—the perfect ideas for enchanting and impressing a potential lover.
A Perfect NYC Date Awaits…At One of our Shows
In a city overflowing with good eats, magical performances, and activities as far as the eye can see, it’s easy to see what makes date night in New York City an unforgettably romantic experience.
Now that you’ve read through some of our favorite date ideas, it’s time to put them into action. Whether you and your lover stroll through sprawling Central Park hand-in-hand or decide to catch a Broadway performance and let the magic of the stage seduce you, you’ll be amazed by the near-limitless activities you can do.
While you’re at it, why not experience a dream world of another kind at one of our shows in New York? Like the Big Apple itself, our larger-than-life performances delight the senses, and leave you buzzing and wanting for more.