If you want the all-time best New York City date ideas then you’ve come to the right place, my friend.
I mean, not only is New York City easily one of the most romantic cities in the world (there’s a reason why classic rom-coms like When Harry Met Sally and Sleepless in Seattle have been filmed here) but I’ve lived here for well over 30 years.
Therefore, I know all about top date night ideas in New York City that are a bit more unusual and that don’t consist of all the all-too-common, dinner and drinks at your favorite neighborhood restaurant.
So, if you want to jazz things up a bit and try something a little bit different, then here are some stellar top date night ideas in NYC that you will DEFFO want to check out.
Because regardless of whether it’s your first date or your 25th wedding anniversary, you deserve an extra special evening out on the town that embraces the sometimes all too hidden romantic whimsy of the city that never sleeps.
This way, you can get out of the monotony of everyday life and enjoy some of the most romantic things to do in NYC with the one you love the most.
Yeah, it’s a crazy wild world where you’ll get to enjoy some of the best things to do in NYC.
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Where to Stay in NYC
🏆 Looking for the BEST HOTEL IN NEW YORK CITY? I highly recommend booking The James New York. It is a midrange hotel with ultra comfy rooms that are guaranteed to make you feel extra special on your birthday. 🏨
Looking to plan a romantic weekend getaway in NYC? If so then here are some amazing hotels in the city that you and your partner will love, regardless of your budget.
You’ll also love the quiet charm of this place since it’s located inside a historic home from 1918. However, it offers modern amenities like queen-size beds, TVs, and bedside shelves since the entire facility has been totally renovated and is conveniently located near some of the best Indian restaurants in NYC.
The Arlo Midtown (Mid-range) – This great, budget-friendly hotel can be found in Hell’s Kitchen and is just a super sleek, supremely modern place.
In-room amenities also include things like mini-fridges, flat-screen TVs, and iPod docks. Plus, there’s even a game room that you and your partner can use should you fancy a game of table tennis.
The James New York (mid-range) – This Nomad area hotel is known for it’s chic, clean, and well-appointed rooms, which start at around $170 per night.
In-room highlights include stylish decor, floor-to-ceiling windows, high ceilings, glass enclosed bathrooms, and all natural linens.
Service is also top-notch, making this a great home base from which to exepreince various date night ideas in NYC.
Lotte New York Palace (luxury) – Easily one of the best hotels in all of New York City, this gorgeous 4.5-star establishment sits right across the street from St. Patrick’s Cathedral and is nestled inside a mansion from the 19th-century.
Rooms here are also stunning and come with flatscreen TVs, Wifi, designer toiletries, 24/7 room service, and anything else you need for a comfortable stay.
There’s also a French bakery, spa, and wood-panneled bar on-site for added convenience.
Best New York City Date Ideas
🏆 Looking for the best DATE NIGHT ideas in NYC? Then book this helicopter tour today! It is such an amazing experience to get a bird’s eye view of the city. What could be more memorable than soaring over the city with your loved one! 🚁
1. Stroll through the New York Botanical Gardens
One of the most romantic date night ideas in NYC is a simple stroll through the New York Botanical Garden. After all, these 250 acres of land are filled with blooming flowers and thriving greenery that easily makes this one of the best parks in NYC.
So, stop and smell the flowers in the rose garden, explore the 50-acre forest, and learn about New York’s indigenous flora in the native plant garden. If you time it right, you can also visit during one of the New York Botanical Garden’s bar cart nights!
Then, you and your date can sip on cocktails, listen to live music, and admire the lovely plans.
Address: 2900 Southern Blvd, The Bronx, NY 10458
Hours: Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm; Closed on Mondays
Price: Tickets start at $22 per person.
How to get there: Head to Grand Central and take a train to either Fordham or the Bontanical Gardens station and walk from there.
2. Take a Couples’ Cooking Class
New York City is known for its wide variety of cuisines. And while that means that you can eat food from all over the world, you can also learn how to make some of those incredible dishes too! And some of the most popular couples’ cooking classes in NYC are the ones held at La Scuola at Eataly.
So, learn how to make some of your favorite Italian dishes and gain a better understanding of which wines to pair with too.
However, if you’re a couple with a giant sweet tooth then you may prefer the Chocolate Making 101 class at Tache Artisan Chocolate. During this class, you’ll get to mold and decorate your own chocolate candies – and of course, take some home to enjoy later.
3. Book a Food Tour
If you want to try foods from all around the world but don’t want to make them yourself then you can always book a food tour for the two of you!
I mean, there are so many different food tours in NYC that you’ll definitely find one to suit your own personal tastes. And one popular option is this romantic Italian food tour of Little Italy.
It’s two hours long, costs around $50 per person, and allows you to sample everything from freshly made ricotta cheese to warm pizza to prosciutto-dotted bread. Otherwise, if you prefer sweet to savory, then all my fellow dessert lovers out there will love this NYC underground donut tour.
Because over the course of two glorious hours you’ll get to sample decadent donut delights from Doughnut Plant, Donut Pub, Doughnut Project, and more – and all for just $50.00 per person.
However last, but not certainly not least, is this fabulous Hell’s Kitchen food tour. It’s one of the best date night ideas in NYC for you if you want to sample a little bit of everything since you’ll get to try curry puffs, empanadas, custom-made donuts, and so much more.
And while it’s a little bit more expensive for NYC it’s also incredibly well-reviewed and totally worth the splurge since I’ve done it myself and had a really good time.
4. Enjoy a Romantic Brunch Cruise Through New York Harbor
Want to take your date night game to the NEXT level? If so then this romantic brunch cruise is one of the best date night ideas in NYC for you!
Trust me on this. I mean, I’ve personally tried all of the best brunch spots in NYC but this one-of-a-kind experience allows you to get extra fancy (and romantic) as you enjoy sweeping views of New York Harbor and dig into fresh bagels, delicious quiche, incredible salmon, and a variety of exquisite pastries.
“This was one of our favourite activities we did in NY. The boat was bigger than anticipated and the food and service was spot on ! This was the brunch tour and it was a lovely 3 course meal with unlimited mimosas (we all came off the boat quite tipsy). The dj was a great addition too! All the staff were fantastic and Mickey who was our waiter deserves a special mention as he was fab. Thank you. I would definitely recommend this boat trip and if/when I return to NY I will be re-booking.”
Nicole (read more reviews now!)
Then, wash all of this foodie goodness down with your choice of champagne, Mimosas, or Bloody Marys as you relax for 3 hours aboard a next-level gorgeous, 1920s-era luxury yacht.
So, as you make yourself feel at home among the large windows, comfortable booths, and exquisite wood tables, take in enchanting views of the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge.
Because if you’re looking for a date in NYC to remember then THIS is the perfect experience for you! You can also check out the best dinner cruise in NYC if you want a late-night experience to remember.
Address: Chelsea Piers (Pier 62) at W. 22nd and Hudson River (this is the meeting point)
Hours: Cruises depart at either 10:00 am or 10:45 am on Saturdays and Sundays and last around three hours.
Price: $154.00 per person.
How to Get There: Take the 1 train to 23rd Street station and then the M23-SBS bus to the 12th Avenue and West 23rd Street.
5. Solve Your Way Through an Escape Room
Escape rooms are always a fun date night idea in NYC. That’s because you and your date have to put your heads together to figure your way out of a (simulated) tricky situation. And while there are dozens of escape rooms scattered throughout New York City, The Escape Game New York City is one of my faves.
In fact, they have all sorts of themed escape room experiences for you to try – from an art heist to a prison break to an elementary school classroom. This escape room is also so good that an average of 2,000+ people have given them a five-star rating.
However, another great alternative is Escape the Room NYC. It also has its fair share of fun escape rooms, including the clocktower and the submarine.
So, the only question that remains is which option will you and your date choose as you explore all the best date night ideas in New York City?
Address: 295 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10017
Hours: Open daily from 8:00 am to 12:00 am.
Price: Starts at $42.99 per person.
How to Get There: Take the 4/5/6/7 train to Grand Central and walk from there.
6. Experience Molecular Gastronomy
So far on this list of the best New York City date ideas, I’ve included a couple of food-focused ideas. But, none of them are quite like molecular gastronomy. See, molecular gastronomy is a modern form of cooking that adds creative science to each meal.
This can come in the form of fun foams, liquid nitrogen, or even syringe infusions. Therefore, watching these dishes come to life is almost like watching a science experiment come to life!
That’s why, if you too have a love of food and molecular gastronomy, then be sure to check out iconic eateries like Atera, Momofuku Ko, and Eleven Madison Park.
Yup, these are just a few of my favorite molecular gastronomy restaurants in NYC today.
7. Enjoy Afternoon Tea/High Tea at the King’s Carriage House
There are quite a few epic spots for afternoon tea in New York City. But King’s Carriage House is a personal favorite. Just step inside and you’ll immediately feel as if you’ve been transported back to the Victorian era.
Plus, King’s Carriage House has a wide variety of teas for guests to choose from. You can also order quite a few tasty snacks to pair with your tea, including fingers sandwiches and adorable tartlets.
And if you’d like a full meal with your tea, you can upgrade to a tasty entree as well.
Pro Tip: Visit after a trip to the MET since this place is conveniently located on the Upper East Side. This is also a great affordable alternative to afternoon tea at the Plaza Hotel.
Address: 251 E 82nd St, New York, NY 10028
Hours: Open Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm and Thursday through Saturday from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm.
Price: Starts at $29.95 per person for afternoon tea, with a high tea service priced at $39.95 per person.
How to Get There: Take the 4/5/6 train to 86th street station and walk from there.
8. Hop Aboard a Sunset Cruise
⭐️ Rating: 4/5.0 ( 167 Reviews) Price: $35.28 per person Duration: 1 hour 📍Meeting Point: Head straight to the Majestic Princess boat at Pier 36. Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
New York City at sunset is absolutely magical. I mean, the city’s skyline is already super impressive, but when it’s bathed in a vibrant golden glow, it’s even cooler.
However, for the best view of the city at sunset, try a sunset cruise. After all, if you’re out on the water, very few things can obstruct your view.
“It was fun. Couldn’t actually go in the island and see the Statue of Liberty but we were able to get close enough for pictures which was cool.”
Jasmine (read more reviews now!)
And there’s really no better sunset cruise in New York City than this Classic Harbor Line Cruise. Not only has this experience received an average of 4.9 stars (out of 5) from 100+ users, but this fabulous 2-hour cruise aboard a local 105-foot, 1800s-era schooner allows you to see the city an entirely new way.
So, cozy up next to your loved one with a complimentary alcoholic beverage in hand as you take in awe-inspiring views of Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty – all while effortlessly gliding across New York Harbor.
Address: Chelsea Piers (boat departs from here)
Hours: Departs Friday through Monday and Wednesdays at around 6:45 pm (varies by month depending on when the sunset is) and lasts for 2 hours.
Price: Starts at $86.00 per person.
How to Get There: Take the C train to 23rd street and walk from there.
9. Watch a Movie Under the Stars at Bryant Park
There’s always something to do at Bryant Park. For example, every summer, Bryant Park hosts free movie screenings on Monday nights. These usually include fun classics that everyone will enjoy, including Mrs. Doubtfire, Clueless, and Moulin Rouge!
So, all you have to do is bring a blanket for you and your partner to sit on and stop by the Breads Bakery kiosk for some delicious chocolate babka for dessert.
Yup, this is easily one of the best and most affordable New York City date night ideas on this list since you can picnic under the stars while watching a fun movie.
Pro Tip: Get there early since this park isn’t super big and spots on the lawn fill up fast.
Address: Bryant Park, New York, NY 10018
Hours: Typically on Monday and Tuesday evenings throughout the summer. Movies also start once the sun goes down and it gets dark.
Price: Free
How to Get There: Take any train to Times Square or Grand Central and walk from there.
10. Book a Helicopter Tour
⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5.0 ( 2108 Reviews) Price: $229 per person Duration: 15 -30 minutes 📍Meeting Point: Meeting point may vary depending on the option booked Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
If you want to splurge on one of the best New York City date ideas on this list then
So, keep an eye out for iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Central Park, and Yankee Stadium during your 35 to 45-minute flight.
“Wow! What an incredible experience. The helicopter tour was fanrastic from start to finish. We were running late due to taxi driver going to wring location and the staff were so helpful in ensuring we were kept informed. We were then able to fly after slight delay. Katheleen Patricia was particularly accomodating-extremely professional and a delight.”
Claire (read more reviews now!)
Plus, in addition to the sweeping panoramas, you’ll also get to learn some fun facts about New York City, making this one of the more unique date ideas NYC has to offer.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for bad weather and if it’s super overcast you can always cancel your flight up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund. And for an extra romantic experience, book the sunset flight.
Address: Ross Aviation, 67 Tower Road, Harrison, NY 10604.
Hours: Flights depart every half hour between 4:30 pm and 7:00 pm daily.
Price: $730 for a group of three or $244 per person. FYI, the 7:00 pm, sunset flight is more expensive and costs $1000 for three people.
How to Get There: Take a Harlem line train to White Plains station from Grand Central, and then a taxi/Uber from the station to the airport.
11. Embrace Your Inner Rebel with a Graffiti Art Workshop
Since New York is such a big city, it should come as no surprise that you can find a number of quirky attractions that are perfect for dates. And one of the most unique date ideas NYC has to offer is a graffiti art workshop with Graff Tours.
During these artist-led workshops and tours, you’ll be able to (legally) leave your mark on the walls of New York City while learning all about some of the best street art in the tri-state area.
Your instructor will teach you and your date everything you need to know, including how to best use spray paint to create a one-of-a-kind mural.
Address: 282 Meserole Street, Brooklyn, NY 11206
Hours: Dates and times vary but they run daily at 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm, and 4:30 pm, with tours at 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm on the weekends. Classes also last about an hour.
Price: Starts at $40.00 per person.
How to Get There: Take the L train to Montrose Avenue Station and walk from there.
12. Go on a Scavenger Hunt
A scavenger hunt is definitely one of the best date night ideas in NYC. After all, what could be more fun than exploring the hidden gems of the city with your partner? Plus, there are SO MANY different kinds of scavenger hunts in NYC that you’re sure to find one that appeals to you.
So, History buffs will be thrilled by Hamilton: The Scavenger Hunt while nature lovers will have loads of fun on The Secrets of Central Park Scavenger Hunt. And foodies, well, they’ll love The Munch Around Greenwich Scavenger Hunt (my personal fave since food + scavenger hunts = heaven).
Therefore, the only question that remains is which fun option will you and your partner pick as you discover all of the amazing New York City date ideas on this list?
Address: Varies by the hunt.
Hours: Usually from 12:00 pm to 2:30 pm on the weekends but can vary. All hunts are around 2.5 hours long.
Price: Tickets start at $24.00 per person.
How to Get There: Varies by the hunt.
13. Head to the Empire State Building
⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5.0 ( 7500 Reviews) Price: $48 per person Duration: 45min – 1 hour 📍Meeting Point: Meeting point may vary depending on the option booked. Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Okay, yes, I know. The Empire State Building is touristy and cliched AF. But it’s also a fantastic date spot and one of many great New York City date night ideas if it’s your first time in the city.
And that’s mostly because Hollywood has helped transform the
“Excellent experience which meets all expectations and beyond. This is the cheapest site I found tickets with the skip the ticket line which helps in a small way but you still have to queue. I recommend getting the earliest possible tickets to get ahead of the crowds. I got the 10am tickets which was the best time as I was one of the first people on the top of 86th floor to get all my photos before the mass amount of people arrived. Overall great quality and reasonable price to pay.”
Joel (read more reviews now)
Yup, both of these iconic films have romantic scenes that take place on the viewing platform on the 86th floor of this 1,454-foot-tall building.
So,
It’s also less crowded if you visit after 9:00 pm – although the views are extra magical at sunset. And if happens to be overcast on the day of your visit, staff members will be happy to exchange your ticket for a different day at no cost to you.
Pro Tip: For one of the more extra special New York City date ideas on this list, visit on Thursday evenings when you can enjoy live saxophone music on the 86th floor.
Address: 20 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001
Hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.
Price: Tickets are typically $45.73 per person.
How to Get There: Take the N, R, or W train to 34th street and Herald Square and walk from there.
14. Spend a Few Hours at Lola Star’s Dreamland Roller Rink
One of the most exciting date night ideas in NYC is skating at Lola Star’s Dreamland Roller Rink! This ‘70s-themed roller disco is the perfect way to spend a night on the town and is easily one of the more unique date ideas NYC has to offer.
So, grab your finest disco-era suit and swing by Lola Star’s Dreamland Roller Rink every Friday from spring through autumn. You’ll find this ultra-snazzy ring in Prospect Park and can happily skate for hours on end!
Address: 1205 Boardwalk, Brooklyn 11224
Hours; Most Friday nights between 8:00 pm and 10:00 pm.
Price: $15.00 for tickets AND skates.
How to Get There: Take the D/F train to Coney island and Stillwell Avenue station or the Q train to West 8th Street and New York Aquarium station and walk from there.
15. Become a Ping Pong Champion at SPiN New York
Many of the best New York City dat ideas include drinks, food, and an activity. Well, SPiN New York delivers on all of these fronts since it is a lounge of sorts that’s primarily known for its ping pong.
Therefore, you’ll find several ping pong tables at SPiN, in addition to a ping pong social league and ping pong competitions for you to take part in. This way you and your date can have loads of fun playing as many games of ping pong as you’d like.
On top of that, there are also tons of food and drinks, like the unique carbonara pizza, the mouthwatering Chad’s Burger, and the decadent red velvet brownie for dessert.
And you definitely don’t want to forget to pair your meal with a drink since some of SPiN’s signature cocktails include the PB&J old fashioned, the sixth burro, and the summer somewhere.
Address: 48 E 23rd St, New York, NY 10010
Hours: Open Monday through Wednesday from 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm, Thursday from 4:00 pm to 12:00 am, Friday from 4:00 pm to 1:00 am, Saturday from 12:00 pm to 1:00 am, and Sunday from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
Price: $49.00 per hour per table.
How to Get There: Take the R/W/6 train to 23rd street and walk from there.
16. Catch a Comedy Show at Comedy Cellar
The Comedy Cellar is considered to be one of the best comedy clubs in the United States. In fact, dozens of famous comedians have performed their sets at this world-renowned venue, including Kevin Hart, Dave Chapelle, and Sarah Silverman.
Who knows, maybe you’ll even get to see one of these comedy icons do what they do best during your visit. Or, perhaps you’ll see a couple of up and coming comedians before they rise to the top and become world-renowned celebrities.
Either way, The Comedy Cellar is THE place to be if you’re looking for the best New York City date ideas of them all.
Just know that there is a 2 beer minimum and 3 beer maximum. This place also sits inside a small basement so it WILL be packed.
Pro Tip: Book your tickets for the Comedy Cellar far in advance! Seats tend to fill up shockingly fast even though they have 30 shows per week. You should also stop by The Olive Tree to go celebrity spotting after the show.
Otherwise, grab some falafel at Mamoun’s Falafel or some spinach artichoke pizza at Artichoke Basille’s.
Address: 117 Macdougal St #1267, New York, NY 10012
Hours: Open Monday through Sunday from 11 am to 3 am.
Price: Tickets are $17 per person plus your 2 beer minimum.
How to Get There: The the A, C, E train or the B, D, F train to the West 4th Street station.
17. Admire the Views from Atop Summit One Vanderbilt
Home to some of the best views in NYC, Summit One Vanderbilt sits near Grand Central Station and is a sky-high observatory with dazzling views of the Big Apple from the 91st through the 93rd floor.
So, walk hand in hand as you explore three incredible floors that are filled with epic, multi-sensory experiences.
These include a mirrored space, a space with reflective orbs, and a space where your face takes shape within the clouds.
You’ll also take stunning photos with the Empire State Building behind you as you enjoy one of the most Instagrammable places in NYC.
However, the real highlight of this date night idea in NYC is a ride inside the world’s largest, outdoor, glass-bottomed elevator.
Address: 45 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
Hours: Open daily from 9:00 am to 10:30 pm.
Price: Tickets start at $42.00 each.
How to Get There: Take the 4/5/6/7/S to Grand Central and walk from there.
18. Sign Up for a Mixology Class
This is one of the best date ideas NYC has to offer if you’re feeling a bit creative.
See, you and your partner can immerse yourself in the exciting world of mixology at Artesano. It’s a hip, Peruvian restaurant in Tribeca that offers these unique and exciting classes twice a month.
For just $85.00, you’ll learn how to create three unique beverages, two of your own design and one created by a pro mixologist.
It’s a great alternative to a traditional date night in NYC and you’ll learn a lot of great bartending skills along the way. Plus, you’ll be able to make a mean Peruvian Pisco by the end of the class.
And if you enjoy your visit, you can always opt for the full-tasting menu and embark on a true culinary journey through Peru.
Address: 90 Chambers St, New York, NY 10007
Hours: Varies
Price: $85.00
How to Get There: Take the A/C to Chambers Street and walk from there.
19. Try a New York Pizza Bus Tour
Definitely one of the most unique things to do in NYC, this New York Pizza Bus Tour is a 4.5-hour extravaganza that takes you to four different pizzerias across two different boroughs.
So, hop aboard the big yellow school bus and get ready to explore the pizza capital of the world – besides Italy.
Just be sure to come hungry since this is one of the best date night ideas in New York City that will have you rolling out the door by the end of the day. It’s also a great way to enjoy a Sunday in NYC.
Address: Meet/get dropped off near South Street Seaport
Hours: Sunday from 11:30 am to 4:00 pm
Price: $85.00 per person.
How to Get There: Take the 2/3 to Fulton Street and walk from there.
20. Explore the Cloisters
While everyone knows about The MET on Fifth Avenue, few people are aware of the branch of the museum that sits in Washington Heights.
Known as The MET Cloisters, this cool museum in NYC sits high atop a hill in Fort Tyron Park and offers visitors sweeping views of the Hudson River.
Add in a bit of medieval architecture, gorgeous gardens, art from the Middle Ages, deteriorating stone apses, and charming pathways, and you have an ideal spot for a first date in NYC.
Just don’t leave without checking out the facility’s world-famous unicorn tapestry.
Address: 99 Margaret Corbin Dr, New York, NY 10040
Hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm, except when they are closed on Wednesdays.
Price: Pay-what-you-wish for NY/CT/NJ residents and $25.00 for everyone else.
How to Get There: Take the 1 train to Dyckman Street and walk from there.
21. Enjoy a Bit of Pampering at AIRE Ancient Baths
Tucked away inside an old textile factory, the AIRE Ancient Baths are now a supremely romantic spa where you can live out one of the best New York City date night ideas of them all.
See, this epic spa in Tribeca will transport you to an ancient Greek bathhouse where you’ll find nothing but peace and serenity.
After all, they offer an array of services (massages/tub soaks) that draw upon the time-honored tradition of soaking in a thermal bath, like they did during the Greek, Roman, and Ottoman empires.
Highlights include steam rooms, thermal pools, and mineral springs that make this place an urban sanctuary of relaxation.
Local Tip: Opt for a couples experience that includes a 90-minute couples massage (+basalt stone and oils), thermal baths, and fruit juice.
Address: 88 Franklin St, New York, NY 10013
Hours: Open daily from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm.
Price: Experiences start at $180.00 each.
How to Get There: Take the 1/2 to Franklin Street and walk from there.
Best Winter Date Ideas NYC
22. Find the Best Hot Chocolate in the City
Chocolate is romantic, and hot chocolate exudes winter warmth. That’s why one of the best winter date ideas NYC has to offer is uncovering the best hot chocolate in the city.
However, New York City is obviously a big place. So, there are tons of awesome spots where you can buy hot chocolate.
To help you on your quest though, check out Jacques Torres Hot Chocolate, Max Brenner, and Dominique Ansel Bakery.
After all, these places all regularly compete for the title of the best hot chocolate in NYC. That being said though, only you and your partner can decide which one is truly the best.
23. Go Ice Skating at the Rink at Rockefeller Center
One of the most iconic things to do during the holiday season in New York is ice skate at the Rink at Rockefeller Center. So, why not go with that special someone for date night? All you have to do is skate around and take in the moment.
The being said, skating at Rockefeller Center has a few major drawbacks. It’s crowded AF, the rink is really small, and skating here is mad expensive.
Therefore, even though skating at Rockefeller Center is technically one of the best winter date ideas NYC has to offer, some of the other rinks your might want to check out include:
- The Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers
- The Rink at Brookfield Place (you can also see the luminaries here too)
- LeFrak Center at Lakeside in Prospect Park
- Wollman Rink in Central Park
- The Rink at Industry City
- The William Vale
Pro Tip: I am honestly not a fan of skating at Rockefeller Center and implore you to skate basically anywhere else as you look for New York City date ideas.
Address: 600 5th Avenue, Rockefeller Center, New York, NY 10020
Hours: Open Monday through Friday from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm and on weekends from 9:00 am to 12:00 am.
Price: General admission starts at $20 per person and does not include skates.
How to Get There: Take almost any train to Times Square and walk from there.
24. Ride Bumper Cars on Ice at Bryant Park
Bryant Park doesn’t just have great ice skating. Because believe it or not, the Winter Village here also allows you to glide across the ice in bumper cars.
So, if you’re visiting NYC in winter then riding in bumper cars across the ice is a super cool experience that you cannot miss.
I mean, regular bumper cars are exciting all on their own. But when the icy rink is added to the mix, you’ll slip, slide, and crash more than ever before as you enjoy one of the best New York City date ideas on this list.
Address: Bryant Park
Hours: Offered from mid-January through early March at the ice rink at Bryant Park. Hours are Monday through Friday from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm and Saturday/Sunday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Price: Between $20.00 and $25.00 per person.
How to Get There: Take the 7/D/F trains or the B/M (weekdays only) trains to Bryant Park and walk from there.
25. Watch a Broadway Show
While some of the best winter date night ideas in NYC embrace the winter weather, others completely avoid it. So, if you’re hoping to stay warm during your NYC date night, then enjoy a fun indoor activity like taking in an awesome Broadway show.
After all, New York City is known for featuring immortal Broadway productions like The Lion King, Hamilton, and Les Misérables.
And since there are dozens of Broadway shows that run upwards of eight times per week, you’ll have loads of options to choose from.
Pro Tip: NEVER pay full price for Broadway tickets. Instead, use the Todaytix app to quickly and easily save 50+% on any tickets you buy. You can also learn how to get cheap Broadway tickets at the last minute now.
26. Dine in the Dark
Dinner in the dark is a truly unique culinary phenomena. As the name implies, this one of the best New York City date ideas where you’ll dine completely in the dark – either due to all of the lights being turned off or because all of the diners are asked to wear blindfolds.
And the goal of these types of restaurants is to limit your other senses – in this case, your sense of sight – to enhance your sense of taste.
And while this may sound odd, there’s actually science to back it up. For the best dinner in the dark experience in NYC though, make your way to Abigail’s Kitchen.
This four-course dinner includes quite a few mouthwatering plates. But, you won’t know what they are until you eat them!
Address: 85 Macdougal Street, New York, NY, 10012
Hours: Dinners run from 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm on Saturdays.
Price: $150 per person
How to Get There: Take the C/E train to Spring Street station or the 1 train to Houston Street station or the B/D/F/M train to West 4th Street and Washington Square station.
27. Experience Romance Under the Stars at Hayden Planetarium
Every Valentine’s Day (which is technically still during winter), Hayden Planetarium hosts “Romance Under the Stars.” The highlight of “Romance Under the Stars” is obviously the stars.
And that makes sense since it’s quite difficult to see stars in New York City due to all the light pollution. But, Hayden Planetarium makes that possible. And that’s amazing, because the star-studded sky makes for quite a romantic setting.
Plus, in addition to all of the stars, “Romance Under the Stars” also includes live music, an open bar, and tasty hors-d’oeuvres. Yup, sounds like a fantastic date night to me and one of the most unique date ideas NYC has to offer.
Address: Hayden Planetarium at the Rose Center for Earth & Space, 175 Central Park West, Manhattan, NY 10023
Hours: From 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Valentine’s Day or the weekend before/after.
Price: $225 per couple.
How to Get There: Take the B/C train to the Museum of Natural History/81st Street or the 1 train to 79th street and walk from there.
28. Go Wine Tasting
While staying indoors is one way to stay warm in the winter, getting some alcohol into your bloodstream is another option. And Red Hook Winery is consistently rated as one of the best wine tasting rooms in the city.
Because with their extensive wine list and stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, it’s absolutely magical and one of the best winter date ideas NYC has…period.
That said, Brooklyn Winery, Aldo Sohm Wine Bar, Astor Wine & Spirits, and Rooftop Reds are all great options too if Red Hook Winery isn’t for you.
Pro Tip: Try the Sacred Heart Red. It’s delicious.
Address: 175 Van Dyke Street Pier 41, Suite 325A, 11231
Hours: Open Thursday through Monday from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm.
Price: You can do a small group tasting (of 6 different wines) for 4-6 guests (for between 45 and 60 minutes) for $25 per person plus tax/tip.
How to Get There: Take the B61 bus to the Van Dyke St/Van Brunt St stop and walk from there.
29. Take a Whiskey Tour at Kings County Distillery
If wine just isn’t strong enough for you then the two of you can head to Kings County Distillery instead. After all, Kings County Distillery has been making fine whiskey for well over a decade and has definitely perfected the craft.
Therefore, you and your date can take one of their tours to learn all bout how they turn grains into this strong, yet tasty spirit.
In addition to taking a tour, you can also book one of Kings County Distillery’s guided whiskey tasting classes so that you can learn all about the how to make whiskey.
Then, during your tasting class, you’ll learn how to identify the best whiskeys around as you enjoy one of the best New York City date ideas of them all.
Address: 299 Sands St, Brooklyn, NY 11205
Hours: Open Monday through Friday from 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm, Saturday from 12:00 pm to 10:00 pm, and Sunday from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
Price: Distillery Tours are $20 per person and “Top Shelf” Distillery tours are $30 per person. Tours are also typically between 45 minutes and 75 minutes long.
How to Get There: Take the A/C to High Street station and walk from there.
30. Spend a Night at Barcade
Barcade is one of the coolest date night ideas in NYC. Because with fun activities and fabulous food, it has everything you need and more from one of the best themed restaurants in NYC.
See, Barcade first opened in 2004 as the original arcade bar. And it’s claim to fame was its wide variety of retro arcade games, many of which are still on-site today!
A few of the most popular ones include Pac-Man Battle Royale, Mortal Kombat II, Daytona USA, and NBA Jam Tournament Edition.
And while the games are the highlight of Barcade, don’t forget about the bar part. So, order a couple of beers on tap, munch on some loaded tots, and devour the pulled pork sliders as you enjoy one of the best New York City date ideas of them all.
Address: 148 W 24th St, New York, NY 10011
Hours: Open daily from 2:00 pm to 2:00 am, with extended hours until 4:00 am on Friday and Saturday.
Price: Cocktails are $14 each and most games are around $0.50 each.
How to Get There: Take the 1 train to 23rd Street station and walk from there.
31. Have Dinner in a Winter Igloo
Every December, winter igloo dining options start to pop up on everyone’s Instagram feeds.
And the second you see these photos, you’ll realize what a great winter date night idea it is! After all, you’ll get to eat delicious food, take in stunning snow-covered city views, and all while staying warm inside a picturesque igloo.
Plus, luckily for you, there are a few different winter igloo dining options in NYC that make for the best winter date ideas NYC has to offer. That is after considering that there are some other really cool themed restaurants in NYC!
So, check out 230 Fifth since they started the city’s igloo dining trend and offer visitors stunning panoramas of the city. Otherwise, City Winery at Rockefeller Center also boasts a fantastic location for its igloos.
And then nearby Bryant Park also has a couple of different igloo dining options scattered throughout the Winter Village that you can rent out, including the Curling Cafe just next door to the ice rink.
32. Get An Adrenaline Rush At A City Climb Skyscraping Experience
⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5 (37 Reviews) Price: $184 per person Duration: 1.5 hours 📍Meeting Point: Hudson Yards Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Are you one of those adventurous couples that have to get out and do something exciting? Odds are you’ve probably ticked off most of the cool date night ideas in NYC and are looking for something different. My suggestion is to climb a skyscraper and no I don’t mean by the stairway indoors.
“It was a truly amazing experience that I will never forget in my life. The guides were really trustworthy and knew how to animate you to let yourself hang above New York City. In our group we were from 3 different continents, and I really liked how multicultural the group was. If I ever return to New York and got some time to spare I will definitely do the City Climb again.”
Alex (read more reviews now!)
Here you’ll be strapped into a harness and you can climb a 1,200 feet skyscraper from the outside. Don’t worry. It’s totally safe. It is not for the faint of heart because while the views are spectacular, the height can get to you.
It isn’t difficult either. This is because there is an actual staircase that spans the height of the Hudson Yards building. But if you want to be a daredevil, you lean out from the highest platform! Talk about an adrenaline rush!
33. Have An Afternoon Of Fun At Luna Park
⭐️ Rating: 4.1/5 (19 Reviews) Price: $58 per person Duration: 4 hours 📍Meeting Point: Coney Island Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!
Dates at amusement parks have a certain kind of thrill attached to them. Not only are they super different from your traditional date ideas, they are a fun way to connect with your partner. Luna Park is located on Coney island so it is super easy to get to. It has a grand total of 35 rides in it.
The best part is that you can buy your 4 hour unlimited pass before so you don’t have to stand in lines to get in. Wondering what rides should top your list when you get in? I recommend the:
- B&B Carousel (one of the most famous rides in the park)
- Astro Tower (also uber popular!)
- Historic Coney Island hurricane
- Zenobio
- The Sling shot
Map of the Best New York City Date Ideas
Amazing Date Night Ideas in NYC FAQ
How Do I Have A Successful Date In NYC?
The trick to a successful date in NYC is to plan in advance. Think about what you and your partner love to do and try to book the activity or the restaurant well in advance.
Remember that the city is constantly bustling and many people probably had the same idea as you do. By booking in advance you can avoid a lot of disappointment.
Also consider trying something new on your date night. Catch a Broadway show, take a helicopter tour or just ice skate. The date night ideas in NYC are endless and you are only limited by your imagination.
What Can You Do On A Day Date In NYC?
NYC is the city that never sleeps and the days are as active as the nights. There are loads of great date ideas in NYC for the day. Here are some of my top picks.
- Take a helicopter tour over the city.
- Take a couple’s cooking class.
- Go for a dancing class together.
- Solve an escape room together.
- Visit VR world NYC.
What Are Some Romantic Date Night Ideas In NYC?
There are loads of fun date night ideas in NYC but if you are looking for something really romantic, don’t worry. I have you covered. These are some of the best romantic date night ideas that the city has to offer.
- Head out on a sunset cruise
- Enjoy high tea at the King’s Carriage House.
- Catch a movie under the stars.
- Head to the Empire State building.
- Indulge in the best hot chocolate in the city.
🏆 Looking for the best DATE NIGHT ideas in NYC? Then book this helicopter tour today! It is such an amazing experience to get a bird’s eye view of the city. What could be more memorable than soaring over the city with your loved one! 🚁
Additional New York Resources You’ll Love
There you have it! That just about wraps up this guide to the best date night ideas in NYC!
Tell me, did your favorite New York City date ideas make the list? If not then let me know in the comments below.
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