A weekend getaway in New York City offers plenty of opportunities for romantic day and night activities for couples. Whether you’re into a big night out on the town or want to keep things low-key, every tourist couple can find New York date activities that match their interests.
Given the sheer magnitude of the city’s entertainment offerings, there’s no shortage of new things to do or places to visit for a romantic experience. Discover these romantic things to do in New York City for your next getaway with your partner.
1. Carriage Ride in Central Park
Central Park is one of New York City’s most visited urban parks, offering stunning landscaping across 834 acres. Beautiful in every season, Central Park is a great place to visit for couples who love nature or outdoor activities. During your visit to Central Park, try one of the most popular New York date activities: a horse carriage ride throughout the park.
The park offers private carriage rides between 30 and 90 minutes that offer narration and plenty of scenic views. Throughout your ride, sit back and relax with your partner as you explore the many landmarks and famous gardens across Central Park.
Looking for a daytime activity in Central Park? A romantic picnic on the grass, with a stroll through the park, is great for a romantic day date.
Carriage Ride Highlights:
- Covers available during inclement weather
- Relaxing and romantic
- Advanced tickets and walk-up tickets are available ($120 for 30 minutes, $160 for 45 minutes)
- Romantic add-ons available such as flowers and chocolate
- Video and photography add-ons available
2. Sunset Cruise on Yacht Manhattan
A sunset cruise on Yacht Manhattan is the perfect idea for romantic things to do in New York City for a date night. This unique sunset cruise will take you and your partner across the Hudson and NY Harbor, offering 360-degree views of the island from the open deck or glass observatory. Lasting a total of 1.5 hours, each couple will get assigned a private table to use throughout the tour.
In addition to the stunning sunset views, each passenger can enjoy a free beer, wine or champagne throughout the journey. This date night idea showcases the best New York City romantic places, captured in a romantic sunset appearance.
Sunset Cruise Highlights:
- Lasts an hour and a half
- Alcoholic beverages available
- Climate controlled cabin
- Highlights NYC’s top monuments, including the Empire State Building, Statute of Liberty and more
3. Empire State Building Observation Deck
The Empire State Building Observation Deck is another great spot for New York date activities, with breathtaking views of the city skyline. This iconic New York must-do has an observation deck on the 86th floor. If you and your partner are lucky enough to visit on a clear day, you can even see across six states! Before you visit, be sure to check out the website since reservations are required.
To extend your date night, you can also find other romantic things to do in New York City right inside the Empire State Building. The STATE Grill and Bar has a great date-night dinner atmosphere, with NY-inspired menu classics such as New York State Frites.
Empire State Building Observation Deck Highlights:
- $44 a person for adults
- 86th-floor observation deck
- Great views at night
- Express passes are available to skip the line
- Views of Manhattan and Brooklyn
4. New York Botanical Gardens
Located in the Bronx, New York Botanical Gardens is located on 250 acres, offering many beautiful flowers to explore. Perfect for daytime New York date activities, an all-garden pass includes daytime access to the gardens, as well as access to the Tram Tour.
New York Botanical Gardens Highlights:
- Nature-inspired, romantic atmosphere
- Adult tickets are $35 per day
- Great for spring, summer or fall date activities
- Featured seasonal events to explore
- Bar cart to enjoy alcoholic beverages
5. One If By Land, Two If By Sea Dinner
Known as New York City’s most romantic dinner date spot, plan an unforgettable dinner at One If By Land, Two If By Sea. Complete with a dimmed, candlelit environment, the atmosphere at this renowned dining location is unforgettable.
On the menu, you and your partner can enjoy a classic three-course meal, complete with ideal wine pairings. If you’re planning a visit to the Big Apple, be sure to book your reservation for this dinner date location far in advance. Not only is this location one of the best New York City romantic places, but it was even voted the fifth most romantic restaurant in the world by Architectural Digest.
One If By Land, Two If By Sea Highlights:
- Classic menu
- World-renowned romantic atmosphere
- Three-course meals
- Renowned wine selection
- Top-tier food, from starts to desserts
6. Broadway Shows
Attending a Broadway show is a classic New York experience, perfect for a romantic date night. Experiencing a show for the first time together is both unique and romantic, offering plenty of opportunities for conversation starters. After or before the show, complete your date night at one of New York City’s best restaurants or grab ice cream to keep the date night fun going.
Broadway Show Highlights:
- Always something new to explore
- Unique and NYC classic
- Perfect for theatre and entertainment-loving couples
- Classy date option
- AAA members are eligible for discounted Broadway show tickets
Finding Your Perfect Romantic Date Spot in New York City
Couples with a variety of different interests can find plenty of New York date activities in some of the most romantic cities across the city. Couples looking for a laid-back evening will love the sunset cruise on Yacht Manhattan, whereas couples seeking sightseeing experiences will love the mesmerizing views from the Empire State Building’s Observation Deck.
Book your New York City trip with a AAA agent today! Our travel agents make planning a trip easy, with access to vacation packages and a la carte planning options for every budget. Use your AAA membership for access to exclusive travel benefits, and use Trip Canvas for travel inspiration.