New York, often called ‘The City of Dreams, offers numerous breathtaking and heartwarming experiences for couples. From the dazzling lights of Times Square to the serene walkways of Central Park and the excitement of Broadway to street art and food tours, New York’s romantic appeal is sure to charm you. So, how do you plan a New York romantic getaway tailor-made for two? To get a jumpstart on your planning, here are 35 of the best things for couples to do and see in New York!
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, Midtown, Manhattan
For an unforgettable perspective of New York City, consider a visit to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt with your partner. This observation deck offers a breathtaking city view from 1,100 feet (305 meters).
Designed by artist Kenzo Digital, the block-wide, four-story space spans 65,000 square feet. Its highest viewing point, 1,200 feet above the sidewalk, establishes it as the tallest observation site in Midtown Manhattan, surpassing the Empire State Building in height (though still lower than the One World Observatory located in the Financial District).
Beyond its role as an observation deck, SUMMIT offers a unique audiovisual experience. To learn more about this stunning attraction, visit their website at https://summitov.com/.
Related Article: https://www.holidaysforcouples.travel/honeymoon-guide-new-york-city/
Explore the Holiday Season in the City of Manhattan
New York has a festive atmosphere during the holiday season, with dazzling decorations and the aroma of winter treats; there’s something truly magical about spending the holidays in New York City, from strolling through snowy streets to watching the city light up as it transforms into a winter wonderland.
If you’re in N.Y.C. during Christmas, visit the iconic Rockefeller Christmas Tree. The tradition of the Rockefeller Christmas Tree dates back almost a century, to 1931 when construction workers at Rockefeller Center put up a Christmas tree. In 1933, they held the first formal Tree Lighting Ceremony, and the tree was decorated with 700 lights.
A hundred years later, the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is still an enduring tradition. It’s decorated with a beautiful star and colourful lights, gracing Rockefeller Center Plaza on 49th St between Fifth and Sixth Avenues.
Visit Central Park, Upper Manhattan
Begin with a stroll through Central Park, exploring iconic spots such as Bow Bridge, Bethesda Terrace, and The Mall, surrounded by the park’s natural beauty provides a perfect backdrop for a romantic walk.
Rent a rowboat at the Loeb Boathouse and enjoy a peaceful ride on The Lake surrounded by lush greenery and stunning city skyline views. Pack a picnic basket or grab some takeaway food and head to Sheep Meadow, a vast open space where you can relax on the grass and enjoy the sunshine with your loved ones.
To experience the romantic beauty of The Conservatory Garden, the only formal garden in Central Park, visit the meticulously landscaped oasis with manicured lawns, vibrant flowers, and serene fountains.
For a classic touch, consider a horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park, offering a charming experience while snuggling up with your loved one.
You could easily spend many romantic afternoons in New York’s Central Park!
Walk the High Line, Chelsea, Manhattan
Embark on a romantic journey along the High Line in Chelsea, Manhattan, where the elevated walkway is adorned with lush greenery and vibrant plants. Kick off your Chelsea Market experience with dining and shopping before ascending the High Line stairs.
As you rise above the city, the elevated oasis unfolds, offering great views and a serene atmosphere for an intimate and romantic stroll.
Take the Tram to Roosevelt Island, Upper East Side, Manhattan
The Roosevelt Island Tram in New York is a must-do, offering a four-minute aerial journey across the East River from Manhattan to Roosevelt Island. Enjoy spectacular views of Manhattan’s iconic skyline, the East River, and Roosevelt Island. Once on the island, explore its scenic pathways, parks, and landmarks on a stroll together. The entrance to the Roosevelt Island Tram is conveniently located at 2nd Avenue and 60th Street.
See a Show on Broadway
Checking off a Broadway show from your N.Y.C. bucket list is a must. Times Square, usually bustling, undergoes a mesmerising transformation as you stroll into Midtown Manhattan for a theatrical experience.
The magic of a Broadway production lies in its enchanting costumes, immersive sets, irresistible songs, and compelling stories—a true manifestation of dreams.
Explore the Empire State Building, Midtown, Manhattan
Visit the historic Empire State Building for a spectacular view of the city. This historical landmark offers more than just a tour; it provides a gateway to a stunning city view.
Whether you immerse yourself in the building’s rich history or ascend to the viewing deck for an unforgettable experience, the Empire State Building promises to be a monumental highlight of your visit to Manhattan.
Enjoy a Rooftop Pool Day
Experience the luxury of a rooftop pool day in one of the many hotels in Manhattan and Brooklyn. The Pool Club at the Virgin Hotels New York City and the pool at the ever-popular 1 Hotels Brooklyn Bridge offer spectacular views.
AIRE Ancient Baths New York, Tribeca
One of the most unforgettable experiences in New York City is a visit to AIRE Ancient Baths. This place is in Tribeca and will transport you and your partner straight to Europe. With various baths set at different temperatures, it offers a unique and calming experience.
Battle of Tables – Culinary Studio, Little Italy
If you and your partner love cooking, then the Battle of Tables in Little Italy is an ideal place for you. It combines the thrill of a cooking show with the satisfaction of creating a gourmet meal under the guidance of a professional chef.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Upper East Side
No visit to N.Y.C. is complete without a trip to The Metropolitan Museum of Art. The museum houses over 2 million pieces of art and treasures, making it a must-visit for art lovers. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting on weekdays or early weekend mornings.
City Climb, Hudson Yards
For thrill-seeking couples, City Climb offers the highest open-air building climb in the world. At 1200 feet in the air, this adventure will test your fear of heights and reward you with a spectacular city view.
Fun Things for Couples to Do in Brooklyn
A.I.R. Gallery, Brooklyn Heights
Besides world-class museums, N.Y.C. boasts many art galleries, like A.I.R. in Brooklyn Heights. It celebrates contemporary art and supports non-binary individuals and women in the arts.
Williamsburg Food Tasting, Williamsburg
Food lovers should attend the Williamsburg Food Tasting tour. It takes you through the bustling neighbourhood of Williamsburg, letting you savour some of the city’s best delis, pizzerias, and bagel shops.
Artists & Fleas, Williamsburg
For a unique shopping experience, head to Artists & Fleas in Williamsburg. It’s a weekend market where you can browse local art, clothing, jewellery, and other handmade items, supporting small businesses and city vendors.
Graffiti & Street Art Walking Tour in Brooklyn, Bushwick
Explore the vibrant street art and graffiti in Brooklyn. You’ll find works by incredible artists and learn the stories behind their captivating murals. Uncover the personalities and values behind contemporary artists, exploring various styles like murals, wheat paste posters, tags, and stencils. The tour, priced at $32 per person, runs daily at 10:30 am for 2 hours.
Skyline Drive-In N.Y.C., Greenpoint
Skyline Drive in N.Y.C. offers a unique movie-watching experience. It’s a drive-in theatre where you can watch old and new movies on the big screen. Even if you don’t have a car, there are seats for walkers and space for bikes and scooters.
Luna Park in Coney Island, Coney Island
Step back into your childhood with a visit to Luna Park in Coney Island. Play carnival games, ride thrilling roller coasters, and stuff your face with hot dogs and cotton candy for a fun-filled day.
Fun Activities for Couples to Do in The Bronx
Bronx Zoo, Bronx Park
The Bronx Zoo, sprawling across 265 acres, is a must-visit for animal lovers. You can see various animals in their habitats, from giant gorillas and tigers to African-painted dogs and lions.
The New Fulton Fish Market, Hunts Point
A trip to New York is incomplete without a visit to Fulton Fish Market., one of America’s oldest fish markets. Sample different foods or grab some ingredients to cook a delicious dinner later. Just remember to get there early!
Yankee Stadium Tours, Concourse
Baseball fans will want to take advantage of a tour of Yankee Stadium. Whether watching a game or exploring the stadium, you’ll be in for a treat. You could catch a fly ball and go home with the souvenir of a lifetime!
New York Botanical Garden, Bronx Park
Escape from the city’s hustle and bustle with a visit to the New York Botanical Garden. Explore beautiful nature and learn about plants, research projects, and conservation efforts.
Fun Things for Couples to Do in Queens
Asia in Queens: Exploring N.Y.C.’s Largest Chinatown, Jackson Heights
Explore the largest Chinatown in Queens, immersing yourself in its remarkable culinary scene. Discover diverse culinary options from Hong Kong, Vietnam, China, Korea, and beyond by visiting local vendors, food stands, and food courts.
This three-hour excursion promises an authentic Asian culinary experience, highlighting renowned restaurants like Xi’an Famous Foods and Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao. Indulge in delicious hand-pulled noodles and steaming soup dumplings at these acclaimed establishments. Additionally, explore local markets and sample exotic produce such as durian, dragon fruit, and bok choy, offering a unique and uncommon culinary adventure not found in typical grocery stores.
Fun Things for Couples to Do in Staten Island
Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden, Snug Harbor
Discover the charm of Snug Harbor in Staten Island, renowned for its picturesque architecture, heritage buildings, gallery spaces, and stunning gardens.
Spread across 83 acres, some notable features include an ancient-style Chinese Scholar’s Garden, a Tuscan Garden inspired by Florence’s Villa Gamberaia, and the Noble Maritime Collection, showcasing an impressive array of maritime art from the 19th and 20th centuries, including watercolours, oil paintings, lithographs, and photography.
George Theatre, St. George
The St. George Theatre in Staten Island is a vibrant venue hosting Broadway plays, concerts, and comedy shows. Originally opening its doors in December 1929 with a seating capacity of 1.903, the historic theatre underwent a period of closure after transforming into a movie house in 1972, lasting nearly three decades.
In 2004, Rosemary Cappozalo, a Staten Islander and dance teacher, invested her life savings in establishing a nonprofit organisation to rescue the theatre. Managed by Rosemary and her daughters, Luanne Sorrentino and Doreen Cugno, the theatre has since become a cultural arts centre.
Today, it offers diverse activities, including outreach educational programs, architectural tours, television and film shoots, concerts, Broadway touring companies, children’s shows, and numerous local community events and performances.
Explore the Brooklyn Heights Promenade
Experience a romantic stroll along the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, savouring the lovely skyline views, particularly during sunset or early morning. This enchanting 1/3-mile-long stretch of green offers unparalleled perspectives of the Manhattan skyline and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, providing a picturesque escape that overlooks the vibrant industrial waterfront of Brooklyn.
Related article: A comprehensive guide to New York – we break down each area so you can decide which one will be best for you to stay.
N.Y.C.’s Romantic Restaurants for Couples
New York City offers a plethora of phenomenal restaurants. Here are some of the best places for a romantic meal.
Restaurant DANIEL, Upper East Side, Manhattan
Chef Daniel Boulud has crafted an iconic and upscale dining experience at his renowned Restaurant, DANIEL, right in the heart of Manhattan. The ambience is elegant yet formal, with a jacket dress code and impressive artwork gracing the dining room. Widely acclaimed for its exquisite French cuisine, Restaurant DANIEL consistently delivers exceptional food and service, making it an ideal choice for a romantic evening in New York City. It’s a little pricey, and you must book in advance. Still, if you’re looking for a top-tier experience on a special occasion in a city celebrated for its culinary offerings, this place fits the bill perfectly.
Ai Fiori, Midtown, Manhattan
Ai Fiori is an excellent choice for gourmet Italian and French Riviera cuisine. Enjoy the romantic ambience while sharing handmade pasta dishes and seafood selections.
Le Bernardin, Midtown, Manhattan
Le Bernardin, run by chef Eric Ripert, is renowned for its unbelievable French food and luxurious dining experience. The menu is filled with carefully thought-out dishes that delight your taste buds.
Aurora Brooklyn, Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Aurora Brooklyn offers delicious Tuscan-style cuisine in a beautiful garden setting. They use organic produce and select some of the best meat and fish for a memorable culinary experience.
Splendid Luxury Hotels in N.Y.C. for Couples
Whether you are looking for a luxurious stay or a comfortable and convenient hotel, New York City has plenty of options. Here are some of the best hotels for couples in the city.
The St Regis, New York
Stepping through the gilded revolving doors of the St Regis on 5th Avenue is a journey into timeless luxury. This Beaux Arts landmark, standing tall since 1904, epitomises world-class hospitality. The lobby exudes charm, with crystal chandeliers casting a warm glow on silk wall coverings and Louis XVI antiques, while the high ceilings create an airy elegance.
The hotel seamlessly blends historic touches with modern amenities, offering tech-savvy rooms where bedside consoles control lighting, audio, and climate. For those seeking the epitome of luxury, the Designer Suites are adorned with unique styles by renowned brands like Dior, Tiffany, and Bentley. These suites offer fabulous views and showcase the hotel’s commitment to providing an extraordinary experience.
The iconic King Cole Bar remains a focal point, where patrons are transported to a bygone era, enjoying meticulously crafted cocktails in an atmosphere that has charmed guests for over a century.
A distinctive feature of the St Regis is its team of dedicated butlers, who have been committed to attending to the needs of each guest since the hotel’s inception. This personal touch enhances the overall stay, creating an atmosphere of unparalleled service.
Every detail of the hotel, from the classic ambience of King Cole Bar to the high-tech comfort of the rooms, contributes to making your stay exceptional. It’s not just a hotel but a living testament to New York’s enduring elegance and sophistication.
The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad
For honeymooners seeking urban luxury, The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad is a romantic haven in the city’s heart. Formerly the flower district and now blooming north of Madison Square Park, NoMad offers an exquisite retreat.
This 50-story gem, the second Ritz-Carlton in New York City, opened in July 2022. Black-suited concierges usher you into a lush oasis with chambers adorned with palms and fig trees, leading to a vast lobby echoing the verdant theme.
Indulge in sleek guest rooms with city views and three exceptional restaurants and bars, including a dazzling rooftop locale for magical evenings.
Perfect for honeymooners, the hotel’s allure extends beyond accommodations. Explore nearby attractions like the Empire State Building and Madison Square Park during the day, relish the vibrant rooftop bar scene, and pamper yourselves at the hotel spa.
As part of Marriott’s luxury category, The Ritz-Carlton brand is globally renowned for comfort and service. While maintaining this commitment, the NoMad location infuses a modern touch into the timeless Ritz-Carlton experience, setting the stage for an unforgettable honeymoon where sophistication, natural beauty, and unparalleled luxury blend seamlessly.
Virgin Hotels New York, NoMad, Manhattan
Richard Branson’s distinct urban hotel concept arrived in New York City in February 2023 with the introduction of Virgin Hotels New York in the vibrant NoMad neighbourhood, complementing nearby options like the Ned, Ritz-Carlton, and the original Ace Hotel.
What makes Virgin Hotels New York stand out is the characteristic attitude synonymous with the Virgin brand since its rebellious beginnings as a record label in the 1970s. Playful and edgy, the hotel features vibrant red accents, expansive windows, and a spacious bar-restaurant with a sprawling outdoor patio hosting nightly entertainment with D.J.s or live music. Cheeky touches include a whimsical “Where’s Richard?” mural in the lobby, a sculpture crafted from discarded soda cans, and restroom signs labelled “unisexy” with line-drawn caricatures of people eagerly awaiting their turn.
Ideal for couples seeking a stylish and vibrant retreat, Virgin Hotels New York caters to those desiring convenient access to Manhattan’s attractions and neighbourhoods without compromising on a fashionable and social atmosphere.
The Plaza, Upper East Side, Manhattan
The Plaza, an iconic hotel at the southern edge of Central Park, stands as a beacon of timeless elegance. Its Beaux-Arts architecture is a captivating blend of luxury, housing an array of shops, eateries, and spa services.
Boasting an unrivalled Manhattan address, The Plaza places you steps away from the Pulitzer Fountain, Bergdorf Goodman, and the southern end of Central Park. A stroll down Fifth Avenue unveils prestigious shops like Tiffany & Co, Prada, and Gucci.
A stay at The Plaza is a resort-like experience, offering an expansive food hall, a restaurant, bars, the Guerlain Spa, a fitness centre, and the Warren Tricomi Salon—all within reach.
The Plaza’s guest quarters are spacious retreats with tall ceilings, large windows, and lavish interior detailing. Each room features luxurious bedding, a sitting area, spa-like baths with gold-plated fixtures, and an iPad for personalised control. Suites elevate the experience with curated art, white glove butler service, and stunning Fifth Avenue or Central Park views. The Plaza embodies the epitome of New York luxury.
LUMA Hotel Times Square
LUMA Hotel Times Square provides a lovely experience in the heart of New York City, strategically positioned near the vibrant Times Square and Bryant Park. For those seeking a modern hotel in the city centre, LUMA is an ideal choice.
The hotel is situated away from the bustling Theatre District and remains a short stroll from the serene Bryant Park. The surrounding area boasts an array of shops, bars, and dining options, including a nearby Whole Foods. Across the street, guests can enjoy the inviting ambience of Grace Plaza, a peaceful retreat for reading and socialising.
The hotel’s rooms feature a minimalist yet functional design, incorporating graphic art and innovative elements. With large interactive screens and floors crafted from recycled tires, the rooms showcase a bright and spacious atmosphere, complemented by white walls and ample natural light.
We hope this has inspired you to create your incredible couple’s New York travel itinerary. With so many romantic things to do in N.Y.C., you can explore the city of dreams with your loved one and create unforgettable memories. Whether you’re an art fanatic, a foodie, a thrill-seeker, or a nature lover, New York City has something for everyone.
All hotel photos courtesy of featured hotels.
