What Can Couples Do In Nyc
NYC caters to every couple’s tastes and interests. Food fanatics can take an unforgettable local food tour or cooking class, while art lovers can drop into a BYOB pottery class, take graffiti lessons or wander around The Met, The Guggenheim or the MoMA. Looking for something a little more high-energy? Try rock climbing or an evening helicopter ride!
Take A Stroll Through Central Park
Next on my list of fun things to do in NYC for couples, its Central Park!
Did you even visit NYC, if you didnt take a stroll through Central Park? I usually like to visit a few times while were in NYC, and its such a big place that you could walk there every day for a week and not cross over the same paths.
Personally, I like to start in the lower east corner of the park and work my way past Sheep Meadow and up through the middle to Bow Bridge .
If you dont feel like walking, you could always do a horse and carriage ride or a bike tour of the park .
Take A Free Walking Tour
There is so much history to discover in the city, and a walking tour is one of the best ways to see it up close and personal. SANDEMANs NEW Europe offers free 2.5-hour tours of downtown Manhattan, covering some of the most historic sites in the city, including the Charging Bull, Wall Street, and the 9/11 Memorial. While the tours are technically free, they do encourage tips for the guides.
Recommended Reading: Free Things To Do In Syracuse Ny
Go Stargazing On The High Line
Have you ever looked up at the stars and had no idea what you were looking at? Join the Amateur Astronomers Association on the High Line to look through high-powered telescopes and take in just how big our solar system is. The stargazing is completely free and doesnt require a reservation- just show up on the High Line at 14th Street at dusk every Tuesday between April and October.
Enjoy A Smash Session At A Rage Room

Last year my boyfriend and I went to Break Bar NYC. After being cooped up during the pandemic, we figured this was the perfect activity for relieving some stress: The bar has a large selection of beer and cocktails, but the best part is that after you finish your drink, you get to smash the glass it came in! We lined ours up and went to town on them, which was so much fun and supersafe . We didn’t go into the Wrecking Club areawhere, depending on what you spend, you get to smash TVs and computers and other electrical goodsbut the people who were coming out of there looked so happy! Rachel Q., director of audience development
Don’t Miss: Things To Do In Syracuse Ny For Kids
Head Up To An Observation Deck
Another great choice for things to do in NYC for couples, its checking out an observation deck in the city!
There are loads of observation decks in the city, so its totally your choice which one you opt for. The photo below was taken at the One World Observatory deck, which is a good choice is you want to be really high up .
Another great choice is the Rockefeller Observation deck called Top of the Rock this is a good choice as it has the most epic views of the Empire State which is about 20 blocks away.
There is also the Empire State itself too which is classic and iconic . These are great ideas for fun things to do in NYC for couples!
Decorate A Valentine’s Day Tree
I put up a Valentine’s tree every year. It doesn’t have to be pinkI decorate a regular green artificial tree, the same one I use at Christmas. I trim it with red and white lights, wrap it with a garland, and place vintage valentines among the branches. I get a little sad when I have to put my holiday decorations away in January, and its a great way to lift my spirits back up. Kate N., teacher
Recommended Reading: Things To Do With Kids In Cleveland
Learn About The American Revolution At Conference House
Read my blog even a little bit:
And you know that this native New Yorker LOVES historic homes.
Which is why:
It should come as exactly no surprise to anyone that I adore the Conference House.
Especially since, well:
It was the site of three hour, failed peace talks between British and American forces in 1776, during the American Revolution.
Seriously, how cool is that? Plus:
When you step inside this beautiful, stone mansion from 1680 , youll find sweeping views of nearby Arthur Kill as well as authentic, interior decor that makes this house look and feel much like it did way back when.
If youre picturing hardwood floors, bare white walls, simple hardwood furniture, exposed beam ceilings, and a four-poster bed draped in red and white colonial-style fabric, then you have a pretty good idea of what this house looks like.
Now:
If you do decide to visit, expect to learn all about the extensive history of the house during a tour through the buildings parlor, dining room, bedrooms, and basement kitchen.
However:
Because there might only be a single staff member on-site, you may arrive to find that the door is closed.
And that is totally normal.
Just wait around for anywhere between 15 and 20 minutes since a staff member is probably giving another visitor a tour of the house.
***The grounds of the house also provide guests with access to the beach where visitors would have historically landed, as well as a caretakers house and a small, colonial herb garden.***
Mcsorleys Old Ale House
If your interests include day drinking, history, drinking, and using history to justify your drinking then add McSorleys Old Ale House to your list of unusual things to do in NYC!
Located on the Lower East Side:
This iconic watering hole first opened in 1854 and is known today as Americas oldest and continuously operated bar.
Somehow:
This lexicon of liquor managed to remain open throughout the days of Prohibition, when this little gin joint operated as a totally illegal, but super awesome, Speakeasy.
Talk about creative thinking.
Today, history hangs on every wall since the interior has remained virtually untouched, since 1910, as a veritable shrine to the original founder, John McSorley.
Look closely:
And youll find an assortment of fascinating objects, like an invitation to the opening of the Brooklyn Bridge as well as a seemingly quirky, former gas chandelier that is adorned with wishbones.
Sadly:
These wishbones were left behind by soldiers who fought in World War I, and never made it back since any returning soldiers visited McSorleys to pick their lucky talismans up.
But on a lighter note:
McSorleys has also served a variety of famous clientele like Abraham Lincoln and John Lennon.
Heck, even Elvis Presley was here and gave an impromptu performance when he got hammered, like a champ.
Drink up and get ready to travel back in time since every corner of this standing room only bar is rich in tales and ales .
Address: 15 E 7th St, New York, NY
Read Also: Things To Do When Bored In The Summer
People Watch At Grand Central Station
If youre looking for a fun and free romantic thing to do in NYC in the winter look to Grand Central Station. I know people watching may sound boring, but when you people watch at a terminal that 750,000 people visit daily its bound to pass the time in a fun way!
Not to mention Grand Central is over a century old and quite an impressive sight to see with its 44 tracks. If youre already visiting Times Square you may as well walk the three avenues over here as well!
Have A Rooftop Pool Day
First on my list of fun things to do in NYC for couples, its have a rooftop pool day! At The Williamsburg Hotel in Brooklyn, they have an amazing rooftop pool which is open to non-guests during spring and summer.
If you fancy a day sat by a pool, feeling like a celebrity this is it! You have to email them to book in, but its totally worth the extra bit of effort. This is definitely one of my favourite fun things to do in NYC for couples.
You May Like: Things To Do With Toddlers In Cleveland
Learn About History At The Home Of One Of Its Earliest Practitioners
The Alice Austen House is home to early photographs depicting life in New York at the turn of the century, with the attractions regularly hosting exhibitions of contemporary works.
Their events and photography workshops are some of the best date night ideas for married couples looking to hone new skills.
Williamsburgh Savings Bank Tower

If theres anything that signifies Downtown Brooklyn, its the Williamsburgh Savings Bank Tower.
This skyscraper has around since near the end of the 1920s.
It serves as a great piece of might in this business district.
Its impossible to avoid the Williamsburgh Savings Bank Tower should you be anywhere downtown, given how large it looms.
However, its not an intrusive presence, as this tower has a very handsome design.
Perhaps its most admirable, as well as defining, feature, is its clock tower.
The architecture of New York has helped to make it one of the best places for traveling.
Seeing the Williamsburgh Savings Bank Tower is wonderful, as you can check out a landmark that might not be as heralded as certain other ones, but which is no less remarkable.
Its also so much fun to crane your neck and marvel at this 512-foot high behemoth.
Address: 1 Hanson Place, Brooklyn, NY 11243, USA
Read Also: What Is There To Do In Mystic Connecticut
Enjoy Some Water Sports
If you love the outdoors and being near the water:
Then Queens is the New York City borough for you.
Because even though everyone thinks of Coney Island when they consider some of New York Citys top beaches, Rockaway Beach and Long Beach are two amazing seaside spots where you can do a bit surfing.
And yes, you read that correctly.
I really did just mention going surfing in the Big Apple.
If youre visiting during the summer, you can easily swing by either of these beaches and rent a surfboard from one of the many local shops here, like the cash-only, Rockaway Surf Club.
However:
If surfing is a bit too adventurous for you, then you can always just head to the Long Island City Community Boat House instead and do some 100% free kayaking along the East River on a nice, sunny, weekend.
***PRO-TIP: For one of the best panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, stop by the rooftop bar at the Z NYC Hotel.***
Take A Glass Blowing Class
A post shared by Brooklyn Glass on Aug 28, 2019 at 9:19am PDT
Ive always wanted to try glass blowing. At Brooklyn Glass, you can sign up to make sundae bowls, shot glasses, or tumblers.
Youll learn a new skill and walk away with creative souvenirs. Whats not to love?
Locals Tip: After class, head to Lucali to put your name down for pizza .
While youre waiting you can grab a cocktail nearby. The pizza is worth the wait.
Read Also: Fun Things For Kids To Do In Cleveland
Snap Some Epic Photographs With Street Art
If you plan to go to Brooklyn or The Bronx, dont forget to check out the colorful graffiti that covers all over the street walls. Here are some great options in these two neighborhoods.
For those who dont want to travel far, there are also places in the city where you can witness this fantastic art form. Some of my favorites are The High Line in Chelsea, Bowery Graffiti Wall in Lower East Side, Banksy, Hammer Boy on 79th St between Broadway and Amsterdam Ave, Crack Is Wack on 128th St at Second Ave, and the citys largest mural in West Village.
For The Rocket Man In Your Life
If astronomy is your mans forte, why not spend an evening under the stars? Take turns looking at the Little Dipper through a high-powered telescope while cuddling on a blanket. This is a prime time to let him tell you how beautiful you are by moonlight. Central Park is an excellent place to snuggle up and watch for shooting stars.
Read Also: Syracuse Fun Things To Do
Morgan Library And Museum
Whenever anyone mentions library and New York in the same sentence, typically theyre thinking of the New York Public Library.
However:
Just down the street from this iconic, literary institution, there is a library that I personally think is even better than the New York Public Library, plus the crowds are much smaller,
And that place is the Morgan Library and Museum.
Just picture the insanely wonderful library in Beauty and the Beast and you have some idea of just how magical this library really is.
I mean:
How can you not love a place that publicly displays a Guttenberg Bible and an original composition from Mozart?
Just throw in some stunning, historic architecture, a full, historically accurate recreation of Mr. Morgans personal library , and you have one spectacular New York City attraction.
Now yes:
Admission to the Morgan Library and Museum can be a bit pricey at $20 a person, but you can always try and visit on a Friday evening, between 7 pm and 9 pm, when admission is FREE.
Plus, youll get to see a free, live jazz performance too!
WOOT WOOT! Raise the roof or your pinkie as you gingerly sip a cup of tea in the drawing-room.
Whatever fits your personal style.
Address: 225 Madison Ave, New York, NY
Admission Fee: Tickets are $22 for adults, $14 for seniors , $13 for students with a current, student ID, and to members and children 12 and under.
Catch The Staten Island Ferry
The Staten Island Ferry is one of the few remaining remnants of New York City’s ferry system that once transported people between Manhattan and its future boroughs before any bridges were constructed.
Related Post: 5 of the Oldest Bars in New York City
Currently, the Staten Island Ferry carries 70,000 passengers each day . Offering a glorious view of Lower Manhattan, the five-mile, 25-minute ride also gives views of The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The ferry schedule runs late, so it’s one of the top things to do in NYC at night, and service is free.
Also Check: Things To Do Baytown
Take A Stroll On The High Line
Another romantic thing to do in NYC is head to the High Line. Its true that there is not much green space in Manhattan. Thats why in 2009 the High Line was formed on the old New York Central Railroad platform on the west side of Manhattan. The High Line is a one and half a mile long elevated park where you can walk with your loved one and enjoy the wonderful outdoors in New York City. Its perfect for a romantic date on a nice day.
Theres also some great food, a coffee shop, and even a little bar along the walkway making it a great place to come for lunch. From the High Line, we suggest you head to the new Whitney location or check out the Chelsea Market. We love oysters and you can pick up some fresh ones at the Cull & Pistol oyster bar inside the market. In case youre wondering the High Line is one of the most romantic places in New York.
St Patricks Old Cathedral Catacombs By Candelight

Test your partners bravery and go on a scary tour of the Basilica of St. Patricks Old Cathedral.
Your guide will take you to the off limit areas to share stories of those who passed away and secrets buried in the intriguing history of the cathedral.
On this 90 minute tour, youll also be guided through the cemetery where important figures rest including the Delmonico Family, General Thomas Eckert and John Connolly, the first Bishop of New York.
Explore restricted areas in the corridors of the Catacombs where your guide will share more spooky stories of St. Patricks Old Cathedral.
Read Also: Downtown Berkeley Springs Wv
Stroll Around Times Square
One of the top destinations associated with New York City is, of course, Times Square. This major commercial intersection encompasses the Midtown Manhattan section of the city at the junction of Broadway and Seventh Avenue.
Related Post: Top Attractions in New York City
Lively and vibrant, you can spend hours shopping, dining, attending a Broadway Show, visiting Madame Tussauds, and much more. You can even stroll and people watch as hundreds of pedestrians and cars zoom by you. Due to its endless amount of activities, visiting Times Square is one of the top things to do in NYC at night.
Stroll Through Socrates Sculpture Park
A free and easy thing you can do in New York City is to check out the Socrates Sculpture Park. Socrates Sculpture Park is an outdoor museum and public park in Astoria, Queens where artists create and exhibit sculptures and amazing multi-media installations.
The park is open 365 days a year and is well worth a couple of hours of exploration with a coffee in hand. On a nice Fall day, our favorite season in NYC, its tough to beat a stroll through the park before heading for a good meal in Astoria.
You May Like: Things To Do Near Minocqua Wi
Picnic In The Central Park
Central Park may be the most romantic place in New York City and stretches on over 800 acres in Uptown Manhattan.
There are many quiet spots inside the park where you can enjoy a picnic with your loved one.
Enjoy a brunch or lunch in a romantic setting with beautiful scenery.
Youll be supplied with a basket of the finest delicacies and a complimentary bottle of Prosecco.
The whole picnic will be setup for you, and when you finish, just walk away as the cleanup is taken care of by staff.