Date Night in NYC: 49 Fun and New Ideas

Planning a date night in NYC is exciting and exhilarating due to the city’s vast activity and venue options. After all, New York City has inspired some of the most famous romantic comedies of all time, including “When Harry Met Sally” and “Serendipity.”

Falling back on the standard drinks-and-dinner date night in NYC still seems to happen all too often. Sure, as a New Yorker, you have some of the best culinary experiences at your fingertips, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't shake up date night every now and again.

Whether you're about to embark on a first date with a new interest or are planning something fun for your 10th anniversary, we believe that trying something new is never a bad idea. It can help you get to know your potential partner on a deeper level, and in a long-standing relationship, it can keep you from falling into a monotonous date-night routine.

So, no matter how long you've been together, here are 49 fun and new ideas for date night in NYC. And they might just make you fall in love with the city all over again, too.

Jump to Section

• How We Choose the Best Ideas for Date Night in NYC
• Foodie Date Night in NYC
• Laid-Back Date Night in NYC
• Adventurous Date Night in NYC
• First Date Ideas in NYC
• Romantic Date Ideas in NYC
• Free and Cheap Date Ideas in NYC
• FAQs

How We Choose the Best Ideas for a Date Night in NYC

At Cozymeal, we have over 10 years of experience helping people enjoy unforgettable date nights in NYC via exciting experiences like cooking classes, food tours and private chef meals. By connecting people with experienced chefs, guides and other service providers in NYC and all over the world, we’ve gained a comprehensive understanding of the types of experiences that make for a memorable night out. 

Apart from our vast experience and knowledge in the culinary world, we also have a profound understanding of the kinds of non-food-related experiences that make a date night in NYC just as enjoyable. Thanks to extensive research carried out by our editorial team, we’ve been able to curate a guide that promises to create moments of excitement, connection and joy for couples of all tastes.

This research took into account customer feedback, factored in suggestions by influencers, dating coaches and other experts, and even included advice from our own team members who have enjoyed some of the experiences themselves. 

We also used the following criteria to make sure our suggestions for date nights in NYC are as diverse and inclusive as possible.

Our list of the best ideas for a date night in NYC:

• Features things to do that offer interactive elements to encourage couple bonding.
• Prioritizes diverse activities to suit a variety of interests.
• Includes authentic NYC experiences that are synonymous with the city.
• Showcases suggestions that align with a broad range of budgets.
• Highlights activities with high customer ratings.

Foodie Date Night in NYC

1. Go On a Food Tour

Trying out the vibrant cuisine of the city is one of the most classic things to do in NYC. Treat your date to a culinary and cultural stroll around New York City’s most vibrant and tasty neighborhoods on a food tour led by an experienced guide.

By combining sweet and savory meal tastings with fascinating stories, local culture, history and architecture, a food tour near you creates the perfect recipe for a fun, memorable, one-of-a-kind date night in NYC. Plus, we love this idea because it's an exceptional way to explore new nooks and crannies in the city and find novel places to go for future date nights.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Starting at $55 per person
• Activity Duration: 1.5+ hours
• Ideal For: Couples who want to enjoy a variety of food while learning about the city.
• Location: Throughout the NYC area
• Website Link: Food Tour in NYC

2. Hire a Private Chef

Skip the cooking altogether during your date night in NYC and indulge in gourmet homemade cuisine worthy of a five-star restaurant. Simply scour through the profiles of the city’s private chefs and find one that catches your eye. They’ll arrive at your doorstep with all of the ingredients, equipment and skill necessary to cook a stunning meal.

This fantastic option is one of our favorites if you’re looking for a unique indoor activity in NYC, as all you need to do is choose your menu and let your chef handle the rest, including kitchen clean-up at the end. This is a romantic date night in NYC idea that’s perfect for re-living your first restaurant booking together, as the chef can whip up the same meals you shared during that experience.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Starting at $60 per person
• Activity Duration: 1.5+ hours
• Ideal For: Couples who want to try a multi-course meal made by a professional chef in a private setting.
• Location: From any NYC location of your choice
• Website Link: Private Chefs in NYC

3. Take a Hands-On Cooking Class

You’d probably agree with us in saying that nothing brings people together quite like food, so why not learn a few new recipes from an expert chef? Taking cooking classes is a perfect option for a fun date night in NYC, where you’ll also learn a few culinary tricks. 

Together, you can learn a new dish you’ve always wanted to try or bond over a favorite cuisine. You can even take specialty couples cooking classes in NYC or opt for sweet over savory with baking classes in NYC.

No matter which type of class you go for, your talented chef instructor will be your guide as you work together and make special memories in the kitchen. You can then use your new cooking skills to whip up a romantic dinner together during your next date night in NYC.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Starting at $59 per person
• Activity Duration: 2+ hours
• Ideal For: Foodies who want to work on their cooking skills.
• Location: Throughout the NYC area
• Website Link: Cooking Classes in NYC

4. Tune in to a Gourmet Online Class

If you love the idea of a cooking class but prefer to keep things low-key, online culinary experiences are ideal for a romantic home date night in NYC (or anywhere else in the world). You’ll find live, interactive classes taught by chefs from across the globe, offering everything from Japanese street food to gourmet Spanish tapas.

After your cooking class, why not top off the date night in NYC by enjoying a homemade mixed drink? If this sounds like something that will stir up your feelings of excitement, online mixology classes will pair you up with an expert mixologist to teach you how to master the art of specialty cocktails at home.

If you prefer wine over craft cocktails, there are experiences perfectly suited to your tastes, too. We’re talking about virtual wine tastings, which are your ticket to learning the delicious details behind your favorite beverages from the best sommeliers in the industry. These virtual experiences are also an outstanding choice if you’re searching for a long-distance date idea. 

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Starting at $34 per person
• Activity Duration: 45+ minutes
• Ideal For: Those who want to learn new culinary techniques from the comfort of their own home.
• Location: From any location of your choice
• Website Link: Online Cooking Classes

5. Try a New Cuisine

NYC has no shortage of diverse food, but surely there’s a cuisine you and your date have never tried. Whether it’s unique fusion fare, plant-based meals or simply a cultural cuisine, we recommend finding a local restaurant specializing in these dishes and making a reservation. Not sure where to start looking? Some of our favorite spots with that unique flair include Ellen’s Stardust Diner, Sushi Lab Rooftop and Dirt Candy. 

The last option among those three is a popular Michelin star restaurant in NYC, and if that’s what you’re searching for in particular, you’ll find other high-end experiences at Le CouCou, Gabriel Kreuther and Jean-Georges. No matter where you go, though, expanding your culinary horizons is a wonderful idea for a date night in NYC that lets you bond over a new shared experience.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: $50+ per person
• Activity Duration: 2+ hours
• Ideal For: Food enthusiasts who want to try a unique cuisine. 
• Location: Throughout the NYC area 
• Website Link: n/a

6. Go On the Literary Pub Crawl

For those book lovers who get a kick out of the Hemingway quote, “Write drunk, edit sober,” we have no doubt you’ll love embarking on the literary pub crawl in Greenwich Village. Besides hearing the stories, poems and prose of the writers who helped shape this nation and the world, this unique date night in NYC will also reveal to you why New York City is the epicenter of American literature.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: $49 per person
• Activity Duration: 3 hours
• Ideal For: Partners who enjoy books and other literary works as well as the bustling atmosphere of bars.
• Location: Throughout the NYC area
• Website Link: Greenwich Village Literary Pub Crawl

7. Experience a Parisian Bistro

Paris and romance go together like cafés and croissants. But if making the pilgrimage to the French capital for a delightful meal is a little far-fetched, you can still take your taste buds on a journey to one of many local Parisian bistros for a romantic date night in NYC. Popular French bistros in New York for a memorable night out include Le French Diner, Lucien and Buvette.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: $50+ per person
• Activity Duration: 2+ hours
• Ideal For: Couples who would like to try French food in a romantic setting.
• Location: 188 Orchard St., New York, NY 10002
• Website Link: Le French Diner

8. Marvel at Molecular Gastronomy at Eleven Madison Park

Molecular gastronomy, also known as modernist cuisine, is arguably at its peak in NYC. You can find many eateries in the city incorporating scientifically savvy cooking techniques, such as liquid nitrogen flash-freezing and syringe infusions. 

One of the most highly rated spots we’d recommend is Eleven Madison Park. Make a reservation for a mesmerizing date night in NYC and marvel at the creativity oozing from the mouthwatering menu found at this renowned eatery, unlike anything you’ve ever tasted — or seen! If Eleven Madison Park is fully booked, other great places to visit include The Modern and Nai.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: $100+ per person
• Activity Duration: 2+ hours
• Ideal For: Couples seeking a unique fine-dining experience.
• Location: 11 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10010
• Website Link: Eleven Madison Park

9. Enjoy a New York-Style Pizza at Grimaldi’s Pizzeria

Fall in love all over again (or for the first time) with New York-style pizza. The typical crispy crust that is somehow sturdy enough, yet also sufficiently thin and pliable, to fold in half and eat like a true New Yorker is something to be marveled at. 

If you’re unsure where to head to, we think Grimaldi’s Pizzeria serves some of the best pizza in Brooklyn and is worth a short journey if you’re based in another borough. Along with dishing up some of the most delicious pies around, you and your other half can enjoy cocktails, Italian wine and decadent desserts for the ultimate foodie date idea in NYC. 

Alternatively, spend your date night in NYC chatting over the best pizza in Manhattan from popular spots like Joe’s Pizza or PizzArte.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: $20+ per person
• Activity Duration: 1+ hour
• Ideal For: Pizza fanatics who want to bond over their favorite pies.
• Location: 1 Front St., Brooklyn, NY 11201
• Website Link: Grimaldi's Pizzeria

Laid-Back Date Night in NYC

10. Wander Through Indoor Food Halls and Markets

Rainy and freezing cold nights don’t have to get in the way of your date night in NYC. When the weather isn’t playing along, we recommend checking out indoor markets, such as Chelsea, Essex and DeKalb. These Food halls in NYC offer delectable fares from culinary visionaries, creating hubs of international cuisine and showcasing vendors who reflect the street food scene around the world.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Varies by market
• Activity Duration: 1+ hour
• Ideal For: Couples who would like to eat different types of food while shopping for arts and crafts.
• Location: Throughout the NYC area
• Website Link: Food halls in NYC

11. See the Brooklyn Botanic Garden

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s indoor pavilions are one of the few places you can take in some greenery during the dark, desolate late fall and winter months. The Tropical Pavilion — filled with waterfalls, streams and vibrant flora — is particularly balmy and makes you feel like you’re in a tropical oasis.

No matter the season, this charming natural wonderland is a great place to visit before continuing with another date night in NYC idea, such as getting a bite to eat at a restaurant.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: $22 per person. Admission is free for members.
• Activity Duration: 1+ hour
• Ideal For: Nature lovers who want to bond during a relaxed date outdoors.
• Location: Brooklyn, NY 11238
• Website Link: Brooklyn Botanic Garden

12. Test Your Knowledge at The Winslow’s Trivia Night

Everybody loves a know-it-all, and New York City has a themed trivia night for all “well, actually” types. Have you seen every episode of The Simpsons at least twice and have sonorous opinions on its golden era? Would your pop culture proficiency put Siri to shame? Are you just a general genius? Then we think you should find a place that hosts a trivia evening for your next date night in NYC and put your knowledge to the test. 

Curious about our recommendations? The Winslow is definitely high up on the list. With weekly trivia nights taking place on Mondays, it’s a great place for you and your date to sip on your favorite gin and tuck into appetizing snacks while flexing your mental muscles.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Free
• Activity Duration: 1.5+ hours
• Ideal For: Sociable and trivia-loving partners who want to share a few laughs together in a lively setting.
• Location: 243 E. 14th St., New York, NY 10003
• Website Link: The Winslow

13. Try Stargazing at the High Line

Searching for a new date idea that’s inexpensive and provides immaculate views? Then head to The High Line for stargazing on Tuesday nights between April and October. After a romantic sunset walk, you and your date will have the opportunity to peer through the high-powered telescopes provided to see rare celestial sights. Why not get a closer look at the moon and planets and see if your love is written in the stars?

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Free
• Activity Duration: 1+ hour
• Ideal For: Couples who want to bond over a romantic activity in a quiet, outdoor setting.
• Location: New York, NY 10011
• Website Link: The High Line

14. Tour the Museum of Interesting Things

All the big museums in the city — The Met, The Guggenheim, MoMA — will be crawling with tourists on any given weekend. Instead, check out the appointment-only Museum of Interesting Things, one of the few attractions in New York that still feels hidden. Set up a private tour of its collection of antique toys, bizarre inventions, ancient scientific equipment and other oddities for a date night in NYC that will be one to remember.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: $15 per person
• Activity Duration: 1+ hour
• Ideal for: Couples seeking something new and fascinating to do.
• Location: Georgetown Plaza, 60 E. Eighth St., New York, NY 10003
• Website Link: Museum of Interesting Things

15. Cruise the Harbor

All aboard! Why limit date night in NYC to staying on dry land? Even the best restaurants in the city can’t compare to the experience of eating out on the water. Date night dinner cruises in the harbor offer prix-fixe menus or buffet meals on enormous three-level ships, sailing taverns and ritzy yachts. 

Ready to set sail and let love guide the way? If so, Classic Harbor Line is one of our favorite establishments to book with, as they offer a variety of cruise options, from breathtaking sunset journeys to delightful jazz voyages. Whichever you choose, the ambiance can’t be beaten. Bon voyage!

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Starting at $62 per person
• Activity Duration: 1.5+ hours
• Ideal For: Those who want to have a novel experience with breathtaking views.
• Location: 62 Chelsea Piers, Pier 62, New York, NY 10011 (departure point)
• Website Link: Classic Harbor Line

16. Marvel at Artworks at the Gladstone Gallery

Romance and art are closely linked, as they both play a role in inspiring and evoking one another. It, therefore, only makes sense that an NYC date night would be incomplete without a visit to an art gallery. 

If you’re an art enthusiast, you’ll know exactly where to go. If not, we’re here to help by pointing in the direction of Gladstone Gallery, a modern and contemporary art gallery with a range of amazing exhibits. Many of these exhibits are temporary as well, meaning you visit a few times and always see new things. 

While a little more well-known, a trip to The Metropolitan Museum of Art is also highly recommended. This gallery stays open until 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, making it ideal for a date night in NYC. 

You might not be the next Vincent van Gogh, but this idea could inspire other fun activities, such as a paint-and-sip class or an art workshop. Even if you aren't an art fan but your partner is, a visit to a gallery for a date night in NYC will show that you value their interests, which we guarantee they’ll appreciate.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Free
• Activity Duration: 1+ hour
• Ideal For: Art enthusiasts and those who want to be inspired while learning about each other’s interests.
• Location: Multiple locations
• Website Link: Gladstone Gallery

17. Visit the New York Aquarium

Marvel at beautiful sea life and pick up some interesting marine biology facts as you stroll through the New York Aquarium together. You’ll find so many interesting things to talk about, making it a great place to encourage conversation. 

Pro tip: On Wednesdays after 3 p.m., admission is free! You’ll just need to reserve a ticket in advance. It’s also important to note that the aquarium closes at 4 or 5 p.m. most days, so this is a great spot to visit before another fun date night idea, such as dinner or a movie.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Starting at $29.95 per person. Admission for members is free.
• Activity Duration: 1+ hour
• Ideal For: Animal lovers who want to bond in an environment that also encourages learning.
• Location: 602 Surf Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11224
• Website Link: New York Aquarium

18. Rent a Kayak

Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island and Brooklyn all have parks with bodies of water where you can rent kayaks, pedal boats, canoes and even stand-up paddle boards. Weather permitting, this is a fun, relaxing and refreshing date idea that’s also a great way to enjoy the outdoors. 

If you don’t have your own equipment, we recommend booking a class with Manhattan Kayak Co. These sessions are perfect for first-timers looking to learn how to kayak or paddle board confidently. Even if you already have sufficient experience, the brand offers thrilling adventure trips that make for long-lasting memories. 

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Starting at $30 per person
• Activity Duration: 1.5+ hours
• Ideal For: Adventurous couples looking to try a physical activity.
• Location: Boathouse in Hudson River Park, 555 12th Ave., Pier 84, New York, NY 10019
• Website Link: Manhattan Kayak Co.

Adventurous Date Night in NYC

19. Play Ping Pong at SPiN

The team behind SPiN — including co-owner Susan Sarandon — knows that the only thing more fun than ping pong is tipsy ping pong with a date by your side. This bar combines Olympic-sized tables with a diverse selection of libations. 

Playing ping pong at SPiN has all the makings of a guaranteed fun date night in NYC, whether or not you and your significant other are any good at the sport. Plus, if you haven’t figured it out by now, a game at this popular venue makes for a great double date idea, as it’s always more fun playing against your friends than a couple of strangers.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Starting at $25 per hour per table.
• Activity Duration: 1+ hour
• Ideal For: Partners who want to compete against each other in a fun activity.
• Location: Multiple locations
• Website Link: SPiN

20. Take a Graffiti Lesson With Graff Tours

Here’s your chance to unleash your inner rebel and finally leave your mark on the streets of New York. At a one-of-a-kind workshop hosted by Graff Tours, a working graffiti artist will teach you and your date the basics of aerosol art. What makes this idea even more alluring for a fun date night in NYC is the fact that the artist will help you create your first mural (in a totally legal location, of course).

You’ll leave the workshop with a greater understanding of this misunderstood craft and, of course, your newly created work. If you’ll be partaking in this activity with a partner you’ve been seeing for some time, it could even be a date night in NYC, where the two of you create artworks for each other to take home.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Starting at $45 per person. Date night classes start at $125 per couple.
• Activity Duration: 1 hour
• Ideal For: Those who want to bond while learning something new.
• Location: 282 Meserole St., Brooklyn, NY 11206
• Website Link: Graff Tours

21. Soar Over the City in a Helicopter

Helicopter tours with FlyNYON make for a surefire date night in NYC to leave a lasting impression. New York City by night is like a multi-colored, glittering jewel for you to feast your eyes upon and dazzle the person by your side. 

Take off on a helicopter tour after dark and admire an awe-inspiring aerial view of the city lights for a breathtaking experience. A sunset private flight will not only amp up the views, the romance and the thrills, but you’ll also gain some knowledge and expert tips from your pilot for a romantic date night in NYC that’s equally awe-inspiring as it is idyllic.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Starting at $455 per person
• Activity Duration: 15+ minutes
• Ideal For: Thrill-seeking couples who want to experience something new together.
• Location: 78 John Miller Way, Kearny, NJ 07032 (takeoff point)
• Website Link: FlyNYON

22. Go Dancing at Dance With Me Studios

Put on your dancing shoes and hit the dance floor with your partner for a twirling good date night in NYC. Try a flirtatious foxtrot or a sensual salsa to heat things up and fill your romance quotient. 

Whether you take a class at Dance With Me Studios or head to some of the best disco spots in NYC, grab your partner and shimmy, shake, cha-cha or merengue all night long. Perhaps you could even plan to replace those burned calories from swaying your hips at one of the city’s best eateries.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Available upon request
• Activity Duration: 1+ hour
• Ideal For: Active partners who want to do something unique as a pair.
• Location: Multiple locations
• Website Link: Dance With Me Studios

23. Go Rock Climbing at Movement Gym

Build up a new relationship (or reinforce a longstanding one) during a date night in NYC that includes some literal trust falls. If your date has been looking for adventure but ditching the city isn’t an option, take a couple of hours to harness that love of independence and thrills at Movement Gym. If you’re new to this sport, take an introductory class together to learn the ropes and challenge yourselves to ascend to new heights on your date night.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: $35 per person. Free admission for first-time visitors. 
• Activity Duration: 1+ hour
• Ideal For: Thrill-seeking couples who want to bond over a trust-building experience.
• Location: Multiple Locations
• Website Link: Movement Gym

24. Have a Laugh at a Comedy Show

Want to know how to make your date fall madly in love with you? Make ‘em laugh!

Pick out an improv show or a stand-up routine that tickles your fancy for a funny date night in NYC, or see what other performances are taking place in your neighborhood’s comedy club. The New York Comedy Club is one of the best spots to get those cheeks hurting from too much laughing, but we’d also recommend Comedy Cellar and Gotham Comedy Club.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Varies by show
• Activity Duration: 2+ hours
• Ideal For: Those who want to share endless laughter together in a laid-back environment.
• Location: Multiple locations
• Website Link: New York Comedy Club

25. Attend a Concert

Find out what concerts or music events are taking place at some of the best live music venues in New York City to spice things up on date night. From hole-in-the-wall dives to resplendent uptown theaters, there's a daunting array of world-class acts performing around town on any given night. 

Popular venues to see these acts include the world-famous Madison Square Garden, Kings Theatre and Forest Hills Stadium. And if you plan accordingly, you might be able to plan a fun double-date night in NYC with some of your friends!

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Varies by concert
• Activity Duration: 2+ hours
• Ideal For: Fun-loving couples who want to sing and dance together.
• Location: 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10001
• Website Link: Madison Square Garden

26. Appreciate Outdoor Works of Art

If you’re searching for a fun activity in NYC for couples that’s free of charge, the outdoor art in the city is most worthy of appreciation. Graffiti may be the first thing that comes to mind, but that’s just the beginning. 

Picture an array of photographs, murals and sculptures that symbolize historical events, cultural beliefs and meaningful messages that brilliantly display the passionate feelings of the artists.

Ready to go exploring? Thanks to a great deal of talented people in the city, you’ll find incredible artworks everywhere you look, including places like Central Park, Governors Island and Madison Square Park. 

According to Edgar Degas, "Art is not what you see, but what you make others see," and that’s exactly why this activity is a great first or second-date idea in NYC. It’s an opportunity for you to discover what catches your potential future partner’s eye, and vice versa. 

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Free 
• Activity Duration: 1+ hour
• Ideal For: Artsy couples who want to enjoy a relaxed, outdoor date that inspires them.
• Location: New York Harbor, NY
• Website Link: Governors Island

27. Experience the Thrill of Indoor Skydiving at iFly

If you’re looking for first date spots in NYC that also get you closer to ticking off a potential bucket list item, this is the activity for you. Indoor skydiving at iFLY offers all the thrills of the outdoor version without the potential risks. This NYC date idea will have you flying high and forgetting all about the nerves of trying to impress someone new in your life.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Starting at $109 per person for two flights
• Activity Duration: 30+ minutes
• Ideal For: Daredevils looking to try something new and invigorating.
• Location: Multiple locations
• Website Link: iFLY

First Date Ideas in NYC

28. Go Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center

When you envision classic first date ideas in NYC, ice skating in Rockefeller Center often comes to mind. Even if the weather outside is frightful, we think that first-date skating is quite delightful. And unless you’re planning to reveal your inner Dorothy Hamill or Brian Boitano, ice skating on the first date will bring out a little vulnerability in both of you. 

While this date night in NYC may include slips and falls, don’t be afraid to catch each other, as that will surely break the ice. Whether you go for the first date or the third, it’s a must-do during winter in NYC, especially when followed up by a visit to your potential partner’s favorite hot chocolate spot.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Starting at $21 per person
• Activity Duration: 1+ hour
• Ideal For: People who want to have fun trying an active outdoor activity together.
• Location: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111
• Website Link: Rockefeller Center

29. Roller Skate at Xanadu Roller Arts

Taking a spin on roller skates is a fantastic way to spend a date night in NYC, as it will give you an opportunity for a little hand-holding. Choose a traditional roller rink that celebrates the good old days of disco, such as Xanadu Roller Arts, or find one of the outdoor pop-up skating rinks open during the summer in NYC. 

Not too confident about strapping on a pair of skates? Then go to a roller derby game instead! Introducing someone to the enthusiastic and sometimes raucous crowd at a roller derby event might top the list of most memorable first date ideas in NYC.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Starting at $18.54 per person
• Activity Duration: 2+ hours
• Ideal For: Those who want to bond during a nostalgic and super fun activity.
• Location: 262 Starr St., Brooklyn, NY 11237
• Website Link: Xanadu Roller Arts

30. Organize a Play Date at Luna Park

Watching how someone handles winning (or losing) can give you a lot of insight into how they’ll handle a relationship. That’s why one of the best first date ideas in NYC is to head to Luna Park in Coney Island. Whether it’s Skee-Ball or Whac-a-Mole, you’ll find the best throwback games at this buzzing spot to inspire a little friendly competition. 

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Free admission. Prices vary by game.
• Activity Duration: 2+ hours
• Ideal For: Competitive people who want to get to know each other over playful games.
• Location: 1000 Surf Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11224
• Website Link: Luna Park

31. Spend an Evening With the NY Philharmonic

As far as classy first date ideas in NYC go, attending the symphony is not far behind watching a ballet show. Aside from regular performances, check the New York Philharmonic calendar for special event nights where popular movies are played on a big screen while the score is performed live by musicians. 

Alternatively, and arguably more romantic, go see a performance by a string quartet or a jazz trio that takes place by candlelight in a church or a classic old hotel. Candlelight concerts are a new trend and are sure to set the tone for an unforgettable date night in NYC.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Varies by concert
• Activity Duration: 2+ hours
• Ideal For: Music enthusiasts who want to enjoy a live performance together.
• Location: David Geffen Hall, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023-6970
• Website Link: New York Philharmonic

32. Get Drinks at Clover Club

Perhaps the best first date idea in NYC is at one of the city’s finest spots for fancy cocktails and small plates! That’s right, we’re referring to the ever-so-popular Clover Club in Brooklyn, where you can choose from a wide variety of classic and contemporary cocktails, all crafted with careful precision. 

We love this eatery because it won’t only make you feel as if you’ve left behind the city, but also an entire era. Sounds like your ideal bar? If so, it offers an array of meals that are perfect for pairing with your favorite cocktail, including burgers, salads and seafood.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: $30 to $50 per person
• Activity Duration: 2+ hours
• Ideal For: Foodies who would like to discover new places with their date.
• Location: 210 Smith St., Brooklyn, NY 11201
• Website Link: Clover Club

33. Break Free From a Room at The Escape Game

If you’re nervous about making conversation during an initial meeting with someone, one of the best first date ideas in NYC is an escape room adventure at The Escape Game. The reason why we say this is that most of the talking will be centred around figuring out clues to advance and, ultimately, break free. 

The Escape Game is a popular choice for a date night in NYC because it offers seven escape rooms catering to a range of skill levels. Whether you opt for the Gold Rush, Prison Break or any of the exciting rooms, our tip is to choose wisely, as you’ll gain insights into how your potential partner handles pressure, which could determine whether or not you want to evade a future relationship and avoid the shackles of heartbreak. 

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Starting at $45.99 per person
• Activity Duration: 1 hour
• Ideal For: People who would like to get to know each other while overcoming a shared challenge.
• Location: 295 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10017
• Website Link: The Escape Game

34. Enjoy the Wonder of a Burlesque Show

Date nights in NYC don’t get more sensational than front-row seats at a burlesque show. If you’ve never been to one or don’t know what to expect, head to The Slipper Room and discover the fantastical world that awaits. Aerial performers, dancers, singers and even comedians grace the stage with their rehearsed brilliance to put on unforgettable performances. 

The scene is set in a dark room, usually filled with 1920s décor, making it a spectacular and mysterious date night in NYC from bygone days. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the performers after the show if they allow it.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Varies by show
• Activity Duration: 2+ hours
• Ideal For: Bold people who want to have a few laughs while watching a risqué show.
• Location: 167 Orchard St., New York, NY 10002
• Website Link: The Slipper Room

35. Go On a Whiskey Distillery Tour

If your ideal date night in NYC involves wooden casks and aged liquor, this idea is right up your alley. In 1920, this wouldn’t have been possible due to prohibition — fast-forward over 100 years, and Great Jones Distilling Co. is proud to be Manhattan’s first whiskey distillery since the ban.

This makes for a great date idea in NYC, as there are several experiences to choose from involving interesting facts, delicious foods and even mesmerizing magic. If you or your date fancy something more refreshing after a few sips of whiskey, there are also creative cocktails to be ordered. 

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Varies by experience
• Activity Duration: 1 to 2 hours
• Ideal For: Whiskey enthusiasts who want to bond with their date while learning something new.
• Location: 686 Broadway, New York, NY 10012
• Website Link: Great Jones Distilling Co.

Romantic Date Ideas in NYC

36. Eat Some Art at Per Se

For a truly unique date night in NYC, visit Per Se to discover masterpieces that taste just as good as they look. Sit back and relax with your date as you watch the city’s top chefs let their imaginations run wild on your plate. 

This is a fun date night in NYC for couples who enjoy watching cooking shows together, as it provides a multi-sensory experience that showcases a chef’s undeniable talent beyond the television screen. Have you already been to Per Se and are looking for other options? Some of our favorites to enjoy culinary paragons include Daniel and Marea. 

Activity Overview

• Price Range: $100+ per person
• Activity Duration: 2+ hours
• Ideal For: Those seeking a unique, fine-dining experience.
• Location: 10 Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10019
• Website Link: Per Se

37. Get Ritzy at the Russian Tea Room

Founded by Russian expats, The Russian Tea Room was a high society hangout for much of the 20th century. Dining there on a romantic date night in NYC feels like going back in time — the glitzy gilded interior hasn’t changed since the 20s. 

To this day, it still captures modernist Russian style décor and hosts New York’s elite as a restaurant for continental fine dining, elegant high tea and the finest vodka selection. If this sounds like the ideal date night in NYC to you, make a reservation to enjoy a medley of delicious meals, including scallops, caviar and soups.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: $50+ per person
• Activity Duration: 2+ hours
• Ideal For: Couples who would like to try Russian food in an opulent setting.
• Location: 150 W. 57th St., New York, NY 10019
• Website Link: The Russian Tea Room

38. Explore Little Greece

When considering NYC’s melting pot identity, Chinatown and Little Italy are probably the first to come to mind. However, there are several other ethnic enclaves that promise to offer the environment for a unique and fun date night in NYC, including Little Greece. 

When visiting this neighborhood, you can enjoy delicious eats and refreshing drinks from traditional Greek taverns, bakeries and cafés with your date. 

While all the eateries are loved dearly by locals and visitors alike, why highly recommend stopping by Stamatis Restaurant. Amylos Taverna and Agnanti are also top picks if you need some additional ideas.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: $30+ per person
• Activity Duration: 2+ hours
• Ideal For: Couples who want to indulge in Greek food in a casual setting.
• Location: 29-09 23rd Ave., Astoria, NY 11105
• Website Link: Stamatis Restaurant

39. Head to the Harlem Jazz Parlor

Go to Harlem for an evening of live jazz! This intimate experience, hosted by Harlem Safe House Jazz Parlor, offers a haven where music lovers can relax and engage with musicians while enjoying hors d’oeuvres, wine and dessert. 

This is an exceptional idea for a date night in NYC, as different musicians perform at various homes in Harlem, so each event is really something special. If we’ve struck a chord, it takes place on the first Thursday of every month.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: $95 per person
• Activity Duration: 2 hours
• Ideal For: Jazz music enthusiasts who would like to enjoy a live performance together.
• Location: 555 Edgecombe Ave., Ste. 3F, New York, NY 10032
• Website Link: Harlem Safe House Jazz Parlor

40. Relax at AIRE Ancient Baths

Opt for a side-by-side aromatherapy massage with relaxing lavender oil and traditional Swedish techniques or deep-tissue work. Go all out for a fun and incredibly relaxing date night in NYC with a couples package at a local spa, and enjoy some quiet time together.

While many local spas close around 4 or 5 p.m., there are a select few that stay open later into the evening. The renowned AIRE Ancient Baths is one of our top picks, as you can visit until 11 p.m. most nights. 

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Starting at $175 per person
• Activity Duration: 1+ hour
• Ideal For: Partners who want to relax and be pampered together.
• Location: 88 Franklin St., New York, NY 10013
• Website Link: AIRE Ancient Baths

41. Take a Pottery Class at Pottery Studio 1

Painting classes may be more common, but learning how to spin a potter’s wheel in a ceramics class makes for a fun date night in NYC, after which you’ll leave with a memento to place down instead of hanging up. Depending on the studio, you might be able to bring a bottle of wine or a six-pack of beer to enjoy with your date. 

Although that’s not the case at Pottery Studio 1, they still offer a romantic date night experience, complete with candles, decorations and music. Remember the pottery scene from “Ghost”? There’s just something truly idealistic about creating an artwork together. 

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Starting at $90 per person. Date night experiences start at $200 per couple.
• Activity Duration: 2 hours
• Ideal For: Artistic couples who want to try something new.
• Location: Multiple locations
• Website Link: Pottery Studio 1

42. Attend the Ballet

The NYC Ballet is one of the top dance companies in the world, which is why one of our favorite romantic date ideas in NYC is watching them during a live performance. You’ll be impressed by the dancers’ expertise and dedication, and your special someone will be impressed by your level of cultural refinement. 

This idea presents an opportunity to extend your date night in NYC with an added element — a delicious meal. Grab dinner first at one of many restaurants near the theater, offering pre-performance menus that ensure you’re on time for the first plié.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Varies by show
• Activity Duration: 2+ hours
• Ideal For: Couples who want to enjoy a live show together in an awe-inspiring environment.
• Location: 20 Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023
• Website Link: NYC Ballet

Free and Cheap Date Ideas in NYC

43. Chase Down a Food Truck

The food trucks adorning the sidewalks of the city represent a gastronomic paradise and an exciting tasting adventure for a fun date night in NYC. For a city as on-the-go as New York, it only makes sense that food trucks have risen to the standards of the hordes of hurried, but still discerning, diners. 

If you’re one of those diners looking to treat your partner to delectable eats, some of our favorites include The Halal Guys, Wafels & Dinges or El Rey del Taco. Whether it’s for a date night in NYC or a sunny lunchtime meal, these are just three of many renowned names that serve up sophisticated bites and timeless street fare. 

Activity Overview

• Price Range: $10+ per person
• Activity Duration: 1+ hour
• Ideal For: Those who want to enjoy a casual meal in a relaxed, outdoor setting.
• Location: Throughout the NYC area
• Website Link: Food Trucks in NYC 

44. Forage in Prospect Park

Even the hardiest home cooks in NYC probably don’t have much foraging experience. After all, you’re not likely to see very many wild ramps springing up between the sidewalk cracks. 

Where might you really find some native herbs and vegetables? Prospect Park. Joining a guided foraging walk through the park is a unique date idea in NYC, during which you can pick wild carrots, burdock root, dandelion greens and Szechuan peppers. 

Once you've gathered all the vegetables your appetite desires, don't leave too soon, as the park is an entertainment paradise. Other fun activities to enjoy include fishing, hiking and ice-skating, as well as tennis and barbecuing.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Free 
• Activity Duration: 1+ hour
• Ideal For: Outdoorsy people who want to explore more of the natural world.
• Location: 95 Prospect Park W., Brooklyn, NY 11215
• Website Link: Prospect Park

45. Start a Book Club Date Tradition

This idea won’t be on everyone’s list of fun date ideas in NYC, but it might be a bestseller. Here’s the concept: Read the same book before your date, discuss it over dinner and then head to your favorite bookstore. Some of our favorite stores for great reads include Books Are Magic, Three Lives & Co., and Argosy Book Store.

Once you’re at your chosen spot, flip a coin — the winner has to select the next book on the reading list, while the loser gets to pick the next venue. Not only do you get to share your joy of reading and start a worthwhile tradition, but this date idea in NYC has also helped you secure a another meeting.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Varies by book
• Activity Duration: 1+ hour
• Ideal For: Those with an interest in reading who want to learn more about their date’s preferences.
• Location: Throughout the NYC area
• Website Link: Best Bookstores in NYC

46. Embark On a Bagel Crawl

Of all the signature NYC foods, bagels are arguably the most synonymous with the city. The buzzing metropolis boasts the best bagels in the universe, so why not organize a fun date in NYC that encourages you to taste different varieties and discover what all the fuss is about? Make a loop around the NYC bagel belt, visiting popular spots like Ess-a-Bagel and Russ & Daughters, and find out which ones reign supreme.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: $10+ per person
• Activity Duration: 1+ hour
• Ideal For: Bagel lovers who want to find the best in the city by visiting various spots.
• Location: Throughout the NYC area
• Website Link: Best Bagels in NYC

47. Have a Picnic in the Park

Looking for something to do outdoors? How about two ideas? After a visit to a farmers market, the sights and smells will surely make your stomachs rumble — that’s exactly when it’s time to find a suitable spot, lay out a blanket and indulge in all the goodies you bought at the market.

Picnicking is a timeless date idea in NYC, and with spectacular spots like Brooklyn Bridge Park, Riverside Park and East Meadow available to you, there’s no telling how many pinch-me moments you’ll have while taking in the incredible sights — and we’re not just referring to the features of the person by your side. Use these picnic date ideas to get the wheels turning on what you’ll need for the perfect outdoor meal. 

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Free
• Activity Duration: 2+ hours
• Ideal For: Those who want to get to know each other in a relaxed, outdoor setting.
• Location: 334 Furman St., Brooklyn, NY 11201
• Website Link: Brooklyn Bridge Park

48. Enjoy a Movie Under the Stars in Bryant Park

Every Monday evening from June through August, Bryant Park holds a free outdoor movie night complete with food and wine concessions. This is a unique way to spend a date night in NYC and take advantage of those beautiful New York summer nights. From classics like “Pretty in Pink” to mind-bending favorites like “Interstellar,” which blockbuster hits will you be going to see?

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Free
• Activity Duration: 2+ hours
• Ideal For: Those who want to relax and unwind together in a social setting.
• Location: 41 W. 40th St., New York, NY 10018
• Website Link: Bryant Park

49. Go Birdwatching in Central Park

Going to the zoo is on every list of date ideas for NYC. If looking at animals behind bars doesn’t inspire feelings of romance, perhaps spotting wildlife in its natural habitat will. One of the best places to do that is Central Park, which boasts over 250 species of birds year-round. Bird-watching is a fascinating pastime that offers the opportunity for togetherness while essentially being a treasure hunt.

Download the Merlin app, which makes it easy to identify birds by their call. The best part is, you don’t even need binoculars to mingle with your feathered friends.

Activity Overview

• Price Range: Free
• Activity Duration: 1+ hour
• Ideal For: Bird-lovers who want to bond in an outdoor environment.
• Location: Central Park, New York, NY
• Website Link: Birdwatching in Central Park

FAQs

Where Can I Go for a Date Night in NYC?

New York City's endless offering of world-class entertainment, esteemed art galleries, unmatched shopping and warm and cozy restaurants means that the perfect date night is just around the corner — literally. Spend date night right in your own neighborhood, or skip across town to a spot you've always wanted to visit. 

What Is There To Do on a Date Night in NYC?

The Big Apple offers no shortage of incredible ways to spend date night, and this list can be your perfect jumping-off point. You can keep it low-key with a neighborhood food tour or couples' spa session, or make it memorable with something more unique, such as online mixology classes or an appointment at the Museum of Interesting Things!

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? If you and your partner are seeking thrills, try rock climbing or an evening helicopter ride for the best date night in NYC!

What Should I Do for Date Night Tonight in NYC?

Check out what date places in New York City are open and see what strikes your fancy! Maybe the neighborhood restaurant you've always wanted to try has some killer specials on the menu tonight, or your favorite local jazz troupe is performing nearby. Perhaps it's simply a gorgeous night to go stargazing on the High Line. Either way, you’re guaranteed to have a ball.

Where Should I Go on a First Date in NYC?

Feeling those first-date jitters? Not to worry. Ease the pressure with a date night in NYC that offers plenty of easy talking points, such as a gourmet cooking class, a casual stroll through the botanic gardens or a friendly game of ping pong. Or, kick back and let someone else do the talking at a comedy club or concert! Afterward, you can bond over what you enjoyed about the show. 

For even more fun and exciting ideas for a date night in NYC, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.