The Best NYC Date Ideas That'll Make Your Life Feel Like a Rom-Com
Dating in New York City can be one of the most romantic and exhilarating experiences in the world. This vibrant urban hub has the best to offer when it comes to cuisine, cocktails and culture. In theory, coming up with good date ideas in NYC should be a breeze. But since there are so many choices when it comes to finding things to do, it can be overwhelming to narrow down your options, especially if you really want to wow your date. That's why we've combed the city to compile an extensive list of the best NYC date ideas, including great date night restaurants, out-of-the-box activities and swoon-worthy adventures for all seasons (and all relationship stages).
NYC Date Ideas in this Article:
- Fun Date Ideas in NYC
- Romantic Date Ideas in NYC
- Unique Date Ideas in NYC
- Fall & Winter Date Ideas in NYC
- Spring & Summer Date Ideas in NYC
- Anniversary Date Ideas in NYC
- First Date Ideas in NYC
Fun Date Ideas in NYC
While sharing a romantic meal can lend itself to an unforgettable evening, great dates don't have to just be dinner and drinks. Some of the most fun dates to go on in NYC are all about stepping outside of your comfort zone…and your neighborhood. These creative dates are unexpected, memorable and curated with both new and established couples in mind.
Take in the Views from Summit One Vanderbilt
Conveniently located in the heart of Midtown and right by Grand Central, Summit One Vanderbilt is one of many dazzling skyscrapers that offers dizzyingly high views of Manhattan's iconic skyline and unique photo opportunities within immersive art exhibits. The bravest of folks should hold hands and step onto the glass observatory terrace with views that face out to Hudson and down to streets that will make you feel brand new (or simply, alive).
45 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
Take a Mixology Class
Get in on the bartending action at Dear Irving, a swanky cocktail bar that hosts mixology classes for $125. Choose from three locations (Gramercy, Hudson or Broadway) for a fun NYC date night that'll give you a new skill. Learn how to master the classics, or stop in to get inspired by seasonal flavors that'll really impress your friends next time you host happy hour. Not only will you receive welcome drinks upon arrival, you'll get to enjoy your own creation. Plus, your goodie bag will include a file of recipes to use at home, as well as a list of cocktail books and articles compiled by your teacher.
55 Irving Pl, New York, NY 10003
Have a Zany Night at Swingers Golf
Think you know mini golf? You've never seen it like this. At Swingers, you and your date will have a ball (or several, if you keep losing them in the challenging fifth hole…) as you feast on street food, sip cocktails and play through a course with a sunset view of the Hudson River skyline. The whimsical putting stations will keep you on your toes, but the actual setup is super-easy: Swingers offers five pay-and-go golf packages on site, including a two-person golf and drinks experience for $55 per person.
35 W 29th St, New York, NY 10001
Create a Masterpiece Together at Shot of Art
It's common to bring home a doggy bag from a date, but what if you brought home a completely original piece of art instead? That's the concept at Shot of Art studio, which combines the fun of a carnival dart game with the satisfaction of making spin art. There are also options for sculptures, finger painting and "flame art" that lets you test more than just your romantic spark.
28 W. 36th Street, 10th floor, New York, New York 10018
Take a Pizza Class at Little Charli
You'll feel like you're part of a big, Italian family when you join Little Charli's pizza making class. The cozy activity is ideal for a date, as the curriculum includes cooking tips plus unlimited wine and beer, as well as family-style apps to enjoy while waiting for the finished product. The baking bash begins every Monday at 7 PM. It costs $125 per person and can be easily booked via Resy.
271 Bleecker St., New York, NY 10014
Shoot a Round of Pool With a View
A game of pool is a great activity for a first date, whether you're both sharks or if one of you needs a little hands-on assistance. (Wink, wink.) The most elevated pool hall you'll ever see, The Skylark is an all-season 30th-floor cocktail lounge located in Midtown Manhattan, which means while you shoot your shot, you'll have an unbeatable view of the Empire State Building. With seating both indoors and out, The Skylark offers classic cocktails plus billiards tables at each end of the club. Stick around past 8 p.m., and you can dance the night away to a DJ or sneak off to a private nook.
200 W 39th St, New York, NY 10018
Get Behind the Velvet Rope at The Nines
If you're looking to seriously impress your date (and you've got the good sense to make a reservation early), The Nines is the place you want to scope out. Created by the team behind legendary lounge Acme, The Nines is a sassy-but-luxe piano bar with leopard print wallpaper, lush velvet curtains, cheeky musical performances (think covers of The Weeknd with a jazzy flair), extravagant cocktails and delicious food, including their famous caviar potato. Can't get a reservation right away? Don't give up, because new spots open every week.
9 Great Jones St, New York, NY 10012
Tour Your Favorite Movie and TV spots
Want to see where Mrs. Maisel does her tight ten? Or the famous deli where Meg Ryan "enjoyed" her sandwich? If you're a movie or TV buff, book an On Location Tour to see where the magic was made. This experience takes you to the original locations of iconic New York movies including Breakfast at Tiffany's, Enchanted and 13 Going on 30, plus TV shows like The Sopranos and Sex & the City. Even if you aren't a superfan, you'll get inside information on how Hollywood moments get made in Manhattan.
Near Broadway and 51st Street (exact location given upon purchase)
Play Ping-Pong at SPIN
SPIN boasts 15 Olympic-sized tables, along with a great bar and the chance to perfect the game you first started playing in your childhood best friend's basement. This fun date idea in NYC is a great way to loosen up and shake out your nerves, especially if you're just starting to get to know your partner.
1626 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
Romantic Date Ideas in NYC
Paris may be known as the City of Love, but there certainly is no shortage of romance in New York. Whether you've been with your S.O. for years or you've just started to fall for your new flame, these romantic dates in NYC will bring your connection to a new level.
Take a Helicopter Ride Over the City
Take your relationship to greater heights with a romantic helicopter ride on the NYC Helicopter Tour, which includes flyover views of the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Madison Square Garden, Central Park, Hudson Yards and more. You'll learn fun facts from the pilot's commentary as you take in the incredible views from on top of the world. Take off is conveniently located in multiple locations in Manhattan, and you can toast to your relationship with champagne in the sky.
Downtown Manhattan Heliport, 6 East River Piers, NY 10004
Snag a Table at The Corner Store
Chances are you've already seen this viral SoHo restaurant on your FYP, as it's a favorite date night spot for A-listers. (Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are known to stop by when they're in town, FYI.) If you can manage to snag a reservation at The Corner Store, you and your date will eat your way through a classic American menu, including fan favorites like the wagyu French dip, steak frites and five cheese pizza rolls. Don't forget to order a sour cream and onion martini, which does indeed come with a little bowl of chips on the side.
475 W Broadway, New York, NY 10012
Go Glamping on Governors Island
Collective Retreats offers overnight glamping at this historic island, which is only an eight-minute ferry ride from downtown New York. And yes, you get to take a special private water taxi service as part of your stay. Once there, enjoy classic Governors Island activities like taking scenic bike rides, hitting up food trucks and climbing to the landmark Outlook Hill. At night in your air-conditioned canvas tent, you'll fall asleep to the soothing sounds of nature. (And probably a traffic helicopter. Gotta love New York.)
10 South Street, Slip 7, New York, NY, 10004
Relax and Rejuvenate at Governors Island Spa
If you're not into glamping, there is more fun to be had on Governors Island. QC NY Spa is a fantastic spot for a day of pampering and relaxation, and it's even better when you bring a significant other along for the ride. Speaking of rides, part of your package includes a free ferry ticket. After your short journey, it's on to saunas, steam rooms, couples massages and the outdoor pool. (Yes, it's heated.) There are also cocktails and skyline views, making this a luxurious and unique NYC date idea that'll help you unwind together.
112 Andes Road, New York, NY 10004
Feast on Caviar and Fried Chicken at COQODAQ
What's more amorous than feeding each other caviar? If you need a good restaurant rec for a romantic date night in NYC, allow us to suggest COQODAQ: a trendy Korean hotspot that serves up delectable fried chicken, creative cocktails and, yes, caviar on chicken nuggets. The restaurant also offers an extensive champagne list, as the bubbles "cut through the richness of fried chicken by effectively breaking through the fats on your palate." Need we say more?
12 E 22nd St, New York, NY 10010
Take a Self-Guided Art Tour Through Chelsea
Chelsea is known for its extensive curation of art galleries, so why not do your own museum crawl on a chilly weekend? Famous industry hotbeds like The Jack Shainman Gallery, David Zwirner and the Gagosian are all mere steps from each other. Each features an exciting mix of emerging talent and museum-worthy legends all in one space. (Add a stroll through The Highline nearby to check out the park's new public sculpture commissions.) End the day with a well-deserved drink at The High Line Hotel Lobby Bar and book dinner next door at Cookshop.
Unique Date Ideas in NYC
With hidden gems around every corner of the five boroughs, there's no excuse for a boring date night in NYC. When you're tired of hitting up the same old bars and restaurants, turn to these unique NYC date ideas for an experience that'll leave you and your S.O. already planning the next one.
Indulge in Omakase and a History Lesson
Perfect for foodies who love a bit of history, The Office of Mr. Motto is essentially a private museum exploring 19th-century Japan. Its 21-course omakase menu reflects that journey. Sourced directly from Toyosu Fish Market in Tokyo, the meal begins with traditional pressed sushi from the 18th century, then moves onto more modern preparations. But don't book a table without your thinking cap; Upon securing a reservation, you'll receive a letter from (fictional) Mr. Motto himself with a cryptic message containing the evening's must-use password.
120 St Marks Pl, New York,, NY 10009
Hop Aboard the Pizza Bus
Let's face it: With Italy perhaps as the only exception, New York City is the best place in the world to get pizza. But have you tried all of it? Probably not. Cue the NYC Pizza Bus Tour, a multi-neighborhood trek through slices, pies and everything in between. Come hungry, because on this excursion you and your date will visit four pizzerias in at least two boroughs. The four-and-a-half hour tour is the perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon. It's also a sneaky way to learn exactly what your date's preferences are. (Wait… they don't fold the slice?)
South Street Seaport
Soak Up the Sun in a Rooftop Pool
While a pool probably isn't one of the amenities that comes with your New York City apartment, you can still plan a pool date thanks to ResortPass. Next time you and your S.O. are in need of some extra vitamin D, browse the platform's extensive list of day passes for rooftop pools all across the city. (Psst: Some come with extra perks like private cabanas, champagne and spa access too.)
Climb at Brooklyn Boulders
Got rainy day boredom? This is how you stop climbing the walls and start climbing up an actual 22-foot wall. Brooklyn Boulders in Queensbridge is the ultimate indoor climbing experience, particularly because all levels are welcome. (Fear not, first-timers: You'll get a 15-minute course on how to fall safely.) Plus, you can buy a day pass for as low as $34.
23-10 41st Ave, Queens, NY 11101
Fancy a Cocktail at the TWA Hotel
Since opening in 2019, the TWA Hotel at JFK Airport has made people want to actually spend more time at the airport. Hop the subway to Queens and you'll be transported to the Mad Men era of mid century modern elegance, thanks to the original TWA Flight Center built in 1962. (The gorgeous vintage cars add to the ambiance.) Once inside, choose from six restaurants and eight bars, including the cocktail lounge located inside a Lockheed Constellation plane from 1958. Feeling spicy? You can get a Daytripper Stay and make a reservation at the heated infinity pool to watch all the planes in action.
One Idlewild Drive, New York, New York 11430-1962
Fall & Winter Date Ideas in NYC
Though winter in NYC can be tough with the cold and snow, it's still a magical season. As for those select few magical weeks where autumn descends upon the city? That's prime date time in our eyes. Here are some of our favorite NYC fall and winter date ideas, complete with a few outdoor ones if you're feeling brave.
Enjoy a Date Night at the Met
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is already one of the most romantic museums in the world, so why not bring a date on a chilly day? Every Friday and Saturday, the iconic museum hosts evenings of live music, drinks and, you know, some of that art stuff (5,000 years of art to be specific). From select hours, members and non-members can attend Date Night at the Met for free with their museum admission, which is pay as you wish or completely complimentary for New York City residents. On your way there, take a detour to stroll under the vibrant leaves lining the entrance to Central Park. It's the most perfect When Harry Met Sally-coded fall date idea.
405 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10174
Sit in a Rooftop Igloo
We'd be remiss not to mention heated igloos as one of the best winter date ideas in NYC. Somewhere Nowhere's rooftop lounge in the Renaissance New York Chelsea Hotel is great any time of year. During the cooler months, though, it's particularly magical. Sip on warm cocktails and nibbles as you stare at the Empire State Building and warm your hands on the faux fireplace.
112 W 25th St, New York, NY 10001
Ice Skate All Over NYC
Ice skating is a winter pastime everywhere, but in New York City, it really is extra special. Go for the old-school vibes at Wollman Rink in Central Park, become part of a tourist attraction at Rockefeller Center's famous art deco rink, or browse the designer goods at Brookfield Place before taking a turn on the ice. You can also check out the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park for homemade crafts and hot cocoa.
Drink and Feast in a Yurt
Are you even doing winter right if you aren't drinking a hot toddy in a yurt in the West Village? Fairfax can help you accomplish this. The restaurant's yurts have become a staple of downtown winter nightlife thanks to their whimsical design and the fact that they're actually really warm. The epitome of cozy, these hygge-inspired outdoor dining lairs are the perfect place for a romantic date (or perhaps a double date, as they can hold up to four people). More of a Bowery couple? Try their sister bar on the East Side, Jolene, which also has yurt dining as an option in winter.
234 W 4th St, New York, NY 10014
Have the Ultimate Movie Night
Alamo Drafthouse brings movie night to a whole new level thanks to its hybrid restaurant-bar-cinema format that lets you kick back, relax and have a sandwich and fries along with your flick of choice. Alamo does show new releases, but the theater also keeps some of your favorite classics on rotation (like Star Wars and Indiana Jones), along with seasonal events like "Keanu Reeves Month." Yes, that's a thing.
Brooklyn: 445 Albee Square West Brooklyn, NY 11201
Manhattan: 28 Liberty Street, Suite SC301 New York, NY 10005
Test Your Trivia Knowledge at Cornerstone Tavern
Are you a geography wiz? History buff? Maybe you're a savant when it comes to facts about Saved by the Bell? If you've always dreamed of being a Jeopardy! contestant, then a trivia night at Cornerstone Tavern is the perfect NYC date idea for you. This bar is known for hosting one of the most popular trivia nights in the city. If you like friendly, nerdy competition with a side of a possible free bar tab, this is definitely your time to shine.
961 2nd Ave (At 51st St.), New York, NY 10022
Indulge in Wine on a Cold Winter Day
Sure, outdoor wine tastings in beautiful Sonoma or Napa are lovely, but you can have just as much fun at City Winery located in Chelsea Piers, Grand Central and Rockefeller Center. (The Rock Center location features heated winter domes for the season as well.) You can taste up to 30 wines and soak in all that New York charm. In addition to delicious food, the Chelsea Piers location also features a live music and event venue.
Spring & Summer Date Ideas in NYC
There's no denying that the city comes alive when spring and summer roll around. That also unlocks an entirely new subset of date night ideas in NYC. Below, we curated the best things to do with a partner during the warmer months. (Spoiler: it's all about outdoor dining and soaking up that warm New York City sun.)
Try All the Food at Smorgasburg
Smorgasburg is America's largest weekly open-air food market, and from the end of March until winter, it's open Fridays at the World Trade Center, Saturdays in Williamsburg at East River State Park, and Sundays in Prospect Park at Breeze Hill. With countless food vendors to choose from, Smorgasbord is a lively combination of a block party, a food hall and a scavenger hunt. (Because what's more fun than trying to find the best bite of the day?)
Manhattan: 185 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007
Brooklyn: Breeze Hill, Prospect Park, Brooklyn, NY 11225; 90 Kent Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Feast During a Chelsea Market Food Tour
Get a little history while you eat your way through the famous Chelsea Market, a bustling food hall located in the historic Meatpacking District, then finish the day with a beer at The Bronx Brewery in Hudson Yards. There's also a lovely walk on The Highline in between stops. The Chelsea Market and Highline Food Tour includes samples of gourmet doughnuts, sandwiches, pizza, hot sauce and more.
75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011
Walk Over the Brooklyn Bridge
You can live in a city your whole life and never see all of it, so if you haven't walked across the Brooklyn Bridge, now's the time. A stroll over this iconic landmark promises incredible views and unparalleled people-watching. There's no doubt that the 1.1-mile trail is a truly unforgettable NYC date idea. Start on the Manhattan side and end up at Jane's Carousel in Brooklyn Bridge Park, then grab a slice at the famous Grimaldi's pizza shop or coffee from Butler Cafe.
Brooklyn Bridge Walkway, New York, NY 11201
Watch an Outdoor Movie
The wait until summer is totally worth it, because outdoor movies in New York City can be so romantic. Pack a picnic, bring a blanket and head to outdoor screenings at Bryant Park or Brooklyn Bridge Park, where food trucks line the streets and modern classics like Clueless and The Breakfast Club bathe the city in laughter and flickers of light. Talk about the most idyllic summer date night.
Manhattan: 40th St and 42nd St and 5th Ave and 6th Ave, New York, NY 10018
Brooklyn: 334 Furman St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Explore a Farmer's Market
Fresh flowers, shiny vegetables and delicious treats? A trip to the farmer's market in New York City is always a fun date. We suggest picking up ingredients for a home-cooked dinner date that night. There are plenty to choose from, and though many are only open on the weekends, a few have weekday options as well. Try the Union Square Greenmarket every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, The Tompkins Square Greenmarket in the East Village every Sunday year-round, and the Fort Greene Park Greenmarket every Saturday year-round.
Kayak on The Hudson
Manhattan Community Boathouse provides free kayaking on a first-come, first-served basis at Pier 96 in Hudson River Park all summer and fall (even into October). Show your date the adventurous side of you while enjoying the amazing views of Tribeca, Battery Park and beyond. After, walk over to one of the many bars and restaurants near the Pier. (We suggest Grand Banks Restaurant, which is located on a retired wooden schooner.) Pro tip: Don't forget your sunscreen for this summer NYC date idea.
Pier 96 Boathouse: 56th Street in Hudson River Park
Drink on a Boat at Pilot
If paddling your own boat isn't your idea of fun, you could always just drink on one instead. That's the gist of Pilot in Brooklyn Bridge Park, which stays anchored while you drink aperol spritzes and slurp oysters. The boat opens in April and accepts reservations, weather permitting, through late October. Add this to your spring date bucket list ASAP.
225 West St. New York, NY 10013
Anniversary Date Ideas in NYC
Anniversaries are the perfect opportunity to pull out all the stops for a fancy date night in New York City. Whether you're craving a couples massage or you want to splurge on a five-star meal, here are some of our favorite anniversary date ideas in NYC.
Recreate a Rom-Com at Serendipity 3
What do Marilyn Monroe, Blake Lively and John Cusack have in common? They've all been on romantic dates at Serendipity 3…at least on screen. Recreate their crush-worthy moments with the restaurant's famous Frrrrozen Hot Chocolate (that's the one Oprah said you have to try before you die) which comes in variations like birthday cake, fruity pebbles and cotton candy.
225 E 60th St, New York, NY 10022
Reserve the Toughest Table in Town at The Polo Bar
Created by iconic tastemaker Ralph Lauren, The Polo Bar is absolutely ideal for an anniversary dinner date in NYC thanks to its combination of gorgeous food and stylish decor. True to Mr. Lauren, no detail is too small, and even the ketchup is packaged in hand-carved silver buckets. Though the menu is relatively simple, diners rave about the caesar salad, shrimp cocktail, mini reubens and ribeye steak. Getting a reservation is a bit of a feat, so your best bet is to start calling a month in advance. But if true love can wait, then so can your quest for the perfect Old Fashioned. (Yes, they make a divine one here.)
1 East 55th Street, New York, NY 10022
Get Pampered at the AIRE Ancient Baths
The AIRE Ancient Baths are housed in a former textile factory, but visit this Tribeca space and you'll feel like you've stepped into a historic bathhouse in Greece. With multiple options for couples massages and tub soaks, AIRE spaces employ practices by the Greek, Roman and Ottoman empires, so they've had plenty of time to perfect their technique. With steam rooms, thermal pools and mineral springs, this urban escape is the ultimate relaxation therapy for you and your partner. This is one of those date ideas in NYC that'll be hard to top once you experience it.
88 Franklin St, New York, NY 10013
Cruise Around Manhattan
Of all the amazing things to do in NYC, this is simply one of the best. Soak up that world-famous view by booking one of the tours with NYC Skyline Dinner Cruises, which includes incredible views of Liberty Island, Ellis Island, the Brooklyn Bridge and the Empire State Building. On a clear night, you'll have a front-row seat to the color-drenched sunsets you see on New York City postcards. This date idea in NYC is best enjoyed with a champagne toast from the top deck of the ship.
353 West St, New York, NY 10014
Celebrate With Dinner and a View of the Empire State Building
What could be more special than celebrating your anniversary at New York City's most iconic landmark, the Empire State Building? You can live out your own personal Sleepless in Seattle fantasy with their observatory packages at the STATE Grill and Bar. Check out the incredible panoramic views from 102 floors up, then enjoy a multi-course meal on the ground floor. Don't skip the chocolate blackout cake with salted caramel ice cream, which is almost as sweet as a kiss against the New York City skyline.
20 W 34th St, New York, NY 10118
Take in a Classic New York Night at Grand Central
Start under the incredible zodiac mural in the main hall, then head to the Grand Central Oyster Bar, which is so old school New York. Besides a plethora of oyster options, their menu boasts a robust raw bar and a surprisingly great key lime pie. Next, go for a nightcap at The Campbell, the venerated cocktail bar that's also in Grand Central. Bonus: You're likely just steps away from your subway ride home.
89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
Have an Amazing Meal at Via Carota
Via Carota in the West Village is one of the most adored restaurants for a date night in NYC, as it offers one of the most authentic Italian meals you'll have outside of Italy. With indoor and outdoor dining options, you'll feel like you're visiting a beautiful villa in Florence instead of a corner in downtown New York. Known for its incredible vegetable dishes sourced from local farms, this is one of the few viral restaurants that continues to be beloved by locals and tourists alike.
51 Grove St, New York, NY 10014
Do a West Village Hamburger Crawl
Who says you need an official tour guide to find the best burger? Head down to the West Village, where you can sample plenty of great options at hotspots like 4 Charles Prime Rib, Minetta Tavern, Corner Bistro and Bandits. Each restaurant has a completely different vibe, often full of celebrities, off-duty artists and tech moguls for you to discretely scan between bites of fries.
4 Charles St, New York, NY 10014
Choose the Perfect Wine for Your Partnership
Celebrate your special milestone by finding the perfect bottle of wine to remember it for years to come. Brooklyn Winery does all production on-site, from crushing to fermenting, aging and bottling. They source grapes from vineyards across the country, letting you find a special vintage close to your hometown… and of course, close to your heart.
213 N 8th St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Hit up Jac's on Bond
There's nothing quite as romantic as cozying up in a dimly-lit bar like Jac's on Bond. Located in a landmark building from 1831, Jac's features red brick walls and pastel velvet banquettes, plus a private back room, a pool table and art from legendary hip hop photographers lining the walls. Sip on the Eastern Medicine and feast on chilled crab dip with Iberian potato chips, or maybe indulge in a creamsicle pie (it's so good) as you snuggle up in a booth. Although it's a simple NYC date idea, it's one that'll give you all the butterflies.
26 Bond St, New York, NY 10012
First Date Ideas in NYC
First dates can be so fun, albeit a little nerve-wracking. We know because we've been there, of course, which is why we've done the work for you. Rather than stressing about finding the perfect spot to impress your new match, these NYC first date ideas are easy, no-fail (and stress-free) options for a guaranteed good time.
Take a Stroll Through Central Park
Fact: Not all the best dates in NYC have to cost a fortune. If you're looking for an affordable date idea, might we suggest a stroll through the city's most iconic park? Nature walks are a great way to get to know someone without the pressure of a formal restaurant, and with way more cute dogs to be spotted along the way. Central Park regulars will recommend staying off the beaten path and exploring the rock trails north of 96th Street, but you can have just as much fun playing tourist at the Alice in Wonderland statue, wandering around The Loeb Boathouse or taking in the sights at The Conservatory Garden.
59 Central Park W, New York, NY 10023
Play Games at Barcade
Skee ball, anyone? With multiple locations in Manhattan and Williamsburg, Barcade will always serve up a good time thanks to the old-school arcade games and vintage air hockey tables that line the interior. There's just one question you need to answer: Ms. Pac Man or Mortal Kombat?
148 W 24th St, New York; 6 Saint Marks Pl, New York
Explore the Hugh
Why risk picking a restaurant where they don't love the food? Instead, take your date to The Hugh, a palatial food hall in Midtown with every cuisine under the sun. When you aren't checking out the awesome architecture, you and your date can peruse the menus of 15 restaurants and bars including Alidoro, Greenpoint Fish & Lobster Co. and Mah Ze Dahr. On the weekends, they also offer cooking classes, tastings, trivia and live music, making it a one-stop haunt for good times.
157 E 53rd St, New York, NY 10022
Visit an Original New York City Speakeasy
Retro speakeasies have become relatively common in New York City over the years, so why not score some cool points by visiting a true original? Little Branch was one of the first speakeasies on the scene back in 2005, but you'd never know it from its nondescript entrance on Seventh Avenue. (That is, until you go down some cavernous stairs and find yourself in a chic craft cocktail bar.)
20 7th Ave S, New York, NY 10014
Go on a Long Outing to The Cloisters
The Met Cloisters may be in New York City, but this museum feels a world away from urban life thanks to its forest surroundings and incredible medieval architecture. Located in Fort Tryon Park in Washington Heights, The Cloisters (which are part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art) are the only segment of the museum dedicated solely to the Middle Ages. With stunning gardens, crumbling stone apses, winding paths and close-up views of the famous unicorn tapestry, this is a truly magical setting for a first date. (It's also where Tony and Maria go in the new West Side Story movie, which adds to the romance.)
99 Margaret Corbin Dr, New York, NY 10040
Take a Ferry Ride to Staten Island
Taking a ferry ride to Staten Island from Battery Park is a great weekend day date, but you can also time it with the sunset for extra brownie points. Upon arriving in Staten Island, stroll along the waterfront, hit up one of the many restaurants or bars and scout for local celebrities like Pete Davidson and Colin Jost. The ferry ride takes less than an hour and drops you back off at Battery Park, another prime place for pub drinks and strolls along the water.
Battery Park/Vesey St, New York
Tour the New York Public Library
The New York Public Library isn't just the largest public library in New York, it's also the site of famous Beaux Arts architecture dating back to 1911, and holds first editions of famous books like The Wizard of Oz and Leaves of Grass. Make an appointment at the rare book room, visit the photography archives or just stroll the shelves discussing your favorite reads. (Quietly, of course.) It's the best date idea in NYC for those who always have their nose in a book.
476 Fifth Avenue, New York
Additional reporting by Sarah Hanlon.