The NYC Honeymoon Guide for Romantic Hotel Suites & Things to Do

There's no doubt NYC is one of the most exciting, inspiring and unforgettable cities in the world. Although it might seem a bit non-traditional, a NYC honeymoon could be the perfect choice for you and your partner. From its boundless energy and diverse cuisine to its incredible arts and culture scene, there are plenty of things to do in NYC for couples. This is truly a city of endless exploration and sky-high romance.

New York City's reputation as one of the most romantic cities in the world is exceeded only by its label as one of the world's most exhilarating travel destinations. Regardless of what you decide to do on your honeymoon in NYC, it will absolutely be an unforgettable trip.

NYC Honeymoon Tips in This Article:

• Is NYC Good for a Honeymoon?
• The Best Times to Honeymoon in NYC
• NYC Honeymoon Travel Tips
• The Best NYC Honeymoon Suites and Hotels
• Best NYC Excursions and Attractions
• What to Pack for a NYC Honeymoon

Is NYC Good for a Honeymoon?

Photo: The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park

Pros of a Honeymoon in NYC

From exploring iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building to catching a Tony Award-winning Broadway musical to finding the perfect slice of New York pizza, there are countless things to do in NYC—you'll never be bored here. Plus, you'll have easy access to neighboring areas like The Hamptons and the Hudson Valley.

Cons of a Honeymoon in NYC

Although NYC has so much to offer, it also comes with quite a high price tag depending on the accommodation, fine dining establishments and activities. New York City, after all, is the most expensive city in the US. The crowds at museums, stores, attractions and even on the sidewalks can also be overwhelming for some. If noise and a bustling atmosphere aren't for you, this may not be the trip of your romantic dreams. Crime, though not out-of-control in most neighborhoods, does occur, which means you need to be alert. This is the case in most major cities, nevertheless.

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The Best Times to Honeymoon in NYC

The best times to honeymoon in NYC are in the fall and spring. The temperatures are more mild during these seasons, and there are a lot of outdoor events to experience like markets and food festivals. Plus, the leaves change in the fall and new blooms pop up in the spring, making for a beautiful honeymoon backdrop. These are both peak tourist seasons though—if you prefer less comfortable weather over crowds, then winter and summer can also be special times in NYC.

NYC Honeymoon Travel Tips

Photo: Tim Robberts / Getty

NYC, which operates on Eastern Standard Time, is easily accessible from most cities in the US. The city offers a wide range of accommodations, including luxury hotels, boutique hotels, Airbnbs and Vrbo vacation rentals. Public transportation is very accessible in NYC, but may take some time getting used to. Cabs and Ubers are also a solid option, but will be more expensive (plus you can get stuck in bad traffic). Sometimes walking is the quickest option.

NYC has over 20,000 restaurants, so you have myriad dining choices. Just know that reservations book up quickly for the most popular spots—sometimes months in advance—so definitely book ahead. Tours that feature landmarks like the Statue of Liberty as well as walking tours, food tours, bike tours, boat tours and helicopter tours (to name a few) are also popular, so definitely reserve them in advance.

The Best NYC Honeymoon Suites and Hotels

Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park

Photo: The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park

Honeymooners who desire to be right in the heart of it–or at least the entrance to Central Park–should consider a stay at this storied property. The Ritz-Carlton is located steps away from the famous 843-acre public park that gives Manhattan residents a sense of respite from the steel and skyscrapers that dot the island. If you're staying here, consider an upgrade to a suite as it provides Club Lounge access (read: complimentary breakfast, snacks, demos and more).

50 Central Park S, New York, NY 10019

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Loews Regency New York Hotel

For a classic NYC honeymoon experience that combines timeless charm with modern amenities, the Loews Regency is a strong choice. Unlike many other hotel rooms in NYC, these are quite spacious and stylish. Couples can enjoy their honeymoon in any of the hotel's 58 suites, including six signature suites (hello, Nate Berkus Apartment Suite). The suite experience also includes a $125 food and beverage credit per stay—perfect for staying in a plush robe for a NYC night in. Don't forget to visit the incredible Julien Farel spa and salon on site for some top-notch pampering.

540 Park Avenue & 61st Street, New York, NY

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

The Lowell Hotel

Photo: The Lowell Hotel

The Lowell Hotel on Manhattan's Upper East Side is within walking distance of many New York City staples, including foliage strolls through Central Park, shopping on Fifth Avenue, lunch at Rockefeller Center and more. Honeymooning couples can book the Garden Suite, which comes with its own private terrace complete with florals, a fountain and a view of that iconic skyline. Cozy up by the wood-burning fireplace that comes with a Fireplace Butler, then head down for a romantic dinner at Majorelle.

28 East 63rd Street, Madison Ave, New York, NY

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

New York Marriott Marquis

Let Marriott do the planning for you so you can just bask in the love of your new spouse. With the Love in Times Square package, you will be right in the middle of everything but still feel like you're on a secluded romantic getaway. You will be greeted with a chilled bottle of bubbly and delicious pastries, plus you can enjoy 2 p.m. late check out. This is an especially great location for Broadway lovers—you can catch a matinee and an evening show, relaxing in your room in between curtain calls.

1535 Broadway, New York, NY

4.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Virgin Hotels New York City

Photo: Virgin Hotels

Located right in the center of NoMad, the new Virgin Hotels was well received by movers and shakers throughout the city. Richard Branson's latest property has its own pool (for those humid summer days) and on-site dining in the form of its lively restaurant Everdene. Couples will especially enjoy the views of the city, including a close-up snapshot of the iconic Empire State Building.

1227 Broadway, New York City, NY 10001

4.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews

The Wall Street Hotel

For a downtown, boutique hotel vibe, consider The Wall Street Hotel. On your morning coffee walk, you can check out the New York Stock Exchange, the Charging Bull and the Fearless Girl statue, and then stroll down to South Street Seaport for lunch. If you already hit up all the romantic restaurants at the Tin Building by Jean-Georges, be sure to do a night at The Wall Street Hotel's very own seafood-centric restaurant, La Marchande. The hotel offers a Fourth Night on Us package, meaning you can stay four nights for the price of just three.

88 Wall Street, New York, NY

5.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Arlo Williamsburg

Venture to Brooklyn and check out the brand-new Arlo Williamsburg, formerly known as The Williamsburg Hotel. Lovebirds honeymooning at Arlo Williamsburg will get to indulge in the sweet perks of the hotel's Honeymoon Package, which includes a bottle of Champagne and chocolate upon arrival, breakfast in bed, late checkout and one free night on their first anniversary or anytime thereafter, plus makeovers for the couple with some of NYC's talented professionals. Stop by the namesake restaurant or toast to your love at the Lobby Bar, Mirror Bar or Water Tower Bar—or take a swim at the Rooftop Bar Pool.

96 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Best NYC Excursions and Attractions

Embarking on a honeymoon in the city that never sleeps is exhilarating, but also a bit overwhelming. There are just so many romantic activities in the city. Here are a few top ideas that will take your NYC honeymoon up a few notches and fill your Instagram feed with all the best photos.

Take in the Views at the Empire State Building

Opt for the Observatory Package or a VIP tour, and take in the view of the whole city from 102 floors up, followed by dinner at the STATE Grill and Bar on the first floor. Or, if you're an early riser, book The ESB Sunrise Experience. It's limited to a smaller group, and allows you to watch the sunrise over the city. It will truly take your breath away.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Dine at One of New York's Chicest Restaurants

Have yourself a sexy night at SoHo's newest "it" restaurant. Located in the always-in-vogue Mercer Hotel, Sartiano's is the perfect blend of rich Italian cuisine and modern dining. This will be a great place for people-watching, warm ambiance and savory cocktails. Plus, you may even get to spot a celeb, as Nicky Hilton and Chris Rock are both regulars. Scott Sartiano—creator of NYC's private membership club Zero Bond—is behind this hot spot, as is three-time James Beard Award-winning chef Alfred Portale.

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Have a Romantic Picnic in Central Park

Photo: Orbon Alija / Getty

Many parks in NYC are lovely, but Central Park is the quintessential park in the city. You could spend an entire day exploring the gardens, seeing all the animals at the Central Park Zoo, finding the Alice in Wonderland statue, and walking around the reservoir. Pick out your favorite bites at a classic NYC grocery store like Citarella or Dean and DeLuca (plus a bottle of bubbly), and have a romantic picnic date. You could also take a rowboat ride around the lake, which is especially gorgeous in the spring when the flowers start to bloom. Looking for a guide? You can actually take an official Central Park Instagram Tour to make sure you don't miss anything.

5.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Have a Toast at The Plaza Hotel

There are many romantic restaurants in NYC, but nothing compares to The Plaza. Featured in dozens of movies and books—and a favorite NYC stop for iconic people like Jackie Kennedy and Truman Capote—this is true, classic New York. Have a romantic toast at The Champagne Bar. Or, if Champagne isn't your thing, have a lovely afternoon tea and finger sandwich at the beautiful and ornate Palm Court.

3.4 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Take Your Romance to New Heights at The Edge

Hudson Yards is one of New York's most innovative and newest architectural gems. Sign up for a tour that allows you to walk on the High Line, climb the daunting "Vessel," and check out "The Edge," which is 11,000 feet above the city. Afterward, head to the 24th floor of the nearby Equinox Hotel to get even more incredible views at their swanky rooftop bar, Electric Lemon.

3.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Get a Couples Massage at the Bamford Wellness Spa

It isn't a honeymoon if you don't pamper yourself, right? Book a Couples Luxury Treatment at the Bamford Wellness Spa in 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge. Opening with a cleansing foot bath followed by a Shiatsu, Meridian or Swedish massage, this treatment awakens and penetrates the muscles and energy channels of the body. If you work up an appetite, be sure to head upstairs to The Osprey for a meal from renowned chef Dan Churchill.

4.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Explore Shelter Island

Photo: Cape Resorts

You could definitely spend your entire honeymoon in New York City itself and not get bored, but a day trip or overnight excursion to the idyllic Shelter Island could be worthwhile. You can get there via a train and ferry ride, or on a very short flight by seaplane on Tailwind Air. Once you're there, head over to The Pridwin, a Marvelous Mrs. Maisel-esque hotel, and explore their sprawling great lawn while you stare out at the Peconic Bay. Do morning yoga, take bike rides, hike Mashomack Preserve, explore the local shops and hit up The Crescent Bar for a sunset cocktail. Built in 1927, the recently restored property has 16 gorgeous cottages that are perfect for honeymooners.

4.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews

What to Pack for a NYC Honeymoon

NYC may be one of the most fashionable cities in the world, but it's also one of the most walkable, which means you need some good sneakers or comfortable flats. Everyone is on the move in NYC, and you want to keep up. Crossbody purses and small backpacks are always a good idea. Pack nicer outfits for evenings out at restaurants and rooftop bars. Also, consider seasonality as New York winters call for solid footwear and waterproof boots. A compact umbrella is never a bad move, and be sure to pack a few snacks and a bottle of water for long days of sightseeing.

—Esther Lee contributed to the reporting of this article.