Takeaway: Are you and your partner stuck in a routine of repeating the same dates? While you cherish each other’s company, spicing things up can be enjoyable. Fortunately, there is an abundance of distinctive date ideas in NYC to explore. In this post, we’ll highlight some of our preferred activities for couples in the city.
Why dates are important for relationships
Whether you’re newly dating or have been married for years, date night is vital to the health of your relationship. As a couple therapist in NYC, I’m a big proponent of date night in relationships. While they’re not a solution for the often serious relationship problems I help couples through, they can provide you and your partner with much-needed time for just the two of you.
Here are a few main reasons why I recommend all couples go on dates (whether it’s something simple or totally extravagant).
- Rekindle connection. Dedicating time to spend with your partner is essential. This can help to foster intimacy and connection, even when things are tough in other areas of your relationship.
- Grow as a couple. Trying new things together can encourage you and your partner to go outside your comfort zone together. This can be a fun way to help your relationship grow.
- Support healthy communication. Planning a date and going through the activity together can be a great opportunity to practice communication. Plus, new experiences give you something to talk about.
- Take a break from serious stuff. While addressing significant aspects of your life is crucial, everyone deserves a break from time to time. Going on a date allows you and your partner the opportunity to simply enjoy each other’s company and have some fun.
This isn’t an exhaustive list, and you don’t need a reason to enjoy a fun date with your partner. Let’s dive into some of my favorite activities for couples in NYC.
15 of my favorite activities for couples in NYC
There is so much to do and see in New York. Here, I share some of my favorite fun date ideas in NYC. First, I’ll cover some quintessential New York couples’ activities before offering suggestions for unique date ideas in NYC. These activities are perfect as fun first date ideas or to rekindle a connection with your long-time partner.
Must-try couples NYC couple activities
Whether you’re new to New York or want to spend date night as a tourist in your own city, here are my ideas of a classic, fun date night in New York.
1. Spend time in one of NYC’s iconic parks
While skyscrapers, bridges, and packed sidewalks might come to mind when you think of NYC, the city also has some amazing parks. Try a horse and carriage ride in Central Park, pack a picnic to enjoy in Washington Square Park, check out the tidal pools at Brooklyn Bridge Park, or attend an outdoor movie night in Bryant Park.
You can even enjoy the parks year-round. Many offer ice skating in the winter months so you and your partner can still have a great date night outside when the weather cools off.
2. Check out the One World Observatory.
Located at One World Trade Center, the Observatory features observation decks with amazing 360° views of the city. The Sky Pod elevators display a time-lapse of New York’s transformation over the centuries, and interactive exhibits and dining options will keep you and your partner entertained all day or night.
3. Go to one of NYC’s famous museums.
Museums can be a fun daytime date, whether you’re just getting to know someone or have been in a relationship for years. Check out The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Museum of Modern Art, The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, or another famous NYC museum.
4. Have fun on Coney Island.
Sometimes, the most romantic things come from times when you’re able to just let loose with your partner. Head over to iconic Coney Island for fun games and delicious fair food for your next date night. You’ll get to enjoy some stress-free time with your partner and take your mind off of the more challenging parts of your relationship or life in general.
5. See a performance.
New York City is known for its amazing performing arts. Even if you’re only in the city for a few days, it’s worth checking out a Broadway show or attending a performance at the New York City Ballet. Getting these cultural experiences with your partner can give you something new to talk about and enjoy together.
6. Check out views from a rooftop bar.
Grabbing drinks at one of New York’s many rooftop bars is the perfect romantic date night idea. 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar, Westlight at The William Vale, Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge, and Top of The Strand are just a few iconic bars (some with views of the New York skyline!) worth checking out.
7. Try a dinner cruise.
Want even more stunning views of the city? Try a dinner cruise on New York Harbor! You’ll get beautiful views of the Brooklyn Bridge & Manhattan Skyline. Plus, you can’t beat a romantic evening on the water with your partner.
Unique date ideas in NYC
While there are plenty of quintessential NYC dates you can try, many people want to try fun, romantic things that are off the beaten path. Here are some of my top suggestions for lesser-known couple activities in NYC.
8. Check out some lesser-known parks.
New York has so many great parks, many of which can get overshadowed by iconic Central Park, Washington Square Park, and more. If you want to spend some quiet time with your partner in a lesser-known park, I recommend Gantry Plaza State Park in Queens. For an even more off-the-beaten-path experience, try Clove Lakes Park on Staten Island.
9. Wander around in the Brooklyn Botanic Garden.
Similarly, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is often less crowded than other more popular tourist attractions. This can be a great place to bring someone who you’re just getting to know, or a unique place to take your long-time partner if you’ve never been.
10. Explore City Island.
This island in the Bronx has several amazing seafood restaurants and small, local shops. Get outside the busiest parts of the city for the day and check out the charming streets, beaches, and the City Island Nautical Museum.
11. Discover the Met Cloisters.
The Cloisters are a hidden gem that showcases medieval European art and architecture. There are also beautiful gardens and breathtaking views of the Hudson River. The serene location may make you forget that you’re still within the city limits.
12. Explore Smorgasburg in Brooklyn.
Looking for something new for dinner? Take your partner to Smoargasburg in Brooklyn. It’s an open-air food market with a wide variety of different options to try. You’ll have fun picking out which foods to try and meeting the local vendors.
13. Kayak on the Hudson River.
Kayaking can be a fun way for you and your partner to connect and unwind. Some organizations, such as the Downtown Boat House, offer free kayaking lessons, so no worries if you’re a total beginner. Navigating this new activity together can bring you and your partner closer, plus you’ll get to experience the city in a whole new way.
14. Take a helicopter tour.
If you really want to pull out all the stops, consider a helicopter tour. It’s hard to beat the view of the city from the sky, and this once-in-a-lifetime experience will create a lasting memory in your relationship.
15. Try a cooking class, art workshop, or other unique activity.
Scared of heights or don’t want to break the bank? Sign up for a class or workshop with your partner. New York City has tons of different cultural experiences to offer, so you’re bound to find something that will push you outside your comfort zone while allowing you to have fun at the same time.
Couples therapy in NYC can help you and your partner grow closer than ever.
Engaging in novel and enjoyable activities within the city can indeed enhance the bond with your partner; however, it is not the exclusive method for fortifying a more resilient relationship. Couples therapy provides a dedicated space for both partners to navigate challenges, acknowledge strengths, and receive impartial feedback on fostering collective growth.
Not in a relationship? We also offer individual counseling for dating and relationship issues.
Couples visit our Midtown Manhattan office conveniently located just two blocks from the Empire State Building. Alternatively, for those residing in Upstate New York or opting for virtual sessions, our therapists are accessible online.
We hold the belief that couples therapy is beneficial at any stage of a relationship, and seeking support need not be contingent on reaching a crisis point. Feel free to reach out today to discover more about how our services can assist you and your partner.