Ahh, summertime is in the air, which means romance is in the trees!
Whether you’re looking for ways to surprise your girlfriend, first date ideas in NYC, or the best way to swoon your wife on your 50th anniversary, New York City is chock full of options for you.
As the most happening city in the world, there’s absolutely no shortage of date ideas that will really make her smile. We have the greatest buildings, the greatest harbors, and amenities up the wazoo that are certain to create lasting memories that will leave her grateful, breathless, and completely in love with you.
From romantic restaurants to adventurous activities, we have something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a low-key night out or something more exciting, we have you covered.
So, take a look at our top 16 NYC date ideas for summer—if you’ve taken your sweet honey on one of these special dates, leave a comment below!
1. THE BEST SUMMER NIGHT DATE IDEA
A nighttime date is a special occasion. The moonlight creates a breathtaking backdrop amid the lights and sounds of New York City. It’s only proper that you take this opportunity to really make an impact. This is a great way to see the NY harbor fireworks on 4th of July.
Our New York Harbor Tours are one of the top date ideas in NYC, as they offer a perfect nighttime experience for two. Just imagine—sipping a nice bottle of wine while sailing on the quiet harbor waters while you whisper sweet nothings in her ear. For an extra romantic time, consider booking a private charter tour where you’ll have the whole deck to yourselves.
This is a special opportunity—not many people consider taking to the water for a nighttime date idea, which means you can be sure your special someone has never been taken out on one of New York’s many harbors. You are also completely safe with our trained crew who will keep out of the way—they all understand that privacy during a really important date is crucial to set the mood.
2. TOP NYC DAYTIME DATE IDEA
When the sun’s out, you have to take advantage. Think of nature, open air, and sweet smells to get you in the mood.
Out of all the NYC date ideas for summer, the Brooklyn Botanical Garden is one of the best. Why? Over 50 acres of lush greenery and flowers fill the air with sweet aromas of flowers and fauna, and the sheer amount of area the garden covers can leave you wandering together for hours on end.
The best part about this NYC date idea for summer? It’s completely free. We all know sometimes you can’t spend a pretty penny on just one day, so we think this is an incredible option for cost-minded significant others.
3. THE #1 NYC FOODIE DATE IDEA
Is your girlfriend or boyfriend a foodie? Well, NYC has you covered. With a restaurant culture that is the envy of the world, there’s no telling what you’ll find around the corner. Additionally, when we say there is something for everyone, we’re not kidding. There are only so many days in your life, and there’s absolutely no way you or your significant other could try all the different, unique foods available in NYC.
If you’re looking to bring your girlfriend through an odyssey of food, there’s no better thing to do than head to Smorgasbourg. Their Ramen Burger is one of the most unique and novel blends of two food traditions that anybody who loves Instagrammable food can’t say no to.
4. THE BEST NYC DRINKING DATE IDEA
Let’s face it – there are some dates where the two of you really just want to unwind after a long work week. Fortunately, you can do exactly this at Marie’s Crisis Café. This piano bar is fun for everyone, from those who join in on the singing to those who sit back and enjoy it. That’s what makes it one of the top date ideas in NYC!
5. THE BEST SLIGHTLY RISQUE DATE IDEA IN New York
Every couple has a different idea of what makes the perfect date night. For those of you who enjoy things a bit rowdier, how about going to a burlesque show at the Slipper Room? It won’t cross the line from risqué into naughty, and it’ll give you and your date plenty of things to talk about!
6. THE BEST CHEAP DATE IDEA IN NYC
You’ve been wanting to take out your special someone, but perhaps money is a bit of an issue. Leave those problems in the past as you enjoy pastries together at Porcelain. Most plates will only set you back about $10, which makes this a frugal-lovers dream come true.
7. THE BEST WAY TO DRINK IN A GARDEN During Your Date
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to drink as you sit inside a garden? Go to Gallow Hill to enjoy this wonderful sensory experience on top of the McKittrick Hotel.
8. THE BEST THINKING MAN’S DATE IDEA
If you want to impress your date with your thinking skills, take her to an escape room for an hour you’ll surely never forget. Not only will this give the two of you an opportunity to put on your thinking caps, but it’s also climate controlled! In other words, when it’s raining or super-hot, head indoors and see if you can escape together.
9. THE BEST WAY TO LEAVE THE PLANET on Your Next DATE
No, we don’t mean literally, but VR World NYC can make you and your date feel like you’re on an alien planet or soaring through the galaxy! If your girlfriend or boyfriend is the adventurous type – and doesn’t get motion sickness – this is the ideal date.
10. THE BEST COMPETITIVE DATE IDEA in New York
We know how it is. Sometimes, a really great date involves a certain level of competition. Now, you can take your competitive spirits to Kick Axe Throwing to see who has the best aim.
11. THE BEST SOLO PERSON DATE IDEA IN NYC
Sometimes you just can't beat a good solo date. And we get it, life gets busy! If you're short on time but want to make sure to get in some quality "you" time, we recommend going to one of NYC's many excellent museums to look at the gorgeous exhibits. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is always a solid choice. Or if you want to switch things up, try the Museum of Modern Art, the Guggenheim, or one of the city's many other world-renowned museums. And who knows, you might even meet someone new while you're there!
12. THE BEST LEARNING TO COOK DATE IDEA
You can easily turn your love for food into a newfound skill by taking a couple’s cooking class. Everything from rolling sushi to cooking with wine is available. Just find your favorite and plan your date!
13. THE BEST PLACE TO CATCH A FLICK in NYC
New York City is huge, which means there are plenty of places to watch a movie. But if you truly want to impress your date, take her or him to Nitehawk Cinema. You can watch a new indie flick or rewatch one of your favorite retro movies together.
14. THE BEST PLACE TO SMELL THE ROSES on Your DATE
Going to Central Park or one of the many other amazing parks in NYC will give you a great excuse to stop and smell the roses. The best part? It’s free to do this, and you can also take a picnic along with you.
15. THE BEST ROLLER-SKATING DATE IDEA
As with so many other retro ideas, roller skating has come back in a big way! Dreamland Roller Disco allows you and your date to pick the right theme night for you. Once you’re there, you can show off your athleticism or fall on your butts together. Either way, you’ll have a fantastic time.
16. THE BEST WAY TO ENHANCE the ROMANCE on Your Next DATE
Coby Club is by far one of the best places to visit if your plan is to enhance your romantic connection. This club is luxuriously appointed with silk-shaded lighting and black velvet banquettes. There are also plenty of secluded spots to have a deep conversation. If things get serious, consider having your wedding on a cruise boat.
THE BEST WAY TO SEE NYC
Whether you live in New York City permanently or you’re here for a vacation, everyone should get to see the city in all of its glory. Find a spot that will provide a different perspective on the things that you walk past on a daily basis. Join New York Harbor Tours to view the best that the city has to offer from a boat. Alternatively, you can go up in the sky or visit the top of a skyscraper to see NYC in a completely new way. Consider an NYC boat ride for your next birthday party.
Have other great date ideas? Let us know!