Valentine’s Day is one of the busiest days of the year for the city of New York. You can find endless ways to enjoy the special day with your loved one here in the Big Apple. From breathtaking picnics in Central Park to fancy dinners in high class restaurants, the options are endless. Here’s a look at some of the most unique ways to spend Valentine’s Day in NYC.
Go Sky High
If you’re looking for an ultra-romantic experience, head to one of New York City’s noteworthy rooftop restaurants. These restaurants offer soaring views of the city skyline and indulgent cuisine that will make your Valentine’s Day truly unforgettable. The Loeb Central Park Boathouse, located in Central Park, provides gourmet dining with breathtaking views. La Birreria, a rustic restaurant on the rooftop of the Eataly complex, is another great choice for a romantic evening with your beloved.
Take a Romantic Boat Ride
A unique experience that is sure to take your Valentine’s Day to the next level is a romantic boat ride. Take in the sights of the Manhattan skyline while you float around on a luxury yacht. The skyline is perhaps even more beautiful at night, so plan your ride to finish off with a sunset cruise. For an extra-special romantic touch, you can order champagne or make any meal requests to make your boat ride feel completely special.
Head to an Upscale Cocktail Bar
For a more luxurious take on Valentine’s Day, head to one of the city’s high-end cocktail bars. Have your loved one choose from a variety of signature cocktails, in a dimly-lit yet elegant atmosphere. Check out the Raines Law Room if you’re looking for a sophisticated ambiance, or head to the Japanese HideBar for inspired drinks paired with delicious snacks.
Go to a Speakeasy
A speakeasy is the epitome of romance, and there are several that can be found across New York City. These are exclusive hidden bars and lounges, often disguised as an otherwise ordinary-looking entrance. Try the Bathtub Gin in Chelsea for an evening of incredibly romantic vibes. Another great option is the Angel’s Share Lounge, a hidden bar in East Village.
Stroll Through Central Park
The always-romantic Central Park is the perfect place to take your loved one on a Valentine’s Day stroll. Whether you want to take advantage of the park’s lush beauty in summer, or take a brisk walk across the pristine snow in winter, Central Park is the best option for a romantic day out. Don’t forget to capture that special moment with a romantic photo of the two of you.
Set Up a Picnic
You can never go wrong with a picnic date! Instead of going to an expensive restaurant, why not opt for something a bit more outdoorsy? Pack a picnic with homemade sandwiches, salads, and refreshing drinks for the two of you to share. You can set up your picnic pretty much anywhere in New York City – just make sure you avoid any potentially dangerous spots! A nice spot for a picnic is Central Park, where you can take in the romance of the city’s green spaces.
Have a Special Dinner at a Hidden Restaurant
If you’re looking for a real hidden gem, opt for dinner at one of the city’s hidden or secret restaurants. These places provide truly unique dining experiences, often in places you would least expect. The Pineapple Club, a dinner club in the Financial District, provides an intimate atmosphere with carefully-crafted dishes. There’s also the Tiny Jewel Box, a luxurious upscale restaurant found at the back of an obscure jewelry store.
Take to the Ice Rink
Head to an ice rink and take your sweetheart on a magical skating date on Valentine’s Day. Whether you know how to skate or not, it’s an enjoyable experience that sets the perfect romantic mood. You don’t even have to be great on the ice – as long as you two are having fun, that’s all that matters! The Bryant Park Ice Rink is one of the most popular options, and it’s conveniently located in the heart of NYC.
Go to a Museum for a Shared Learning Experience
If you are looking for something a bit different, why not take your Valentine to a museum? Not only is it educational and entertaining, but it will also allow you to have time together and share in an amazing experience. You can visit The American Museum of Natural History for a great learning experience, or The Whitney for a delightful mix of modern and contemporary art.
Take in the Views from One of NYC’s Most Iconic Locations
For an unforgettable Valentine’s Day experience, why not head to one of the city’s most iconic locations? From the Empire State Building to the Top of the Rock, there are several amazing places you can visit to take in the breathtaking views. The views are even more romantic at night, so you might want to plan your trip at sunset and capture the unforgettable visual experience while it’s still light out.
New York City has so much to offer, especially when it comes to unique Valentine’s Day experiences! With expansive parks, boat rides, speakeasies, and so much more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether it’s a special dinner at a hidden restaurant or a picnic with homemade sandwiches, you’re sure to make your Valentine’s Day even more special with these thoughtful ideas.
