10 Romantic Things to Do in New York City
Lose yourself – with that someone special – in the city that never sleeps.
Jump on Jane’s Carousel
Unleash your inner child on this masterfully restored carousel in the Dumbo section of Brooklyn Bridge Park. Situated on the picturesque East River waterfront and within walking distance to an array of dining destinations, Jane’s Carousel is open to the public year-round (check the website for winter and summer opening hours).
Sip Champagne at The Plaza
The ultimate in romance and old-school glamour, the illustrious Plaza hotel has hosted many high-profile weddings and engagements. Dress up and make your way to The Champagne Bar or The Rose Club to celebrate your own special occasion (or perhaps a proposal).
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Be enchanted at The Butterfly Conservatory
Heated to an average temperature of 27°C and brimming with blooms and butterflies, the American Museum of Natural History’s Butterfly Conservatory is a kind of tropical oasis away from the bustle of the city. Enjoy a dreamy escape here with your sweetheart during the winter months.
Have a movie moment atop the Empire State Building
Who hasn’t thought about re-enacting that fateful meeting between Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks in Sleepless in Seattle? Fall in love with the unending glimmer of New York City from the top of one of its most famous structures.
Swill martinis at The Met’s rooftop bar
While skipping the art may seem sacrilegious, The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Roof Garden Bar has one of the lushest lawns – and best views – in NYC. Open May to October, it’s the perfect perch for a pre-dinner cocktail with a companion.
Stargaze at the Lincoln Center
If you’re feeling starry-eyed, head to the acclaimed Lincoln Center’s Josie Robertson Plaza to observe the sky through high-powered telescopes. The sessions are offered on select nights during summer, in partnership with the Amateur Astronomers Association of New York. Why not take in the ballet while you’re there?
Wine and dine at Barbetta Restaurant
Established in 1906, Barbetta is the oldest Italian restaurant in NYC still owned by the family that founded it. With genuine antiques from 18th-century Italy and a chandelier formerly owned by the Italian royal family, the opulent interiors are almost as decadent as the Piedmont-inspired cuisine.
Paddle under Bow Bridge
The beautiful Bow Bridge is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Central Park. Romantics can hire a rowboat from The Loeb Boathouse or opt for a Venetian-style gondola ride on the lake (weather permitting). When you’ve moored your vessel, stop by the picture-perfect Boathouse for a meal.
Walk The High Line hand in hand
Artfully repurposed from an out-of-service New York Central Railroad track formerly known as the West Side Line, the 2.3-kilometre-long elevated park offers unrivalled views over Chelsea and the Hudson River. Pick up some artisan snacks from the nearby Chelsea Market and find a spot among the greenery for an impromptu picnic.
Take a breather in the Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Prospect Park’s botanic garden looks like a fairytale setting in spring, when the cherry blossom trees bloom along the aptly named Cherry Esplanade. Located between the Cranford Rose Garden and the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, the peaceful sanctuary is one of the prettiest and most romantic spots in Brooklyn.
This article was written in partnership with Tiffany & Co.