Things to Do in New York City for Couples

Some of the most romantic places in New York City can be found in unexpected places – like way up high on an observation deck. More romantic scenes and proposals have happened at places like the Top of the Rock Observatory and the Empire State Building than you'd think – just consider movies like An Affair to Remember! Head to the stellar Top of the Rock for excellent sweeping views of the city below. You could also opt for a trip up the iconic Empire State Building to make your own movie moment.

If you're not sure which observation deck to choose, check out our post comparing Top of the Rock vs Empire State Building!

While there are way too many museums in NYC to visit all of them on one trip – or even several – a few of our favorites make for excellent couples' destinations for the art-loving duos out there.

The Museum of Modern Art is famous for its fabulous collections of modern and contemporary art, including legends like Jasper Johns, Jackson Pollock, and more. The Guggenheim Museum is home to the works of Cézanne, Gauguin, Manet, Monet, Picasso, Pissarro, and Renoir. From Impressionist and Post-Impressionist to sculpture and the avante-garde, this museum is an art lover’s paradise.

New York City may seem to be the archetypal urban landscape, but the more you explore, the more you realize that the great outdoors is just as beautiful here as any forest or park.

If you're a true lover of nature, there's the lush New York Botanical Garden which is home to over one million plants. Explore over 50 different themed exhibits and gardens and immerse yourself in unique flora and fauna. Another delightful option is the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and its companion institution, the Brooklyn Museum. Explore the wonders of nature and then switch to marveling at culture.

If you're looking for some larger green spaces to explore, head to the world-famous Central Park. Here, you'll find space for everything from picnics to bike tours and beyond. Plus, holding hands while walking through the park is a time-honored NYC date tradition!

For a stress-free lunchtime picnic experience, pre-order a Perfect Picnic. This way, you can simply grab and go – an easy, yet delicious, solution while enjoying the sights of the city. You could also opt to rent a bike for some leisurely pedaling around the park, or throughout the city. It's a fun way to get out and get some exercise together on your vacation, too.

You can even take a food-centric walking tour that allows you to sample the area's best and most famous cuisines. Try the food that real New Yorkers eat – not just the stuff for tourists. And explore new neighborhoods while you're at it, bringing out beyond the scope of what an average visitor might see on their vacation.

(And afterward, you may want to embark on a bike tour to work it off -- perhaps someplace new like Brooklyn?)

If you love the idea of a culinary tour, but were perhaps hoping more booze was involved, then a Spirits on Foot Tour sounds like it's right up your alley. You and your friends can stroll around top NYC neighborhoods and hit up some of the best bars in the city while enjoying informative narration and insider info from your guide.

Sample drink specials, or order from the regular menu to try what the locals drink. Whether you're a beer snob, a wine connoisseur, or just love some tasty cocktails, you'll find a drink to enjoy on this tour.

Insider Tip: There are walking tour options in NYC that cover everything from street art to monuments to specific neighborhoods – check out your choices to see what suits your fancy the most!

If you fancy taking a break from the hustle and bustle of city sightseeing, what could be better than listening to live music in New York City's home of jazz? Sit back, relax, and soak up the soulful and soothing beats of Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Miles Davis, and many more at the Harlem Jazz Series. You're sure to leave here with a smile on your face, ready to take on the rest of your NYC vacation.

Of course, you simply can't leave New York City without paying a visit to its most famous resident - the iconic Lady Liberty herself. History buffs and fans of U.S. culture, in general, will want to take the trip out to see Liberty Island themselves, so hop aboard a ferry and let the adventures begin!

Don't forget to explore the nearby Ellis Island, too, once home to the country's immigration center. The museum located there is poignant and informative and is great for curious travelers. Plus, you may find the name of one of your ancestors on the engraved wall!

New York City is rightfully considered one of the shopping capitals of the United States. Quite literally, you can buy almost anything you can dream of in NYC. Whether you're roaming the couture boutiques of Madison Avenue or scouring the shops of SoHo for that perfect deal, you'll be able to shop to your heart's content in this city. Just be nice to your partner and buy them something!

Another great (and budget-friendly!) option is to take a trip out to the Woodbury Common outlets. Hop aboard a bus to avoid the hassle of driving and parking, and spend a few hours shopping to your heart's content.