Things to do in New York

10 super ideas for Valentine’s Day in NYC

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14th February is just around the corner and the air is already chirping with the upcoming festivities. Never short of activities, the city of New York poses endless possibilities when it comes to Valentine’s Day. Valentine’s Day in New York can be tailor made to suit what you love as a couple. Whether you want an old school celebration or you want to explore the wild side this year or you want to pop the question, New York City presents you with a whole lot of quirky and interesting options. Look through our special guide to find a date idea that suits you and your better half the best.

Top 10 Picks For A Fabulous Valentine's Day in NYC


1. Watch a classic romantic Broadway Show

valentine's day in nyc

Valentine's Day and Broadway shows are a match made in musical theatre heaven! If you and your special someone are looking for a romantic night out, start your evening with a classic romantic Broadway show, followed by a dinner reservation. From the classic love stories told in shows like Phantom of the Opera or Aladdin, to more modern romances, like Moulin Rogue! The Musical and Hamilton, a date night at the theater promises to be an unforgettable experience.

2. Celebrate love on Times Square

valentine's day in nyc

The heart of New York, Times Square goes all out to celebrate Valentine’s Day. A hot spot for the die-hard romantics, the Duffy Square at 46th Street and Broadway builds up a special installation each year, that is all about love. From surprise proposals to most romantic weddings, the air here is peppered with love. Though most heart warming of all is the sight of hundreds of people renewing their vows on the Red Steps, reinstalling your faith in happily ever after.

3. Get raunchy at the Museum of Sex

valentine's day in nyc

The couples who are planning to get naughty this Valentine’s day in NYC, the Museum of Sex is your haven. A hub for all things X-rated, the exhibits include clips on more than 150 years of sex, antique sex toys, erotic art and sex lives of animals. The first sex museum in America even has a uniquely adult version of a bouncy castle, themed around breasts it is aptly named as the Jump For Joy.The MoSex also offers special Valentine’s week package that includes store credit for the museum's sex shop.

4. Set off on a Sunset Cruise

valentine's day in nyc

Sail away on a romantic sunset cruise down the majestic Hudson River. There's no better way to spend a blissful evening with your special someone than taking in the stunning skyline while you drift away into the horizon. The sky will be painted with beautiful shades of orange and red, providing you an exquisite backdrop for an unforgettable experience. You and your partner can sip on some bubbly, as you take in the dazzling sights along the river and enjoy one another's company.

5. Steal a kiss at the Empire State Building

valentine's day in nyc

Even if you have planned the minutest of details before you climbed 1,050-ft into the sky, your kiss on observation deck of the Empire State Building would be a definite serendipitous affair; as special as it was in Sleepless in Seattle or An Affair to Remember. Whether day or night, the breathtaking panoramic view of NYC will give you a perfect backdrop, however we believe your eyes will probably be glued on your significant other. Moreover, a well written essay could win you a chance to get married at the Empire State Building, allowed only on 14th February.

Recommended Empire State Building Experiences for Valentine's Day


Check out all Empire State Building tickets here.

6. Go Heights With A Helicopter Ride

valentine's day in nyc

What is love, if not shots of adrenaline rush, the butterflies, the goosebumps, the scares and of course the heartwarming awws. Remarkably these are some of the adjectives that applies to a helicopter ride as well. Mark your Valentine’s day in NYC by combining the two adventures, a ride along the skyline of the city with your loved one. You can choose from an array of flight options, including a couple’s private tour or even avail some special services if you are planning to pop the question.

Recommended NYC Helicopter Experiences for Valentine's Day


Check out all NYC Helicopter Experiences.

7. Niagara Falls

valentine's day in nyc

Mark this special day by not only planning a getaway from the hustle - bustle of the city, but to engross yourself and your loved one in an enriching and rejuvenating experience with the nature. Your trip to Niagara Falls, will start early on a Valentine’s day and a fully fitted coach will take you on scenic journey from NYC to the Falls. While the breathtaking beauty of the falls could mesmerize you for the whole day, the surrounding areas present equally engrossing activities such as cycling, incredible wineries, hiking, the Niagara Falls State Park and many more.

8. Central Park Stroll

valentine's day in nyc

Valentine's Day in Central Park is like a fairytale come true! The lush greenery, stunning views and romantic atmosphere make it the perfect place for couples to spend their special day. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll around the grounds or explore one of its many attractions, there's something here for everyone. You can even take a horse and carriage ride around the park to add some extra romance to your day.

9. Summit One Vanderbilt

valentine's day in nyc

Let the romance begin with a romantic dinner for two at one of the restaurants in Summit One Vanderbilt, where you can enjoy delicious food and an incredible view of the city skyline. Afterwards, take an elevator ride to the top of the building and check out all the amazing views from the observation deck, it will be sure to get your heart racing! To end the night, take a leisurely stroll around Grand Central Station, located directly below Summit One Vanderbilt which offers plenty of photo ops.

10. Be a tourist in your own city

valentine's day in nyc

Once a New Yorker, always a New Yorker; do you share the same sentiment and are head over heels in love with the city? Than celebrate Valentine’s day with your city as well. Become tourists for the day and explore the city with your partner, hear their stories about the famous spots, find new things about the city and each other, fall in love again with the city and with your partner.

FAQs


What is there to do in NYC on Valentine's Day?

New York City is a bustling city with ample things and activities for you to undertake with your partner! You can go on food tours with your partner and indulge the foodie in you, together, or if you're the type to spend quiet moments together, stroll through Central Park or steal a kiss at the top of the Empire State Building. If you're looking for a rush of adrenaline, you can take your partner with you on a private helicopter ride over the city's skyline.

What are some romantic things to do in NYC?

You can take a horse-drawn carriage through Central Park, a classic New Yorker date idea! The Hudson also offers some beautiful views and cruises for you to enjoy with your partner. 

Is New York good for couples?

New York is an ideal destination for couples simply because of the variety of things you can do there! Ranging from high-end fine-dining restaurants, to street vendors serving local foods like the hot dog or pretzels, there's something for every couple to do in the Big Apple!

What is the most romantic place in New York?

Sutton Place Park is among the top-rated romantic places in the city. But there are others for you to pick from as well, like the Observation Deck at the Rockefeller Center, or the top of the Empire State Building. The Loeb Boathouse and New York Botanical Garden are also highly recommended!

What is New York like in February?

New York is sparsely crowded in February. The weather is cold and snowy but there are a range of winter activities and indoor attractions you can explore. Make sure to pack warm clothes so you and your partner can make the most of the romantic holiday!

Valentine's Day New York Guide