1. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
While it may seem too touristy for locals, the Brooklyn Bridge is definitely the perfect place to take a stroll! Enjoy the walk across the bridge, then spend some time exploring what awaits you on the other side… Visit the main attractions of Dumbo or the quiet streets of Brooklyn Heights. On the Manhattan side, there’s so much to do in the endless shops and restaurants of Chinatown.
2. Gastronomic tour
The New York City food scene can be a little intimidating, and it’s easy to get stuck going to the same favorite restaurants over and over again (guilty as charged). Mix up your tastes with a New York City restaurant tour. Many tours focus on a specific neighborhood, so try to step outside your usual circle and find something new to add to the list.
3. Skating
In winter, there are plenty of ice skating rinks available in New York City. Try the most iconic ones, in Rockefeller, Central Park or Bryant Park (and visit the Christmas markets while you’re there).
4. Ping-pong at Spin
A crowd-pleaser! This is a classic date night spot, and for good reason. Nothing gets me flirty like a friendly competition! If you like the vibe but ping pong isn’t your thing, try shuffle boarding at Royal Palms or bowling at Brooklyn Bowl. All of these are also great for dates!
5. Botanical Gardens
If you love gardens, New York has it all. Spend hours getting lost in the beauty of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. An incredible escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Or if you’re more of a swanky girl, the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx is also a beautiful oasis to spend a day wandering around.
6. Flea markets
New York City is full of flea markets. I have a soft spot for the Chelsea one, but feel free to visit others in your neighborhood. They’ll be great finds and a lot of fun! Make it a game, like a scavenger hunt, or call each other out to buy fun gifts.
7. Take a stroll in Central Park
The best thing to do in New York and it’s completely free! With so many routes to take, you’ll never get bored. The street musicians, the people watching and of course the beautiful nature. Grab a coffee and wander around for as long as your heart desires.
8. Kayak on the Hudson
Enjoy the rivers that surround New York City and try out some water sports. I don’t necessarily recommend swimming in the Hudson, but renting kayaks and paddling around in a picturesque setting will give you a whole new perspective on the city and you might even spot a whale! (Just kidding, it doesn’t happen very often, but if you really want to see whales, try a whale watching cruise on the East River.)
9. Sex Museum
You thought we weren’t going to talk about this? New York City has some of the most incredible museums in the world, but one stands out from the rest and is Bellesa’s favorite. The Museum of Sex is incredibly fun and a perfect way to open up some conversations with the person you’re dating. There’s no better way to break the ice than in a boob bouncy house.
10. Burlesque show
Of course, everyone should see a show on Broadway or MSG, but if you want to try something a little different, check out a burlesque show. Head to Duane Park, Nurse Bettie, or Bathroom Gin for cocktails and a show!
11. Sunset Helicopter Tour
Let’s talk about the city from a new perspective. There’s no better way to see New York than from the air, flying over the city in a helicopter. While you can do it at any time of day, we recommend a sunset tour for a romantic experience your partner won’t soon forget.