23 Date Ideas in NEW YORK (Romantic, Exciting & Memorable)
Typical date options include visiting a movie theatre, a classy restaurant, and sometimes a bar.
However, going on the same date every time can get boring, and you need to have some fun.
New York has too many possibilities and date ideas for you to settle for less.
So whether you want to try something new and exciting, keep the sparks flying, or enjoy an intimate time with your partner, New York has something for you.
In addition, the city has ideas that are easy on the pocket but still romantic enough to impress your date or reignite the flames with your long-time lover.
So if you and your date partner want to throw extra fun into the mix, check out the top 23 date ideas in New York below!
And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Romantic Getaways in New York.
Date Ideas in Brooklyn, New York
1. Visit Brooklyn Botanical Garden
Nothing could be more romantic than a date here.
There is a lot of nature and beauty to behold and enjoy at Brooklyn Botanical Garden.
It is a beautiful place to visit any time of the year, but so much more in the summer.
You can start your date by exploring the Cranford Rose Garden.
There you will find beautiful roses, wildflowers, and sculptures
Remember to check out the ‘Roses of Yesterday’ statute, a bronze sculpture that shows a woman holding a butterfly sundial with the word ‘endless love’ written on it.
Afterward, walk hand in hand through the Shakespeare Garden with dozens of flowers and edible and ornamental plants.
You can take a break on the romantic bench under the red oak and share conversations with your date partner.
If you have more time to spare, stroll by the Cherry Walk.
There is a lot of beauty, especially the fragrant pink cherry tree.
You can also check out The Japanese Hill and Pond Garden, which has a waterfall, wooden bridge, and other stunning architecture.
A date here will leave you with many beautiful memories, as there is much to see and enjoy with your partner.
So why not visit?
Address: 990 Washington Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225, United States
2. Walk the Brooklyn Heights Promenade
Although this spot is a favorite destination for joggers and walkers, it’s also an excellent place to enjoy a date.
It offers a cool and calm atmosphere to sit, relax, and converse with your date.
This place is a good date spot because it is free of charge and close to other historic sites should you want to visit them too.
It is within walking distance of many grand houses and mansions in the historic district.
Taking a stroll hand in hand with your date on the pedestrian walkway gives you a fantastic view of Downtown Manhattan, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty, and the East River.
Isn’t that spectacular?
The Manhattan skyline provides a perfect backdrop to click a picture or two with your partner.
After all that stroll, get some refreshing ice cream from any local joint nearby, sit down, and appreciate the views of New York.
Address: Montague St & Pierrepont Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States
3. Visit Brooklyn Bridge Park
It will be a fun and exciting date at Brooklyn Bridge Park.
Regardless of what catches your fancy, there is something you can enjoy here.
The 85-acre park is open with a waterfront, greenery, and scenes.
There is a Carousel, a playground, a row of benches, and a volleyball, soccer, and basketball pitch.
Another way to enjoy the park is to cycle, rent a rowboat, or fish in the river
Take a stroll through the park, whether night or day and take in the spectacular views
The park is also a great place to have a picnic and have some private time to reflect on your relationship.
Many food and drink options are available at the many cafes and bars around the park.
However, if you want to come with snacks, all is well and good.
Address: Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States
4. Explore the Brooklyn Museum
This art museum is one of the largest in the United States, so if your date loves art or science, you should bring them here.
With an art collection of over 500 000 objects, there is more than enough to explore for a few hours.
The museum is close to landmarks like Park Slope, Crown Heights, Flatbush, Prospect Heights, and many more.
From Egyptian to Classical, Eastern, and American collections, the museum would have you coming back for more with your date.
The museum also offers art programs that thrill you with live music, screenings, dance, performances, and more.
So if you are looking for a place to take your date to, or to be real, have some private and intimate time, try the Brooklyn Museum.
Address: 200 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11238, United States.
5. Visit the Prospect Park
What better way to enjoy a date than to visit Prospect Park?
The park is the second biggest public park in Brooklyn, New York.
It is nearby other popular spots like Brooklyn Museum, Brooklyn Botanical Garden, Grand Army Plaza, etc.
Although the park is a beautiful spot for relaxation, prepare for a chokehold of activities to see and enjoy here too.
Enjoy a date night here while listening to soft romantic music.
Grab a bite or a full dinner at the Bluestone Cafe in the park.
You can also take in the spectacular views of nature, the highest points of Brooklyn, and spectacular views of the Park and New York City.
If you want, you may also join the Prospect Park Alliance Tours to take you on a tour of the park and its history.
Visit the park and experience everything it has to offer with your date.
Address: Prospect Park West, Flatbush, Parkside, Brooklyn, NY, United States.
6. See a movie at Nitehawk Cinema
Yes, dinner and a movie date sound typical and cliche; however, it never gets boring when it’s at a good spot.
This newly improved cinema at Williamsburg never misses.
It is New York’s premier dine-in cinema; you can enjoy excellent food and beverage services!
How cool is that?
Hold on, that’s not all.
The meal menu is specially curated to include fresh and local ingredients.
Every month, the cinema offers its signature series program to thrill its guests with a beautiful experience.
All movie screenings begin with a 30-minute pre-show that gives you an idea of what you will see and enjoy.
The screenings span many options, from old classics to new features.
So what do you say about a cozy, intimate date night at the cinema?
Address: 136 Metropolitan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249, United States
Also see our article on Bachelor Party Ideas in New York.
Date Ideas in Manhattan, New York
1. Explore the Color Factory
Why go for a boring date when you can have something exciting, artistic, interactive, and educational?
You can have all that at the color factory in New York City.
With its ever-dynamic exhibits, a color factory is a perfect place for a date night and a spot you and a loved one can enjoy regularly.
All you need is a passion for experimenting to explore the art museum with bright colors, lights, and interactive installations.
You can slide into a blue pit, dance with joy in the golden room, or behold New York in a different light with the Design duo Carnovsky.
After that experience, enjoy a plate of rainbow macarons from the bakery cafe or a sweet cream gelato.
A little tip here!
If you visit on a Thursday, you can get two tickets for the charge of one.
Address: 251 Spring Street, New York, NY 10013, United States
2. Catch a live performance at Drunk Shakespeare
Five professional actors form the Drunk Shakespeare Society to thrill viewers with a good show.
The dynamics of the show by the Drunk Shakespeare society change every night.
This show differs from any you would see at the park or elsewhere.
Here, you enjoy a fun and hilarious time during a 90-minute quirky performance in New York’s famous theatre district.
See a professional cast member drink at least five shots of whiskey on stage while the remaining four have to keep the play going.
Upon arrival, guests can have special treats and purchase drinks and a craft cocktail at the venue.
All guests must be 21 years or above, and they do not condone excessive drinking, so be sure to drink responsibly!
Contact them through the website, as various dates and times are available.
Address: 11 Hanover Sq, New York, NY 10005, United States
3. Kayak on the Hudson River
Whether it’s a date with a crush or a long-time lover, kayaking on the Hudson River is an excellent way to enjoy a date in New York.
Although it may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you plan a date, it is still a calm, relaxing, and adventurous activity to explore with a loved one.
Even if you are a pro or a novice, you can still experience the joy that comes with it.
It doesn’t matter whether you own a kayak or rent one; all that matters is that you are set to paddle across the river!
Do you know what’s better?
It is free.
However, make reservations as it is on a first-come, first-served basis.
So what are you waiting for?
Take your partner to enjoy the city waters and give kayaking a try!
Address: 353 West St, New York, NY 10011, United States
4. Spend a day at Central Park
Central Park has much to explore, so you need a day to soak it all in.
After all, it’s not called the heart of Manhattan for nothing.
With over 843 acres of green and lush space, Central Park is the perfect place to fall in love or reignite old flames.
From bike rides to hiking, photo tours, picnics, free music, and more, you will find many different parts of the park to explore and experience.
A private NYC tour is a great way to enjoy everything the park offers while having professional pictures of you and your partner taken.
The Arthur Rose Pinetum has many picnic tables where you can enjoy private time with your date amidst beautiful nature.
If you plan your day right, you can explore many other fun areas in Central Park.
Regardless, Central Park is a must-visit!
Address: 59th to 110th Street and Central Park West to 5th Avenue, Manhattan, New York, US.
5. Go Ice-Skating in Rockefeller Center
The iconic ice rink on 5th Avenue is an exciting place to be during Christmas and on a date night.
It’s a perfect place to be during winter from the first week of November.
You don’t have to spend your savings to enjoy a date here, and it’s okay if you don’t have a skate, as you can always rent one at an affordable price.
If you want a more bougie experience, book a private lesson with a professional instructor.
The class is available from Tuesdays to Saturdays, where you can learn skating fundamentals with your date.
After all that work out on the rink, take a break at the lounge.
It is a cozy spot to relax, unwind, grab a bite, and sip some beverage while enjoying a private moment with your date.
Come closer for a little secret!
If you are looking for a good spot for a proposal, think Rockefeller ice rink.
It promises to be memorable and magical!
Address: 600 5th Avenue, Rockefeller Center, New York, NY 10020, United States
Also see our article on Botanical Gardens in New York.
Date Ideas in Buffalo, New York
1. Tour the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Garden
If you want a casual date but want to have fun, this garden is perfect!
The garden is a historic site and educational center for New Yorkers and tourists.
Some visitors even see it as a place to find peace, spiritual healing, and reflection.
It has indoor and outdoor sanctuaries, and the overall architecture is breathtaking.
During spring, the garden bursts with colors and beauty for your viewing pleasure.
With $20, you can get up close and personal with the koi fishes in the garden and learn more about them.
Take your date to explore the Spring Flower Exhibit.
You can see, feel, and smell different kinds of flowers there, like daffodils, hyacinths, and tulips in pink, red, white, yellow, and more!
Transport yourselves into a world of peace and serenity when you stroll through the botanical garden and take in the beautiful sights.
Address: 2655 South Park Ave, Buffalo, NY 14218, United States
2. Watch a show at Shea’s Performing Arts Center
The Performing Arts Center has three fantastic theaters in Downtown Buffalo.
It has Shea’s Buffalo, the historic crown jewel, Shea’s Smith, and Shea’s 710.
These theaters display different styles of performing arts to please and delight their audience.
Shea’s Buffalo started in 1926 and now stages vaudeville shows and hosts George Burns, Bob Hope, Frank Sinatra, and others.
In the 236 theatres, Shea’s Smith hosts various shows, comedies, and productions.
It also doubles as an event space for special events with an adjoining restaurant and bar.
The latest, Shea’s 710, has 625 seats and projects the stage into the auditorium, where the audience can have a view from three sides.
Your date night will surely be memorable when you visit the performing arts theatre.
So which of the theatres do you want to explore?
Address: 644, 658, 710 Main Street 650, Buffalo, NY 14202-1906 United States
3. Hang out at Canalside
Canalside is a recreation spot at the western terminus of the Erie Canal.
The spot gives a spectacular view of the waterfront and other amazing sights.
There is a lot you can do here for a date.
You can dine, concert, skate, revel, relax, and chill with your date.
Canalside holds hundreds of events from concerts to shows to live music to festivals every year without miss.
Most of these events are free or at a meager cost to the public.
You will also find summer and fitness classes, outdoor activities like ice skating, history tours, and many other programs.
Relax with a casual bite and chilled beverage while enjoying the beautiful waterfront views with your date.
All that happens at Canalside is fun, but experiencing it with a loved one or prospective lover makes it even more fun!
Address: 44 Prime St, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States
4. Explore Buffalo City Hall
Buffalo City Hall is an excellent place to explore if your date loves history and beautiful architecture.
It is the municipal government seat in Buffalo, New York.
The 32-story Art Deco building was built by George J. Dietel and John J. Wade between 1929 and 1932.
Buffalo City Hall offers a detailed view of many masterpieces, symbols, figures, and murals depicting the city’s history.
If there is one area you must visit, it is the Common Council Chamber.
It displays beautiful sculptures and gives a view of the beautiful skylight.
However, if you want a breathtaking view of Lake Erie, Buffalo River, and Ellicott Historic District, check out the Observation Tower on the 28th floor.
Entry into the hall is free, so you don’t have to break the bank to impress your date.
You can kill two birds with a stone!
Enjoy the fantastic views and learn all you need about the city’s history in the same place.
Address: 65 Niagara Sq, Buffalo, NY 14202, United States
Also see our article on Kayaking in New York.
Date Ideas in Rochester, New York
1. Visit Highland Park
The 150-acre site has many activities, events, and attractions for you and your date.
Every May, the park opens its doors for the famous Lilac Festival, where visitors can enjoy lots of food, games, crafts, and fun.
The Lamberton Conservatory displays an impressive collection of plants from all over the world.
You can find so many gardens and memorials in the park.
The Highland Park Bowl is an outdoor theater where you can enjoy concerts, shows, and plays, all cuddled up with your date.
Near South and Highland Avenue, you will find the Lilac Arches with its beautiful architectural design, benches, and brick patio.
If your date outing is during the winter, take advantage of the natural skating rink at Lily Pond.
However, you must bring your skate or rent from somewhere else.
You can never go wrong with a date here!
Address: 180 Reservoir Ave, Rochester, NY 14620, United States
2. Tour George Eastman Museum
You will find this museum in the estate of George Eastman, the forerunner of motion picture films and photography.
It is the world’s oldest photography museum and has millions of collections on photography, cinema, cinematography, etc.
There is always something different to discover, learn, and enjoy here.
You will also find the Dryden Theatre, which annually exhibits over 300 different films to depict nitrate films.
If you want a quiet and calm date, enjoy private time at either of the gardens on the museum site.
After a few hours in the museum, treat yourselves to some delicious meals at Open Face.
You will find gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options to fill your tummy.
Visit the museum on a date with your partner, and you won’t regret it!
Address: 900 East Ave, Rochester, NY 14607, United States
Also see our article on Ziplining in New York.
Date Ideas in Albany, New York
1. Explore New York State Museum
If you and your date love anything science, history, art, and anthropology, this museum has them in abundance.
It is at the southern end of Rockefeller Empire State Plaza in Albany, New York.
The beautiful 100 000 square feet of exhibition space rotates new exhibitions annually.
Sign up for one of the public educational programs and learn about the natural and human history of the state.
This museum is a perfect spot because entry is free, and you can soak it all in a few hours.
Some exhibits include minerals, a mastodon skeleton, birds, a fire truck room, a first-person room with many interactive screens, and many others.
If you and your date want to see how New York preserves its social, artistic, or environmental legacy, visit the museum.
Address: 222 Madison Ave, Albany, NY 12230, United States
2. Watch a play at Spectrum 8 Theatres
This spot is not one of the regular mall theatres.
Every film here will entertain you and provoke your thoughts.
Going to the movies at this theater would give you a unique blend of Hollywood, Independent, and Foreign features.
The theatre’s art deco atmosphere and gallery showing the works of local artists will enchant you.
Digital sounds and 3D projections keep you entertained all through the movie.
You can find various movies here, from comedy to horror, action, animation, adventure, drama, fantasy, and romance.
There is also a snack bar with varieties like fresh coffee tea, popcorn, chocolate and creamy carrot cake, brownies, candies, etc.
Don’t worry about the price; Spectrum is very affordable for the experience you will be getting.
They play good movies, and the atmosphere is warm, cozy, and intimate.
What more could you want?
Address: 290 Delaware Ave, Albany, NY 12209, United States
3. Tour the New York State Capitol
Do you know that Albany is the capital city of New York State?
This historic landmark is the seat of the state government in Albany, New York, and has been so since the 1880s.
That means you can discover a lot of information and history here.
However, it does not make it a bad spot to take your date to.
You should test their intellect and passion for the city in which they live.
The million-dollar building is part of the Empire State Complex on Albany’s State Street Hill.
It took the help of five different architects to construct this beautiful masterpiece.
Tours are open from 10 am to 2 pm from Monday to Friday.
You and your date can learn about the building’s history, inhabitants, and more.
Thousands of people visit this historic site yearly, and you should be one of them.
But what’s better is when you make a date out of it.
Address: State St. and Washington Ave, Albany, NY 12224, United States
Also see our article on Museums in New York.
Date Ideas in Syracuse, New York
1. Spend a day at Rosamond Gifford Zoo
There is nothing more charming than a zoo date.
Say hello to the variety of animals and take in the beautiful scenery.
This zoo at Burnet Park has been doing a fantastic job of connecting people to the natural world since 1916.
It has over 700 animals of different species, both big and small.
The zoo has everything from amphibians to reptiles, mammals, birds, fish, and invertebrates.
Some of these animals are either endangered or threatened, and the zoo does a great job protecting them.
The zoo keepers are very friendly and knowledgeable enough to answer all your questions about the animals.
They also have indoor and outdoor exhibits like an aquarium, waterfowl pond, wildlife trail, outdoor bird exhibits, domestic animal barn, and many more!
So take your sweet time, stroll around the zoo, and take in the animals one after the other.
It promises to be fun and exciting.
Address: 1 Conservation Pl, Syracuse, NY 13204, United States
2. Stop by the Eastwood Brewing Company
Whether you love beer or not so much, clinking a glass of beer with your date at Eastwood Brewing Company is a good idea.
Enjoy a fine selection of fresh and tasty brews that will tingle your taste buds.
The beers are locally brewed with unique ingredients and specialized craft.
From Indian pale ale to stout, Belgians, pilsner, and lager, there is something for your and your date.
You can also visit the tasting room and enjoy a sip of any flavor.
The taste of the beer never changes; consistently rich and authentic.
Eastwood is open Mondays to Sundays at different times and is ready to serve you.
Stop by the brewery with your date and get served a pint, half pours, or a full glass.
Remember to drink responsibly!
Address: 108 Walter Dr, Syracuse, NY 13206, United States
3. See a movie at Landmark Theatre
The historic theatre is set in a grand, elegant auditorium with 2,800 seats.
It is decorated in red and gold with beautiful wall ornaments.
Enjoy complimentary refreshments and a glass of champagne when you visit and explore the theatre.
There are many other fun activities in Downtown Syracuse to round up your experience at the theatre with your date.
You can treat yourselves to a fine dining experience, shop till you drop, enjoy Syracuse’s nightlife, or lodge in a hotel and enjoy some quality and intimate time together.
Become a member and utilize the membership programs with their perks and benefits.
Visit the website and join the mailing list to be notified of concerts, Broadway shows, and performances to impress your crush or long-time lover.
Address: 362 S Salina Street, Syracuse, NY 13202, United States
If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Zoos, Ice Skating Rink, and Bowling Alleys in New York.
Looking beyond New York? Check out our article on the best Date Ideas in Illinois and California.