Love is everywhere in New York, whether you believe it or not! And with Valentine’s Day happening this week…we’re feeling all sorts of sentimental!
We must admit, there’s something romantic about getting lost in one of NYC’s parks with your significant other…or maybe even sharing a kiss while you take in the iconic skyline.
It can feel like a romance movie kind of moment, whether you’re walking through Central Park holding hands, or sharing drinks in a romantic restaurant. If you’re looking for a little extra romantic inspiration from our beloved city, head to one of these spots and let the sparks fly! These are the most romantic spots in NYC according to our followers!
1. Bow Bridge
Many of our followers suggested Central Park is THEE most romantic spot in NYC, especially the Bow Bridge. There’s nothing quite like grabbing your partner and walking the iconic bridge over the pond. Or if you’re really looking for something special, rent a row boat and spend an afternoon on the water!
2. Bethesda Fountain & Terrace
Also in Central Park is Bethesda Fountain, one of NYC’s largest fountains and one of the great gathering places in Central Park! Grab a seat next to the fountain on a warm day to enjoy the breezy water and an intimate chat. Or, check out the adjacent plaza and its gorgeous architecture and scenery.
3. Sutton Place Park
Could there be anything more romantic than waterfront views in NYC? We think not! Cozy up on a bench at Sutton Place Park and enjoy picturesque views of the Queensboro Bridge and Roosevelt Island.
4. Grand Central Clock Tower
As one Facebook follower writes, the Clock Tower at Grand Central Terminal is “where lovers kiss hello, goodbye, and add a chapter to their story.” We couldn’t agree more! There’s something about the hustle bustle of the city’s iconic train station that makes you feel like you’re the main character in a romantic movie.
5. Empire State Building Observation Deck
Step foot onto the observation decks of one of the most iconic buildings in the Manhattan skyline. You and your partner can enjoy breathtaking 360 degree views of our beloved city, all while sharing the company of each other. This landmark is so romantic that they even offer engagement packages, where you can even pop the question if you’ve been thinking about it!
6. Brooklyn Bridge Park & DUMBO
There are SO many romantic parts around Brooklyn Bridge Park and DUMBO to spend a few hours at. Start with walking the Brooklyn Bridge while you hold hands, move onto Brooklyn Bridge Park and enjoy the views, then finish your day at one of the most romantic restaurants in the area, The River Cafe.
7. Brooklyn Promenade
This pedestrian walkway is a quaint spot to sit, chat, and enjoy spectacular views of Downtown Manhattan, the East River and the Brooklyn Bridge. You also can walk the length of The Promenade and admire the rows of grand townhouses and mansions, and maybe fantasize with your significant other about buying one some day.
8. Loeb Boathouse
After closing down last year, The Loeb Boathouse is expected to reopen again in 2023! This a la carte restaurant, express café, and outdoor bar is a cute spot to grab a snack on a walk, or go for a romantic date. Keep your eyes peeled for announcements on when it’s set to open back up this summer.
9. The Met Cloisters
We got a lot of love for The Met Cloisters from our followers, and rightfully so! Spending the day here is a perfect date opportunity, especially since the museum is located in the stunning Fort Tyron Park. It’s quiet, secluded, full of beautiful greenery and flowers, and a great spot to tuck away for a little while. Let your love for the ages run loose around these Medieval art and architecture collections.
10. Top of Coney Island Ferris Wheel
Now that summer and amusement park season is nearly back, many followers suggest heading to the tippity top of the Coney Island Wonder Wheel for a romantic moment! Lock eyes with each other and the endless ocean while the warm breeze greets your face. This will surely make you feel like a kid again!
11. One if By Land, Two If By Sea
This restaurant got many call outs in particular for its romantic atmosphere, decor, and lighting. This West Village staple nestles right into the chic and romantic vibe of the neighborhood, known for glasses of red wine and candlelit chatter. What we suggest though is checking out their Jazz Brunch events, which include intimate jazz performances and a delicious prix-fixe menu.
12. NYC’s Most Romantic Restaurants
Nothing is more romantic than a nice date night, and at these romantic restaurants, you’ll feel the heat! Many are complete with floral interiors and serene mood lighting that won’t disappoint. Check out all of our picks here!
13. New York Botanical Garden
Stop and smell the roses (and the rest of the flowers) at arguably one of NYC’s most iconic gardens! The New York Botanical Garden is a romantic wonderland full of blooms that will leave you with a smile on your face. Especially now, since it’s annual Orchid Show is currently happening….there’s never been a better time to stop by!
🌸 Buy tickets to the New York Botanical Garden here!
14. City Hall Park
One our followers recalls getting engaged in this cute park saying she felt like, “the whole city [was] swirling around us but we were nearly the only people in the park at the time.” It’s a cute spot to walk with your partner, have a moment of relaxation amongst the bustling downtown crowd, or even have a picnic!
15. Staten Island Ferry
Want a romantic sightseeing tour for FREE? Hop on the Staten Island Ferry and cruise around the NYC waters. You and your partner can snuggle up and get one-of-a-kind views of the Manhattan skyline as well as the Statue of Liberty. You can spend hours on it going back and forth!
16. Revson Fountain at Lincoln Center
As a couple, there’s so many romantic things to do near Lincoln Center! Going to a theatre show, doing a little shopping around Columbus Circle, and even stopping at the Revson Fountain for a few moments of reflection. Come in the afternoon and watch the sun reflect off the water and glass, or stop by at night for a fountain light show that happens every so often.
17. EDGE
Ready to take your romance to new heights? EDGE is another NYC observation deck that will push your boundaries of love to the very edge! You can grab skyline views here, and even do an open-air climbing challenge where you ascend the crown of the Edge building. If you’re looking for an adrenaline-rushed romantic challenge, you know where to go!
🏙️ Buy tickets to EDGE Observation Deck here!
18. The Met
To make it easy on you…The Met is continually hosting select date nights on the Upper East Side. You can enjoy live music, drink specials, light bites, and of course the museum’s art for free or a small cost! They happen on Fridays and Saturdays and you can learn more about them here!
19. Pier 17
Sit back and relax near Pier 17, a romantic spot on the East side, especially in the warmer months! Not only do they have their rooftop with summer concerts, but they also have lots of waterfront benches to snuggle up at (pictured above), cute art installations, tasty restaurants, a nautical museum, and more!
20. Washington Square Park Arch
Right around the corner from NYU is the iconic Washington Square Park arch, where students, tourists, and locals love to spend time. Bring a blanket and spend some time on the grass, or grab something cute from local vendors and snap some couple photos in front of the arch. Something about the vibes of the park make it…different!