They say long jumping over winter slush puddles and dodging tourists on the sidewalk in New York City is an Olympic sport, but those that are single know that dating in NYC is the most daunting Olympic sport of all. The whiplash we get from all the studies released relating to dating in NYC–NYC is the worst city for dating, NYC is the best city in the world to meet your soulmate, NYC is one of the worst cities in the U.S. to be single–is worse than what we experience when watching the US Open.
Perhaps the worst part of it all, though, is the awkward first date. Like, people’s wives are literally showing up at the restaurant and beating them up while they’re mid-first date with someone else–and yes, this is a real and hilariously terrible date story from a NYer. So when we’re planning a first date we want to be sure everything runs smoothly…
In a recent Bumble survey, the overwhelming majority, 75%, of Gen Z and Millennial singles in NYC said that going on dates is a great way to explore the city they live in (they must have never had a single bad first date experience, but we digress…). However, practically the same amount of them, 76%, admitted that they struggle to come up with new and exciting date spots and ideas.
So while we have our take on some fabulous dates to go on in NYC, local Bumble daters shared their own insight on all things dating in NYC, including what date ideas are worth the hype and what hidden gems have become their go-tos.
According to Bumble daters in NYC:
NYC date ideas that are actually worth the hype:
- Strolling the High Line – a great way to get to know someone better while taking in the views (or distract yourself with those same views if your date kinda sucks)
- Something active such as bowling or rock climbing – get a firsthand look at how your date handles a bit of friendly competition
- Hanging out at Sheep Meadow in Central Park – just think: cherry blossoms will be blooming soon!
Hidden gems in NYC for the perfect date:
- La Lanterna di Vittorio – a lantern-lit garden
- Toy Tokyo – a toy shop perfect for collectors and anime fans
- Recirculation – a pop-up bookstore
- Honore Club – a bar with piña coladas on tap
- St. Mark’s Place – the funky street in the heart of the East Village with something for everyone
So sure, you’ll still have to put in the work when it comes to meeting someone new, but at least you won’t have to worry about putting in the legwork to plan the perfect date!
If you are still wading in the dating pool, maybe you’ll have better luck heading to one of these countries that singles love to passport to. Or, better yet, just take yourself out on a solo date. But while we do believe that we’re our own best company, just don’t forget that you’re paying a “singles tax” of $20K per year if you live alone in NYC. Oh, and don’t shoot the messenger.