Romantic Things To Do In NYC For Couples

• Location: multiple locations
• Price: varies
• Why we recommend: boasting one of the most famous skylines in the world, New York City is always a gorgeous place to look out over - and there's nowhere better to do it from than a stylish rooftop bar

One of the most romantic things to do in NYC at night in particular, the city's rooftop bars and restaurants provide amazing views of Manhattan's skyline. Whether you want to sip cocktails as the sun sets, or hit the dancefloor a little later on, these spots make for the perfect date.

Some of our top picks for elevated drinks include 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar, Daintree and Panorama Room, providing stunning surrounds as well as a great outlook over New York. These vary in price too, so you don't always have to spend big to enjoy a fantastic outing.

• Location: 1462 1st Avenue, Upper East Side, NY 10075
• Price: $$
• Why we recommend: what could be more wholesome than a board game date? Relax and bond with your partner over some competitive fun, while sipping great quality coffee or cocktails

One of the most unique things for couples to do in NYC, Hex & Co is a board game cafe that's ideal for cozying up with your other half. They've got shelves overflowing with fun games, and they also host regular Magic: The Gathering nights if you want to play with others.

Expect warm lighting and simple wooden tables, with both bookings and walk-in spots available. There's a fully stocked bar on-site as well, serving everything from cocktails to coffee and smoothies - great for sober dates. Hungry? There's also a selection of light bites on offer.

• Location: 208 W 23 Street, Chelsea, NY 10011
• Price: $$
• Why we recommend: there are always brilliant stand-up comedians on stage here, whether you catch a big name comic or get to be one of the first to discover an up-and-coming new talent

If you're in the mood for a night out that's bound to have you both in stitches, check out what's on at Gotham Comedy Club. This is one of New York's top spots for live stand-up, hosting a regular lineup of comedians - both big names and emerging new performers.

This intimate venue features a small stage at the front, with simple wooden tables all around it. There are a range of classic cocktails, beer and wine on offer, alongside pub-style dishes like charbroiled sirloin burgers, mozzarella sticks and Buffalo chicken strips.

• Location: Brooklyn, NY 11224
• Price: $$
• Why we recommend: we always get a strong sense of nostalgia at Coney Island, thanks to the old-school rollercoasters and classic food stalls. Definitely try one of Nathan's Famous hot dogs while you're here - they've been firm favourites for more than a century

A nostalgic day out that's home to some iconic attractions, Coney Island is a seaside destination in Brooklyn. There are hours of fun to be had here, from the legendary Wonder Wheel that looks out over the ocean to Luna Park - an amusement park that's filled with roller coasters, thrill rides and old-school entertainment.

Some of these attractions date back a long time, such as The Cyclone that was built in 1927. There are also countless food vendors along the boardwalk, from Nathan's Famous hot dogs (which originated here in 1916) to cotton candy and funnel cake stalls. And if you're after cheap date ideas in NYC, simply wander along and enjoy the street performers, open-air concerts and firework displays regularly found here.

• Location: 315 W 44th Street, Midtown West, NY 10036
• Price: $$
• Why we recommend: this iconic destination is home to some of the best jazz performers in the entire world, and a performance here is always mesmerising. We also love the smaller theater downstairs for a more intimate date

One of the city's most legendary music venues, Birdland Jazz Clubhas been around since 1949. This is often known as 'The Jazz Corner of the World', named over saxophone legend Charlie 'Bird' Parker, and it has hosted some seriously big names over the years -  from  John Coltrane to Ella Fitzgerald and Miles Davis.

Secure yourselves a table for two in front of the stage, where you'll find a weekly lineup of live music from world-class performers. There's also the Birdland Theater downstairs for a more intimate, cabaret-like experience, both spaces complete with low lighting and great acoustics. Enjoy cool cocktails or wine from the bar, paired with sumptuous plates like Southern-style mac 'n' cheese, thin-crust pizzas and grilled chicken burgers.

• Location: multiple locations
• Price: varies
• Why we recommend: for a retro, nostalgic date, these cool and quirky arcades a great choice. We love the competitive element to this activity, and many of these venues offer brilliant cocktails too

For a fun day or night out that's both competitive and relaxed, there's nowhere better than one of New York's arcades. These nostalgic haunts are a great way to re-live your childhood pastimes, promising retro machines and consoles with all your favourite games.

We've rounded up all the top spots across the city, from the world-famous Chinatown Fair to the popular Barcade, boasting multiple different venues. Whether you're after a laid-back afternoon date or a cocktail-fuelled evening of entertainment, you can find it all in our guide.

• Location: 35 W 29th Street, NoMad, NY 10001
• Price: $$
• Why we recommend: we love the competitive vibe at Swingers, and there's nothing better than sipping a cool cocktail while battling it out on a quirky mini golf course

A boutique mini golf bar in the heart of Manhattan, Swingers NoMad is one of the most fun activities in NYC for couples this weekend. This colourful venue features playful interiors and a buzzing, social atmosphere, from the Instagram-worthy, golf-themed installations to the quirky neon signs.

There are several themed courses to choose from, so brush up on your skills and compete against your partner across a range of unique holes - complete with plenty of obstacles. They serve killer cocktails at the bar, as well as street food from the likes of Emmy Squared Pizza and Tacos Fonda.

• Location: 11 W 31st Street, Midtown Manhattan, NY 10001
• Price: $$
• Why we recommend: this is much more than just a bar and restaurant - it's an experience. They offer wine and chocolate pairings that are bound to impress your partner, alongside some of the dreamiest desserts and cocktails, and we love how cozy and intimate the venue is as well

What could be more romantic than wine and chocolate? Found in Midtown Manhattan, Ayza Wine & Chocolate Bar is an intimate venue that's both elegant and cozy. Designed by artist Sinem Disli, the interior features 33 handmade, twinkling lights, pretty foliage and dark decor, while the charming outdoor terrace is a perfect pick for summer time.

This place has been around since 2007, providing great food and drink alongside regular live jazz nights and wine classes. Indulge in dishes like white truffle pizza, golden lobster ravioli, carrot butter filet mignon and more, washed down with a chocolate espresso martini, or one of their premium wines. Of course, you can't skip dessert here, and our favourite is the chocolate earthquake cake. They even offer wine and chocolate pairings too.

• Location: 70 Pine Street 64th Floor, Financial District, NY 10005
• Price: $$$
• Why we recommend: not only are the views amazing at Overstory, but the interiors create a sultry setting for enjoying a few quiet cocktails and small plates with your partner

Found 64 floors up in the Financial District, Overstory is a stunning spot for date night. Their intimate lounge seats just 28 people, and we'd recommend trying for one of the 12 coveted bar seats for a truly romantic atmosphere. Expect 1940s-inspired glamour inside, flaunting plush velvet seating and sleek, minimalist decor, with low lighting creating a sultry vibe.

There's also a wraparound outdoor terrace that provides 360-degree views of Manhattan, part of the reason that it was awarded 15th Best Bar in the World in the past. Their creative cocktail menu promises whacky, inventive drinks, while the light food offering includes truffle grilled cheese, spicy shrimp rolls and beef tartare.

• Location: 547 W 27th Street, Chelsea, NY 10001
• Price: $$
• Why we recommend: if you prefer a more hands-on date, there's nowhere better than Unarthodox - you'll leave with a quirky work of art, and it's a truly therapeutic experience too

On the hunt for romantic things to do in NYC this weekend for couples? Unarthodox is a unique choice: an immersive art studio in Chelsea where you can unleash your creative side, bonding with your partner over a wholesome, artistic activity.

They host all kinds of fun sessions here, from blindfolded sculpting to paint and sip evenings, inspired by iconic artists like Picasso and Monet. The ethos here is all about the transformative power of art, so you're bound to leave feeling relaxed, as well as satisfied with your very own masterpiece.