Romantic getaways in New York: what to do and where to stay

Known for its vast yet intimate landscapes, New York is one of the most romantic getaways in the USA. 

From winter walks through Central Park to the expansive views of the Empire State Building, New York is bound to be the city that puts a sparkle in your eye. 

To help you plan one of the best romantic getaways in New York, we’ve listed some of the charming spots across the city. Discover the best experiences, attractions and hotels for your holiday.

From the vibrant streets of the city to the peaceful feel of the green spaces and parks, here are some of the most romantic things to do in New York City. 

Visit a jazz club

Jazz clubs embody passion and energy, making this the perfect romantic experience for any fellow music lovers. 

With so many jazz bars to choose from in the city, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Explore Iridium, a bar that hosts renowned household names or visit Smalls, which offers an authentic experience. Don’t miss a beat and let the music guide you through the city.

Not sure where to start – why not take a guided jazz tour around Harlem? Travel back to the golden age of jazz and get lost in the bouncy, lively feel of the music. 

Go to the top of the Empire State Building

The views from the Empire State Building truly set the scene as one of the most romantic things to do in New York.

Visit in the day to look past the horizon and see New York in all its immensity. If you want to avoid the crowds, make an early morning trip and watch the sunrise light up the concrete landscape. 

The nighttime offers a completely different experience. Watch the city lights dance across the night sky and see the silhouettes of the skyscrapers create a towering, immersive feel.

Visit Central Park

For one of the most romantic places in New York, look no further than Central Park. As a popular spot for first dates, proposals, weddings and anniversaries, Central Park oozes with love.

Bringing a picnic along can be the perfect way to soak in the park’s charming views – just don’t forget to bring the chocolate-covered strawberries!

If you fancy something a bit more upbeat, you can also rent a boat in Central Park. Row your way through the lake, take in the scenery and enjoy your moment together. 

Ice skate around the Rockefeller Center

Are you visiting New York in the winter? Well, make sure to ice skate around the Rockefeller Center. Offering a light-hearted date, you’ll find skaters of all abilities make their way around the ice.

With the Christmas tree setting the stage in the centre of the rink, the Rockefeller Center is one of the most romantic places in New York.

Having been an established tradition for over 85 years, this romantic activity is popular with both locals and tourists alike. 

See a show together 

If you both enjoy theatre, visiting Broadway is a great way to channel your mutual appreciation for the arts. 

From Six The Musical to The Great Gatsby, Broadway offers a variety of genres. So whether you’re looking for a show to get your heart racing or something more lighthearted, there’s a production for every taste.

For something a bit different, visit The Public Theater, one of the nation’s first non-profit theatres. 

Past shows have included A Midsummer’s Night Dream, Hamlet and A Raisin in the Sun. Offering a more intimate feel, these shows are great for a romantic date.

Go for a romantic meal

New York City is a culinary kaleidoscope, known for its variety of flavours and fusions. So, if food is an important part of your relationship, make sure to check out some of the best eats in New York. 

Visit Little Italy if you love diving into Italian cuisine at every possible opportunity. Here, you’ll find a variety of restaurants, bakeries and shops all offering a taste of, well, Little Italy. 

Popular spots here include Lombardi's Pizza. Where NYC-style pizza began, this spot is sure to have you fighting over the last slice. 

Chinatown is another spot which is sure to make for a romantic date. Setting the scene with narrow streets and ornate lanterns, there’s an intimate feel to Chinatown. Not to mention that the food is absolutely delicious. From hand-pulled noodles to dim sum, the mouthwatering scents, delectable food and bright scenery are sure to make for an unforgettable date.

Finally, what’s a trip to New York without a bagel? Make sure to try out the iconic food of New York. Eat like a local and try out bacon, egg and cheese – simply delicious.

Explore the High Line

The High Line is a great spot to visit if you’re after a romantic rendezvous with a touch of added history.

Being a public park built on a historic freight rail line, The High Line can be found above the streets on Manhattan's West Side. 

Upon visiting, you can expect to find a variety of art installations, contemporary architecture and overall urbanism. 

Not to mention that the landmark also offers panoramic views of the city skyline, setting the scene for any romantic date. 

If you’re not after a strenuous hike either, be assured that the High Line is just over one mile long, so it’s the perfect spot for a picturesque stroll.

To make the most of your holiday, we’ve listed some of the most romantic hotels in New York, sure to set the scene for your getaway. Expect outstanding views, chic rooms and some extra added touches. 

Lotte Palace

Lotte Palace is one of the romantic hotels in New York that boasts outstanding views of the city. Situated in a great location, you’ll be on the street across from St. Patrick’s Cathedral and less than one kilometre from Central Park. 

If you want to venture further than New York’s famous park, consider hiring a car to experience the other highlights that New York has to offer.

If you prefer staying in, the hotel offers couples massages, daily breakfast and spa credits. It doesn’t get much more romantic than that.

LUMA Hotel

LUMA Hotel also boasts a great location and can be found right outside of Times Square. Wander over to the busy square for the ultimate metropolitan date.

The hotel itself has rooms that offer quality linens, bathrobes, slippers and amenities so everyone can relax in style. 

LUMA also features a restaurant with delicious dishes that are sure to make for an intimate date night. Delve into oysters, pasta and other delicacies right in the heart of New York.

Hotel Barrière Fouquet's New York

Hotel Barrière Fouquet's New York is an excellent hotel for quality time together. Here, you’ll be able to take part in couples massages and other treatments, perfect for a romantic getaway. 

If you’re after another classic date idea, the hotel also offers a private cinema with chaise longue-style seating. So whether it's your first date or you’re celebrating decades together, Hotel Barrière Fouquet's New York is sure to impress. 

Did we mention that there’s also a rooftop bar available to guests? Soak in the views of NYC together, making for the perfect end to your day.

The Hotel Chelsea

Decorated in vibrant, alluring colours, The Hotel Chelsea is a great spot if you’re looking for one of the most romantic getaways in New York. 

With marble finishes in the bathroom – each room is just as eye-catching as the last, making for a romantic scene.

For anyone in a relationship, the best part of this stay is the rooftop spa. Immerse yourself in the heights of the city, all whilst being treated to a spa day. Sounds pretty romantic to us.

The Knickerbocker

The Knickerbocker is an excellent spot for a romantic getaway if you’re looking for a hotel with an outstanding cocktail bar. Cocktails here are served on the rooftop at St. Cloud, meaning you can enjoy a drink while watching the sunset. 

The location is also near a few romantic spots, most notably including Bryant Park, which puts on date activities such as ice skating and movie nights. So whether you’re going away for a date, your honeymoon or Valentine's Day, make sure to stop by The Knickerbocker.

Is New York romantic for couples?

For sure. Often thought of as one of the most romantic cities in the USA, New York boasts expansive landscapes, parks and date spots that all embody romanticism. Regardless of what you’re after, the city’s vast cultural experiences, landmarks and vibrant atmosphere make it perfect for a romantic getaway. 

What is the most romantic place in New York?

New York is filled with many romantic places, each offering its own unique charm. So, choosing the most romantic place will depend on what you’re after when planning your romantic getaways in New York. However, some popular spots include taking a stroll around the lake at Central Park, wandering around Brooklyn Botanic Garden and staying in a romantic hotel.

What are the most romantic bars in NYC?

NYC is full to the brim of romantic bars, it’s just about knowing where to go. Some of the most romantic bars in NYC include Good Guy’s for an intimate feel, the Last Word for jazz and oysters and Ophelia for its rooftop views.