Winter is one of the most romantic times in the city.
There’s snow, there are big comfy sweaters, there are hugs and hot chocolate.
It’s the perfect time to snuggle up with your significant other and get lost in the magic of it all. The city is sparkling with light displays, festivals, and more that are bound to entertain and inspire.
As a whole, New York City is full of date possibilities. The restaurants alone are enough to keep your Friday nights busy.
But, if you’re looking for something a little more out of the box, taking advantage of the cold winter months can actually light the spark in your relationship.
Don’t let the cold weather, wet snow and early nights fool you. There’s a magic in the air that can quickly heat up your next date night.
Here are eight great date night ideas to shake things up.
1. Ice Skating In The City
Ice skating is a must-try winter date activity. It’s a staple in NYC. And, there are plenty of places to get your skate on.
You can head to Central Park, Bryant Park, Prospect Park, and more. There are so many options, the hardest part will be trying to nail down what neighborhood you want to hang out in after.
The cost for skate rentals is relatively cheap, making this winter date night option a cost-effective one too. And, that’s something we can all be happy to hear in a city as expensive as NYC.
Pick a spot, get nice and bundled up, and get ready to have a date night to remember.
2. Boozy Paint Nights
BYOB paint nights are a booming business across the country. And, in NYC, that is no different.
There are dozens of studios across the five boroughs that host paint nights that you can share with your significant other.
Buy a bottle (or two) and sign up for a painting that ignites the inner artist in you. Groupon has a number of really great options too to snag a deal.
Paint nights let you both express your creativity in new ways. It also establishes a new hobby the both of you can feel comfortable sharing.
And, it’s definitely different than a boring, old dinner or movie.
3. Grab Snacks At NYC’s Winter Markets
Winter time in NYC means many things. My favorite? Winter markets.
Parks and neighborhoods around the city transform during the winter months. In their previous place stand cute wooden shacks and structures that house delicious food, fine art, and tasteful nicknacks.
These markets capture the heart of the holidays in the city. And, they are truly some of the most romantic experiences in the city.
There’s nothing quite like taking a leisurely stroll through these markets, one hand intertwined with your significant other and the other wrapped around a hot chocolate or mulled wine.
You and your partner will be more than happy to take in the festive music and chow down on some snacks while you breathe in the chilly NYC air.
4. Check Out One Of NYC’s Romantic & Secretive Speakeasies
New York City is known for its nightlife. But, when it comes time for a truly romantic date, take your partner to a hidden speakeasy.
These private institutions pride themselves on their classic, enchanting and love-inducing ambiance.
It’s the perfect way to stay warm on a cold winter night. And, who doesn’t love a fancy cocktail and a bartender dressed up like they’re from the 1920s?
There’s something extremely seductive about sitting in a dimly-lit room surrounded by old art, culture, and ambiance.
5. Listen To Some Jazz
New York City is one of the biggest cities for jazz in the world. There are dozens of jazz clubs hosting different artists each and every night.
And, jazz music is some of the most romantic music out there.
Why not hide from the cold inside one of these swanky bars? Split a bottle of wine, snack on some truffle fries and let the music fill your mind, body, and soul.
Some really great jazz clubs to choose from include: Blue Note, Birdland, Smalls, The Village Vanguard, and many more.
6. Soak In Some Art At The Cloisters
The Cloisters is one of the best-kept secrets of NYC. It’s an extension of the Metropolitan Museum Of Art. And, it’s located up in Washington Heights.
The museum is located in an old French monastery and it overlooks the city, offering stunning views that take your breath away.
In the winter, with the snow hanging on the trees, this museum truly is one of the prettiest spots in the city.
Take in medieval art and immerse yourself in the beauties of old. Museum dates are some of the best dates around! You can stay warm and learn more about each other by getting lost for a day in the past.
7. Be A Tourist For A Night And Sip Cocktails In An Igloo
230 Fifth Rooftop is definitely a tourist spot. It’s a rooftop bar with igloos that keep you warm while you sip on expensive cocktails.
But, every now and then, it’s okay to be a tourist.
And, when you’re living in a city as gorgeous as NYC, it’s nice to get a view and experience the city like so many others do.
I mean, come on. Who doesn’t want to drink a spiked hot chocolate in an igloo under the NYC stars?
I know I do!
8. Explore Your Inner Fantasies At The Museum Of Sex
If you’re looking for a date that’s a little more scandalous, head over to the Museum Of Sex.
This west-side attraction houses some very interesting artifacts, installations, and performances that are sure to ignite something between you and your partner.
Explore your wild side and learn more about each other’s fantasies. And, while you’re at it, sip on a seductive cocktail in the museum’s very own bar!
