So, you want to spend a romantic Valentine’s Day in New York but, can’t quite get a handle on where to go or how to get there. Even though you’ve taken an online defensive driving course, you would rather not drive. Cabs and Uber could cost a fortune, and the subway will kill the mood. Coming to the “Big Apple” anytime requires planning and an understanding of the “NY travel facts of life.” While there are hundreds of ways to enjoy a romantic Valentine’s Day in New York, here is a list of some of the best.
Romantic Places in the Movies
The Empire State Building – No place in New York City whispers romance like the observation deck of the Empire State Building. Share a smooch at the rendezvous location for Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr in the 1957 romantic comedy “An Affair to Remember,” and the offshoot 1993 film “Sleepless in Seattle.”
Serendipity’s’ – Share a “frozen hot chocolate” at the same table where John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale fell in love in the 2001 romantic comedy “Serendipity.” Be sure to exchange numbers before you part ways.
Moonstruck – Stroll past the Federal-style brownstone at Willow and Cranberry Streets in Brooklyn Heights which served as the setting for the 1987 movie “Moonstruck” starring Nicolas Cage and Cher. Then head over to the Brooklyn Promenade for a romantic walk and one of the city’s premier views of Manhattan. Just don’t let any siblings tag along.
Romantic Restaurants
The Loeb Boat House – Enjoy a romantic walk in Central Park and dine at the Loeb Boathouse. The restaurant offers views of the park’s main body of water known as the “Lake.”
One if by Land Two if by Sea – Many consider this small hidden gem the most romantic restaurant in New York City. Live piano music, a private garden, candlelit tables, and brick fireplaces, make this Cupid’s favorite place for a bite to eat in New York City.
The River Café – Situated at the foot of the Brooklyn Bridge, the River Café offers diners incredible views of lower Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and the East River bridges.
Romantic Things to Do
Rent a Rowboat on the Central Park Lake – Rowing your loved one around the Lake in Central Park may be the most romantic thing you can do in New York. But, call ahead, although there are one-hundred boats in the fleet, rentals are weather permitting.
Take a carriage ride through Central Park – What could be more romantic than snuggling under a blanket with “the apple of your eye” while you travel through the park in your own personal horse and carriage. They even offer a “Surprise Proposal Tour” which stops at the beautiful Cherry Hill Fountain. Hand the driver your phone, and they will video the entire event. With any luck, you’ll both return together.
Take the NYC Ferry – New York City now runs ferry service up and down the East River. For the low price of a subway fare, you can snuggle atop a ferry boat and take in stunning views of the city, Brooklyn, the statue of Liberty, Governor’s Island, and the East River bridges. This also helps with the “getting around” issue. There’s plenty of parking on the Brooklyn side near both the Bay Ridge and Brooklyn Army Terminal stops.
So, whether you use one of these suggestions, or come up with your own plan for a day of love, have a great Valentine’s Day in romantic New York City.