The Most Non-Cliché Romantic Spots Across New York City

This impressive Egyptian temple has survived since Augustus Caesar’s rule. Plus, it was featured in New York’s favorite rom-com When Harry Met Sally, so you know it’s got romantic potential.

Bar none, this establishment is one of the sexiest bars in Manhattan. Sneak your date through the main concourse at Grand Central and then up to the hidden bar at The Campbell. For bonus points, sit on the balcony and stare down at everybody else in the bar below.

Money can’t buy love, and it can’t buy the superb views from this boat ride. The 25-minute ferry ride over to Staten Island is completely free and has some of the best views of the Manhattan skyline anywhere.

The Little Branch is a speakeasy in the West Village and home to some of the city’s best jazz. Guide your date through the unmarked door and into a booth to win ultimate points. (Plus, the cocktails here are really great too.)

Everybody has their favorite part of Central Park, but The Ramble just might be the most romantic of all. It’s well off the beaten path, so it will never be crowded with people, and the twists and turns in the lanes make for an incredibly romantic stroll.

On one side you’ve got the beautiful old brownstones of Brooklyn Heights, and on the other side, there’s nothing but magnificent Manhattan skyline. It only takes one long stroll through at sunset to realize why this is one of the most romantic spots in the city.

For book lovers, no place will ever be more romantic than the basement of The Strand. The smell of the old books, plus tons of nooks and crannies and aisles to get lost in, makes for a fairytale meet-cute.

Step back in time and escape the noise of the city at this Met satellite. The garden at the old medieval architecture is one of the best spots in New York for impressing your date.

Is there anything more romantic than old film? Duck into this West Village old-school cinema for some of the finest (and most romantic) film screenings in the city.

Those looking for the majesty of Washington Square Park without any of the crowds will find its more romantic twin sister in Brooklyn. Located right across from Prospect Park and the Brooklyn Library, this magnificent arch is best viewed at night when it’s all lit up.

While most rooftops boast their views of the city, Gallow Green is one of the only roofs in the city where it’s possible to forget you’re in New York. From the abundance of greenery to the twinkling lights, this entire bar is enchanting. But, of course, if you just step to the perimeter, there’s a fantastic view of the Empire State Building.

Look out over the Hudson River to Jersey from this romantic elevated park. Culture Trip recommends finding a bench, setting up shop and staying until the sun sets for an unforgettable view. Then take a stroll around the park and experience the oasis-within-the-city vibes.

Although dinner at The River Café will set you back a pretty penny, there’s nothing quite like sitting down to a candlelit al fresco dinner while the lights of Manhattan twinkle on the other side of the river.

The water show at the Revson Fountain at the Lincoln Center will never cease to amaze. You could watch it for 20 minutes and never get bored. If you take your date there during certain times in the summer, there may even be free open-air dancing; therefore, you can get a free two-for-one deal.

For couples who are willing to take a bit of a field trip, board the train and ride it all the way to Coney Island. Once you’re there, meander up and down the boardwalk. But then be sure to wait in line for the Wonder Wheel and look out over the whole neighborhood while you’re at the top (or make out—whatever feels right).

There are plenty of winding alleys, charming gardens and greenhouses to get lost in at this expansive park. The Japanese Garden is especially romantic (whenever it’s not crowded), and the greenhouses, especially the heated rooms with tropical plants, are also incredible.

Wander up to Fort Washington Park and take a few minutes to relax underneath the George Washington Bridge. The red lighthouse has become an iconic staple of uptown New York life and is a pretty excellent backdrop for any couple’s photos you may wish to take.

Freemans is a hidden restaurant that remains one of New York’s coolest secrets. When you wander upon the tiny little restaurant terrace (hidden in an alleyway), you’ll wonder how you ever walked past it before. And when you’re sharing dinner with your other half, you’ll be glad that everybody else walking by is missing this charming little spot.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.