February is officially here and that means one thing is certain – love is in the air! If you plan on celebrating Valentine’s Day with your special someone in Manhattan this year, make sure sparks fly by planning an unforgettable evenng.
With so many different ways to celebrate the Valentine’s Day holiday in Manhattan, it can be a daunting task narrowing down your options to make the most of the most romantic day of the year. We have curated a list of New York City’s most intimate restaurants, activities and date night destinations to ensure a night that neither of you will forget!
Restaurants
Milk and Roses: Located in the Greenpoint neighborhood of Brooklyn, Milk and Roses is a popular favorite amongst locals and tourists alike. The cozy, candle-lit interior is designed to be reminiscent of a library and an inventive menu featuring American cuisine with a Southern Italian influence. They are also known for their exquisite cocktails and unique Italian wine selection.
Kat & Theo: Tucked away in the Flatiron District, this eatery has built a reputation for its sensual ambiance as much as it has for its seasonal, Mediterranean-inspired menu items. The extensive bar features romantic lighting, exposed brick and a metal trellis that makes you feel as if you are dining beneath the Eiffel Tower in the City of Lights.
Maison Premiere: This Williamsburg staple is always a favorite for date night, anniversaries and special occasions, and it’s not hard to see why. As you probably know, oysters are one of the most notorious aphrodisiacs, and oysters happen to be Maison Premiere’s specialty. To envision the décor, imagine a blend of New York, New Orleans and Paris. They also consistently find themselves ranked amongst the best bars in America.
Activities
Love in Times Square: Although Times Square is world-famous for its annual New Year’s Eve festivities, people also flock to the popular tourist destination on Valentine’s Day each year to celebrate love. Couples gather each year on Duffy Square’s Red Steps to witness live surprise proposals, wedding ceremonies and vow renewals. There is also live entertainment and even Heart of Hearts kaleidoscopic kissing booths!
Romance Under the Stars: Consider spending the night at the American Museum of Natural History’s Rose Center for Earth and Space. The annual event begins with an open bar, passed hors d’oeuvres and, of course, chocolate delights. A jazz quartet also sets the mood as they perform throughout the evening. The event ends in the Hayden Planetarium where an astronomer recites love stories inspired by the mythology of the constellations above.
Visit the Museum of Sex: For those looking for something a little more risqué, a visit to the Museum of Sex may be the perfect option this Valentine’s Day. The museum is a one-of-kind experience that is both sensual and educational. Visitors can expect to find numerous exhibits of art and artifacts celebrating the history of human sexuality.
Destinations
The High Line: For those unfamiliar, the High Line is a public park built upon an elevated rail line that runs along Manhattan’s West Side. Spanning from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District to West 34th Street, it provides an idyllic date night destination with plenty to explore. Plan to stroll through the city while taking in the sights, enjoying art installations, grabbing a bite to eat or even doing some shopping.
The Rink at Rockefeller Center: As one of Manhattan’s most celebrated attractions, the iconic skating rink is a classic destination for lovers each Valentine’s Day. It’s also conveniently located close to other top tourist destinations, so you can really make the most of the evening. But be prepared to witness a few proposals, a common tradition that happens year after year!
The Loeb Boathouse: Keep it classic with a 150-year-old New York City tradition! Rent a rowboat from the Loeb Boathouse and take your special someone to explore the lake at Central Park. Better yet, take a ride in an authentic Venetian gondola for an evening of quintessential romance.