New York City is a great place for romance. This urban oasis for lovers embodies romance by incorporating class, sophistication, nature and the arts effortlessly in one relatively small area. Whether it's a quick weekend getaway or an anniversary, New York City offers couples a romantic backdrop all year-round.
Walking is the preferred means of transportation for many New Yorkers--that's because it is the only way to fully appreciate the beauty of the city.
The Brooklyn Bridge, with its distinct architecture, gives a wonderful view of downtown New York. It's also a great way to visit downtown Brooklyn where you'll find many restaurants, cafes and art galleries.
Central Park, with its horse-drawn carriage rides, Belvedere Castle, Strawberry Fields and boat rides is a National Historic Landmark, and offers many activities. Take in the wonder of the gorgeous park surrounded by the unique tall buildings that make up the city's landscape.
Cuisines from all the over the world are offered in this city--everything from classic French to the more obscure Ethiopian. Whatever your choice may be, chefs in New York thrive on the ultimate dining experience. To support the dining industry, the top restaurants (and often most expensive) offer a unique opportunity for half of the price. January and July have "Restaurant Week" where three-course prix fix menus for lunch are $25 and for dinner, $35. Just be sure to make reservations as they book fast.
The stillness and being surrounded by great works of art make museums a great option for couples. The Metropolitan Museum of Art (Fifth Avenue and 82nd Street) is well known and still one the grandest. However, the National Museum of History (Central Park West and 79th Street) is a wonderful alternative for the non-artsy couple. There are countless museums here, such as The Whitney, MOMA, PS 1 Contemporary, Brooklyn Museum, Madame Tussad's, Museo del Barrio and, for the more risqué, The Sex Museum.
You can't go to New York City without taking advantage of live performances. A Broadway musical is always a staple, but don't forget the many new plays as well. There are also many interesting and more contemporary-themed performances playing on Off and Off-Off Broadway. And remember the live music, from operas at Lincoln Center to the orchestra at Carnegie Hall to the famous Blue Note Jazz Club.
Although New York is the epicenter of the velvet rope nightlife, couples can enjoy a romantic night that doesn't involve a deafening sound system. The Brandy Library in Tribeca is a wonderfully intimate yet sophisticated lounge that serves an extensive list of brandy from all over the world. Double Happiness in Soho is a candle-lit underground lounge with a creative and personalized martini menu. Finally, up the stairs of a cheap Japanese restaurant is a name-less door that opens to Angel's Share. This hidden cocktail lounge is a trip back to the romantic 1940s era--think "In the Mood for Love"--where the bartender and waiter wear suits and your glass of whiskey comes with one transparent block of ice.
