The Ultimate List of Solo Date Ideas NYC
Table of Contents:
Check out my unconventional first-date ideas NYC here.
Where can I go on solo dates in NYC?
I moved to New York 3 years ago, and over the years, I’ve taken myself out on multiple solo dates. New York has something special for everyone, regardless of your interest and your background. Each neighborhood and each borough has its charm. Because I spend most of my time exploring Manhattan, my list is limited to LES, Tribeca, Midtown, and Upper West Side.
Is it okay to go on a solo date in NYC?
In a city with over a million residents, it might seem a little weird that you go on a solo date. However, since everyone is living their own life, busy with different schedules, it’s more common (than you thought) that people go on solo dates. Whether you're a local or visiting the city, the idea of a solo date might feel daunting at first, but trust me, it's not just okay – it's wonderful!
Solo Dates Ideas NYC By Neighborhood
Midtown/Chelsea: Solo Date Ideas
Free Art Galleries in Chelsea: Every Thursday night, the art galleries or exhibitions in Chelsea have openings, with complimentary bites and drinks. Instead of bar hopping, you can do gallery hopping.
Market 57 Food Hall: Pier 57 is the newest rooftop, open to the public. It’s right opposite the Little Island. There are two levels: the first floor is a food court, and the second floor is an open space. Wifi is very strong here, and the restroom is well maintained if you want to work here. I often grab a bite or snack from the food court, and head to the second floor to watch sunset. In nice weather, you can also have a picnic here.
Little Island: The first-ever floating island in NYC. During summer, they have a lot of outdoor performances. Another perfect spot for sunset watching.
Chelsea Market: Chelsea Market is home to boutique stores, Japanese shops, restaurants, and a diverse food court. They are right next to the Starbucks Roasterie, and Google Store.
The Vessel: Walk along the High Line to reach The Vessel. This architectural marvel offers stunning nighttime views. In summer, enjoy outdoor screenings, events, and performances. In the winter, the mall is lit with the iconic air balloon lighting.
Times Square: This is a very touristy area. During summer time, they have lots of pops up and events happening here. If you are lucky enough, sometimes you will spot an A+ celebrity performing here.
Dinner at Ktown: End your night with a solo dinner experience at Ktown. Indulge in various cuisines, from cheap eats to Asian fusion and Japanese food. Popular spots include Gallery 32, Woorijip, and more.
Ichiran: Visit Ichiran for solo ramen dining. Each diner gets its food booth so you won’t feel awkward eating by yourself.
Broadway Show: Explore options like Rush Hour tickets and Broadway Lottery, or consider a TDF Membership for affordable access.
Upper West Side: Solo Date Ideas
Central Park: Pack a blanket and your favorite book for a solo day in Central Park. Enter at the 59th Columbus Circle entrance for convenient access to Whole Foods for snacks or the 72nd Street entrance near Trader Joe’s. Check out my curated maps for the best views. On the weekend, you will find many free performances inside the park.
Running in Central Park: If you enjoy running, join one of the running groups like Midnight Runner, Social Strider, Not So Serious Running, or Fleet Feet running clubs. Fleet Feet also offers complimentary bag drop services for solo runners inside the Columbus Circle Mall.
Lincoln Center: During summer, Lincoln Center offers many outdoor performances to the public, including music, stand-up comedy, and silent disco dancing. Even on non-performance days, the fountain with the MET opera as the backdrop creates a beautiful, relaxing nighttime moments.
Affordable Arts: Score opera or classical ballet tickets for $30 at the MET Opera through their $30 under 30 deals. Dress up and immerse yourself in a night of artistic brilliance.
Jazz Club: Treat yourself to a delightful evening at the Jazz Club inside the Columbus Circle Building. For just $30, enjoy live jazz performances against the stunning cityscape visible through the expansive glass windows.
Piers on 60th Street: Visit the piers on 60th Street for breathtaking night views overlooking Jersey City. During summer, indulge in outdoor movie nights, musical performances, and delectable food and drinks.
Museums: Explore some of the Upper West Side's renowned museums, including the American Museum of History, MET, and Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum. New York residents can enter these museums at as little as 10cent.
MET Cloisters: Most people know MET but not the MET Cloisters in Washington Heights near 180th Street. While it requires a slight climb, the museum offers a stunning city overlook, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
Lower East Side/Soho/Chinatown: Solo Date Ideas
Brookfield: Enjoy stunning waterfront views and sunsets at Brookfield. Perfect for reading, jogging, people-watching, and admiring the scenery.
Brooklyn Bridge to Chinatown: Take a leisurely walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, then return via the Manhattan Bridge to explore Chinatown. You can grab some cheap eats from the mom-and-pop.
Seaport: For another picturesque sunset spot, head to Seaport. Tin Building offers a variety of cafes and restaurants. During fall, there is an iconic photo spot with pumpkin arches.
Chinatown Dining: Discover various dining options, from mom-and-pop eateries to trendy Soho and Little Italy spots. Check out my food crawl map for affordable meals starting at $3.
Chinatown Coffee Shops: Visit Prince Tea House, Round by K, Silk Cafe, the Chai Spot, or Sweet Moments for a cozy coffee break.
Yu & Me Bookstore: Attend events like book signings and clothes swapping at Yu & Me Bookstore, known for its curated collection of Asian books.
Art Workshops: Get yourself a spot at Happy Medium, Color Me Mine, or the candle workshop at Laterne for a creative experience. Color Me Mine has some promotions throughout the weekend (BOGO, Lady’s night, Student).
Ferry Ride: Take a scenic ferry ride from Wall Street for just $2.75, offering breathtaking night views of the city's iconic bridges and buildings.
Speakeasies: End your day with a visit to Double Chicken Please or Attaboy for a unique speakeasy experience.
East Village:
Coffee Shop Hopping:
Lephin: My favorite Vietnamese coffee shop. If possible, try to avoid the rush hour (12-3 PM) because it can get very busy.
Horis & Borton: For dog lovers, Horis & Borton is a must-visit. This dog-friendly spot is filled with furry companions. They also have lots of community events.
Book Club Bar: If you enjoy solitude with a good read, the Book Club Bar in the East Village is another spot to visit. At night time, the coffee shop is turned into a bar.
Sammy L: If you want to treat yourself to some unique art drawing latte, make sure to check out Sammy L. I absolutely love the Osmanthus Latte and their tiramisu!
Exploration Stroll:
Take a leisurely walk along the streets to discover boutique bookstores, floral shops, and other small spots.
Dinner Delights:
End your day at Hanoi House, a favorite Vietnamese restaurant in the area, for a delicious dinner experience.
How can I enjoy New York alone?
Solo Date Ideas NYC By Activities Type
Cafe/Bookshop Escapes:
Check out my WFH Coffee Shop Google Map List, featuring cafes with amenities like wifi, outlets, and restrooms for a cozy reading or work session.
Museum and Art Galleries Discovery:
As a resident of NY/NJ, you can check out many museums with pay-as-you-wish entry, sometimes as low as $1. Many museums also have free entry on specific days, like the first Friday of the month (e.g., MOMA) or every Friday (e.g., Whitney Museum). Take advantage of your NJ ID card for additional free entries. Thursdays often host free art galleries in Chelsea, with complimentary drinks and bites.
Scenic Sunset Views:
If you are a sunset lover like me, you will find yourself in Chelsea Piers, Seaport, Twin Bridge, Brooklyn Bridge, Little Island, Vessel, and High Line.
Park Activities and Relaxation:
Central Park is perfect for people-watching, picnics, or a refreshing run. The park often hosts free performances and events.
Thriftshop Hunting:
L Vintage and Beacon Closets are my go-to to find my seasonal outfits at affordable pricing. Lots of time, you can find items with brand-new tags on it.
Art Performance:
Broadway shows, MET Opera performances, Jazz Clubs.
Outdoor Entertainment and Wellness:
Enjoy free outdoor movies, yoga classes, and exercise sessions during summer at scenic spots like Central Park, Seaport, Bryant Park, and Hudson Yards.
