Unconventional First Date Ideas NYC That Impress Your Date
As a 26-year-old single Asian woman living in NYC for the past 3.5 years, I've had my fair share of first date ideas. I prefer dates that are interactive, fun, and memorable. This list is for anyone looking to try something new and unique for a first date—or even a third or fourth date—in NYC.
Where should I take a girl out on a first date in NYC?
Best dating spots for music fans in NYC:
Jazz bar:
Smalls, Mezzrow: These sister jazz bars offer distinct experiences. Smalls is casual, with no designated seating, while Mezzrow offers a more structured environment with reserved seats. If you sit near the front at Mezzrow, the focus is entirely on the music, whereas the back is more chatty.
The Appel Room, Jazz at Lincoln Center: Located inside Columbus Circle, opposite Central Park, this venue offers affordable tickets (~$30) for live performances with a stunning night view of the city.
Red Pavillion: this Asian neo-noir nightclub in Bushwick has different jazz themes each night (Studio Ghibli, Shanghai, KPOP, etc.). Though tickets are pricier, the intimate ambiance, private tables, and occasional aerial performances make it worth it.
Sofar Sounds: Enjoy small, intimate concerts where the artist and exact location are revealed on the day of the event. For $30, it's a unique experience with limitless vibes, ranging from indie rock to soul.
Candlelight: Held in various spectacular locations, these candlelit performances cover a wide variety of themes and genres, from classical to pop. It's a romantic experience that ranges from Bach to The Beatles.
Broadway Concert: Secure orchestra or mezzanine seats for $25-$40 through rush tickets or lotteries. Rush tickets require early morning lines, but it's a guaranteed way to get affordable tickets.
New York City Ballet ($30 under 30): For those under 30, enjoy world-class ballet performances at a great price. The "Romeo & Juliet" and "Black Swan" performances are particularly memorable. Enjoy the elegance of dressing up, with a red carpet atmosphere and stunning chandeliers adding to the ambiance.
TDF membership ($35): Get discounted tickets to various Broadway shows, musicals, and theater performances ranging from $11-$59.50.
Museum & Gallery Date NYC:
Gallery opening Thursday: Every Thursday, many galleries in Chelsea host openings with complimentary drinks and bites. It’s a great way to enjoy art and mingle.Check out my blogs for other things to do in the Tribeca area here.
Culture Pass: NYPL cardholders can get free admission to many NYC museums through this program.
MET/ MOMA: Explore these iconic museums for a cultural date.
MET Cloisters: Located at the northern tip of Manhattan, The Met Cloisters offers a medieval atmosphere with breathtaking Hudson River views. The gardens are a burst of color, and the Unicorn tapestries are truly mesmerizing. It's the perfect spot for a serene, culturally rich date—ideal for taking your time and soaking it all in.
Active Date Ideas NYC:
Classpass: Activate a free trial for access to various fitness classes, such as yoga, pole dance, gym, barre, and Pilates.
Drop in Class: Most studios have drop in class fee from $15-$40.
Guest Pass from your gym membership: Some gym memberships include guest passes—bring your date along to your workout routine.
City Summer Outdoor Events: NYC offers numerous free summer events. Enjoy activities like salsa dancing, yoga, and public performances. Follow @nycforfree for updates on these events.
Fun Workshop Dates NYC:
Cooking Classes: Food is my love language, combining all five love languages into one. There's no better way to connect than cooking together and enjoying the delicious results. It's also a fantastic opportunity to introduce each other to your cultures and cuisines, making it a truly enriching experience.
Candle Making: Lanterne Candle Lab and Wick & Pour. This is such a fun interactive date for me. Choose your favorite scents, discover each other's tastes, and design personalized candle stickers. It's a memorable way to connect, and each time they light the candle, they'll be reminded of your special day.
Perfume Making (Olfactory)
Pottery class (Color Me Mine): With locations in the Upper West Side and Chinatown, this is a perfect spot for a creative date. They offer various promotions like discounted studio time, BOGO deals, and BYOB nights. You get to pick a pottery piece and design it together. After a week, you’ll have a customized item to remind you of your special date.
Sip & Paint: Whether you're an artist or not, this workshop is all about fun. Choose an art piece, and the instructor will guide you step by step. It’s easy to follow, with plenty of room to add your personal touch. Once the session is over, sign your names and date your masterpiece—a perfect memory to share.
Thrift shop date - pick an item for each other with a budget. NYC is famous for thrift shop stores with exquisite items at a steal price. A fun date idea where you can be interactive and show each other your taste.
Coffee Date: Many people choose a coffee date for the first meeting because it’s casual and low-commitment. Instead of just grabbing coffee at a typical coffee shop, check out my curated list of coffee spots that offer unique activities:
Dog Cafe (Boris & Horton, Le Doggie Cafe ): Enjoy events like dog yoga, music performances, and more.
Board Game Cafe (The Uncommons): Challenge each other to your favorite board games.
Book Club Bar: A book cafe that transitions into a bar at night, perfect for a literary twist.
Ariston Flowers & Cafe: Enjoy coffee and surprise your date with fresh flowers.
Land to Sea: Enjoy monthly events like Sip & Paint for $20, Mahjong, and workshops (e.g., incense making).
Happy Medium: Instead of ordering coffee, choose an art medium (pottery, painting, etc.) and get creative.
The Chai Spot: A colorful, exotic place featuring Chai tea and snacks. The space is cozy with colorful carpets and pillows. They also offer board games, making it a relaxed spot for a date.
Stand-up comedy:
Batsu (Japanese game show/comedy in East Village): Experience this unique comedy style with hilarious challenges and punishments. Enjoy Japanese food and drinks in a setting inspired by Tokyo's alleyways.
Comedy Cellar
Sour Mouse: An energetic tavern with pool tables, ping pong, live comedy, and charcuterie plates. Enjoy $12 tickets for Fung Bros standup comedy on Tuesdays.
Beach Date Idea:
Head to Coney Island for a classic beach day, though the sand might not be the cleanest. It’s a great spot if you’re into old-school amusements—ride the iconic Cyclone and treat yourself to some delicious funnel cake. The fun doesn’t stop there; during summer Fridays, you can catch an amazing fireworks show.
Rockaway Beach: A favorite spot for a less crowded beach experience with a beautiful sunset.
Yankee game - Get same-day tickets for the best prices. Sit in section 203 for a true fan experience or opt for a Pinstripe Pass for standing room and bar hopping around the stadium.
Park Date:
Central Park Date:
Boating: Rent a boat for $25 and enjoy a classic NYC romance movie moment. No reservation is needed.
Picnic: Grab food from Trader Joe’s (72nd Entrance) or Whole Foods (Columbus Circle) and enjoy a picnic in Central Park.
Museums: Explore Upper West Side’s renowned museums like the American Museum of History, MET, and Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum.
NYC Botanical Garden: Explore a beautiful array of flowers and seasonal displays at the garden. They also host night performances and weekend brunch events. Pack a lunch or snacks and enjoy a relaxing picnic among the blooms. Plus, the NYC Botanical Garden is right next to the Brooklyn Museum, which features limited-time galleries and Friday DJ events where you can enjoy a blend of music and art.
Williamsburgh Date:
Domino Park: Skyligh Waterview.
Uzuki (Soba Place): Experience exquisite 100% buckwheat noodles crafted by chef Kotani. The $72 Deluxe Sashimi Soba is a highlight, served in distinctive pottery crafted by Kotani himself. The restaurant also features a display of his pottery.
Le Doggie Cafe: it’s a dog center dog cafe with both indoor and outdoor seating. You can buy drinks, and some snacks for the dogs as well. The dogs are very friendly. On the weekend, Le Doggie Cafe also offers dog yoga as well.
Bowling - Gutter Bar: Visit Gutter Bar for beer and bowling, or check out a concert at Brooklyn Bowl and enjoy some fried chicken before your game.
West Side Highway Date: You will be surprised at how many things you can do in West Side Highway.
Rent a Citibike and explore the West Side Highway. Bike to Pier 57/Little Island for a sunset view, outdoor performances, and food courts. Little Island also hosts free public concerts during summer.
Sunset and picnic. There is a lot of public open spaces where you can bring your picnic blanket and watch the sunset here. Pier 57 & Little Island are among the popular ones, but you can find lots of open spots.
Pier 25 Mini Golf: Enjoy a well-maintained, affordable ($6 per game) mini golf course with a great view.
Pier 26 Kayak: Kayaking on the Hudson River is a fantastic way to spend a day. Free and expert lessons are available, making it accessible for all skill levels.
West Village: After exploring Pier 57, head to West Village for diverse dining options and cool bars. Check out other activities that you can do in Tribeca Neighborhood.
Chinatown Date:
Chinatown Food Crawl: check out this food map list for mom-and-pop recommendations.
Magic Jewelry: Get your aura photographed and read for $20 each. It’s a quick and fun experience with a keepsake Polaroid.
Two Bridges: Enjoy a sunset view of the skyline after dinner.
Sea Glass Carousel: Visit this stunning carousel in FiDi at night for a magical experience.
