6 Fun, Romantic Things to Do on a Spring Date in NYC

Spring has (almost) sprung and love is in the air! You’re not alone if the long, cold winter made it difficult to muster the energy to actually go out on date night. Now that the temperatures are slowly heating up, so should your love life! From rooftop drinks to arm-in-arm strolls to an obstacle course, here are six NYC spring date ideas for a fun, romantic outing.

Planning a date in the city? Try one of these NYC spring date ideas.

Go to a Botanical Garden

Is there anything more lovely than a garden in full bloom? Get out and enjoy nature’s beauty by spending a spring afternoon at an urban oasis. Both the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx come alive this time of year, offering visitors a chance to experience lush flowers and plants through exciting exhibitions and events.

Walk the Brooklyn Bridge to the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory, 1 Water St

After being cooped up all winter, rediscovering the world’s greatest city by foot sounds like the best date idea. With its towering arches and sweeping cables, the Brooklyn Bridge provides a picturesque setting for a romantic stroll. Plan your route from downtown Manhattan to Dumbo, where you’ll find plenty things to do, see, and eat. We suggest refueling with a cool treat at the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory. Chocolate chocolate chunk, peaches and cream, and butter pecan are just some of the delectable flavors served at this neighborhood gem.

Row a Boat in Central Park

Pretend you are two lovers in an Impressionist painting and row a boat together in Central Park. Boats and oars can be rented from Loeb Boathouse ($15/hour, $4/15 minute increments after) from April through November. After your outing on the water, relax with pre-dinner cocktails and snacks at the Outside Bar of the Loeb Boathouse where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Central Park’s natural scenery.

Ride the Roosevelt Island Tram

Located just to the east of Manhattan, Roosevelt Island runs two miles long and 800 feet wide. Mostly residential, this tiny island doesn’t immediately scream “fun date.” That’s because the fun part is how you get there. Built in 1976, the Roosevelt Island Tramway spans the East River with cars running regularly. Costing the same as a ride on the subway, the tram offers magnificent skyline views of the city that can’t be seen anywhere else! Board on the Manhattan side at Manhattan Tramway Plaza (East 59 Street and Second Avenue).

Alley Pond Park Adventure Course, Union Turnpike, Queens Village ( in Alley Pond Park)

Are you the type of couple that enjoys physical challenges and the great outdoors? Then plan a weekend date at Alley Pond Park Adventure Course. Strengthen your trust bond through a series of obstacles that include a zip line, a trust fall station, nets, and balance beams. If you come out still talking to each other, then you know it was meant to be.

Drinks at Gallow Green, 542 W 27 St

One of the best things about New York City during the warmer months is drinking al fresco. And when it comes to sipping libations outside, Gallow Green tops our list. Located on the roof of the McKittrick Hotel, this lounge offers an enchanted escape from the bustling city down below. Verdant greenery and twinkling lights complemented by fancy cocktails create an atmosphere perfect for love. Gallow Green reopens April 20 for the season.

We’d love to hear about other NYC spring date ideas. Please share in the comments!

Gallow Green photo by the bar.

Also, what to wear in spring in New York. 

Plus, things to love about springtime in the city.