The 9 Best Outdoor Dates In NYC
In New York City, you may think that 'being outdoorsy' is limited to rooftop bars and a trip to Central Park. Not true. From picnics to adventurous excursions on the water, outside options abound across the boroughs. Find a new place to impress your crush or to get closer to the love of your life this summer. By Sarah Shaker.
More: NYC's 10 Best Picnic Spots
Here you can you admire impressive views of the Manhattan and Brooklyn bridges and take advantage of lots of wide open spaces. Enjoy a range of activities, including bike paths, sports fields and playgrounds. Pack a picnic to dine at one of the many tables along the water and make a day of it on the east side, strolling down to the seaport hand in hand.
Lather some sunscreen on your lover and enjoy a real New York City beach date at Rockaway Beach Club. Rent bikes, indulge in savory and sweet bites from one of the many food vendors and get your tan on. The newly revitalized boardwalk offers some great beach side dining. Ripper's is one of the only places in the city where you can enjoy a beer, burger and a view of the ocean all at once.
Get active with free kayaking on weekends downtown. Splish and splash your way into his heart with your adventurous spirit. Cool down on the water as things really start to heat up. Looking for more free weekend activities in New York City? These are our 14 favorite things to check out in the Big Apple this summer.
Chugging giant beers with your crush will certainly get you both in a tipsy, flirty mood. Relax in the sun at one of the picnic tables and check out their long food menu to balance out the suds.
Take those boring movie dates from your clueless high school days and transport them to a rooftop fit for an in-the-know adult. Check the schedule for a range of movies playing on rooftops from Brooklyn to the Lower East Side all summer long.
Cheat on your diet with hot dogs and scream on the Cyclone with your date. This boardwalk hot spot provides snacks and good 'ole wholesome fun all around. And there's no lack of bars either - check out our three favorites.
It may not be a summer weekend on Cape Cod - but it might just feel that way. Break open some crabs, drink beer and get competitive during a few friendly rounds of mini golf, bocce or cornhole. Whether you're on a first date or a group outing, this crab shack could be the hottest new spot in Brooklyn this summer.
This docked boat may be better for a group date, as it is a bit too crowded and loud for an intimate chat with your crush. Bring your whole crew to keep it casual or make it a double date on this rocking boozy ship, which also made our pick for one of NYC's 6 best outdoor bars.
This elevated public park adds a lovely walk to any summer day date. And while you're on the West side, stop by The Standard for a glass or two at the Biergarten or a late-night dance at Le Bain under the disco ball. For more drinking options near this New York City gem, check out our guide to the 5 best bars near the High Line.
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Sarah Shaker is the founder of Bright Lights, My City.
