If you’re planning a romantic getaway to New York on a budget, there are plenty of fun places to go with your girlfriend. From the top of the Empire State Building to a picnic in Central Park, these activities are sure to make for an unforgettable date!
You can even take a day to relax together in the city’s spas. Or, check out some of the city’s street art!
1. Go to the Top of the Empire State Building
If you want to take in the mighty New York skyline from atop one of the city’s most iconic buildings, the Empire State Building is where you should go. It’s the perfect place to start or end a day of sightseeing and there are plenty of ways to get there.
The observation decks on the 80th, 86th, and 102nd floors provide incredible views of the NYC skyline and surrounding areas. You’ll also be able to see five different states including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts and Delaware.
The Empire State Building is one of the most popular attractions in New York and you’ll likely have to wait to get a ticket. It’s best to plan in advance and purchase your tickets online. This will help minimize your wait time and give you more flexibility during the day.
2. Go to Tarrytown Music Hall
Tarrytown Music Hall is an acoustically magnificent, 843-seat theater that hosts topnotch jazz, folk, blues and classical concerts, plays, musicals, operas, comedy, dance performances, recordings and films. It is the oldest operating theater in Westchester and has a rich history dating back to 1885.
During its early years, the Music Hall was a multi-use facility that hosted roller skating tournaments, horse shows, balls and concerts. It was also one of the first theaters in the United States to show silent movies.
In addition to the classic acts, this historic venue hosts many up-and-coming artists and performers. For example, Pure Prairie League has been performing at the Music Hall since the 1970s and has shared the stage with Moody Blues.
3. Go for a Ride on the Staten Island Ferry
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to see Manhattan, the Staten Island Ferry is an amazing option. This ferry connects Lower Manhattan with Staten Island and runs 365 days a year.
Currently, it’s the only boat service in New York City that doesn’t charge a fare. That change came in 1997, in response to complaints from Staten Island residents that they didn’t have a free way to get to Manhattan.
You’ll get gorgeous views of the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn while you’re on the Staten Island Ferry, and you don’t even have to pay a single dollar!
However, you’ll need to take a roundtrip. This means you have to disembark and re-board the ferry at each terminal.
4. Take a Walk in Central Park
One of the best free things to do with your girlfriend in New York on a budget is to take a walk in world famous Central Park. Located in the heart of NYC, this 843 acre park is a haven for locals and tourists alike.
Taking a walk in this park is the perfect way to relax, get fresh air and enjoy some romantic time together. With over 40 million visitors a year, it’s no wonder that Central Park is so popular.
A stroll through this park will give you and your partner the chance to appreciate the beauty of its landscapes, historic buildings, and the various wildlife living within. Whether you want to spend your day exploring the park on foot, or would like to hire a bike and explore it from a different perspective, there’s plenty to do in this huge and diverse public space.
If you want to do even more in this iconic park, consider booking a guided walking tour. These guides will share a wealth of background knowledge and will help you discover all the highlights of this legendary park.