Picture this: You’ve gotten past the initial messages and found someone you want to actually meet in person – nice work! But this is just the beginning. Plans need to be made, and the location of your first date sets the tone of your meeting. Depending on where you choose to go, it could ultimately make or break your budding relationship (no pressure) How can you make such an important decision when there’s so much to do in the great city of New York? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Here are some ideas for fun, memorable, and affordable first dates in NYC.
1. Walk the High Line 
Stroll along this beautiful outdoor public space that now extends all the way to 34th street. It’s the perfect place for a nice quiet chat and some stargazing.
2. Get cultured at MoMA
Add a bit of culture to your date by checking out the latest exhibit at the Museum of Modern Art. Pro tip: the museum offers free admission Fridays between 4-8pm.
3. Hit the links, NYC style
Channel your inner Tiger Woods and head over to Chelsea Piers to hit a bucket of balls. If one of you isn’t a golfer, it’s the perfect opportunity to give a personal, hands-on lesson.
4. See a Broadway show, without breaking the bank 
Impress your date by taking them to a show at the Roundabout Theatre Company. Their Hiptix program lets theatregoers under 35 snag $25 tickets to performances.
5. Go back in time at the Raines Law Room 
Travel back to the time of prohibition and feel sneaky as you imbibe fancy cocktails at this old-timey speakeasy. It’ll give you and your date some quiet time, plus some strong drinks to break the ice.
6. Hear some free jams at Rockwood Music Hall
This LES bar and performance space offers free shows on Stage 1 every night of the week. So grab a few drinks, listen to some jams, and get to know your date.
7. Hit the ice at Bryant Park 
We know, we know…there are certain NYC activities that are a bit cliché, and ice-skating definitely qualifies. But what better way to bond than lacing up and hitting the ice? The skating will help calm your nerves, and if things are going well, there’s a great opportunity to extend your date over hot chocolates.
8. Get high off each other at Trapeze School of New York 
Fly high with your date at Pier 40, as you take a class and get the chance to trapeze. And just think, afterwards you’ll be able to jokingly call yourselves swingers.
9. Dance along to karaoke at Hill Country Barbecue
Every Tuesday night this delicious Flatiron BBQ joint offers 2-for-1 drinks and the opportunity to sing karaoke with a live band. Bring your date along for a lighthearted night out, loosen up with a few drinks and maybe you’ll end up hitting the stage for your first ever duet.
10. Get things rolling at Brooklyn Bowl
This Williamsburg alley gives you the option to bowl, drink, eat, and listen to music – all in one place! Start with a game of bowling and if things go well, by the end of the night you’ll be drinking Brooklyn Blasts and dancing to whichever great band’s hitting their stage that night.
