6 Alternative First Date Ideas in NYC

New York, New York. We do things a little different here. Put your date in a different league with this unique offering of alternative first date ideas, because not everyone wants to go for coffee.

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1. VISIT CONEY ISLAND

We know it’s gross and weird and nobody really goes there, but it’s only about an hour from Manhattan and a bit of a trek to reach, but between the greasy food, the Friday night fireworks, and the straight up cheesy allure of this Brooklyn institution, Coney Island is fun. It is fun, right?

2. STROLL THROUGH THE NEW YORK BOTANICAL GARDENNew York Botanical Garden_(Bronx)-min

Plan your visit (it is massive) and explore the gardens at your own pace. The garden hosts many events often aimed at couples so it’s well worth checking the events schedule to see if any of them occurring soon pique your interest.

3. GO DOG WALKING!

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Become a dog walker with Wag! It’s scientifically proven that dog people are the best kind of people, so show your date that you’re one of the good ones and take your date dog walking. You’ll even get paid, what’s not to like?

4. GO TO THE NOGUCHI MUSEUM

This quiet museum in Queens houses some truly exceptional modern sculptures from a true master of the craft, Isama Noguchi. Take a stroll through the collection and gaze deep into the soul of one of the art world’s most ubiquitous characters.

5. GOLFING ON THE HUDSON RIVER

Teach your date how to swing a golf club, or have them teach you. We’ve said it before that light sporting activity make excellent dating choices and with The Golf Club at Chelsea Piers open year round you’ve always got the opportunity to do so.

6. GET AWAY FROM THE CITY AT CHINESE SCHOLAR’S GARDEN

This classical Chinese garden featuring koi ponds, beautiful foliage and often ambient music is the best way to turn your date into an exercise in serenity and mindfulness. Take your time, sit on the benches and wonder just how so many people haven’t heard of it.

Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments.

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