7 Things to Do in NYC This Valentine's Day

While a candelit romantic dinner at your favorite New York City restaurant might be your go-to for Valentine's Day, if you're aiming to impress we emplore you to venture a bit off the beaten path and revel in some of the cities more adventurous celebrations. From rompy drag shows to crooning love songs that last all night, we've rounded up some of the best V-Day events that will wow any date.

Sunset Cruise with Dinner

Wine and dine your Valentine's Day date with sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty. With an included champagne toast or wine, full buffet dinner, and holiday-inspired desserts, there's no better way to show your affection than with this romantic water retreat. Tickets are $160 per person. 

Valentine's Serenade at St. Ann and the Holy Trinity Church

Soak in incredible arcitecture bathed in golden candelight while listening to Broadway's best hits. Pianists and vocalists serve up stunning renditions in this iconic church, creating an intimate ambiance perfect for Valentine's Day. We recommend heading to a dinner afterwards for a full evening of romance. Tickets are $60 per person.

Villanous Valentines at the Villain Edit

Spend your Sunday evening among plenty of pomp and entertainment at the special V-Day event at Villian Edit. The show will include a variety of drag, dancers, and performers, plus giveaways and photo opps. Tickets are just $10, making this an affordable way to celebrate with a partner, friend, or hot date. 

New York City Catacombs by Candelight

If you're more spooky than sweet, take an equally romantic and harrowing journey through the catacombs of New York City. This guided tour takes you behind the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral and candelit catacombs—certainly a Valentine's Day celebration you won't forget. Tickets are $37. 

Museum of Sex "Love Lockdown"

There's no better time to make a trip to the Museum of Sex than Valentine's Day, and with their special "Love Lockdown" event happening from February 11-14th, your typical entry ticket will come with perks and treats. While this might not be a great first date or for those faint of heart, it certainly kicks off the holiday on a high note. Tickets are $39 on February 11th and 12th and $55 on the 13th and 14th and include access to all exhibits and a special Love Infusion'IV' cocktail.

Nella at Blue Note

Upgrade your typical Valentine's Day dinner with romantic live music from Nella, a 2019 Latin Grammy Award winner. Sip on a marigold and kaffir lime margarita or a burnt maple old fashioned, and then nab a table for sumptuous fare like lavendar French chicken breast with truffle mashed potatoes, lobster ravioli, or pan seared salmon. With sets at both 8:00 and 10:30, you can spend the whole evening with your date at this cozy jazz venue.  

Kiss and Tell at the Jane Hotel 

If a romantic evening simply isn't your speed this Valentine's Day, opt for a raucous comedy show on Sunday night at the Jane Hotel. Whether you're celebrating Galentine's or want to ensure your date has a laugh, the comedy skits and storytelling from comedians Emmy Harrington, Bobby Hankinson, and Carly Ann Filbin are a certifiably fun way to enjoy Valentine's Day.

Looking for something more traditional? Here are 6 more NYC Valentine's Day recommendations.

Photo by Bruno Martins on Unsplash