If you’re looking for a fast-paced getaway brimming with rich culture, delicious food and an endless amount of activities, we highly recommend a New York honeymoon.
Planning your escape to the Big Apple after your big day, however, can be daunting for the same reasons it’s appealing. There are seemingly infinite amounts of places to stay and things to do! Where do you even start? Worry not. From swanky resorts to must-see hotspots in and around the city, we’ll help point you in the right direction with some of the most romantic places to stay and things to do in New York for couples.
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Places to Stay in New York for Couples
Whether you prefer charming old-world hotels, chic boutiques or swanky couples’ resorts, New York has it all. As you search for the ideal place to stay during your New York honeymoon, remember that the hotel’s location is just as important as its amenities. In addition to spa and room services, research the surrounding neighborhoods, culture, restaurants and more.
There are literally hundreds to choose from. Here are five of our favorite places to stay in our list of New York honeymoon places:
The Plaza: Located next to Central Park with recently renovated rooms and unparalleled service, the Plaza is an iconic hotel and perfect for a honeymoon in New York. As a guest, you can take advantage of hallway butlers, room service and a concierge 24 hours a day. Treat yourself in the 8,000-square-foot Caudalie Vinotherapie Spa and then cruise Manhattan in the hotel's Rolls Royce free of charge.
Hotel Elysee: Enjoy the charm of a French bed and breakfast surrounded by a bustling Midtown East at Hotel Elysee. Its marble-floored lobby with fresh-cut lilies, a crystal chandelier and golden wallpaper is continued upstairs in the charming guest rooms. As if that wasn’t enough, a couple on a New York honeymoon often receives a box of chocolates and bottle of champagne.
Mandarin Oriental: Located on the southwest corner of Central Park with views of the river, the Mandarin Oriental is home to one of the city’s best spas and two of its hottest restaurants. The spa features a dreamy, VIP spa suite, which is perfect for newlyweds on their New York honeymoon. After the Experience Showers, Amethyst Crystal Steam Room, and Vitality Pool, you can head downstairs to Per Se or Masa for a delectable meal.
The Bowery Hotel: Located in a neighborhood that was once home to the city's punk rock music scene, the Bowery Hotel reveals a different side of New York. Chill out in the shabby-chic lobby with its stylish bar, dark wood ceiling, vintage furniture and Oriental rugs. Order a delicious meal at Gemma, surrounded by candelabra chandeliers. Then head up to your bright, comfortable, flawlessly appointed room with floor-to-ceiling windows.
The Standard, High Line: Last but far from least is The Standard in High Line park. You’ll feel as hip as you do sexy staying in this ultramodern hotel on your New York honeymoon. It features rooms with glass-walled showers and tubs that are visible from the main guest room, five bars and the renowned Standard Grill restaurant.
A Deeper Dive into New York's Most Romantic Hotels
Beyond the well-known classics, New York City offers a myriad of hidden gems and luxurious havens perfect for a romantic escape. These hotels combine impeccable service with unique atmospheres to create a truly unforgettable honeymoon experience.
The Ludlow Hotel: Nestled in the vibrant Lower East Side, The Ludlow Hotel is a boutique gem that perfectly captures the neighborhood's artistic spirit. The hotel's loft-style rooms feature exposed brick, luxurious Moroccan rugs, and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer spectacular views of the city's skyline and bridges. For a cozy and intimate evening, grab a drink at the hotel's lobby bar with its stunning fireplace before heading to the outdoor garden. The on-site restaurant, Dirty French, offers a Parisian-inspired bistro menu that is both delicious and romantic.
Arlo SoHo: For the modern, design-savvy couple, Arlo SoHo provides a stylish and efficient retreat. The rooms, while compact, are smartly designed and offer incredible views. What truly sets this hotel apart is its social atmosphere. From the rooftop bar, A.R.T. SoHo, with its breathtaking 360-degree views, to the lively lobby and courtyard, there are plenty of spaces to relax and connect. The hotel also offers a variety of curated experiences, from live music to yoga classes, making it a hub of activity.
The Dominick Hotel: Located in the heart of SoHo, The Dominick is the epitome of five-star luxury and sophistication. This hotel is a sanctuary from the city's hustle, offering spacious, exquisitely decorated rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows. The on-site restaurant, Vestry, is a Michelin-starred destination, offering an elegant dining experience. During warmer months, the hotel’s rooftop pool is a rare and highly sought-after amenity, providing a perfect spot for sunbathing and sipping cocktails with panoramic city views.
Lotte New York Palace: This iconic hotel is a true New York landmark, offering a blend of historic grandeur and modern luxury. What was once a private mansion, the Lotte New York Palace now provides a visually stunning experience with its gold flourishes and grand architecture. The courtyard, a favorite filming location for TV and movies, is a majestic place to enjoy a coffee or a cocktail. The hotel's luxurious suites, impeccable service, and central location make it a top choice for a classic, sophisticated honeymoon.
The Chatwal, A Luxury Collection Hotel: Tucked away in the Theater District, The Chatwal offers an intimate and exclusive experience. This boutique hotel, designed by famed architect Stanford White in 105, is a study in Art Deco glamour. Guest rooms and suites are appointed with custom-made furniture, and a personal butler is available to every guest. The hotel’s spa, Red Door Spa by Elizabeth Arden, is a serene escape, and the on-site Lambs Club restaurant, located in a former theater, is a theatrical and romantic setting for a memorable meal.
Things to Do in New York for Couples
Whatever you and yours consider a good time, New York delivers. Floating in a rooftop pool? Absolutely. Museum tour? No problem. Spa day? Of course. These activities and many others will likely be a short walk or ride from your hotel. As you build your New York honeymoon itinerary, remember to pay close attention to pricing. The city can be expensive in some cases and you’ll want to stretch your funds to experience as much as you can during your getaway.
There are so many things to do, it would be almost impossible to share them all. We managed to narrow our favorites down to the top ten things to do in New York on your honeymoon:
- The James Hotel Pool: A secret, sexy, and coveted rooftop retreat in Soho, the plunge pool is perfect for basking in the summer sun.
- The Great Jones Spa: An amazing experience without an excessive number of frills. Book a service and enjoy access to a large sauna, steam room, whirlpool and cold plunge.
- The Aire: A sensational journey across various baths at different temperatures that transport you to the ancient times of the Roman, Greek and Ottoman empires.
- The Met: Art comes alive through exhibitions and events every day, revealing both new ideas and unexpected connections across time and cultures.
- Broadway: Arguably America’s most famous street, there’s no better way to pick up on the city’s changing vibe and scenery than walking 50 blocks and taking in a show or two.
- Battery Park: Bring a picnic and take in stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, the Freedom Tower and the Jersey City skyline across the river.
- Central Park: Live performances, pedicab rides, row boating, natural beauty and more make a day or two in the park ideal for a New York honeymoon.
- Backroom: As one of only two speakeasies in the city that operated during Prohibition and is still in existence today, it had to make our list of New York honeymoon places.
- Mr. Purple: Located on the 15th floor of Hotel Indigo, this posh spot with terraces serves elevated bar food and cocktails.
- Jules Bistro: Our favorite spot to enjoy the finest jazz in the East Village. There are live performances every night and they also serve dinner and brunch.
More Romantic Activities For Your NYC Honeymoon
Sunset Cruise on the Hudson River: A dinner cruise is a classic romantic activity for a reason. Imagine sailing along the Hudson River as the sun sets, casting a golden glow on the iconic skyline. You'll pass by the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and other famous landmarks, all while enjoying a gourmet meal and a drink.
Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge: This is a must-do for any couple. Start your walk from the Brooklyn side at sunset for the most breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. Once you cross into Manhattan, you can explore the charming streets of the Financial District or head up to the South Street Seaport for a celebratory dinner.
Top of the Rock Observation Deck: While the Empire State Building is famous, many locals and tourists prefer the Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center. The views are equally stunning, and it offers the unique vantage point of including the Empire State Building. Timing your visit for sunset or after dark will provide a magical display of the city's twinkling lights.
Grand Central Terminal's Whispering Gallery: Tucked away in the dining concourse of Grand Central Terminal is a hidden gem known as the "Whispering Gallery." The acoustics of the arched space are so unique that if you and your partner stand on opposite diagonal corners and whisper into the wall, your whispers will travel and be heard clearly by the other person.
Cooking Class for Two: For a fun and interactive date night, consider taking a cooking class together. New York City has a wide array of options, from making fresh pasta to crafting artisanal cocktails. It’s a great way to bond, learn a new skill, and then enjoy a delicious meal you created yourself.
Stargazing at the Hayden Planetarium: Escape the city lights for a romantic evening of stargazing. The Hayden Planetarium offers public shows that allow you to explore the universe together, providing a unique and celestial date night.
Explore Greenwich Village: This historic neighborhood is a romantic labyrinth of tree-lined streets, charming brownstones, and cozy cafes. Spend an afternoon getting lost, discovering hidden courtyards, and stumbling upon an intimate, candlelit restaurant for dinner. The area has a bohemian charm that feels a world away from the city's main attractions.
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We could list another hundred activities as well as dozens of additional charming old-world hotels, chic boutiques, and swanky couples’ resorts—New York truly has it all. Starting with our lists and then doing some research on your own, the key is to find a place to stay and create an itinerary that meet your unique tastes. It’s all about you!
Start planning your New York honeymoon now on Celebration.com! We’ll help make a dream getaway to the Big Apple a reality. You can start by creating your registry, then add items such as room upgrades or spa services and share it with family and friends. You can choose from a variety of templates to announce your date, registry and website.