Whether it’s the bodega with the best late-night snacks or the rooftop bars offering stunning skyline views, New Yorkers know their city inside and out. But dating here gives you a chance to experience what even seasoned residents might have missed, all while sharing those experiences with someone else.

That’s why as part of our latest “Find Me on Bumble” campaign, we reached out to our Bumble community—locals who’ve navigated the NYC dating scene themselves. They’ve experienced it all, from the iconic spots that don’t disappoint to the hidden gems that fly under the radar. Here, they’ve shared the date ideas that they think are worth the hype, the tourist spots they actually love, and the places that have become their new go-to’s.* In short, they’ve done the legwork, so you can skip the guesswork when dating in NYC.

Favorite date ideas in NYC

Q: A tourist spot that you’re low-key obsessed with? 

SJOURNEE: The Empire State Building. It’s a classic for a reason. I mean, the view is just unbeatable, and there’s something timeless about it.

TRISTAO: There’s an island near 14th and 15th Street, right off the pier. It’s my favorite spot—honestly, it’s beautiful. 

HALEY: I’m all about Lincoln Center. Uptown vibes, very highbrow, very bougie—sometimes it’s nice to mix it up and experience that side of the city. 

STELLA: The West Side Highway. You can go for a run, then grab a drink afterward.

Q: Favorite hidden gem?

HALEY: I love Flyfish—it’s a members-only club but it’s a great dining spot. Another place I’m into is No One’s Home. It’s a bit tucked away on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, but totally worth it for its vibe and drinks.

GEORGE: If you’re into quirky shops, Toy Tokyo in the East Village is a must. It’s like a nostalgia time capsule. For a night out, Treasure Club is an underrated bar with a laid-back vibe. 

SJOURNEE: I love La Lanterna di Vittorio, a lantern-lit garden that’s so cozy—and Recirculation, which is a pop-up bookstore. 

STELLA: I’m all about Honore Club in Bushwick—it’s got piña coladas on tap. I also love Dashwood Books and Cherry on Top, which is a wine bar. 

TRISTAO: I love St. Mark’s Place in the East Village—I’m always finding amazing, niche restaurants there. It’s especially good if you’re into Asian cuisine. 

Q: What is a NYC date idea that’s actually worth the hype?

TRISTAO: Gallery hopping. It’s always a vibe and there’s always a new installation somewhere. 

GEORGE: Ice skating in the winter is a classic. But when summer rolls around, hit up Coney Island or the beach. 

SJOURNEE: Strolling the High Line. You can have those long, easy conversations while taking in the views. It’s good for getting to know someone better.

HALEY: Definitely something active—like bowling, archery, or rock climbing. It’s fun, a little competitive, and you get to have a laugh together. Plus, it’s always entertaining to see how your date handles the challenge. 

STELLA: Hanging out at Sheep Meadow in Central Park. It might be a little overhyped, but it’s still so much fun, especially when you pair it with a bodega sandwich. 

Q: Favorite park?

TRISTAO: Bryant Park. You’ve got a nearby library and plenty of food options. It’s a good central spot for a date.

GEORGE: Definitely Central Park. You can do anything there—whether it’s taking a stroll, having a picnic, or just people-watching. It’s a classic.

HALEY: Fort Greene is my favorite. Everywhere in Brooklyn has such a chill vibe, and it’s perfect for a cute picnic—peaceful and super cozy.

SJOURNEE: For a date, it’s Central Park all the way. It’s huge, so there’s plenty to explore. And you can always pop by a museum or check out something nearby.

STELLA: Central Park. You just can’t go wrong there. It’s so easy to get lost in and you can have so much fun.

What to expect when dating in NYC

The dating scene here moves fast, but its energy is unmatched. If you’ve been in the mix, you know exactly how it goes: spontaneous nights, surprise encounters, and moments that remind you how full of possibilities the city is. For New Yorkers, this is just part of the thrill. Here’s what our locals really want you to know about dating in NYC:

Q: Finish the sentence: NYC is the only place where….

TRISTAO: The night doesn’t end at 10 p.m. I’ve had dates in other cities that wrap up when the stores close, but here, the city keeps going. It’s honestly one of my favorite things about this place.

STELLA: You can casually bump into your celebrity crush at your local dive bar. 

GEORGE: My entire friend group is within a 5-mile radius. Seriously, where else can you be just minutes away from everyone who matters? It’s the best feeling.

Q: How would you describe dating in NYC?

TRISTAO: Dating here feels like an adventure—there’s always something new around every corner. And so many places are within walking distance, which makes it great. 

GEORGE: You meet people from all walks of life, which means you never know who you’ll cross paths with.

HALEY: It’s like being on a reality show: fast-paced, full of surprises, and a little dramatic at times. 

There’s no shortage of people to meet in the city, and if you’re looking for people who vibe with your interests or who live in your neighborhood, Bumble’s got you covered. The key is finding someone with the same passions as you, whether that means hunting down the best bagel joint or sitting courtside. With endless first-date options, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to dating in NYC.

*We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any companies, locations, or brands mentioned in this article. All company, location, and brand names are trademarks of their respective owners.