33 Fun Date Ideas Around NYC for Couples

Jennie Utsinger:  Owned by second generation balloonists, Enchanted Balloons offers hour long balloon flights at sunrise. During the flight over the Hudson Valley, your balloon may fly as high as 2,000 feet!

Annette Parks:  Want to learn how to make wine with your partner? Ready to stomp some grapes? Okay, you won't do it with your feet, but at the Staten Island Winery, you can learn how to make wine from scratch! Take a four-session course, and you'll be sure to know your hubby even better by the time it's done. The winery also hosts parties, cooking events, weekly wine tasting and so much more.

Jennie Utsinger:  If you're looking for a low-key date night, visit Pinot's Palette for a painting party. Locations are found throughout NYC. The studio provides all supplies and the studio's artists guide students through the featured painting. While you paint, enjoy the full service wine and beer bar. Registration is required for all classes.

Annette Parks:  This hidden gem in Staten Island is the perfect destination to be right near the water, and enjoy the maritime surroundings. Couples love this place because it's cheap, it's fun, and there's so much to do! There's also dining and fun shops, and plenty of things to see. If you took the ferry to Staten Island, all the better! This is a wonderful spot for getting away from the city, relaxing, spending time with your partner, and decompressing. Bring a picnic basket! And be sure to take pictures of the flowers.

Annette Parks:  Taking a ride on the ferry is a time-honored tradition in New York, and it's totally free! You get amazing views of New York City, the Statue of Liberty, and you land on Staten Island, where there are plenty of things to do and see.

Cherisse Harris:  There's something so peaceful, romantic and unique about stargazing in NYC -- especially with the one you love. Set out on a Tuesday night to catch a beautiful view of the stars and planets in all their glory. The Diller-von Furstenberg Sundeck is a gorgeous space in High Line park, and you'll find high-powered telescopes, and members of the Amateur Astronomers Association of New York on-hand for questions. These free things to do in NYC are one of a kind!

Annette Parks:  There are so many things to see and do on Governor's Island, and it welcomes hand-holding:) Hammocks, castles, baseball fields, and gardens. Oh, my! It's going to be a romantic day that you'll never forget. Rent a tandem bike, or jump in a free kayak. You're going to have such a great day, you'll even consider bringing the kids next time.

Nancy L.:  Stop by the Gansevoort Market for some inexpensive, yet delicious food options. Have a full meal or just grab some dessert. There is plenty of seating and you can take a nice walk after enjoying lunch or dinner with your partner.

Nancy L.:  The Brooklyn Heights Promenade is a quiet and romantic spot to stroll and sit any time of the year. You can enjoy the entire expanse of lower Manhattan and take a peek at the amazing redevelopment that has occurred below. There are so many new parks to enjoy along the Brooklyn waterfront so while you are enjoying this date, you can plan ahead for the next one!

Annette Parks:  The High Line is a stunning park made from a repurposed train track, and it offers some of the best sights in New York! With lush greenery, plenty of people watching, and fun snacking opportunities, there's something incredibly romantic about this popular spot. Go at sundown, and hold your partner's hand, or enjoy free stargazing.

Kelly R:  BYOB helps get those creative juices flowing at this adults-only class at The Painted Pot's Cobble Hill location. You'll create, glaze, and fire a masterpiece to bring home, with an instructor on hand to provide guidance. Register in advance via their web site, or walk in during regular hours for drop in art.

Jennie Utsinger:  Head to the Royal Palms Club - inspired by Floridian shuffleboard aficionados - and play some shuffleboard. Each person receives a quick lesson prior to playing. A different food cart and DJ are featured each night (view the schedule online). Don't forget to snap a picture with the flamingo-print wallpaper in the bathroom!

Annette Parks:  Great for folks of all ages, Luna Park is a wonderful place for a date night! There are games, rides, and delicious boardwalk food. Coney Island isn't free, but it's cheap! It's the perfect summer destination, and there's nothing more romantic than riding the Ferris Wheel.

Cherisse Harris:  They say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. Test this theory by sweeping him off to a night of great food and culinary fun at Taste Buds Kitchen. They offer great cooking classes for chefs of all ages -- no experience needed -- and the adult BYOB classes are offered at night. Everyone learns in small group, and there 's no pressure -- mostly eating and mingling. You're sure to impress your bae, or vice-versa, as you whip up 3-4 tasty recipes including tapas, cooking with beer or wine, pasta, pizza, chicken and sushi.

Cherisse Harris:  Stepping Out Studios specializes in various styles of partner dance (think Swing and the Waltz) but nothing says sexy like their Latin dancing! Why not heat up the dance floor with a little Salsa? You can try a private session with an instructor or drop-in to a group dance class. If you're feeling confident, check out their social events. Celebs like Jennifer Lopez and Beyoncé have danced here, so get ready for a wild date night in NYC.