NYC is already well-known as one of the most incredible local honeymoon destinations. Boasting boroughs with distinctive beauties, New York City honeymoon is for couples who want to experience romance, urban adventures, and rich culture.
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Is New York City a Good Place for a Honeymoon?
New York City, also known as the “Big Apple,” is an amazing honeymoon destination in the USA. Offering an attractive combination of romance and excitement, the city is the ideal backdrop for couples. This city that never sleeps has beautiful skyline views and thriving cultural hubs worthy of a spot in your itinerary.
Staying in any of its picturesque neighborhoods and exploring its famous attractions will let you and your partner kick off your new journey together in the hippest way possible.
What Activities Can You Do on a Honeymoon in New York City?
- Go sightseeing: NY is a cosmopolitan paradise famous for many iconic landmarks. See the bustling Times Square, marvel at the neoclassical beauty of the Statue of Liberty, and visit the observation deck at the Empire State Building for impressive city views. Rockefeller Center and its Top of the Rock observation deck will also give you awesome city skyline views.
- Head to a park: Want to be surrounded by some greeneries? The likes of Central Park and Bryant Park will give you the relief you need. These Manhattan parks attract ice skating lovers in winter. If you want a unique park, The High Line in Chelsea is the destination to be. It’s an elevated linear park filled built on a long-abandoned railway.
- Do a walking tour: Have an informative walking tour of the most popular areas in the city, including Wall Street in the Financial District and Chinatown.
- Shop at Fifth Avenue: This thoroughfare in Manhattan is a major shopping center. You can find many world-renowned luxury brands and flagship stores here.
- Immerse in arts and culture: From the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) to Broadway Boulevard, there are many places where you can treat your cultured self in NYC. Catch a Broadway show or two and pique your curiosities with amazing artwork. Include the 9/11 Memorial & Museum in your itinerary for a meaningful trip.
- Hike, hike, hike: The city may be known for its skyscrapers, but you can also find scenic hiking trails nearby to connect with nature—including Breakneck Ridge and Bull Hill. Other nature spots are the Adirondack State Park in Lake Placid and Niagara Falls.
What Is the Best Month to Visit New York City?
Summer and winter in NYC can bring forth extreme temperature levels. Visiting the city in spring (March to June) or fall (September to November) is best for pleasant weather.
Is a Honeymoon in New York City Expensive?
This post-nuptials getaway caters to couples with various budget ranges. You can have a remarkable honeymoon even with a budget of $1,000 to $3,000. For a luxurious stay, prepare a budget of at least $6,000.
How To Plan a Budget Honeymoon in New York City
- Choose affordable accommodation options like budget hotels, hostels, or vacation rentals.
- Use public transportation. NYC is well-connected by trains and buses.
- Explore free attractions like parks and take advantage of museum deals (e.g., free entrance, pay-what-you-wish admission).
- Watch out for discounted attractions and Broadway show tickets.
- Eat where the locals eat.
7 Best Areas to Stay In New York City
Midtown Manhattan
Midtown Manhattan, New York City’s beating heart, is home to famous landmarks like Times Square, the Empire State Building, Broadway, MoMA, and Rockefeller Center. Head to rooftop bars and glass towers, and you’ll see stunning views of the famous Manhattan skyline.
Because of its central location, you can easily travel to other NYC spots. Just be prepared because Midtown tends to be loud and crowded. You’re better off seeking other areas if you don’t want such an environment.
Upper East Side (UES)
UES is a highly walkable neighborhood that runs from 59th Street to 96th Street. It’s located along the East River and offers an upscale ambiance for honeymooners. It has fine-dining restaurants and luxury fashion stores.
If you and your loved one are art enthusiasts, be sure to explore the so-called Museum Mile. Here, you can find museums like the Met and Guggenheim Museum. The Museum Mile is along other famous NYC landmarks: Fifth Avenue and Central Park.
Upper West Side (UWS)
Set along the Hudson River and bordered by Central Park, UWS has its fair share of renowned institutions. This neighborhood runs from West 59th Street to West 110th Street. You can find the American Museum of Natural History and Lincoln Center here. It’s not only a walking distance to Central Park but to Riverside Park as well.
Both UES and UWS are relatively far from the more popular attractions in NYC. On the brighter side, this means you can consider these neighborhoods as your escape from the hustle and bustle of Midtown. The quiet side streets are great places to try out various street eats or grab bagels.
SoHo
SoHo is short for South of Houston Street. This trendy neighborhood in Lower Manhattan has a certain charm powered by cobblestone streets, cast-iron facades, and its fashionable locals. If you want a hip place to stay, this is it.
It has beautiful art galleries, designer boutiques, and some of the best pizzas in the city. Visit any Instagrammable cafes and restaurants, and give in to the temptation of flooding your social media account with awesome snaps.
Long Island City, Queens
This neighborhood sits in the largest and most culturally diverse borough in NYC: Queens. And it’s ideal for honeymooners who want a budget-friendly getaway.
It’s especially a treat for foodies as it offers many areas to sample diverse cuisines. When you head to the renowned LIC Flea Market, you will be amazed by its selection of food, drinks, and vintage goodies that can serve as unique souvenirs from your NYC honeymoon.
LIC also has several music venues and art galleries to explore if you want to satisfy your artistic and sonic cravings.
Williamsburg, Brooklyn
This neighborhood is vibrant and the ideal place for bar-goers and food enthusiasts. Not only will you have a great gastronomic experience, but your eyes can also feast on the beauty of the New York skyline. It also has a bustling art scene and live music circuit.
Brooklyn Bridge Park and Domino Park are the best spots for the best East River views. If you want to see an impressive panorama of the city, head to the popular Williamsburg Bridge.
The Bronx
The Bronx is the borough to be in if you and your significant other are die-hard baseball enthusiasts or animal lovers.
The Yankee Stadium. Bronx Zoo. New York Botanical Garden. Wave Hill. Little Italy. These are some of the most popular spots that you can find in the Bronx.
Authentic Italian cuisine can be found here, so you’re also in for a fantastic gastronomic experience.
The Bronx is still a popular destination for visitors despite being notorious for having a high crime rate. If you’re one of those couples that decide to stay here, don’t wander about at night.
What Is the Best Way to Travel to New York City?
Three airports serve New York City: John F. Kennedy International Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport, and LaGuardia Airport, which is a domestic airport.
Once you arrive at any of these airports, various transportation options are available to reach New York City, including airport shuttles, taxis, ride-sharing services, and public transportation.
Traveling Within New York City
Getting around NYC is fairly easy, and its subway system is the backbone of its public transportation. The Grand Central Terminal not only serves as a subway station, but it’s also a must-see tourist spot, thanks to its beautiful architecture.
Other transport options include buses, taxis, and rideshares. NYC is also pedestrian and bike-friendly. You can also take the ferry if you’re commuting to destinations like Staten Island and Governor’s Island.
What Types of Honeymoon Accommodations Are Available in New York City?
NYC offers a variety of accommodation options. You can choose from luxury hotels with lavish suites, spa facilities, fine dining options, rooftop bars, boutique hotels, and bed and breakfasts for a more tailored experience.
If you value privacy, vacation rentals are for you. These properties also have various price points.
What Type of Food Should You Try in New York City?
- Bagels. The city’s bagels are renowned for their many topping options and chewy texture. Indulge in a classic bagel with cream cheese and smoked salmon, or experiment with different taste combinations.
- New York-style Pizza. Pizza made in New York is famed for its rich tomato sauce, melting cheese, and thin, crunchy crust. Burgers and sandwiches are two more high-carb foods to try in New York City.
- Chinese cuisine. Although it’s not the city’s local specialty, there is something special about such foods amid NYC’s busy streets. There are many things to sample, from hand-pulled noodles to dumplings.
What to Pack For a Honeymoon in New York City
NYC offers many activities, so it’s ideal to mix casual wear and fancier outfits. Also, because you’re more likely to explore the city on foot, bring comfortable walking shoes. Depending on the season, bring appropriate layers.
Is New York City Safe to Visit?
Overall, it’s safe to explore. However, you must remain vigilant to have a more enjoyable romantic holiday—petty crimes frequently happen. Here are some safety precautions to follow:
- Be cautious with your belongings. When in crowded areas, be extra mindful of pickpockets.
- Don’t look lost and touristy in NYC.
- Stay in well-trafficked and well-lit areas. Don’t go on your own in unfamiliar neighborhoods. Dangerous areas to avoid include Brownsville, Mott Haven, Jamaica, and the South Bronx.
- Monitor current events and advisories. Avoid areas where demonstrations and protests took or are taking place.
- Beware of fake tickets (e.g., Broadway, tour, concert tickets).
- Trust your instincts, and don’t hesitate to seek help from local authorities.