The Perfect Fall Day in New York for Families

Fall officially begins next week, and I am already itching to enjoy the perfect fall day in New York with my family! What I love about fall is that there are tons of activities to enjoy in the cooler weather. We simply have to find a free weekend day and we can experience all that has to offer.

So, then next time you have a free day and the weather is nice, use this as a basic planning guide.

Put on Your Cutest Fall Attire

The time has finally arrived to pull out your favorite fall fashion – boots, shawls, and boho chic. On the perfect fall day, you want to be picture-perfect for all the insta-worthy locales you’ll visit.

Start Your Day at the Farmer’s Market

Pick up a pumpkin spice from your favorite coffee shop and head to a local farmer’s market. In addition to picking up fresh produce and flowers, you can also enjoy a delicious fall breakfast of warm apple cider donuts. Fall doesn’t feel like fall until I taste it.

Head Out to Higher Elevations

After you’ve spent time wandering the farmer’s market, head up to higher elevations outside the city. The view of the beautifully changing fall foliage is worth the view. But I like to cap off my fall drive with a visit to one of the nearby apple orchards. We get a bushel of apples and take tons of pictures.

Stop for Pumpkins on the Way Home

As we head home, I like to stop at one of the local farms for pumpkins. We get several for carving and decorating. In addition to the fun of hunting for pumpkins, many of the local farms have other activities for kids to enjoy, such as hayrides.

TIP –If you are itching to decorate your pumpkin, choose to paint it instead of carving it too early.

Spend Time in the Kitchen

Take a break at home to do some fall cooking. Take some of the apples you picked and turn them into tasty treats. I love this simple healthy (and delicious) recipe for cinnamon apple chips. All you have to do is slice the apples, coat them in cinnamon and sugar, and bake them. Another simple healthy fall snack to make is roasted pumpkin seeds.

Visit the Illuminated Pumpkin Display

One of the best ways to spend an evening with your family in fall in New York is to visit The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze in Hudson Valley. These enormous, illuminated pumpkin display 9with over 7,000 pumpkins) lights up from September to November.

Curl Up and Watch a Spooky Movie

Finish the evening by curling up together and watching a spooky (or not-so-spooky) Halloween movie on Disney Plus. Don’t forget that Hocus Pocus 2 premieres on September 30th! Now is also the perfect time to enjoy some of the treats you made in the afternoon.

What perfect fall day activities have I missed? Let me know in the comments!

The Empire State Building Observatory: A Fun & Safe NYC Family Outing

Has your family ever visited the Empire State Building? Even if you call NYC home, visiting the Empire State Building and taking in the 360° views from the classic viewfinders is a right of passage. Towards the end of 2019, the Empire State Building started showing off the $165 million renovations that took four years to complete.

Unfortunately, like everything else, the pandemic caused tours to shut down. But, the doors have reopened! My family recently had a chance to tour the Empire State Building and visit the 86th floor observatory. Trust me - you are going to want to get tickets ASAP!

At the Empire State Building, Even Waiting is Fun

Let’s be honest. Waiting in lines is generally no fun at all. That’s why I was unsure how a visit to the Empire State Building would go with my kids. 4 million people visit each year, so I felt justified in my waiting worries.

Well, I was wrong. At the Empire State Building, even waiting is fun! A huge part of the renovation was done to the waiting lobby. What this means for families is there is a lot of fun things to keep you occupied if you have to wait to go up to the observation deck. It is really well thought out, with every little section having something fun – even the elevators!

Here’s even more good news – you can purchase an Express Pass to the 86th Floor and skip all the waiting! I only recommend this pass if you have already done the regular 86th floor tour that includes visiting the 2nd floor interactive galleries and exhibits though. The wait time is worth it for all the cool things your family gets to see.

The Empire State Building Takes Your Safety Seriously

During this time, my family is being picky about the places we go to. As a mom, I want to be sure the places we go to are safe. I am happy to report that the Empire State Building is taking safety seriously. I couldn’t help but notice on our tour how clean everything was. In addition to routine cleaning, they have implemented frequent high touch area cleaning and each night the entire observatory space is sprayed with an electrostatic disinfectant.

They have also reduced capacity to less than 50%, so it is very easy to practice social distancing, and they use social distance markers. Plus, all tour hosts are wearing personal protective equipment (masks, face shields, and gloves).

I was also super impressed to learn that part of the renovations included installing a state-of-the-art air purification system which improves air quality and reduces the risk of virus transmission.

The 86th Floor Observatory and Beyond

The reason 4 million people head to the Empire State Building every year is because you get unprecedented views of New York City. Located in the heart of Manhattan, you can view all of New York City from the 86th floor observatory – and up to six other states! There’s a reason that the Empire State Building is both the most photographed building in the world and the most popular destination for Uber riders. And, naturally, the ideal spot to get the perfect Insta pic.

A Social Distancing Tour for Everyone

While the amazing views are enough to make everyone in your family happy, the tour offers fun for all ages. The 2nd floor waiting area has several interesting exhibits that satisfy kids, parents, and grandparents. For example, the new King Kong exhibit was a huge hit with my kids. I loved the theater that bears witness to the Empire State Building in pop culture and all the photos of celebrities visiting the Empire State Building. My husband loved to see the historical photos on display from New York City in the 1920s and 1930s (including photos from the construction of the famous building).

In addition to museum-quality exhibits, they offer a free self-guided tour for guests with tickets. You simply use their free guest Wi-Fi to enjoy this audio tour. Again, it makes waiting to head to the 86th observatory deck a breeze. With so much to check out, my girls didn’t even realize they were waiting!

What You Need to Know Before You Visit the Empire State Building

To keep everyone safe and make sure all families have a wonderful time, here are some things you need to know before you go:

• Admission is by appointment only. Reservations are now required.

• Prices start at $42 for adults and $36 for children. The ticket price includes the 2nd floor exhibits and interactive galleries, and the free audio tour.

• Masks (or facial coverings) are required by law.

• Your temperature will be checked upon arrival. If it is above 100.4°F, you will be denied entry.

Lift Your Spirits by Supporting Others During the Coronavirus Pandemic

A month ago, I don’t think we could have imagined we’d be where we are at this moment. Stuck inside, giving air hugs, and homeschooling our children. But here we are. It’s overwhelming, right? If you are like me, you are trying your best to stay calm for your kids and have a positive attitude in the midst of upheaval.

I’ve learned that the best way to lift my spirits is to help someone else, but since we are being told to stay in our homes, it makes it a little more challenging. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways we can offer support to others from our own homes.

Support Your Kids

First, our kids need us to lead the way during this pandemic. Their lives have been flipped upside down, too. With schools closed in New York and across the country, school systems are handling the missed school days differently. Whether your child’s school has provided at-home virtual lesson plans or you are making it up as you go, there are tons of resources to keep your kids learning and growing over the break. For example, Today put together a great resource of virtual learning tools for parents of everything from FREE Scholastic Learning Resources to celebrities reading children’s books.

Support Your Teachers

Your child’s teacher is experiencing this new normal right alongside you, so give him/her a break. Your child’s teacher likely only had a day or two to transition their entire weekly lesson plan into something kids could do at home without their assistance. That couldn’t have been easier. Show your child’s teacher some support by thanking him/her, asking questions, and not complaining.

Support Your Community

As families hurried to stock up on canned goods, many forgot that there are food banks who desperately need canned goods to provide meals for the needy. CNN reports, “Canned food donations are declining and one food bank in Stamford, Connecticut, can't keep its shelves stocked. […] Pasta, spaghetti sauce and cereal are usually always on the [grocery] shelves, but these days, even those items are gone […]. The food bank has had to use donations to purchase food to replenish their supply.”

While it will be difficult to go shopping and donate actual foods to food banks, you can donate financially to most food banks online from home, including the Food Bank for New York City.

Support Your Favorite Stores & Restaurants

According to CNN, “The drop in foot traffic and a reluctance to go out will leave shops and restaurants empty. In Seattle, already hard hit by the outbreak, a recent survey found that 60% of small businesses there are considering wage cuts and staffing cutbacks, while 35% said they may have to close. More than 80% expect the situation to get worse.”

If you are worried about the coronavirus pandemic affecting some of your favorite small businesses, try to find ways to continue supporting them. For example, buy gift cards to these stores and restaurants (an immediate way to give them some money that you can use when the world rights itself), and shop their online stores.

What other ideas do you have for supporting those around you during this strange season?

Easy Ways to Have a More Quiet and Peaceful Life

Our lives are noisy. Between our busy commutes to and from work and the constant notifications pinging on our smartphones, our daily lives are filled with noise. Not only are they actually noisy, but we are also bombarded with mental noise every day. We have access to more material than ever before (shows, radio, websites, etc.) that it is easy to immerse ourselves in the clutter all day every day.

But, if you are like me, you are ready for a change. I want to bring a little more peace and quiet to my life. And, after researching, I’ve discovered that I am not alone. It is something many of us want but don’t know how to achieve. Here are the best suggestions I’ve discovered.

Silence the Notifications

The fastest way to cut down on some of the noise in your life is to silence your notifications, but for many of us, this may also be the hardest. Did you know studies have shown that we have become addicted to notifications on our smartphones?

Instead of allowing a ton of apps to send you notifications throughout the day, go through your phone and strategically select only those apps which you truly need to receive notifications for. For example, you don’t need to receive every Instagram notification, but you may need to receive notifications from your child’s school. Instead, set aside a time each day to check up on your notifications.

Don’t Make Your Phone the First and Last Thing You See

Another one that will be hard is resisting the urge to make your phone the first and last thing you look at every day. According to a study discussed in Bustle, “They found the number one activity people participated in before going to sleep was using their phone. Not sex, not chatting with their partner, not reading a book — but using their phone.” Yikes!

Here’s the truth – there is nothing on our phones that we need to see before we go to bed or as soon as we wake up. We can take a few minutes to wake up peacefully before we check our phones. Many suggest putting your phone out of reach at night, such as across the room or in your restroom.

Invest in Noise-Cancelling Headphones

If you are like many New Yorkers who have a busy and loud commute on public transit, then you absolutely must invest in noise-canceling headphones. And, even if your commute to work is quiet, then you still may want to own a pair. They come in handy when you need to quiet all the noise around you in the office, at home, or on planes.

Get Back into Nature

In a crowded city, it’s easy to forget what nature is like. That’s why it is important to get back into nature just for the sake of being in nature. Resist the urge to listen to music while you run and instead listen to the sounds of nature. You’ll be surprised at just how good it feels to be present and aware of your surroundings.

Do Your Body Good (aka Exercise)

Exercise is good for you. Period. However, some forms of exercise, like yoga, are fantastic for helping you lead a quieter and more peaceful life. It requires you to breathe deeply and focus, which makes it difficult for your mind to wander. As Elite Daily explains, “The calm that a yoga practice brings helps rid the chaos, frustration and exhaustion that commonly fills the mind.”

Designate One Space in Your Home for Quiet

Lastly, designate one space in your home as your space for quiet. I know this can be challenging – especially for moms with little ones – but it is so very important. Basically, this needs to be a space free of all the electronics that typically clutter our minds (like TVs). For me, my restroom has become my personal sanctuary. I can bliss out for lengthy amounts of time taking a luxurious bubble bath, and it helps me quiet my mind and my heart. Find this space in your own home.

10 Awesome August Events for Families in NYC

August has arrived, which means summer will be over before we know it. So, we’d better do our best to enjoy every last minute we have! Thankfully, there is tons of fun things to do in NYC for families this month – everything from delicious food events to outdoor carnivals. You can even go ahead and visit the nearby apple orchards and stock up before fall.

Today, I am highlight 10 family-friendly NYC happenings in August, so get your calendar ready!

Restaurant Week

As a foodie, you know I am super pumped for Restaurant Week 2019. Running from July 22—Aug 16th, Restaurant Week offers deals at over 370 restaurants with prix-fixe menus for lunch and dinner. TimeOut has a guide for places to take the kids during Restaurant Week.

Manhattan’s Summer Streets

Saturdays in August mean car-free days in Manhattan where families are encouraged to use other means of travel (i.e., bikes, scooters) for a 7-mile stretch. Along this route, there are rest stops with family-friendly activities.

Bronx Zoo’s Dinosaur Safari

If you haven’t taken the family to Dinosaur Safari at the Bronx Zoo, make plans to visit before this exhibit closes in early November. Your kids will love seeing the 40 animatronic dinosaurs and the fossil dig.

Photo: Alliance for Coney Island Sand Sculpting Competition

Sand Sculpting Contest

The 29th Annual Sand Sculpting Competition will take place on August 17th at the Coney Island Beach. These sand sculptures are incredible and totally worth the trip!

Fly NYC

For a more laidback family adventure, check out FlyNYC Kite Flying Festival on Saturday, August 17th at Riverside Park. If you don’t have a kite of your own, kite kits are provided until they run out.

Photo: NYC-ARTS

Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival

This weekend, head to Queens for the amazing Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival. Your family will marvel at the custom-made boats and enjoy cultural favorites (i.e., music, demonstrations, food, and bubble tea).

Hercules in Central Park

The Disney version of Hercules is being performed in Central Park in the evenings from August 31st – September 4th. Not only will kids love this live theater experience, but parents will appreciate that it is FREE!

Smorgasburg

Back to food again, because, of course! Smorgasburg is held Saturdays and Sundays during August in Prospect Park. You can try a wide variety of dishes and treats.

Richmond County Fair

Take the family to an old-fashion county fair (and Staten Island’s one and only) from August 31st to September 2nd. This is a wonderful way to send out summer.

Summer Outdoor Movies

Families have tons of options for free outdoor movies this summer in NYC. Check out this list of outdoor movies in NYC from the New York Times and make plans to get there early!

Photo: Whitney Browne of YYDC on Battery Dance Festival

Battery Dance Festival

Make plans to spend time at New York’s longest-running dance festival. The Battery Dance Festival will be held August 11th – 16th at Robert F. Wagner Jr. Park.

Which NYC event are you most looking forward to enjoying with your family this month? Let me know in the comments!

My Favorite Sweet Spots in NYC

I have a sweet tooth. There are few things that bring me as much joy as giving into a sugary temptation. And, according to doctors, I don’t have to feel guilty about it or give up sweets. According to WebMD, “Many nutritionists agree that when it comes to sweet treats, it’s not really what you eat, but how much and how often. ‘Small indulgences, even once a day, are fine,’ says Cindy Moore.”

So, I have chosen to follow the good doctor’s advice and plan to indulge my sweet tooth whenever I feel like it. I’m just not going to gorge myself on chocolate. I have a feeling this is something we can all handle. Am I right, ladies?

Fortunately, I live in NYC, which is essentially a sweets metropolitan as glamourous as Charlie’s Chocolate Factory. Everywhere you turn, you can find a bakery, a candy store, or an ice cream shop. If you live in NYC or plan to visit, these are some of my favorite places to indulge my sweet tooth without worrying about going overboard.

Levain Bakery

If you are craving the world’s best cookie, then look no further than Levain Bakery. They made it their mission to create the world’s best chocolate chip cookie – and they succeeded! While their chocolate chip cookies are out of this world, we love all the cookies they offer. They currently have five locations throughout New York.

Spot Dessert Bar

If you are looking for unique dessert dishes, then check out one of the three Spot Dessert Bar locations in NYC. They offer tapas desserts, including the super popular Green Tea Lava, as well as seasonal creations. Everything from the taste to the presentation is on point.

Hershey’s Chocolate World

If you want an entire dessert experience, then head to Hershey’s Chocolate World because it has a little bit of everything. Guests can shop Hershey’s logo products, personalize candy bar wrappers and Hershey’s kisses, and visit the Hershey’s Kitchen Bakery. Your senses will be overwhelmed in the best way possible.

Taiyaki NYC

If you want ice cream, try something new and head to Taiyaki NYC, which offers delicious matcha green tea and black sesame ice cream, among others. Known for their fish-shaped ice cream cones, they make the taiyaki waffles fresh on-site.

Plus, Other NYC Desserts I Am Dying to Try

With incredible chefs and bakers, the NYC dessert scene is incredible! You could eat a new dessert in this city every day without repeating. It’s amazing. NYC is where some of the most famous desserts have gotten their start (I’m looking at you, cronut!). You can enjoy macaroons, cupcakes, and ice cream galore, as well as totally unique treats. For example, at Dominique Ansel Bakery, you can enjoy a cookie shot glass filled with milk. Shoot the milk and enjoy a milk-soaked cookie as a chaser. Yum!

What is your favorite place to indulge your sweet tooth in NYC? Let me know in the comments so I can check it out!

How NYC Families Can Save Money This Summer

During summer, there is nothing worse than hearing your kids whine that they are “sooo bored!” But, if you spend money trying to keep them entertained each day of summer break, your wallet will start to hurt. And, if you are like me, I would rather spend my hard-earned money on a fabulous vacation than spending it doing a bunch of little things around the city. Fortunately, it is easier than ever to save money and have fun in NYC.

Free Library Fun

Photo: The New York Public Library

If you don’t already have a library card, now is the time to get one. Today’s libraries aren’t the stuffy old places you might remember from childhood. They offer tons of free materials you can borrow – including DVDs. Plus, the New York Public Library Summer Reading offers some pretty great kids programs that go beyond the standard story times, such as a DJ Dance Party.

Free Outdoor Movies

During the summer, families can take their pick of free outdoor movies once the sun goes down. The most popular outdoor movies are hosted by NYC parks, are all PG-13 and under, and feature movies such as The Incredibles 2 and E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial. Check out Time Out New York’s guide to what is showing where and when here.  

Free Outdoor Concerts

Families can also take their pick of free outdoor summer concerts taking place all around New York City. For instance, there are the New York Philharmonic Concerts in the Park series (with all performances beginning at 8 pm) and Make Music New York on June 21st from 10 am – 10 pm.

Free Public Pools and Splash Pads

There are several options for cooling off during the hot summer in the city. Families can visit one of the free outdoor swimming pools in NYC (opening on June 27, 2019). A bonus for pool visitors is that NYC parks offer free swimming classes and free sunscreen. If taking the kids to the pool seems like too much, then head to one of the many local splash parks. Mommy Poppins has a list of the Best Water Playgrounds and Sprinklers for Kids in NYC.

Free Museum Days

Photo: NYCGo

Visiting the fantastic museums can add up – unless you are smart enough to take advantage of the free museum days offered this summer. For example, Brooklyn Children’s Museum offers “pay as you wish on Thursdays from 2–6 pm and Sundays from 4–7 pm” and the Staten Island Zoo offers “free Tuesdays after 2 pm.”

Free Festivals

PHOTO: Untitled Magazine

Another great way to keep the whole family entertained is to head to an outdoor festival. Many outdoor festivals are free to enter and explore – but you may wind up spending money to enjoy food, purchase arts and crafts, or participate in activities. One popular outdoor festival taking place in June is the Museum Mile Festival happening June 11, 2019, from 6 pm – 9 pm.

Now you have plenty of ways to save money and keep the kids busy and entertained this summer, leaving you money to take the vacation of your dreams.

10 Family-Friendly NYC Events This April

Can you believe the first week of April is already over? Where has the time gone? As the season changes, there are more and more fun things to do in NYC – especially outdoors. With an abundance of outdoor fun, I have identified ten of my favorite family-friendly things to do in NYC this April.

Easter Parade and Easter Bonnet Festival

On Easter Sunday (April 21st) beginning at 10 am, the annual Easter Parade takes place along Fifth Avenue (and St. Patrick’s Cathedral) with participants wearing their finest Easter attire and outrageously silly bonnets.

Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival NYC

Photo: Timeout New York Julie Markes

The cherry blossoms bloom in April in NYC and families have multiple opportunities to see them and snap the perfect Insta-worthy photo. Sakura Matsuri is held April 27th -28th at Brooklyn Botanic Garden. You can also sign your family up for a Cherry Blossom Tour of Central Park in the month of April.

EarthFest

With Earth Day taking place each April, it is the perfect time to teach your kids to respect the earth. One family-friendly event to help you is EarthFest taking place April 13th at the American Museum of Natural History.

Paw Patrol Live

Photo: TimeOut (Courtesy of PAW Patrol Live and Madison Square Garden)

If your kids are fans of Paw Patrol, then make plans to see PAW Patrol Live! Race to the Rescue. This live-action show will take place April 13th and 14th at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden, Midtown West.

Apple Blossom Children’s Carnival

Photo: Queens County Farm

Nothing screams “SPRING!” more than an outdoor children’s carnival. Take the whole family to the Apple Blossom Children’s Carnival at Queens County Farm the first two weekends of April.

Dinosaur Safari

Dinosaur Safari heads to the Bronx Zoo beginning April 19th. Your family can see these giant animatronic roaring dinosaurs up close.

Outdoor Roller Skating at Pier 2

After ice skating season ends, it is time for roller skating! Families will love the Pier 2 Roller Rink at Brooklyn Bridge Park. The roller skating season officially begins April 12th.

FAD Market

The FAD Market is a pop-up market celebrating Fashion, Art, and Design – all things I love! The Brooklyn MADE Market is April 13th and 14th at City Point. In addition to all the handcrafted goods for sale, there are also food vendors on site.

NYC Food Truck Fest

Foodies families must make plans to visit the NYC Food Truck Fest on April 13th. This is the largest food truck festival in NYC with gourmet food trucks and unique food vendors. Make sure you go with an empty belly!

Free Cone Day at Ben and Jerry’s

Last but certainly not least is Free Cone Day at Ben and Jerry’s. My family loves ice cream, so we are all about visiting Ben and Jerry’s on April 9th (from 12 pm – 8 pm) to enjoy a free scoop.

I hope you and your family have a blast enjoying all the spring fun. If you know of an event my family would love, let me know in the comments!

6 Reasons to Look Forward to Spring in NYC

Did you know it is officially Spring? It sure is hard to tell when it is still in the 40s here in NYC! I am so envious of the people down South posting Spring pictures already. But, I know that soon it will feel like Spring. To help me get over my jealousy, I am spending time thinking about all the fun things I can do once the warmer weather moves our way.

Park Hopping with My Girls

I love taking my girls to the playgrounds around NYC. We have so many great ones to choose from, and it is a wonderful thing to do as a family. We all get out of the house, get some exercise, and have fun. This spring I want to park hop. All this means is I want to explore new parks and playgrounds instead of frequenting the same ones every time.

Seeing the Cherry Blossoms at Brooklyn’s Botanic Garden

You know spring has officially arrived when the Cherry Blossoms bloom! The best place to view them is at Sakura Matsuri, the annual cherry blossom festival held at Brooklyn Botanic Garden on April 27th and 28th. It is such a fun, cultural event for families.

Visiting Our Favorite Zoos

We love going to the zoo, but we’ve learned that some seasons are better than others to visit. For example, if you go to the zoo on a really hot summer day, you won’t see much activity from the animals (probably because they feel just as miserable as you do in the heat). But, if you visit on a nice spring day, you will get to see the animals being more active.

Heading to Coney Island for a Day

Yes, Coney Island is a tourist trap. But, it is still great fun for NY families! Spending a day at Luna Park and exploring the boardwalk will leave your kids happy and tired. The rides tend to open up on weekends around Easter and then daily after Memorial Day.

Eating Outdoors

I love to eat, but I really really love to eat outdoors. Once the weather warms up and the skies are clear, I love to find restaurants with outdoor seating where I can eat and people watch at the same time. It is also the perfect time of year to plan a picnic. I love hiking and it a picnic afterward makes the hike that much more exciting.

Family Scavenger Hunts at Central Park

Anyone can create their own scavenger hunt, but did you know there are tons of official scavenger hunts for Central Park? Whether you create your own or purchase a ticket for a group scavenger hunt, you will have a blast searching Central Park for clues!

What are you most looking forward to doing this Spring in NYC?

10 Festive Christmas Dates for Couples in New York City

During the busy holiday season, I think it is super important to spend time with my husband. It is too easy to get caught up in all the holiday busyness and stuff with my girls before I realize I haven’t had any good quality time with my man. Plus, the holiday season is romantic – why not take advantage of the added twinkling lights this time of year? I’ve gathered up ten wonderful Christmas date ideas for couples in NYC that will have you hunting for places to kiss under the mistletoe.

Go Ice Skating

There are several places to go ice skating in New York, but my favorite place to go ice skating this time of year is The Rink at Rockefeller Center below the giant Christmas tree. Yes, it is a tourist trap, but that just means it is perfect for people-watching!

Shop Til You Drop

Christmas means shopping. Why not turn one of your favorite activities into a date with the one you love? You both have to buy gifts for the people in your life, so enjoy spending time together while you check off your lists.

Marvel at the Holiday Window Displays

If your man claims he hates shopping, then take him window shopping instead. Trust me – this is a date you both will love. The holiday window displays at New York City stores is something to see. Take your time to hold hands through the city streets and talk about which holiday window displays are your favorites.

Watch a Broadway Show

For theater-lovers, there is always a show to see in NYC. These make some of the best date nights because you get to experience it together.

Enjoy Holiday Menus at Restaurants

Dinner dates are always my favorite types of dates, but I love them, even more, come Christmas time. Why? Well, many restaurants in New York City rollout special holiday menus so you and your date can try new dishes and holiday-themed drinks.

Cheer at a Basketball Game

If you are a basketball fan, a date to cheer on the New York Knicks is a must. While the weather outside is frigid, the atmosphere in the arena is on fire!

Play Like a Kid at FAO Schwartz

Yes, you are a grown up. But, I promise you, something amazing happens to adults when they visit FAO Schwartz! You become a kid again! Let go of some of your holiday stress by trying out toys with your guy and shopping for the little people in your life.

Tour Dyker Heights

Photograph: Teddy Wolff

For a truly festive date, take a tour of the Christmas lights in the affluent Dyker Heights neighborhood. This neighborhood goes all out with illuminating their homes – some even hire professional light decorators! If you want to do it right, take the Slice of Brooklyn Dyker Heights Christmas Lights tour.

Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art

During the Christmas season, the Metropolitan Museum of Art adds some festive art to the museum. For those who love to explore museums for date night, this one is a must. In addition to beautiful Christmas trees, you will also see an eighteenth-century Neapolitan Nativity scene.

Take a Carriage Ride in Central Park

Those of you looking for romance straight from the tv screen, look no further than the carriage rides offered in Central Park. Cuddle under a warm blanket, drink a hot beverage, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city during this special time of year.