As the season of love approaches, you might be wondering what to do for your Brooklyn NYC Valentine’s Day. Although there’s never a wrong time to show your significant other how much you appreciate them, this is the perfect occasion to make something really special and enjoy the captivating energy that this season brings to the city.
Fortunately, Brooklyn is one of the most romantic locations in the world with its eclectic and vibrant cityscape, artsy neighborhoods, and intimate dining venues. So step into the heart of this charming city and discover unique ways to celebrate romance.
Also, if you’re looking for more date ideas beyond Brooklyn, check out the most romantic things to do in NYC and these super original date ideas in Manhattan. You’ll find tons of good choices for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day.
Fun Date Ideas in Brooklyn NYC for Valentine’s Day
While some couples may prefer an old-school romantic dinner at a candlelit table, others might enjoy something more casual and fun, like going for a romantic walk at Prospect Park or grabbing a drink at a small bar in downtown Brooklyn. There’s no right or wrong way to spend Valentine’s Day as long as you have a great time with the person you love!
This is why Brooklyn is such a wonderful option. From relaxing gardens and intimate restaurants to exciting entertainment venues, this city has something for everyone and accommodates to every couple.
Another excellent option for a romantic getaway is Queens, NYC. There are plenty of parks, museums, and picturesque restaurants for a memorable date.
Go on an Ice Skating Date
Who doesn’t love ice skating? Not only is it one of the best things to do in winter, but it’s also a fun thing to do in Brooklyn NYC for Valentine’s Day. A great option for this is LeFrak Center at Lakeside, where you can rent skates or bring your own. When you need a break, get some hot chocolate at the little rink-side cafe.
My personal suggestion is skating at the Vale Rink, a seasonal synthetic ice rink on the rooftop of the William Vale Hotel in Williamsburg. You’ll be skating with a terrific backdrop of the city skyline. There’s also a warm indoor area for resting.
Whether you’ve ice skated all your life or you’re just a beginner, you’ll certainly share many laughs with your date while learning how to skate — or teaching them!
Stroll the Brooklyn Botanic Garden
If you enjoy long, relaxing walks with your partner, consider visiting the Brooklyn Botanic Garden this February. It’s open year-round and each season offers its own charm — there is always plenty to see, even in winter!
With over 14,000 different kinds of plants, blooming exotic flowers, serene ponds, and secluded benches surrounded by towering trees, this garden is the ultimate romantic spot for a first date, first kiss, or even a place to propose.
Highlights during winter include the glass-enclosed Aquatic House, where you’ll find a warm, lush environment full of tropical plants, an eclectic orchid collection, and water lilies floating on the surface of shallow pools. Also, make sure to pass by the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, an enchanting and serene place to spend the day due to its waterfall, wooden bridges, stone lanterns, and winter wildlife – and all this looks especially stunning after the snowfall.
Treat Your Lover to a Romantic Dinner
Try these Brooklyn Valentine’s Day Restaurants
You can never go wrong with a classic date plan like taking your boo to a romantic restaurant and celebrating with a champagne toast. If you want to make your Brooklyn Valentine’s Day dinner extra special, look for an intimate place with lovely decor and dim lights like Bar Blondeau, where you can also enjoy great service, live music performances, and a Valentine’s Day-themed dinner menu.
Another excellent choice is picking up a rooftop bar that has breathtaking views of the city, this will certainly add a magical touch to your night. There are many amazing rooftop bars in NYC to choose from. However, the best places for Valentine’s Day are Harriet’s Rooftop and Westlight. Both of them offer an elegant atmosphere with incredible skyline views, a full bar, and a Valentine’s Day special menu to indulge in an unforgettable evening.
Get the Perfect Gift at a Valentine’s Pop-up Market
Looking for the perfect Valentine’s Day gift? Discover this Valentine’s Pop-Up Sexy Saucy Market and see what you find! Hosted by Caffeine Underground, this market will be featuring local small businesses & artists selling all kinds of unique products, which is perfect for those who like giving authentic and original presents.
You’ll find everything from vintage clothing and lingerie, jewelry, and accessories to spiritual goods, Tarot card readings, scented candles, ceramics, and many other handcrafted goods. You can even make a date of it by going with your partner or friends so you choose gifts for each other!
The event will take place on February 11 from 11 am to 5 pm at Caffeine Underground at 447 Central Avenue, Brooklyn. Like in all Brooklyn events, you should secure your spot here.
Explore the City on a Bike Tour
Going on an adventure with your partner is always a good idea for any occasion, and this Brooklyn Bike Tour is sure to make your Brooklyn NYC Valentine’s Day a time to remember. A bike and helmet will be provided to you as you ride around the city with a small group and hear some interesting stories from your guide. You can join this tour in the morning or afternoon and have an overview of every area, including dozens of Brooklyn neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and attractions.
If you’re new to Brooklyn or you’re only visiting on a short trip, this is a great way to see and learn as much of the city as possible – even better if you discover your next favorite date spot somewhere along the way!
Looking for a more elevated experience like a Valentine’s Day cruise? Check out more romantic things to do in New York City!
Visit the Brooklyn Museum
In a place like New York, paying a visit to one of its most iconic museums is an absolute must. Exploring the Brooklyn Museum –one of the largest art museums in the U.S.– is a truly immersive cultural journey for anyone. But you know what makes the experience even more enjoyable? Exactly, to share it with a loved one.
As you and your significant other walk through the galleries together, you’ll be able to appreciate an extensive collection of thought-provoking artworks and gain insight into each other’s perspectives. From ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces, every exhibit can spark a new conversation!
Although this might be for couples that prefer quieter and more relaxing experiences, it’s sure to be a very insightful one.
Feel Young at Heart in Coney Island
Feel Young at Heart in Coney IslandConey Island is setting the mood for lovers this February. So, why not take a day trip to celebrate this special occasion? Located in the southwestern part of Brooklyn, this entertainment district has attracted countless New Yorkers and tourists for years, and with good reason. The peninsula features ample beaches, multiple dining options, rides, and must-see attractions, so you’re guaranteed an incredibly fun date with lots of different things to do! And if you’re an adventure enthusiast, you can even explore the different Coney Island neighborhoods.
Spend the day exploring its most visited highlights: Luna Park, the New York Aquarium, and Deno’s Wonder Wheel. After a day full of adrenaline, check out William’s Candy Shop for a sweet treat and head to the beach to see the NYC skyline reflecting on the East River at night!
Enjoy Live Performances at the Brooklyn Academy of Music
The Brooklyn Academy of Music is a world-renowned performing arts center that has been home to emerging and innovative artists in theater, dance, music, opera, film, and visual arts for over 150 years. Being one of the oldest ones in the United States, BAM is considered one of New York’s greatest cultural treasures.
Paying a visit to this iconic building offers a blend of culture, entertainment, and intimacy for a romantic evening as you indulge in world-class performances. From thrilling theater plays and musicals to captivating films, the diverse but carefully curated selection of artistic productions at BAM ensures that there’s something for every couple’s taste. Besides, it’s a great alternative to a Broadway show if you can’t take a day trip to Manhattan.
Check out the website for upcoming shows.
Play Games & Have a Drink at Jackbar
One of the most fun date ideas for your Brooklyn NYC Valentine’s Day is a place called Jackbar. This bar is located in the heart of Brooklyn and is equipped with lots of vintage pinball machines and a chill environment that makes it the perfect place to have a laid-back date night.
A fun fact is that every machine has a different theme, including Halloween, Godzilla, Twilight Zone, Star Wars, and many more!
So, if you’d like to add a nice little twist to your usual dates, you’re sure to have the best time at Jackbar as you grab a drink and spend the evening partaking in a friendly pinball competition with your partner!
Book a Romantic Stay at a Nice Hotel
For special occasions like Valentine’s Day, you need a special place to celebrate. A night at a romantic hotel is a great way to escape from your routine and venture into a world of luxury. Indulge in decadent amenities such as spa treatments, massages, drinks at a jacuzzi, or ordering champagne and ice cream to your room – just to give you a few ideas, go crazy!
Here are my top picks for romantic hotels to give your soulmate a Brooklyn NYC Valentine’s Day to remember:
- Budget ($) — Arlington Place Bed and Breakfast
- Best Value ($$) — The Brooklyn
- Luxe ($$$) — The William Vale
- Unique ($-$$$) — Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
Last Thoughts
Brooklyn offers a myriad of romantic experiences to celebrate Valentines Day. Whether you plan a whole weekend in a luxurious hotel room or decide to go for a cozier and more spontaneous kind of date, this vibrant city will set the perfect scene for lovers to have a good time this February 14th.
?From Michelin-starred Brooklyn restaurants NYC with live shows to a small entertainment venue with pinball machines, I’m sure you’ll find a great place to celebrate love this year.
XO,
Ana
P.S. If you’re visiting New York this February, you gotta be prepared, grab my NYC winter packing list with all the essentials you need for your trip!
Anna is a traveler, blogger, and entrepreneur who can’t keep herself still. She’s always on the move, whether working hard on a new passion project or exploring a new city as a part-time digital nomad. Dare to keep up? Check out The Tatted Nomad for everything digital nomad, social media marketing, mental health, and travel (and to see her latest addition, Novah, her service dog and travel companion). As a psychotherapist (to be) she also offers insights about your mental health related questions – anything you see that isn’t covered but you have questions about? Let her know!
