Museum and park
New York City is home to some of the greatest museums in the world, most of which are free for students, so take advantage of it. Pack a blanket, stroll through a museum and then snuggle up under a park tree to watch the sun set. The American Museum of Natural History or the Metropolitan Museum of Art cater to history buffs while the Museum of Modern Art has more to offer those with more modern interests. There’s even the Museum of Sex if you’re in more of a risqué mood. It’s not near Central Park, but the subway can bring you right there.
American Museum of Natural History: Central Park West at 79th Street
Metropolitan Museum of Art: 1000 Fifth Ave.
MoMA: 11 W. 53rd St.
Museum of Sex: 233 Fifth Ave.
Jazz Standard
For fans of the New York City jazz scene, this is a perfect location for a relaxed date and great music. The Jazz Standard hosts a variety of shows each week with tickets ranging from $20-$35 ($5 off for students). On Monday nights, the club offers a special, including a student discount that brings the cost down to $12.50 for the second set. Although the food is delicious, it is a bit pricey, so eat beforehand and go later to enjoy a late night vibe and smooth songs.
Location 116 E. 27th St. Checkjazzstandard.com for concert times.
Staten Island Ferry
Although it might seem a little cheesy, taking a half-hour ferry ride and watching the sun set over the Hudson River while holding your special someone’s hand could be a great pre-dinner activity. Plus, the ferry is free. Board the ferry with a departure time 10 to 15 minutes before sunset. Ferries run every 15 to 20 minutes in the evening. Find a place to eat on Staten Island or bring a romantic dinner to eat on the ferry.
Location: 1 Whitehall St. (take the R train) last train runs at 11:30 p.m., but you’ll want to catch one before sunset at about 4:30 p.m.
Battery Park
Take a trip to lower Manhattan and stroll through Battery Park. It offers beautiful green scenery and a clear view of the Statue of Liberty from the Robert F. Wagner Jr. Park. Or take a walk along South Cove for a quiet view of the harbor, where you can explore the North Cove and its Sailing School or visit the Battery Park City Esplanade to watch a volleyball game. The park is a fun, romantic date spot for any couple. Also, the World Financial Center is filled with cute places to eat for a bite between your park adventures.
Location: lower Manhattan (take the 4 or 5 train downtown and walk west)
Brooklyn Academy of Music
Whether you’re interested in music, film, theater, dance or comedy, the Brooklyn Academy of Music has something for you. Student rush tickets are only $10 if you arrive 90 minutes before showtime. So go, grab your tickets and then find a bite with your sweetie before enjoying a fantastic show.
Location: 30 Lafayette Ave. (take the Q train to the Atlantic Ave.-Barclays Center stop)
— Larson Binzer