Even if you think Valentine’s Day is cheesy, there are plenty of fun, inexpensive opportunities to take advantage of in the city. Kellyn Simpkins/The Fordham Ram
By Megan Bronner
Valentine’s Day is this Saturday, so whether you are single, madly in love or somewhere in between, Saturday is a great day to go out in NYC and be with your friends or your significant other. No matter what your relationship status is or your sentiments towards Valentine’s Day, here are some fun ideas to kindle that romantic flame or have so much fun with friends that you forget you ate a box of chocolates by yourself last night.
Single in the City…
Fear not — being single on Valentine’s Day is not about sulking and feeling lonely anymore. “Galentines Day” and “Bachelor Bros” have become popular phrases for singles who want to have fun on Valentine’s Day too.
Karaoke
Try: Karaoke Duet 35
Singing at the top of your lungs is always a great way to decompress after a long week. Hit Manhattan, grab some friends and a mic and sing some empowering break-up songs or fun karaoke classics. Karaoke is always best suited for a large group, and not in the fanciest of locations, so you will probably be able to avoid large hoards of couples.
Work it Out
305 Fitness is having a Valentine’s Day event for the singles out there called “FCK LOVE: Me, Myself and I,” which reminds us, who else is more deserving of love on Valentine’s Day then yourself? The $45 fee gets you an hour-long dance cardio class followed by some spa treatments and dinner.
Meet-up
Maybe Valentine’s Day seems like an opportune time to get out and meet the man/woman of your dreams. There are a lot of singles parties located all around the city, so if you are seriously “single and ready to mingle” RSVP to one ASAP. Keep in mind that for most of these meet-ups you must be 21 or older.
Crazy in Love
Looking for a fun date idea this Valentine’s Day? Lucky for you, we are in New York City and there are always last minute plans and date ideas. These following date ideas are not limited to couples and will probably be just as fun with your group of friends.
Ice-Skating Bryant Park
All you will need is $15 for a skate rental and someone to struggle with you through ice-skating. As winter is slowly drawing to a close, and this rink closes March 1, this is one of the last opportunities you will have this winter to get out and go ice-skating.
Downtown Walking Tour
Looking to get to know NYC better with your loved one? If this date idea seems a little touristy, just remember it is Valentine’s Day, which is already corny enough, so it does not matter. This tour highlights Soho, Little Italy,and Chinatown. So instead of aimlessly walking around NYC, it might be a good idea to try an organized event.
Ice-Skating Standard Hotel
If you are looking for a more unique location to ice-skate, try the ice rink at the Standard Hotel. Also a $15 dollar skating and rental fee, this rink is located right on the edge of the Highline, affording you the perfect opportunity to go for a leisurely walk before or after.
Haunted House
Try: Blood Manor
If you and your significant other are seeking a thrill, than what better way to get close to your special someone than an haunted house? Reopening specially for Friday the 13th and Valentine’s Day, it will be sure to give you a memorable Valentine’s Day.
Top of the Rock
Probably one of the best views of NYC open to the public the Top of the Rock observation deck is sure to be a romantic setting for a perfect Valentine’s Day (especially during sunset). Aside from the stunning views of NYC, this location also lends itself quite well to Instagram opportunities.
Cheap Date
Having a fun Valentine’s Day does not necessarily mean spending a lot of cash. There are a lot of fun things to do in NYC that are still romantic but easy on the wallet. For instance, walk to Brooklyn via the Brooklyn Bridge and find a nice quiet spot to watch the sunset over Manhattan. Or, swipe your metro card and hop on the Roosevelt Island tram and get ready for some quality views of the city that never sleeps. Another option is to cruise the New York Harbor for free by way of Staten Island Ferry; this cruise offers views of Manhattan, Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
