New York skyline

Things to Do in New York City for Adults and Couples

NYC is the ultimate grown up getaway
By Casey Makovich

Whether you’re interested in going on guided tours of the city, going museum hopping, or getting out on the water, there are tons of fun things to do in New York City for adults and couples on vacation - the hardest part is choosing which to do!

If you're planning an adults-only vacation in New York City, you're in luck. There are so many things to do in New York City for adults and couples that the most difficult part of your vacation will be deciding what to do! Adults and couples will especially appreciate the cultural experiences available in the Big Apple. Whether you're planning a romantic weekend getaway or an adventurous vacation, you'll find many fun activities for adults in NYC.

From galleries to museums, historical sites to shopping, our list of top attractions for adults and couples on vacation includes:

  • Empire State Building
  • Guggenheim Museum
  • SoHo - Little Italy - Chinatown Walking Tour
  • Museum of Modern Art P.S.1
  • Greenwich Village Walking Tour
  • Museum of Sex
  • And more!

Best of all, they’re all available on The New York Pass®.

Empire State Building

Empire State Building

No couple’s vacation in New York City would be complete without a visit to the Empire State Building. This iconic structure soars over the city's skyline, offering incomparable views from its two observatory decks, with a peak more than 1,000 feet above the streets below.

We recommend heading up in the evening to watch the sunset from the 102nd floor, or after 10pm – you'll avoid the crowds and enjoy a more private experience. Marvel at the Art Deco lobby and explore the exhibits in this historic landmark.

The Guggenheim Museum

World-renowned collections of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Modern, and Contemporary art await at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum. Informally known as 'the Guggenheim,' the museum has drawn art enthusiasts since it opened its doors in 1939. Here, you can see works from artists such as Klee, Modigliani, Mapplethorpe, and many others. The Guggenheim building itself is a work of art designed by American architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown Walking Tour

SoHo

Explore three of New York City's most vibrant neighborhoods in a walking tour that encompasses the SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown districts. Led by an expert guide, you'll explore three of NYC's most popular and diverse communities.

For more adult fun in swanky SoHo, you can browse the boutiques and fine dining establishments frequented by celebrities. Little Italy offers a glimpse into Old World traditions, while Chinatown brings Chinese cuisine and culture to life.

MoMA PS1

Known for its displays of provocative and heady art, MoMA PS1. gives the world's experimental and adventurous artists a home. This exhibition institution features the latest in creative innovation, with long-term and constantly changing installations that include musical and other live performance pieces.

Founded in 1971, MoMA PS1 has long been known as the city's leading center for contemporary art. Expect to see and experience the new, the unusual, and the cutting-edge, as this space continues to push the envelope.

Greenwich Village walking tour

 

Greenwich Village

Explore the bohemian center of New York on a Greenwich Village Walking Tour. Long a hangout for artistic and avant-garde types, the Village is the birthplace of New York counterculture. Through the decades, residents like Edgar Allan Poe, Salvador Dali, Jack Kerouac, Andy Warhol, and Joni Mitchell all called Greenwich Village home. Today, the Village is still known as an artistic haven, but you'll also stroll past some of the city's hottest eateries, preserved historic landmarks, and New York University on this expert-led tour.

Museum of Sex

If you're seeking cultural attractions on the NSFW side, the Museum of Sex offers a curated look at the history, evolution, and significance of — you guessed it — sex. One of the most fitting adult things to do in the city offers exhibits, displays, installations, and programs incorporating current scholarship on human sexuality, all with the goal of sparking engagement and discussion. The Museum's permanent collection features more than 20,000 artifacts, from art to fashion, technology to photographs, sourced globally and spanning many eras. This exploration of the birds and the bees is presented without self-censorship.

Food On Foot tour

Food on foot tour
Take a bite out of the Big Apple – or a New York slice!

Eat like a New Yorker on a Food on Foot Tour. With a whole host of international cuisines available to you in NYC, taking a guided food tour is definitely the best option for all the foodies out there. Listen to some of New York's most knowledgeable guides and sample local cuisine as you stroll through New York's favorite neighborhoods. Top tip: take the tour early on in your trip to suss out all the best places to eat!

Clipper City Tall Ship cruise

Hop on board a historic yacht and cruise in vintage style around Lady Liberty – one of the most popular things to do in New York City for adults and couples. You'll love the views of the iconic New York skyline, but the trip's highlight has to be the waterfront, up-close-and-personal perspective of the Statue of Liberty. The Clipper City is the largest tall ship in NYC, with masts rising 120 feet, so be prepared for an authentic, epic adventure across the water.

Share your adventure with us

Tag @GoCity in your vacation photos and we’ll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook channels for exclusive competitions, special offers, and events to help you make the most of your travels.

Couple walking in NYC

Experience everything New York City has to offer with The New York Pass®

Planning your New York trip? With The New York Pass®, you can explore big-name landmarks, local hotspots, and epic tours, all on one pass, all for one price. Not only that, but you'll enjoy savings of up to 50%, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.

✈️ Buy The New York Pass® ✈️

Continue reading

Blog

Famous New York Locations

The 'The City That Never Sleeps'! Test your knowledge of famous New York locations with our Big Apple quiz below! One of the greatest cities in the world, New York is packed with culture and bustle with its historic neighborhoods and an abundance of different cuisines. The city’s energy pours out on to the streets draped with graffiti. Its famous architecture lightens up the skyline at night. Its dynamic culture can be sampled in each unique shop and restaurant. One thing’s for sure, you’ll never be short of things to do. And if it isn’t already on your bucket list of places to visit, then it should be added- right now! If you’re up for a challenge and want to get your brain juices flowing, why not take the ‘Big Apple’ quiz below that we’ve created especially for you? Go ahead. Unleash your inner quiz master! Want to learn more about these famous New York locations? Here’s some great news! You can prepare for the trip of a lifetime and visit these amazing New York attractions- all included in the New York Pass. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island represent liberation and freedom. More than 12 million immigrants were processed at Ellis Island upon their arrival to the United States. image credit: timeout.com Empire State Building Visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Empire State Building is an American icon located in Midtown Manhattan and has featured in over 250 movies since 1931. image credit: kitano.com The Met Breuer The Metropolitan Museum of Art has an extensive collection of contemporary and modern art. The stunning new building was designed by renowned modernist architect Marcel Breuer. image credit: nytimes.com Looking for more incredible museums like the Met? Check out our guide to The Best Museums in New York City.
Shashia Mitchell
Blog

Emmy Award Winners 2019

Once again, the biggest night in television is over. The tuxes are back in the wardrobe, the highest of heels are back on the rack. But who were the Emmy winners in 2019? Well, there were definitely some surprises. Namely, the fact that Game of Thrones managed to win outstanding drama series in its final season, given it was more than a little divisive with fans. Another surprise is that neither Jared Harris nor Stellan Skarsgard managed to win for their career-defining performances in HBO's stellar Chernobyl. Though, thankfully, the writing and directing both took top honors, and Jharrel Jerome's win for When They See Us was fully deserved. Elsewhere, there were further wins for Peter Dinklage, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, and Last Week Tonight with John Oliver. Without further ado, here are all the Emmy winners for 2019: Emmy Winners 2019: Drama Outstanding Drama Series: Game of Thrones Lead Actor in a Drama Series: Billy Porter - Pose Lead Actress in a Drama Series: Jodie Comer - Killing Eve Supporting Actor in a Drama Series: Peter Dinklage - Game of Thrones Supporting Actress in a Drama Series: Julia Garner - Ozark Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series: Jason Bateman - Ozark Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series: Jesse Armstrong - Succession Emmy Winners 2019: Comedy Outstanding Comedy Series: Fleabag Lead Actor in a Comedy Series: Bill Hader - Barry Lead Actress in a Comedy Series: Phoebe Waller-Bridge - Fleabag Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series: Tony Shalhoub - The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series: Alex Borstein - The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Outstanding Directing for a Comedy Series: Harry Bradbeer - Fleabag Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series: Phoebe Waller-Bridge - Fleabag Emmy Winners 2019: TV Movie/Limited Series Outstanding Television Movie: Bandersnatch Outstanding Limited Series: Chernobyl Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie: Jharrel Jerome - When They See Us Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie: Michelle Williams - Fosse/Verdon Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or Movie: Ben Whishaw - A Very English Scandal Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie: Patricia Arquette - The Act Outstanding Directing for a Limited Series, Movie or Dramatic Special: Johan Renck - Chernobyl Outstanding Writing for a Limited Series, Movie or Dramatic Special: Craig Mazin - Chernobyl Emmy Winners 2019: Reality/Variety Series Outstanding Reality Competition Series: RuPaul's Drag Race Outstanding Variety Talk Series: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver Outstanding Variety Sketch Series: Saturday Night Live Outstanding Directing for a Variety Series: Don Roy King - Saturday Night Live Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver Thems your Emmy winners in 2019. If you've made it all the way to the end of this list, we're going to assume you're quite fond of the moving pictures. If you are, you'll surely know that some of entertainment's biggest films and TV shows have been set in New York. So, why not go and visit some of them? These are our favorites. The Friends Apartment Building West Village The Friends apartment building will be there for you, when the rain starts to p- sorry. Yes, while the apartments themselves were shot in a studio (sorry to break the illusion, there simply ain't enough space for the audience in a real New York apartment), you can definitely go and see the building shown in the establishing shots. They may have never lived there, and they may have never been actual real people, but you followed their lives. Their loves. Their foibles. So, go outside the apartment and use your imagination. Just don't call up their names. Real people live there. Bethesda Terrace and Fountain Central Park This iconic Central Park location has been in cinema for over a hundred years, so it's no surprise that it's the backdrop for many scenes in film and TV shows too. Sex and the City, Annie Hall, and even John Wick: Chapter 2 all had iconic scenes right by the fountain. Go and see it. It is lovely. Empire State Building Midtown Arguably New York's most iconic landmark, if not the world's, the Empire State Building has been a staple of American film and TV for decades. Superman knocked its antenna off, and then promptly put it back, while battling General Zod in Superman 2. King Kong famously scaled it way back in the 30's. And it was annihilated by aliens in action sci-fi epic Independence Day. If you've never been, or are hoping to revisit, make a day of it. Rockefeller Center Fitzrovia The home of NBC Studios, The Rockefeller Center houses some of the network's biggest shows like Emmy 2019 winners Saturday Night Live, and past winners 30 Rock. It's also another location for John Wick: Chapter 2 (boy does Mr. Wick get around NYC in that one), as well as The Godfather, Rocky III, Annie, and many, many others. If you don't know the building, you may well recognize the giant Christmas tree and ice rink they set up outside during the holidays. It features in Elf, Home Alone 2, and Serendipity. Go there. You will love it. New York Public Library 5th Avenue And finally, why not go visit the New York Public Library. Not only do you need to read more. You do. Stop pretending. You also get to see the site of some amazing movies. Revisit one of Ghostbusters' most iconic scenes, or where Spiderman went on his field trip before his fateful spider bite. And when you're done seeing all of your favorite NYC film locations in person, why not explore them virtually? What are your favorite iconic NYC landmarks from your most beloved films? Let us know in the comments below.
Dom Bewley
New York at night
Blog

The Best Things to do at Night in New York

The best things to do at night in New York by Mia Russell When the sun goes down, the Big Apple comes alive. Neon lights begin to flicker, restaurants buzz and theaters roll out their red carpets. From outdoor movies in pretty parks to bustling night markets and Broadway shows, when it comes to nightlife, New York has something for everyone! Let's check out what's on the cards when the sun sets in the 'City that Never Sleeps.' Soak up the city lights from an Observation Deck There is no better way to toast the sunset over New York than from one of the many observation decks dotted about the city. Watch the city lights begin to twinkle as twilight turns to night and see the city like never before. Several Manhattan buildings have observation decks open in the evening where you can take in the city for all its glory. Top of the Rock at the Rockefeller Center The Top of the Rock takes up the last three floors of Rockefeller Center. It features three levels of indoor and outdoor observation decks that offer spectacular, unobstructed views of the city skyline. The 68th and 69th floors have terraces with glass railings that provide beautiful panoramic views of the whole city. The 70th floor boasts an open-air rooftop deck with no metal or glass enclosures, providing perfect photo opportunities! Enjoy several unique experiences on the way up to the Top of the Rock ranging from the magnificent Joie chandelier and an exhibit of interactive artworks to a sound and light hallway and a time capsule over Manhattan. Use your pass to gain free admission to the Top of the Rock to soak up the incredible 360 ̊ panoramic views. Empire State Building Head up the world-renowned Empire State Building to the main deck observatory on the 86th floor to take in those famous New York City views. Use your pass to enjoy complimentary access to the Empire State Building and whizz up to the open-air observation deck that wraps around the building's spire. Marvel at the endless views, which on a clear evening, can stretch all way across six states! The Edge Cast your eyes over the city from one of the highest outdoor sky decks in the world. Located at 30 Hudson Yards, the Edge is a state-of-the-art platform with a glass floor that extends out into mid-air 100 floors above the ground. Feel like you are floating above the city as you sip a glass of bubbles from the Champagne bar to toast the sunset and take in unrivaled panoramic city views. This one is not for the faint-hearted! Remember to use your pass to gain free access to the Edge. One World Observatory Take in the sunset from the highest point in the city – the top of the One World Observatory. Zip up to the 102nd floor in just 47 seconds in the astonishingly fast SkyPodTM Elevators while you watch a multimedia display of New York City transforming from unsettled lands into a forest of skyscrapers. Look over the city below through the glass floor of the Sky Portal and enjoy several thrilling audiovisual experiences while you are at the top of the world. Use your pass to enjoy complimentary access to the One World Observatory, as well as an exclusive discount off a signature cocktail from One World Observatory's premier restaurant and bar, One Dine. Cheers! Hit Times Square Times Square is one of New York's top attractions and offers second to none nightlife! It's packed with a wealth of entertainment from bars, restaurants, and nightclubs to theaters and TV recording studios and really comes alive at night. Learn about the famous district on a Broadway & Times Square Walking Tour. Use your pass to enjoy this tour where an experienced actor and director tour guide will take you to all the hot spots. Have a laugh at the LoL Times Square Comedy Club or head to the Bowlmor Times Square arcade for bowling, state-of-the-art video games, and old-school pinball. Use your pass to visit Madame Tussauds and gain free access to the MARVEL Universe 4D cinema experience. Sip cocktails at the Haven Rooftop bar and watch the action on Time Square below. Catch a Broadway show A quintessential evening activity in New York is catching a Broadway show. While they are expensive, the experience is an unforgettable one and really shouldn't be missed! With over 40 official Broadway theaters in New York, you're bound to find something that piques your interest. Top tip: The best way to get discounted show tickets is to head to TDF's TKTS Booth in Duffy Square (47th Street and Broadway) and wait in line on the day of the show. You can get some fantastic discounts on tickets for most shows. Catch a different kind of show If you prefer something more energetic, use your pass to enjoy the Shake, Rattle & Roll Dueling Pianos Show Hosted at the historic Cutting Room on East 32nd Street, this three-hour rock 'n' roll extravaganza features an all-request evening of live music from dueling pianos, fantastic food, and plenty of drinks. If jazz is your thing, head to Harlem, the birthplace of the music genre, to enjoy a classic jazz performance. Use your pass to get tickets to the Harlem Jazz Series, a one-hour performance of classic jazz hits some of the industry's best musicians. Enjoy a sunset movie at Bryant Park If the weather is good, why not watch an outdoor movie at Bryant Park? Tucked behind the New York Public Library, Bryant Park is the beating cultural heart of Midtown Manhattan and is famous for its iconic movie nights under the stars. Grab a delicious picnic pack from Perfect Picnic with your pass and find a spot on the lawn for a romantic evening out. Top tip: These movie nights are extremely popular, so get there when the lawns open at 5 pm to get a good spot. Take in the city lights from the ferry Soak up the magical after-dark glow of the Big Apple on a romantic harbor cruise. Use your pass to hop on a Harbor Lights Cruise with Circle Line and enjoy a cruise through the city. There is indoor and outdoor seating, a full bar on board, and an outdoor viewing deck for those Insta-worthy photographs. The narrated cruise offers interesting facts about famous New York landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and the Statue of Liberty as you glide past. Catch a Yankees game One of the most exciting things to do in New York at night is to watch a Yankees game under the lights. Head to the game a little earlier and use your pass to enjoy a Classic Tour of the Yankee Stadium Get a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the legendary stadium as you visit areas not usually open to the public, like the dugout and the press box. Watch out for the ghost of Babe Ruth, who apparently wanders around the stadium! Stargaze at the High Line As the sun begins to set , head to the unique High Line Park to take in some spectacular city views. The once-disused railroad track was converted into a verdant floating garden and now passes through some of New York City's most historic neighborhoods. Wander along the elevated park on a High Line, Chelsea & Meatpacking District Walking Tour with your pass. Take in the art installations and admire some of New York's most famous buildings, including the Empire State Building and Frank Gehry's IAC Building. You can also enjoy free stargazing evenings at the High Line every Tuesday from dusk until 9:45 pm. Telescopes are provided and spaced throughout the park by the Amateur Astronomers Association, who are also on hand to help and answer any questions.
Go City Expert

Have a 5% discount, on us!

More savings? You're welcome. Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, vacation inspiration and much more.

  • Thick check Icon