Events and Activities

Top 10 Date Ideas in NYC that Don't Involve Drinking

It's easy to go to the local bar or speakeasy but we wanted to find fun and unique activities in NYC that don't involve drinking. Here is a curated list from the staff at FotoLab studio that promise memorable moments, steering away from the traditional bar scene.

1. Interactive Science Night at the Secret Loft

Location: Secret Loft, 137 W 14th St, New York, NY 10011

Description: Immerse yourselves in an engaging night of scientific experiments and mind-bending demonstrations at this clandestine venue.

Secret tip: Keep an eye on Secret Loft's schedule for themed science events.

About/Press - SECRET LOFT
Secret Loft

2. Fotolab Studio Experience

 Location: 227 W 29th St, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10001

 Description: Craft lasting memories through self-portraiture at Fotolab Studio, capturing your unique connection in a creative and personalized way.

 Secret tip: Bring a meaningful item or prop to incorporate into your photos for added sentiment. Check out our Instagram for pose inpso beforehand!

3. Rooftop Farm Tour at Brooklyn Grange

Location: Brooklyn Grange Navy Yard, 63 Flushing Ave Building 3, Brooklyn, NY 11205

Description: Explore the world's largest rooftop soil farms, indulge in sustainable agriculture, and enjoy panoramic views.

Secret tip: Check for special events like yoga classes or farm-to-table dinners.

Brooklyn Navy Yard - Brooklyn Grange
Brooklyn Grange

4. Nighttime Magic at Tannen's Magic Shop

Location: Tannen's Magic, 45 W 34th St #608, New York, NY 10001

Description: Be enchanted by a private magic lesson at Tannen's, one of the oldest magic shops in the city.

Secret tip: Purchase a magic trick to continue the wonder at home.

Visit Tannen's, New York City's Oldest Magic Shop | Read About The Latest  NYC Tourism News
NYC Tourism

5. Sleep No More at The McKittrick Hotel

Location: 530 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001

Description: Dive into an immersive theater experience where you navigate through scenes inspired by Shakespeare's Macbeth.

Secret tip: Wear a mask and embrace the mystery; it's a choose-your-own-adventure experience.

After Two Long Years, The McKittrick Hotel Is Finally, Truly Back -  InsideHook
InsideHook

6. Ghost Tour in Greenwich Village

Location: Washington Square Park, New York, NY 10012

Description: Embark on a hauntingly fascinating ghost tour through the historic streets of Greenwich Village.

Secret tip: Bring a camera – you might capture some unexpected supernatural phenomena.

Bird's eye view of Greenwich Village, facing towards the skyline of Lower Manhattan
Wikipedia

7. Archery Lesson at Queens Archery

Location: 170-20 39th Ave, Flushing, NY 11358

Description: Discover the art of archery together with a private lesson at Queens Archery.

Secret tip: Plan your visit during off-peak hours for a more personalized experience.

Queens Archery Range | Things to do in Queens, New York
TimeOut

8. The Trash Tour at Newtown Creek

Location: Newtown Creek Nature Walk, Paidge Ave & Provost St, Brooklyn, NY 11222

Description: Join an unconventional tour of Newtown Creek, exploring the environmental history of this industrial waterway.

Secret tip: Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a unique urban exploration.

170 Newtown Creek Stock Photos - Free & Royalty-Free Stock Photos from  Dreamstime
Dreamstime

9. Puppet Show at Puppet Kitchen

Location: 250 W 54th St, New York, NY 10019

Description: Be entertained by a captivating puppet show, featuring intricate puppets and innovative storytelling.

Secret tip: Look out for themed performances or behind-the-scenes tours.

THE PUPPET KITCHEN - Updated August 2024 - 12 Photos & 12 Reviews - 220A E  4th St, New York, New York - Performing Arts - Phone Number - Offerings -  Yelp
Yelp

10. Rock Climbing at DUMBO Boulders

Location: Brooklyn Bridge Park, 99 Plymouth St, Brooklyn, NY 11201

Description: Challenge each other to a fun and active date with rock climbing against the backdrop of the Manhattan skyline.

Secret tip: Go during the sunset for a breathtaking view from the climbing wall.

An Outdoor Bouldering Facility Opens in DUMBO, Brooklyn - Mommy Nearest
Mommy Nearest

I hope these date ideas, chosen by our team at FotoLab, have shown you that New York City is full of romantic experiences that don’t involve hitting the bars. Whether you’re planning a first date or a special night with someone you love, there’s no shortage of unique and memorable things to do in the city. Thanks for exploring with us—here’s to making beautiful memories in NYC!

FotoLab is New York's First Self-Portrait Studio. Capture memories with your loved ones. Book us for your birthday or company event!