New York City Romance on a Budget

NYC is notorious for being expensive. But that does not mean you cannot have a romantic time, on a budget.

Picnicking- There are many green parks throughout the city that you can use for free. Grab a basket, a blanket and some food. I recommend packing some cheese, crackers, grapes and apples. A bottle of sparkling cider can add to the romance of the meal. Feed each other the tempting snack.

Rowboats- Central Park has a lake where you can rent boats at very reasonable prices. Grab your sweetie and float on the lake. Bring some bread to feed the ducks. On clear days you can gaze at the clouds and pick out shapes.

Staten Island Ferry- This ferry ride is free. Plan to leave about thirty minutes before sunset to get a look at the NYC skyline as the sun sets. You will be able to see Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. You can stand on the deck, snuggle against your partner, and feel the wind blowing against you. That's a great excuse to cuddle.

Central Park Zoo- This cheap bit of wild in the city is great fun. The zoo is open through all seasons. From Memorial Day to Labor Day you can watch performances in their Wildlife Theater. If you are feeling in touch with your younger side you can go to the petting zoo and feed the animals.

New York Public Library- Not only is this building beautiful, but it has the potential for being romantic, and free. Go through the stacks with your lover and pick out poetry. Find a quiet spot and whisper the sweet prose in their ear.

Botanical Gardens- What says "love" better than flowers (besides chocolate)? On Tuesdays the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens are free, and on Wednesday the New York Gardens are free. Stroll through this sweet smelling garden while you hold hands.

Museums- Museums abound throughout NYC. If there is something you want to see, you can find it. Spend a Friday night wandering a museum. Many museums, such as The American Folk Art Museum, Guggenheim Museum, and MoMA. They offer free admission Friday nights, along with many other museums.

Performances- If you are student many of the big concert halls offer a large discount on the price of student tickets. The NYC Ballet, NY Philharmonic, NY Opera, and NY Metropolitan Opera all offer this discount. If you are no longer a student they have discount offers on open rehearsals.

Art Galleries- There are countless art galleries throughout the city that you and a partner can experience together. You get the chance to discover new artists, and spend time with your lover.

Iceskating- It's in all the romance movies, and as it should be. Between October and April you can make a fool of yourself as you glide (or fall) across the ice. Warm up afterwards with a steaming cup of hot chocolate. I recommend going after the holiday season to avoid the crowds.

Enjoy your romantic time out. There is much to do and see in NYC and it's wonderful to share it with your lover.