New York City may be known for its mile-high skyscrapers, Broadway theaters, world-class shopping, and restaurants offering incredible cuisines. But it’s also one of the most romantic cities in the world. A good reason you and your significant other should plan a unique date night. This year, we have several winning New York-style ideas.
LOVE TAKES OFF
With its soaring architecture, mod shapes, and primary hues—it’s easy to see why this was once the hallmark of a new era in aviation. Once the TWA Flight Center is now the TWA Hotel in Queens—just a quick 12 miles from Manhattan.
One of the best symbols of this inspiring design age was the Eero Saarinen-designed, the TWA Flight Center, opened in 1962 at John F. Kennedy International Airport (then called Idlewild Airport). Its curvilinear cement “wings” made you feel you were already taking off to lands beyond.
Those futuristic curved walls of windows, tube-shaped corridors, and flowing, doorless interiors captured an American moment—until TWA closed. Two decades later after lying dormant, the landmark flight center was transformed into the spectacular TWA Hotel.
No matter where you stand in TWA Hotel today, the iconic Chili Pepper Red—the fiery hue Saarinen made famous in the Flight Center—is highlighted throughout from the upholstery in the Sunken Lounge to the carpeting. The hue makes it perfect for a romantic Valentine’s getaway night with a retro 1960s flair. Consisting of two wings, many of the 512 guestrooms look out onto the runways. Of special note: seven layers of soundproof glass assures your sleep will not be interrupted. The hotel is also perfect for spending a night before you take off for a romantic beachside weekend in the Caribbean or a European getaway. JetBlue’s Terminal 5 is next door and can be easily accessed by elevator.
For its top-flight menu, reserve a table at the Paris Café, the Jean-Georges Vongerichten restaurant on the mezzanine. It is a subtle mix of sunny and subdued colors with views of the runway and control tower. End the evening with a visit to Connie, a 1958 Lockheed Constellation transformed into a cocktail lounge.
With year-round access to the pool—it is heated to 95 degrees during the winter months—blending the thrill of viewing planes is enough to make you hope for a layover. Also, look for a gym and a room devoted strictly to the game Twister (now that’s romantic!).
The TWA Hotel stands out because it isn’t simply occupying a former historic place. Since its opening in 2019, the hotel has breathed new life into a once-storied space and recreated the allure and romance of travel. It’s a feast for the senses. Info: twahotel.com
ROSES ARE FOREVER
Flowers are a great gift, but admittedly not a lasting one. Enter these real roses that last an entire year (or more) and, even better, require no watering or maintenance.
Seema Bansal-Chadha and her husband, Sunny Chadha, founded Venus et Fleur in 2015. The couple who exchanged gifts on Valentine’s Day, among them flowers, soon became disenchanted with most floral arrangements. They looked to elevate the floral industry with luxury gifts and flower arrangements that contained real flowers that would last. Sound impossible?
Today, Venus et Fleur features beautiful arrangements of Eternity® Roses placed in a classic Parisian-inspired hat box. Artfully arranged in assorted sizes and shapes, the roses will continue to feel and smell fresh. It’s a beautiful way to make your significant other remember you all year.
The flowers are picked at full bloom and using a proprietary process, colors are removed using a non-toxic solution and treated with non-allergenic wax and natural oils. This formula effectively dehydrates the roses to help preserve them.
Each made-to-order arrangement is designed by a floral design specialist and guaranteed to last a year without any care whatsoever—including watering!
See these beauties in person and visit Venus et Fleur’s World Trade Center or Columbus Circle locations for a unique, personalized experience. Knowledgeable Venus et Fleur associates are delighted to answer your questions. Both stores are perfect for finding the ideal gift. Info: venusetfleur.com
NYC’S LOVE BOAT
Are you looking for a unique perspective of the Manhattan skyline? Then, set sail on the Bateaux, the city’s premier dining cruise. The vessel features glass ceilings and walls to offer unparalleled views of Manhattan and its sights.
Bateaux departs from Chelsea Pier 61 and offers a variety of cruises, including brunch, lunch, and dinner. However, for an unforgettable romantic night, we recommend the dinner cruise. Sip wine and signature cocktails (there is an extra charge) from the bar, savor creative cuisine from the dinner menu, and enjoy attentive service throughout the evening. Live music is provided. So, with New York City as the backdrop and romantic music to set the mood, all you need is love!
The prix-fixe sumptuous dinner menu will please even the most discerning palate. All food is prepared daily with choices that include a variety of chicken, beef, vegetarian, and fish options. A gluten-free menu is available, and guests with specific food allergies are encouraged to make special requests when making reservations.
Throughout the three-hour cruise, you’ll glide along the Hudson and East Rivers waters, passing The Lady in New York Harbor and sailing under the Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Williamsburg Bridges. The cruise also includes fabulous views of Brooklyn.
Bateaux brings an unmatched level of sophistication to New York sightseeing that can only be experienced from this unique perspective. It’s a cruise even die-hard landlubbers will love.
For more information on Bateaux New York, visit bateauxnewyork.com