How to Spend a Romantic Weekend in New York on a Budget
December 25 2023
A romantic break in New York City doesn’t have to break the bank. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly weekend with your partner in the city, there is plenty to enjoy without spending a cent. Whether it’s a romantic stroll in Central Park, a free boat ride to the Statue of Liberty or even a meal out for $50 or less – there are endless romantic options in the city.
The Statue of Liberty
No trip to New York is complete without getting up close and personal with Lady Liberty. While visiting the Statue of Liberty isn’t free – you can get very close on the Staten Island Ferry without spending a cent! The ferry travels from Manhattan to Staten Island 24 hours a day, and it’s always free. For a romantic afternoon out, take advantage of the great views of the Statue of Liberty and enjoy a stroll on the island before coming back at sunset with views across the Manhattan Skyline.
Greenwich Village
Greenwich Village is known for its cobblestone streets, traditional buildings, and quaint cafes and restaurants. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Manhattan, get lost in the streets of Greenwich Village with a hot coffee from one of the many local coffee shops. Make your way towards Washington Square Park, where you can enjoy live street performances or simply soak up the atmosphere on a romantic stroll.
Eat Out
Eating out in New York doesn’t have to cost a lot; in fact, there are plenty of places to find amazing food at very affordable prices. With endless bodegas, trattorias, pizzerias, and hole-in-the-wall style restaurants, there is something for every kind of foodie on any type of budget. You can eat in, enjoy it on the go, or even bring it back to your hotel to enjoy the warmth and comfort of your room or suite.
Romantic Walks
Whether you opt for Central Park, The High Line, or Hudson River Park, the opportunities for a romantic stroll in the city are endless. Despite being one of the world’s biggest and busiest cities, New York is home to 29,000 acres of green spaces – the perfect way to escape the city and enjoy a romantic afternoon in nature. Simply wrap up warm, grab a coffee or hot chocolate, and head into one of the city’s 1942 parks for a couple of hours.
Free Museums and Galleries
The Big Apple boasts an impressive 145 museums and 1400 galleries across the city. While most have an entrance fee, many museums and galleries offer free or discounted entry on different days of the week throughout the year. While museums might not be at the top of your list of date night ideas – they should be! NYC is home to some of the best museums and galleries in the country (if not the world!), and there is something for everyone to enjoy. Check out this list to find out what's free and when in New York City.
If you’re looking for a romantic weekend in New York, making food at your hotel is a great way to save some money. The Hotel Beacon offers a range of apartment-style suites complete with a kitchenette so you can enjoy great meals three times a day without breaking the bank.