For those looking to explore NYC before or after the festivities, there are endless things to do. Here are a handful of our favorites:
McSorley's Old Ale House
15 East 7th Street, New York, NY 10003, (212) 473-9148
One of the oldest bars in New York City and one of our favorite spots! Beer selection includes: 1. Light beer 2. Dark beer. Cash only. If you go, take in the surroundings and ask about the wishbones hanging above the bar.
Threes Brewing
333 Douglass Street, Gowanus, NY 11217, (718) 522-2110
This a go-to spot for us in Brooklyn. It boasts a wide beer selection in a hip location.
Katz's Delicatessen
205 East Houston Street, New York, NY 10002, (212) 254-2246
We split a pastrami sandwich here on our first date. We recommend you do the same unless you want leftovers!
Joe's Pizza
7 Carmine Street, New York, NY 10014, (212) 366-1182
One of the best slices in the city! This is the original location but there are others around town, including one in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.
Comedy Cellar
117 Macdougal Street, New York, NY 10012, (212) 254-3480
For those looking for a late night activity, this is our favorite comedy room. If you can’t get tickets, pop into the bar upstairs and you might see some famous comedians sitting in the back.
Veniero's
342 East 11th Street, New York, NY 10003, (212) 674-7070
We recommend the cannoli but you probably can’t go wrong with any of these delicious Italian treats.
Rockwood Music Hall
196 Allen Street, New York, NY 10002, (212) 477-4155
Live music on the Lower East Side. Admission is usually free for stages 1 and 2 and the lineup can be found on the website.
Chelsea Market
75 9th Avenue, New York, NY 10011, (212) 652-2111
The former Nabisco warehouse, Chelsea market is fun to walk around regardless of the season. Look for souvenirs or tasty snacks.
Junior's Restaurant and Bakery
386 Flatbush Avenue Extension, Downtown Brooklyn, NY 11201, (718) 852-5257
Grab a slice of cheesecake at this Brooklyn institution. If you like it enough, you can have a whole cake shipped back home.
Bati Ethiopian Kitchen
747 Fulton Street, Fort Greene, NY 11217, (718) 797-9696
One of our favorite restaurants in the city, perfect for a unique meal that's healthy, hearty and delicious.
The Gutter
200 North 14th Street, Greenpoint, NY 11211, (718) 387-3585
Where Kyle convinced Katie that "Suite: Judy Blue Eyes" might be the greatest song ever written. Over the line? You decide.
Tom’s
782 Washington Avenue, Prospect Heights, NY 11238, (718) 636-9738
Suzanne Vega fans will feel right at home in this no-frills diner. There tends to be a line for the breakfast crowd on the weekend, but good food and a friendly staff make it worth the wait.
Fraunces Tavern
54 Pearl Street, New York, NY 10004, (212) 968-1776
This was Kyle's "after-work" spot when we first started dating. George Washington stayed here during the Revolutionary War. Great minds think alike ;-)
Nom Wah Tea Parlor
13 Doyers Street, New York, NY 10013, (212) 962-6047
DIM SUM! One of the oldest dim sum parlors in the city and a classic date spot for us.
Eataly NYC Flatiron
200 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10010, (212) 229-2560
A vibrant indoor market dedicated to all things Italian. Pick up some imported cheese, enjoy the wine bar, or just walk around and browse - there’s a lot to see!