New York Online - Top 8 Romantic Places

New York City, though huge and busy, abounds in places for romantic souls. A few suggestions, which peace and quiet seeking visitors might fall for, are given below!

1.A carriage ride in Central Park

A romantic 20-minute horse-drawn carriage ride along the paths of Central Park is a New York City must-do experience. Take one of the carragies from Central Park South and embark on the thrill ride, which apart from scenic views, offfers a unique opportunity of getting familiar with the park history and curiosities as the dressed to kill coachman tells the stories. It is quite costly (20-25 minutes $50 plus a tip! ), but really worth recommending to romantic souls. The ride is also popular with movie celebrities.

2.Dinner in ''River Cafe''

Of all the eateries of New York City River Cafe is a place worth having dinner at. Both the picturesque location of the cafe (in a barge under Brooklyn Bridge) and its ambience make it unique. Moreover, the food is delicious and tastes here as anywhere else as the panoramic view of the Manhattan skycrapers adds flavour to it. The sophisticated menu (lobster, duck and sea food) has its sweet speciality Chocolate Duo topped with a chocolate Brooklyn Bridge.
After 5 p.m. men have to wear suites!

3.A view from Empire State Building at dusk

The Empire State Building,one of the best known skyscrapers in the skyline of New York City, offers a breathtaking view from the observation decks on the 86th floor. The edifice, filmed in such Hollywood blockbusters as ''Sleepness in Seattle'' and ''King Kong'', is also a popular engagement site. To get the most of that unique experience buy tickets online beforehand and come here at dusk as it is the best time of day to admire the panoramic view of the sun setting and the city's lights starting to flicker.

4.A visit to Central Park

The 843-acre Central Park is a magnificent escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The centerpiece of Central Park is the Bethesda Terrace with a fountain crowned with the ''Angel of the Waters'' sculpture considered as one of the most uplifting sights in this oasis of peace and quiet of New York. As the Bethesda Fountain edges the Lake, one of the five water reservoirs of Central Park, one can admire its clear water while having a delicious snack at one of the outdoor cafes or rowing a boat rented from the nearby Loeb Boathouse. The romantic float around Central Park's Lake is not the only activity to be practised in the middle of the urban paradise.
Central Park is also reputed for its lush plantings and rich fauna. Thus, if seeking a rest close to the nature, visit the Ramble or the Conservatory Garden. The former is a 15-hectare forest, a home to over 2,700 bird species, hence, a paradise for bird-watchers, whereas the latter is a 2.5-hectare garden filled with fountains, trees and plants which looks most splendid in spring while in full bloom. Another garden worth seeing is the Strawberry Fields, a memorial to John Lennon, the most visited spot in Central Park. Moreover, in summer Central Park turns into a cultural hub. In June and July the grand Great Lawn hosts free admission open-air shows held by the New York Philharmonic and Metropolitan Opera. Other important cultural events include free New York Public Theater Shakespeare productions and Summer Stage pop music and dance shows.
You will not be bored here!

5.A walk along the gardens of the Cloisters

The Cloisters, an annex for the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is an enclave of serenity. The 2-hectare area situated along the Hudson River in Fort Tryon Park in the northern tip of Manhattan is home to fragments of five medieval monasteries and other sacred buildings brought over from France and Spain. Valuable works of art like tapestries, paintings and frescoes can also be seen here. The best idea is to visit the Cloisters in summer and walk along the paths in the Cloisters gardens to see and smell the multitude of herbs and flowers or sit in the courtyard and listen to music played live during concerts in summer. A splendid escape from the hustle and bustle of New York City

6.A ferry ride to Staten Island

What Staten Island is most famous for is its historic dirty-orange ferry which takes locals and tourists to/from downtown Manhattan to the Staten Island neighborhood of St George. The 25-minute ride, during which one can enjoy the breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyscrapers, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and New York Harbor, is really a memorable experience. What is more it is for free. Hence, it is a must to all New York City newcomers.

There are also other attractions which cannot be missed. Visit St George's downtown, travel in time to the the sailors' days visiting the Noble Maritime Collection, see the Snug Harbor Cultural Center, the Staten Island Botanical Garden (the glasshouses), admire the blooming plants in the New York Chinese Scholar's Garden and enjoy a meal in one of its cafes.

7.A walk over Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge, famous for its huge Gothic towers, crosses the East River and connects Manhattan with Brooklyn. At the time of its construction in 1883, it was the largest suspension bridge in the world and the first one made of steel. Since its opening, the Brooklyn Bridge has been regarded as one of the most beautiful bridges in the world and an inspiration for painters, writers and poets. Hence, it is a must to all New York City newcomers.
Just across from New York City Hall there is a pedestrian entrance to the Brooklyn Bridge from which one, looking through the webbing of steel cables, can enjoy an unforgettable view of Lower Manhattan. If not fit for a 1.8 kilometre-long stroll, take a pleasure bike ride along the walkway. Stop at the observation points under the support towers to learn more on the history of the Brooklyn Bridge and the waterfront.

8. Concert at St. Paul's Chapel

The Classic Revival brownstone chapel, part of Trinity Church, is mostly associated with two historic events: George Washington's praying here after being inaugurated the first American President in 1789 and September 11th, 2001 terrorists' attacks when the church provided support for those who came here in search for healing and understanding. To romantic souls St. Paul's Chapel is known for superb Trinity Concerts held here on Monday at 1 p.m. It is here that one can listen to classical music performances (free of charge)!
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