Once Memorial Day hits, it’s summer in the city. Am I right? Now I know summer doesn’t officially start until Wednesday, June 21st, but who is waiting that long? As us New Yorkers know, winter is always creeping in the shadows – we’re just a Nor’easter away from being trapped in our apartments. So with the rooftop umbrellas up, beaches open, and sandals out, it’s time to get out and enjoy the city.

New York City is a lover’s playground in the summer and I want you to enjoy every second of it. That’s why my team and I have put together some of our favorite summer date spots just for you.

Love and Produce

Here’s what I love about The Greenmarket Farmers Market (various locations throughout the city!): The market is surrounded by ice breakers. There are so many interesting fruits and vegetables. It’s a great opportunity to chat about your favorites. What veggies did you grow up eating? Did you refuse asparagus as a kid but now it’s your veggie of choice? What’s your favorite go-to snack at 3 P.M.? It’s also a great opportunity to grab a bunch of fun snacks and treats and head to the park for a picnic or head back and cook it all up for a delicious lunch or dinner date.

Get Your Gatsby On

We love a great costume party around here. What’s better than that? A full-on time travel experience is the answer. The annual Jazz Age Lawn Party on Governor’s Island transports you back to the 1920s every June and August.

Grab your favorite flapper dress and head out on the ferry for a magical afternoon of dancing and St-Germain. Delicious cocktails, yummy treats, glamour galore, and Michael Arenella & His Dreamland Orchestra make this a date to remember forever.

And if you go in June, you’ll see our Director of  Recruiting – Ashley – hitting up the dance floor with her incredible swing dancing skills and our Head Writer – Marisa – drinking a “Flapper’s Delight” with her lavender parasol. You can thank us later for this most memorable summer day.

Spotted in Manhattan

Why it’s The Central Park Zoo, of course! Convenient, fun, and the only place where you can see a Polar Bear and The Empire State Building in the same view. What I love about the zoo is it’s an unexpected destination sure to impress any date. It also facilitates conversation effortlessly. If your date seems drawn to sea life, ask if they are more of a beach person. Ask about their favorite animals as a kid and why. The opportunities to get to know your date in a truly no stress way are endless among the animals. And as the Central Park Zoo is smaller than most zoos, it’s the perfect afternoon date followed by lunch or a cocktail.

Under The Stars

Get thee to an outdoor movie this summer! There are a variety of movie choices to make for a fun, casual date. Bring a blanket, grab some snacks, and set-up shop on the lawn. It’s also a great idea if you are ready to introduce your date to your friends. Decide on a flick as a group and get there early to chat about your favorite films, actors, and stories.

Sail Away

Looking to really step it up a notch in the dating department? There’s nothing better than cocktails on the Hudson. Hop on a private sailboat that will take you right up to Lady Liberty as the sun sets. See the the breathtaking view of the city at night while you relax together. There are a variety of private sail boat companies to choose from. Have a private chef cook you a delicious meal as you sit back for one of the most romantic of summer evenings. We promise.

Travel to Havana

You don’t have to travel to Cuba to experience the lush decor and romance. You simply have to get to Pier A. Tucked away upstairs inside the Pier A Harbor House Complex is BlackTail Bar. From the owner’s of The Dead Rabbit comes a gorgeous, luxurious escape with an extensive menu of more than 50, decadent cocktails and a delicious menu. You and your date will feel instantly transported to another time and place, without having to pack a suitcase or passport. And if you’re a fan of tequila, be sure to try the “Parkeroo” or the “Chaparra” for a great rum cocktail – two of our favorite cocktails at BlackTail!

After you try any of these summer suggestions, let us know which ones you liked. And if you have a favorite summer date spot, comment below and tell us about it. Let’s spread the love together this summer!