Whether you are visiting New York City or are a resident, you are going to want to explore all the city has to offer. This post will give you the 5 BEST self dates in the city. They are a great way to explore the city independently! Of course, you’ll have so much fun that your friends will want to join next time!
Solo Exploration in the City
I’ve always been an independent person. As much as I love being with friends and family, I crave time to myself where I can think and observe quietly. Moving away for college was such a big step in my independence journey as it was the first time I lived away from home (other than summer camps and short visits like that). While college brought a lot of exciting firsts, it also brought a constant pressure to be social. I repeatedly turned down group study sessions because I couldn’t focus on school and be social at the same time. But everyone else could?
One of my favorite parts of living in the city is that People. Do. Things. By. Themselves. And I’m a big fan of that. In a typical week, I try to have at least one day (or part of a day!) where I do some solo exploring and have a day adventure. Sometimes these “adventures” are a stroll in the park or attending a math lecture at a museum on a Wednesday night. No matter the case, I am a big advocate of spending time with yourself and embracing the independence of city life.
I think that taking time to reflect on your week and to discover your own interests and dislikes sans the company of others ultimately makes you a better person in your relationships. It builds your sense of self. I also appreciate that the only one who can cancel plans on me is me!
The Best 5 Self Dates in NYC
Date 1: Find a New Bagel Shop and Stroll Through the Park
Bagel shops are EVERYWHERE in New York City. There are so many different places to try! Find a new bagel shop that you haven’t been to and get your favorite order. Or, if you’re not picky, ask the cashier to put in his or her favorite order for you to try! Afterwards, take a nice walk around a park to find a spot to eat your bagel (and people watch, of course!). You can’t go wrong with Central Park or Battery Park, but pick a location that is convenient for you.
Date 2: Peruse Strand Bookstore and the Union Square Farmers’ Market
Even if you are not a big reader, Strand Bookstore is a must-visit in the city. Four floors of books, journals, and art. There is even a cafe inside. I could spend hours just reading all the funny postcards at the front of the store, let alone exploring the books. The store also has shelves of used books outside for $1-$3 making this the perfect spot to pick up your next read. After visiting Strand, walk north to Union Square (14th & Broadway). On Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays you can visit the Union Square Greenmarket right in the park. It is so fun to look at all the different vendors and stands. You might even get a free sample of some yummy bread, homemade jelly, or fresh produce!
Date #3: Drink Hot Chocolate and Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art
This date idea could be generalized to “Coffee & a Museum” but I don’t drink coffee and I enjoy specificity. So. Grab a hot chocolate in the Upper East Side and wander over to the Met. The Met has pay-as-you-wish days as well as special admission passes for NYC library card holders, so with a little planning, you won’t have to pay full price admission. It’s ambitious to see the whole museum in one day. There is so much inside, and almost always a special exhibit or event happening. Research the museum ahead of time so you know what pieces are on display. Also, talk to the experts at the main information desk. They are all so knowledgeable and passionate and can help you best plan your time at the museum. Last time I visited, I focused on the American Wing and Roman Sculpture areas.
Date 5: Walk the Highline and Explore Chelsea Market
You can start your walk on The Highline at Hudson Yards. After seeing The Vessel (the big copper honeycomb looking building that you can’t miss) follow the signs toward the Highline, an elevated walking path down into Chelsea. After your walk, visit Chelsea Market and explore all the unique shops and foods available here. Sometimes there is a local artists’ show or free music, too! I have been to Chelsea Market many times, and I still name it as one of my favorite places in the city! It is definitely a great place for some solo exploring (and food, if you’re hungry!).
Date 5: Go “Windowshopping” for Apartments and Listen to Free Music
As I’ve learned, many New Yorkers like to talk about what they want their next apartment to look like, or what neighborhood is more “the vibe” these days. And everyone has their own preferences. “Windowshop” and look at all different neighborhoods in the city, noticing the differences in housing and overall feel of various areas of the city. For this date, select a neighborhood of the city (my favorites are SoHo and the West Village) and stroll around the streets. I like to imagine who lives in the fanciest buildings and what the views look like! Build your dream Pinterest board, but in real life! More often than not you will come across a street performer or small music show in your travels too. Which is the cherry on top of the day! Rarely do I turn down free music.
Tips for Making the Most of the Dates
There is a delicate balance between having a plan and not having a plan for a date. The good thing about exploring by yourself is that you can make adjustments as you go or “see where the day” takes you. Don’t stress out about it.
Don’t feel self conscious. The truth is that nobody notices (or cares) that you’re doing things by yourself. People do things by themselves all the time in the city. It’s actually pretty normal.
Don’t be afraid to turn down other plans or tell people you want some alone/solo time. If they’re good friends, they will understand and support you. You can tell them all about your adventures afterwards.
Always be safe and stay alert. Especially when you are by yourself, pay attention and be aware of your surroundings.
Check the weather and train schedules ahead of time so you won’t be unpleasantly surprised. Be sure to fuel up beforehand if your date itinerary doesn’t include a stop for food.
Have fun!
As you’re on your solo trip, take note of fun things that you might want to see or know more about. After walking only a few blocks in NYC I almost always have a new restaurant I want to try or a museum I want to go to! Constant solo date inspiration? YES! They also are good observations to share with your friends for future plans.
Thank you so much for reading! I hope this post inspired you to take yourself on a solo date and explore your own city (or New York!) soon 🙂
~Katherine
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