Far Rockaway is a beachside neighborhood in the New York City borough of Queens. Despite its close proximity to the hustle and bustle of the city, Far Rockaway has a laid-back atmosphere, making it a great spot for a first date.
1. Far Rockaway Parks and Places for a Walk on a First Date
Situated on the south shore of Queens, Far Rockaway has plenty of outdoor spots to take a stroll. Beach 29th Street has several public parks, including an oceanfront park with a long boardwalk. Further inland, Central Park provides a lush setting for a romantic walk. For an added bonus, nearby Jacob Riis Park has an old-fashioned carousel and games arcade, ready for a bit of fun. Plus, with plenty of waterfront restaurants, you can easily turn your walk into a meal.
2. Places for a Coffee Date in Far Rockaway
For a low-key first date, you can’t go wrong with a coffee date at one of Far Rockaway’s many coffee shops. The Rockaway Roasting Company, an independent neighborhood spot, serves up caffeine and pastries. Or, try the nearby Rockaway Beach Bakery, a Brooklyn outpost serving up delicious treats.
3. Far Rockaway Galleries, Museums and Exhibitions to Visit on a Date
For a more intellectual date experience, Far Rockaway has plenty of galleries, museums and exhibitions to choose from. The local Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is a great spot to explore, especially if your date is a nature enthusiast. For an art fix, the nearby Jamaica Arts Center has rotating exhibitions and performances.
4. Live Music and Entertainment to Invite Your Date to in Far Rockaway
For a livelier date experience, Far Rockaway offers plenty of entertainment to choose from. Live music can be found at Rockaway Beach Club, a bar and restaurant with regular live performances. Or, Tamarack, a large event space and performance hall, has events for everyone, from theme nights to live bands.
5. Far Rockaway Pubs, Bars or Restaurants for a First Date Drink or Food
When it comes to drinks and food, Far Rockaway has plenty of choices. For a casual date, try Uma’s Kitchen, a Caribbean-inspired spot with light bites and beer. Or, head to La Playa, a Latin-American restaurant with Mexican favorites and Latin-inspired cocktails. The locals flock to Boarders Bar, a beachy spot with a chill atmosphere and frozen margaritas.
6. Other Date Ideas to Try in Far Rockaway
Far Rockaway also offers plenty of other date ideas to explore. Pumpkin Time, a miniature golf course on Beach 9th Street, is great for a fun round of golf on a first date. Plus, Gateway National Recreation Area has a plethora of activities, including beach volleyball and kayaking. Or, make a day of it and explore the Riis Park Beach Bazaar, a vintage flea market with unique finds for a souvenir to remember your first date.
