Howard Beach is a neighborhood located in the southern-most part of the borough of Queens in New York City. It is situated on a peninsula surrounded by water on three sides, and is bordered by the east-west running Jamaica Bay and the north-south running Cross Bay Boulevard. Given its location, Howard Beach is known for its many parks and areas of natural beauty, making it the perfect place to take a romantic stroll with your date.
1. Howard Beach parks and places for a walk on a first date
For a tranquil and romantic walk to get to know your date, head to the Cross Bay Veterans Memorial Bridge. Spanning a quarter of a mile across Jamaica Bay, it is the perfect place to explore the neighborhood’s waterfront vistas. The nearby Lindenwood Park is another great spot to take a leisurely walk, with its walking trails, playground, and outdoor amphitheater. For a more active and adrenaline-filled first date, head to O’Donohue Park. Offering a wide range of activities including a pool, tennis courts, and basketball courts, you and your date can get competitive and have some fun.
2. Places for a coffee date in Howard Beach
To get some coffee and conversation on your first date, head to Java Hut. Offering a cozy and homey atmosphere, with plenty of seating for two, it is the perfect spot for an intimate chat. For something a little more upbeat, Knockout Coffee & Donuts is a great option, with a wide selection of coffee and delicious donut flavors to choose from. If you’re after something more elegant, check out the bistro-style coffee shop, Cafe Nocciola. Enjoy some delicious Italian coffee and pastries in the tranquil setting of this chic cafe.
3. Howard Beach galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
The Howard Beach neighborhood doesn’t have any museums, galleries or exhibitions, but there are plenty of interesting places to visit nearby. The Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, located just a few miles away, is a great place for a unique and educational first date. Here you can explore over 8,000 acres of salt marsh, meadows, and grasslands, with plenty of wildlife to spot. The Rockaway Beach Surf Club is also worth a visit, offering lessons in surfing, skateboarding, and yoga.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Howard Beach
If you’re hoping to add a bit of energy to your first date, there are plenty of live music and entertainment options in Howard Beach. The neighboring Crossbay Music Festival offers an array of musical acts and performances, as well as food trucks, carnivals and games. If you’re feeling more laid-back, Why Not Lounge offers a wide selection of classic rock, blues, and jazz. Or, if you’re looking for some dancing, check out the DJ-driven dance floor at the Venue Club.
5. Howard Beach pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
When looking for a place to enjoy a drink or a bite to eat on your first date, Howard Beach has plenty of options. If you’re after something laid-back and casual, head to the local favorite, Taste of The Tropic. Offering Caribbean-style savory dishes, you and your date can enjoy a relaxed and friendly ambience. For something a little more upscale, check out the Italian restaurant, Alba’s. Offering a romantic and intimate setting, it is the perfect place for a romantic dinner for two.
6. Other date ideas to try in Howard Beach
If you’re looking for something a little out of the ordinary, there are plenty of other date ideas you can try in Howard Beach. Take a romantic boat ride on the S.S. Oregon, a replica 1890s paddle-wheeler, or get creative at the Paint & Create Studio, where you can enjoy a fun and creative painting session with your date. Alternatively, head to the Howard Beach Karting Center for some go-karting, or the Russian-Turkish Baths, where you can relax in the therapeutic saunas and steam rooms.
