Valentine's Day in New York City is probably one of the most brutal places to spend the holiday…especially if you're single. Nearly everywhere you look, everything is pink and red and preaching love. But just because you’re single doesn’t mean that you have to dread the day. While most of what we don’t want to see will be at cozy restaurants, here are a few things to do this year to close out the weekend right:
1. Get milkshakes and burgers at Black Tap.
These crazy milkshakes are all over the internet and are completely Instagram-worthy. They’re just about the coolest looking thing you could eat in New York City. The burgers here are city-renowned as well, so don’t skip out on them if you end up here. Chances are, there won't be too many couples trying to get burgers and milkshakes for their romantic dinner.
2. Go to a Comedy Show in East Village.
There will be a ton of singles at these shows, and chances are the comedy will be Valentine's Day single’s themed. You’ll laugh with a bunch of other singles about how ridiculous the holiday actually is.
3. Do something active.
One of the greatest things to do for your mind and body is exercise and this is extremely beneficial if you’re newly single. Working out is one of the greatest ways to release tension, especially when love is the last thing you want to think about.
4. Go to a dive bar.
A couple spending Valentine's Day at a dive bar? Doubtful… so grab a few friends and hit the best dive bars you can find. Some of my favorites? Maguires and Johnny Utahs, but if you talk to some real locals, the dodgiest are always the best.
5. Netflix and Seamless
You don’t have to deal with booked up restaurants or couples or lame price-fixed meals and you never have to leave your apartment. I recommend a scary movie, very rarely is there any sort of love story connected to it.
6. Spend the Day Exploring Brooklyn’s Greatest Breweries
Okay, so yes us single New Yorkers will probably rely on our good friend alcohol to be able to tolerate the extensive Instagram posts and happy couples walking the streets, so why not explore the amazing craft beer our city has to offer?! Brooklyn Brewery, Sixpoint Brewery, Rockaway Brewing Company and Coney Island Brewing Company are just a few of the best.
7. Indulge in sweets.
The best part about Valentine's Day is the candy and desserts, and just because you’re single doesn’t mean that you can't enjoy the best part. New York City is full of bakeries, ice cream shops and candy stores that exceed any other place in the world. Chocolate covered strawberries don't have to be just for couples...I couldn't even give you any favorites because theres too many.
8. BYOB Art Classes
This is one of the coolest things I found out that NYC has to offer. Whether it's Valentine's Day or not, it's an awesome place to spend a night with your friends. You do art together, drink whatever you bring and come home with some awesome apartment decor. The most famous one in NYC is Paint Along in Murray Hill, however, I've never actually been to one, but it looks great.
Valentine's Day is awesome, and it doesn't have to be all about couples!
