Romantic NYC activities: 14 you'll love, including free options

Hello there,

NYC’s longest and largest nursing strike is slated to end, with 2 out of 3 major hospitals reaching tentative agreements. It’s observed that nurses received salary increases, improved safety, and safeguards against AI use.

It’s a win for organized labor and, in turn, the working New Yorker. 💪

And now..

In this week’s newsletter:

🎫 Events We Love This Week: February 11-18 - Orchid Show NYC & the New York Comedy Film Festival

🍕 You’ll Have to Check It Out - The coziest pizza joint you’ll find in the city

😍 14 Romantic Things to Do - Not just for Valentine’s Day, although we’ve got you last-minute planners covered

Ready?

Ready. 👇

Note: As always, this email was written by an actual human who lives in NYC, not artificial intelligence. 🥸

Events We Love This Week: February 11-18, 2026

In the city this week? Here are some fun events we’re keeping an eye on.

Orchid Show NYC - Now Through April

A local favorite, The Orchid Show at The New York Botanical Garden exhibits thousands of species of beautiful blossoming orchids.

Showcased now through April, this is a chance to experience thousands of orchids that showcase diverse ecosystems and rich cultures, as interpreted by Queens' own Mr. Flower Fantastic, one of the most in-demand floral artists in the world.

Get more info (and tickets) here.

New York City Comedy Film Festival - February 15-22

For one week, the New York City Comedy Film Festival brings feature films, shorts, documentaries, and episodic work to the big screen — alongside filmmaker Q&As, premieres, panels, and late-night screenings. All comedies, all festival long.

Tickets are available for individual shows, or you can snag festival passes for the most laughs possible.

See the full lineup & get tickets here.

You’ll Have to Check It Out - Grand Street Pizza

Most pizza spots in NYC are either:

1. A bit run-down and often dirty, slice spots

2. Sit-down, often overpriced pies in unnecessarily upscale settings

That makes Grand Street Pizza’s no-frills yet charming and comfortable interior a breath of fresh air.

Their pizza is top-notch, with absolutely amazing flavors.

Plus, they offer beer on draft, including a great pour of Guinness, and even orange wines. It’s almost a wine bar feel, that slings amazing pies.

Check out Grand Street Pizza, and plan to eat at the restaurant here.

14 Romantic NYC Things to Do 🥰

While it’s not often the first thing you think of about New York City, it’s a surprisingly romantic and lovely city.

There are certainly many romantic restaurants and bars, but we want to focus on some unique and thoughtful activities for a night out. 👇

While some on this list can be more of a splurge, we’ve also included plenty of free romantic things to do in NYC. Get ready for Valentine’s with 14 romantic activities!

Have a lovely week,

Ashley & Devin from Better Together Here 💕