When it comes to finding unique birthday ideas in NYC as an adult, there are plenty of fun things to do in the city so nice they named it twice. There’s certainly nothing wrong with sticking to traditional festivities. But every now and then, a year rolls around begging for a birthday celebration that makes an unforgettable mark. A celebration that proves you can have your cake and eat it, too!

 

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From classy outings to creative shenanigans, relaxing experiences to adrenaline rushes — the perfect way to go all-out on your big day (or a family member’s or friend’s) is just waiting to be enjoyed. We’ve even included a personalized list of our favorite places to stay!

Kiss the typical cake ‘n’ ice cream routine goodbye. And instead…

Try these outside-the-box birthday ideas in NYC!

things to do in NYC


1. Root for the Big Apple’s home teams.

This timeless activity is the perfect birthday idea for NYC sports fanatics. Whether it’s football, basketball, baseball or beyond — nothing beats a ball game with good company, cold beer, and tasty junk food (with zero calories when consumed on a birthday, right?).

top birthday party ideas in NYC

Pro tip: If you’ve just secured tickets to a Yankees game, we highly recommend staying at the Opera House Hotel! Located just over a mile away from Yankee Stadium, this historic hotel was once home of the Bronx Opera House. Learn about the hotel’s fascinating history AND get a great night’s rest!

2. Escape a locked room.

Unite your sleuth-iest friends and family to brave a bolted room, with only one hour to finagle your way out. Unravel riddles and solve clues to try to unlock the key to the room’s biggest mystery (and door) before time runs out in your escape room!

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Pro tip: Our strategy for conquering escape rooms? Divide and conquer! Start by searching the room for clues (and be sure to look EVERYWHERE), organize each clue, and keep track of all the codes and riddles that you find. And most importantly, keep an eye on that clock!

3. Go to a Broadway show.

This may seem too commonplace or ‘touristy’ for some. But it’s one of those things to do in New York that some people only dream of doing — so it’s a more unique birthday idea in NYC than one might think. And heck, splurging on really good seats make it a celebration that’s second to none! You can even take it up another level with Virgin Experience Gifts exclusive Broadway experiences, like private dinner and coaching sessions with the artists.

fun things to do in NYC for birthday

Pro tip: Broadway is a busy place! Instead of scrambling to get to your show on time in a cab, consider walking or taking the subway!

4. Hit up a true hot spot for drinks.

Bust out the trendiest threads you own. Gather the troops, and get a classy Manhattan soiree going at a place that insists guests wear fancy garb. Then dive into those beverages that costs double-digits. Because it’s your birthday in New York, dangit. Cheers! Not sure where to go? Try a food or drink tour and discover some of the most unique spots.

best NYC bars for birthdays

Pro tip: Channel your inner witch or wizard at the Cauldron NYC! Here, you’ll learn how to mix, blend, and brew your own delicious (and bewitching) cocktails. Conjure up the best birthday ever with this Magical Cocktail Experience for Two!

5. Take a New York City heli tour.

Toast to another trip around the sun with an exclusive birthday idea in NYC that flies you around the city’s brightest sights! And for an absolutely exquisite helicopter ride, find one that allows for champagne on board as you soar over magnificent skyscrapers.

Helicopter

Pro tip: If you’re lucky enough to have a fall birthday, don’t miss this Fall Foliage Helicopter Tour! You won’t believe your eyes as you fly over a sea of blazing reds, yellows and oranges. 

6. Spread some TLC.

With the overflowing amounts of love that generally accompany a birthday, why not share some of it with those in need? Round up your crew, and spend your special day volunteering. It’s guaranteed to be one of the few things to do in NYC for your birthday that you (and others) will never, ever forget.

ways to spend a birthday in NYC

Pro tip: Want to help others from the comfort of home? Put together care packages for the homeless or children in foster care. Some of our favorite items to include are non-perishable food items, personal hygiene products, coloring books, and small toys. 

7. Make it a fundraiser.

Piggybacking off the above volunteering idea comes this gem. And it works wonders regardless of whether you’re celebrating at a humble abode or heading out to a local venue. Kindly request friends or family to donate spare change or a few dollars to a cause of choice, in lieu of buying gifts.

cool things to do for your birthday in NYC

Pro tip: One of our favorite NYC nonprofits is STOMP Out Bullying™. This incredible group takes pride in helping to reduce bullying, cyber bullying, and discrimination by teaching solutions to kids and teens.  

8. Celebrate on a sailboat.

Trade the hustle and bustle of Manhattan for the relaxation of the Hudson River. Drift along the harbor aboard an authentic tall ship or classic schooner, surrounded by entertainment of your choice. These exquisite outings typically feature boat rides with wine tastings, sushi, live music, hors d’oeuvres, craft beer, lobster, or dazzling sights and sunsets. All of which sound like pretty phenomenal ways to spend a birthday.

sailing in New York for birthday

Pro tip: Nothing says happy birthday like a champagne toast, right? Go big and treat yourself to the most expensive bottle of bubbly that you can find. Just make sure your sailboat allows glass bottles before taking it on board! 

9. Indulge in a “free-food tour.”

For a truly (economical and) unique birthday idea in NYC, take advantage of the fact that every place you step foot into and every website you visit usually want your contact info. When the e-vites and snail-mail postcards start rolling in, beckoning you to enjoy freebies on your big day, let the route-planning commence! So don’t be afraid to be unusually agreeable when service industry folks ask for your addy.

unique birthday ideas in NYC

Pro tip: Make it an all-day event and see if you can snatch up a free meal for breakfast, lunch, AND dinner! Since most places hand out free desserts, this can get a little tricky. Our favorite places to grab a complimentary birthday meal include iHop (for breakfast), Sbarro (for lunch), and finally 99 Favor Taste! Keep in mind that something birthday offers require you to dine in with a party of 4 or more. 

10. Check out the Make Workshop.

This Brooklyn-based hot spot is one of the most creative things to do in NYC for a birthday party… quite literally! Check out their classes to try a fun new trade like sewing, knitting, leather crafts, shoe-/soap-making, and more. Or shop around their retail selection to do your own freestyle arts ‘n’ crafts.

NYC birthday party ideas

Pro tip: Discover the art of sewing from the comfort of home with this online essentials course. Customize your wardrobe by learning how to make unique tops, dresses, hoodies, shorts, and more!

11. Lace up at Dreamland Roller Disco.

If you’re looking for cool birthday party ideas in New York, strap on some skates for a blast from the past! Roll around the rink to the rhythm of favorite tunes from the 80s and 90s. And guests can rent table space too, should birthday shenanigans be better off with a reserved spot to kick back.

best things to do in NYC for your birthday

Pro tip: You can’t go roller skating without wearing a festive outfit! Think sequins, tutus, neon leggings, and glow sticks!

12. Dine on a brunch, lunch or dinner cruise in NYC.

Add a little pizzazz to a typical birthday meal out! Whether you’re planning this outing for yourself or for a guest of honor, one thing is for sure: no one will be disappointed. With delicious eats, cash bar treats, dancing, live or DJ entertainment, and stunning views — it will be a birthday for the books with a dining cruise!

birthday cruises in NYC

Pro tip: Our favorite sailing experience in all of NYC? This Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise, of course! And yes, you read that right: bottomless mimosas. Need we say more? 

13. Do a DIY photo shoot.

This is one of those fabulous birthday ideas in NYC that lets your inner tourist run wild! Gather up a bunch of festive, goofy or Pinterest-y props. Swing by favorite New York attractions and bust out a camera, tons of smiles and laughs, and those festive birthday treasures. Because how cool would party hats or a giant bouquet of balloons atop the Empire State Building look?!

fun birthday ideas in New York City

Pro tip: Like the idea of a photoshoot, but would rather hit the town with a professional photographer? Ditch those subpar cellphone pics and book this private, 2-hour NYC photoshoot! You’ll travel to iconic NYC locations and take home over 70 incredible photos! 

14. Zap some zombies.

Did someone say paintball and laser tag?! Indoor Extreme Sports lets you go bonkers on your birthday with festive ammo among family and friends… and zombies!! Once you’ve ensured the safety of humanity and overcome the undead, reward yourself for a job well done. Grab a drink at NYC’s famed Zombie Hut — which, oddly enough, involves no zombies and is actually a Pacific Island themed tiki bar (ha!).

great birthday plans in New York

Pro tip: For a totally different gaming experience, check out Immersive Gamebox! You and up to 5 other guests will enjoy your own private gaming room. Simply put on a high-tech visor and become a part of the game! Using state-of-the-art motion and touchscreen technology, you’ll run, jump, and complete thrilling challenges. 

15. Take a road trip to try real race car driving.

Kick off a new age by hitting the open road. Venture from the crowded streets of Manhattan and head to nearby race tracks for the freedom of wide-open asphalt! Let adrenaline flow freely by driving real Sprint Cup style stock cars, or peeling out of pit road with a set of exotic wheels with a driving experience.

best birthday gift ideas in NYC

Pro tip: Make it a true supercar road trip with this 2.5-Hour Driving Tour in New York’s Catskill Mountains! You’ll get behind the wheel of a Ferrari 488 GTB, Porsche 911 GT3 RS, or Lamborghini Huracan Spyder before taking off for the hills. 

16. Embark on a city scavenger hunt.

Whether it’s a hunt that you plan on your own, or go on an app-led walking tour treasure hunt, one thing is certain: when it comes to outrageous birthday ideas in NYC, this one absolutely takes the cake! With Manhattan’s infinite maze of sidewalks and subways to utilize, a hunt like this will go down in history.

creative NYC birthday ideas

Pro tip: Make your birthday scavenger hunt extra fun with this app-led Zombie Hunt! Using your smartphone, you’ll wander through the city in search of food, supplies, and shelter. The more items you find, the more points you’ll get, and the more likely you’ll survive the zombie apocalypse! 

17. Tantalize the taste buds.

For many folks, the way to the heart is via the stomach. So relish some l-o-v-e with unique things to do in NYC for a birthday like food tours or culinary classes! Hear fun facts about NYC neighborhoods as you sip and sample along the way. Or learn the art and science behind fascinating food/drink hobbies like chocolate- or beer-making, straight from experts in the field.

unique things to do in NYC for birthday party

Pro tip: Got a sweet tooth? Well, lucky for you birthdays were made to treat yourself! And nothing satisfies a birthday sweet tooth quite like this Downtown Donut Tour! You’ll sample heavenly pastries from four of NYC’s best bakeries while exploring the Flatiron District, Greenwich Village, and more. 

18. Visit an art gallery. 

If you’re a self-proclaimed art aficionado, then there’s no better way to ring in your new year than with a trip to an art gallery. And lucky for you, the streets of NYC are chock-full of incredible museums and galleries! Some of our favorites include ARTECHOUSE and Fotografiska.

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Pro tip: With so many galleries to choose from, it can be hard to decide on where to start! This online gallery guide has everything you need to explore NYC’s art scene to the fullest. See galleries in Manhattan, Queens, SOHO, Brooklyn, and more!

19. Feel like you're on top of the world (or rock).

At the Top of the Rock Observation Deck, you’ll be treated to 360-degree views of New York City! Your journey to the top begins with a thrilling ride on the Sky Shuttle, one of the world’s fastest elevators. After blasting up 850-feet in less than 60 seconds, you’ll be rewarded with some of the best views in all of NYC!

unique birthday gift ideas NYC

Pro tip: While the Top of the Rock Observation Deck can be enjoyed at any time of the day, it’s especially magical at sunset! Just imagine standing above the city and watching the sky turn vibrant shades of orange, yellow, and pink. What a perfect way to end your birthday!

20. Relax in a spa. 

Another trip around the sun, another year of successes, hardships, and challenges. Celebrate your growth with a well-deserved spa day! Whether you choose a relaxing massage or something simple like a Tibetan foot soak, you’ll be ready to take on your new year!

Pro tip: For one of the most relaxing spa experiences in all of NYC, don’t miss this Salt Cave Therapy Session! Featuring Himalayan salt walls, soothing lights, and a beautiful, starlit ceiling, you’ll feel like you’re relaxing in your own mesmerizing oasis.

Where to Stay for Your Birthday in NYC

Whether you’re looking to stay someplace ritzy, or you love historic hotels with a story, here’s our top 5 places to stay in NYC for your birthday!

1. The Peninsula New York

Hotel Perks: Located in the heart of NYC (Midtown Manhattan), luxurious accommodations

If you’re looking to stay within walking distance of all the iconic NYC attractions, then the Peninsula New York should be at the top of your list! This luxurious hotel is centrally located, features a chic rooftop bar, a five-star spa, stunning rooms, and so much more! 

creative birthday ideas

2. The Plaza

Hotel Perks: Overlooks Central Park, incredible history (first opened in 1907), famous film location

We think it’s safe to say that the view from the Plaza Hotel is one of the best in New York! This historic hotel sits right next to Central Park and has been featured in several films including “The Way We Were” and “Sleepless in Seattle.” It’s also located within walking distance of some of the city’s best restaurants and bars!

3. Conrad Hotel Downtown NYC

Hotel Perks: Close to the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty, modern vibes, on-site wine bar, and an iconic rooftop bar overlooking the Hudson. 

Imagine sipping on a cup of espresso while overlooking the sparkling Hudson River. You can experience just that (and so much more) at the Conrad New York Downtown Hotel! For a truly unforgettable birthday, don’t miss the hotel’s rooftop bar. Say cheers and ring in your new year in style! 

New York City

4. The William Vale

Hotel Perks: Floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the East River and Brooklyn, open-air balconies, and an unbelievable rooftop swimming pool.

If you’re looking to escape NYC’s crowds of tourists, then don’t miss the William Vale Hotel. Located in Williamsburg, this fabulous hotel offers easy access to the neighborhood’s restaurants, bars, and galleries. Plus, you’ll feel like you’re on top of the world as you take a dip in the luxurious rooftop pool!

5. The Hotel Chelsea

Hotel Perks: Rich history, unique architecture, centrally located, luxurious rainfall showers, and a spooky past. 

If staying at a haunted hotel is on your bucket list, then the Hotel Chelsea is sure to satisfy your inner ghost hunter. This gorgeous hotel was built between 1883 and 1885 and is famous for its red-brick exterior and Victorian ‘dollhouse’ rooms. Rumor has it that several spirits wander its historic halls. For a spooky stay, consider staying in room 124 or anywhere on the fifth floor…if you dare!

The unique birthday ideas in NYC don’t stop there!
For more fun outings that double both as great gifts and fun party plans,
take a peek at the
birthday experiences in New York from Virgin Experience Gifts.

things to do in NYC