WHY GO: Romantic things to do in New Rochelle NY?? Of course! An outlier among Westchester County NY suburban towns and cities in terms of tourism – New Rochelle was actually a Big Band hotspot in the 1930’s and seems poised to reclaim some of that waterside magic.
Although it doesn’t have the gritty charm of Port Chester, the celebrity cred of Bedford, or the spooky draw of Sleepy Hollow/Tarrytown – all also in Westchester County NY – New Rochelle on Long Island Sound, a mere half-hour train-ride into Manhattan, might be just the ticket for an offbeat romantic escape.
New Rochelle’s revival is more vertical than horizontal (read: new office and residential towers popping up by the week). So, stay far from all the construction zones, and position yourself closest to several waterfront parks at a newly renovated and rebranded boutique hotel. We give you all the details below.
And for those looking for a more far-flung weekend away in NY State, check out our Surprisingly Romantic Getaways in New York roundup.
Romantic Things to do in New Rochelle NY: In NYC’s Backyard
Stay At Hotel NoMa, Trademark Collection by Wyndham
Formerly a Radisson Hotel, the newly branded Hotel NoMa (North of Manhattan) now has the ambiance of a cool upscale boutique, a couple of minutes off I-95 in Westchester County NY.
About 35 minutes by train to Grand Central Station in NYC, less than a ten-mile drive to the venerable Bronx Botanical Garden, and 10+ minutes to Playland Amusement Park, Hotel NoMA makes for a quick overnight – one, apparently “preferred by couples” on at least one ranking/review site.
That’s probably because NoMa has become a popular wedding venue, energized by swarms of partiers and celebrations.
First Impressions of NoMa
The parking lot that surrounds the hotel is large enough to allow all guests and restaurant patrons to park, without having to deal with a valet (although, for now, parking is $5 per night).
The tall, rectangular, brown-windowed building, built in the blasé architectural style of the 1970’s, won’t win any oohs and ahhs from guests. But the interior, renovated in 2022 with a rebranding from Radisson to NoMA, might just elicit a nod of approval.
The lobby is minimalist and sleek, with a small seating area and a couple of friendly reception staff at check in.
The vibe changes significantly at the entrance to on-site restaurant and all-around party place, NoMa Social – where a peek into its somewhat hallucinatory interior (brought to you by an ever-changing video wall) will surely draw you in for a drink or salsa lesson. But, more on that later.
Rooms at Hotel NoMa
Guest room décor is adorable and funky – the opposite of “corporate-boring.” The rooms sport cowhide print chairs, sleek contemporary desks, white duvet covered platform beds with a leather headboard, set against a deeply hued accent wall crisscrossed with triangular trim.
While Hotel NoMA is not on direct waterfront, you can ask for a room with views of Long Island Sound – only half a mile away.
Just FYI: Guests have reported high noise levels, even in upper floor rooms: especially when a boisterous wedding or party is in full swing. This is a suburban (with emphasis on “urban”) property, so you’ll probably hear road noise as well. If this bothers you – bring earplugs.
Drinking And Dining At NoMa Social
As mentioned above, NoMA Social puts you in a mood. That mood depends on a what’s being projected on the very large and long video wall. You could be falling into a humungous martini glass, sitting on a votive-lit patio overlooking a calm sea, or even soaring over the Earth, cities twinkling with light at night.
Although the video wall is a crucial component of NoMa Social’s cool factor, the ambiance, as a whole, is rather chic: from the restaurant table settings to the large and friendly-staffed bar.
Come on a hushed weeknight, or before things rev up on weekends, so you can chitchat without having to scream over the swarms of people who come for themed parties or regular salsa lessons. The Chef whips up a bevy of small bites, so pair a few with a glass of wine, and you’ve got yourself a delectable dinner.
More Things to do in New Rochelle NY Within A Short Walk of Hotel NoMA
Huddle With Your Honey While Watching The Sunrise At A Shoreline Park
Five Islands Park
If you’re staying at Hotel NoMa and are an early riser with itchy feet, take a 15-20 minute walk (less than a mile) on a crisp morning to Five Islands Park. You’ll most likely bump into dogs and their humans strolling across two pedestrian bridges that link several tiny islands together.
On the farthest island, have a seat on one of the benches and watch the sun come up over Long Island Sound. Or – get there in late afternoon for the “Magic Hour.” From here, you’ll get a great view of downtown New Rochelle and its ever-growing skyline.
Hudson Park and Beach
Alternately, you can walk from Hotel NoMa to Hudson Park and Beach – “beach” being a stretch, as it’s tiny. The main features at this mostly grassy 10-acre park are its playground, bandstand, and the adjacent New Rochelle Municipal Marina, with boat owners so die-hard, they keep their vessels at the ready far into Fall.
Glen Island Park
You’ll have to drive about 3 miles to Glen Island Park – the largest of the three County Parks in New Rochelle – with the second largest Long Island Sound beach in the Westchester County Park system. (The first is at Playland, in Rye).
This pretty island was once the place to see and be seen, when orchestras, led by the likes of Glen Miller and Tommy Dorsey – among others – played at the Glen Island Casino, built in 1929. In fact, during the 1930’s and 40’s the Glen Island Casino was the preeminent venue for Big Bands on the East Coast. Back then, the park featured a zoo and beer garden as well.
You can walk the perimeter of the park on paved paths, stop into the former Casino – now the Glen Island Harbor Club; check out the ruins of a Rhineland-style castle (the former beer garden); or sit with your love on a park bench and just be.
Tour A Founding Father’s Cottage – Thomas Paine
“These are the times that try mens’ souls.” Thus wrote, Thomas Paine, the U.S. Founding Father credited with changing the American Revolution, through his pamphlet, Common Sense, from a revolt against British taxation to a fight for Independence. In 1784, New York State rewarded Paine with 277 acres of land in New Rochelle NY. He moved into what is now the Thomas Paine Cottage after nearly 20 years in Britain and France, and received a less than friendly welcome (having criticized George Washington in his latest essays). The drama surrounding Paine’s two plus years in New Rochelle would not be out of place in these crazy times. As of late 2023, tours have been suspended pending restoration of the cottage interior. Consult website for openings.)
Learn To Sail at Port Sailing School
Located at the New Rochelle Municipal Marina (adjacent to Hudson Park), the Port Sailing School teach adults the rudiments of sailing a 23 ft boat over three days. These protected, island-dappled waters are the perfect place to “get your feet wet” as a sailor.
(I learned to sail nearby – in the same waters – as a kid, so I know of which I speak).
Port Sailing School is open from mid-May to mid-October. So if you visit New Rochelle during those months, and have only a day free – you can always arrange a private lesson through the school.
Go Fishing
Do you and your main squeeze like to squeeze in a bit of time for some fishing? Long Island Sound is just full of these future chunks of sushi. So catch some Porgies, Bass, Blues, and more on a Sound Bound Fishing Fleet Charter. Sound Bound is Westchester’s #1 fishing fleet, with experts who know where to find what’s running. You’ll get your money’s worth for sure. Operates out of Neptune Park.
Take An Archery, Paddleboard, or Kayaking Class With LL Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs at Five Islands Park
There are only two locations in New York State where LL Bean runs its Outdoor Discovery Program and one is right in New Rochelle at Five Islands Park. (There are only 11 locations in total throughout the USA).
In addition to providing classes in archery, paddle-boarding, and kayaking – LL Bean also runs guided kayaking tours around Five Islands Park. For the most romantic excursion – sign up for a Sunset Kayaking Tour. Most classes and tours run from May or June through September.
More Recreational Opportunities Near Hotel NoMa
It’s half a mile to one of the largest, most diverse, and most challenging indoor rock climbing gyms in New York, the Rock Club. This attraction in New Rochelle draws climbers from Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey, and by virtue of the number of routes and overhangs, and its humungous interior, the experience is just nuts. Alternately, if your kids or grandkids need to burn off some energy – let them go wild at Sky Zone – a mega indoor trampoline park.
Catch A Blockbuster At Regal Cinemas New Roc
In colder seasons or inclement weather – there’s always the movies. Regal New Roc is a couple of blocks from Hotel NoMA – so even when, baby, it’s cold outside, a quick walk will get you to one of the most eagerly anticipated films of your choice.
Raise a Pint At a Local Haunt, CJ Cullens
CJ Cullens is a local tavern, and by its stand-alone status near Hudson Park, a dive bar obviously beloved by patrons. Play some pool, darts, or something on the juke box. The place is textbook neighborhood watering hole, so, if you are looking to tap into some “Old” New Roc culture – do drop in.
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