Fun Things to do With Your Flatmate in New York City: The Ultimate Guide

by iROOMit Team
16 March 2023
6 min read

New York City, a bustling metropolis filled with excitement, adventure, and endless opportunities. Sharing a flat with a flatmate is a common living arrangement in this vibrant city, and what better way to bond with your flatmate than by exploring the city together? Whether you're new to the city or seasoned New Yorkers, this guide will provide a list of fun and unique activities that are perfect for flatmates looking to experience the best that NYC has to offer.

Explore Central Park

Central Park is a massive, sprawling urban oasis that offers a welcome respite from the city's busy streets. Grab your flatmate and spend a day meandering through its picturesque pathways, discovering hidden treasures like the Alice in Wonderland statue, the Bow Bridge, and the Great Lawn. Rent bikes to cover more ground or take a leisurely rowboat ride on the Central Park Lake. The park also hosts free events throughout the year, such as Shakespeare in the Park, outdoor movie screenings, and concerts.

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Visit the American Museum of Natural History

The American Museum of Natural History is a must-visit for anyone living in or visiting New York City. Housing over 32 million specimens, this museum offers a fascinating journey through the natural world, from the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of outer space. With your flatmate, marvel at the life-sized blue whale model, the massive T-Rex, and the intricate dioramas that depict various ecosystems. Don't forget to check out the Hayden Planetarium for a stunning cosmic experience.

Food Tour Through NYC's Culinary Hotspots

New York City is a food lover's paradise, offering cuisine from every corner of the globe. Embark on a culinary adventure with your flatmate by trying new and delicious dishes at popular food markets like Smorgasburg and Chelsea Market. Explore the diverse food scene in neighborhoods like Flushing's Chinatown, the East Village's Little Tokyo, and Arthur Avenue's Little Italy. Remember to save room for dessert and grab a cronut from Dominique Ansel Bakery or a scoop of gelato at Grom.

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Attend a Live Show

NYC is home to some of the world's most iconic performance venues, such as Broadway, Radio City Music Hall, and Carnegie Hall. Treat your flatmate to a show, whether it's a classic Broadway musical, a stand-up comedy act, or an intimate concert at a local jazz club like the Blue Note. There are also plenty of off-Broadway and off-off-Broadway productions that showcase emerging talent and offer a more affordable night out.

Discover the City's Street Art

New York City's streets are adorned with vibrant and thought-provoking murals, making it the perfect canvas for street art enthusiasts. Take your flatmate on a walking tour of neighborhoods like Williamsburg, Bushwick, and the Lower East Side to admire the work of both local and international artists. For a more curated experience, visit the Bushwick Collective, a collection of outdoor murals that transform the neighborhood into a living art gallery.

Escape Room Adventure

Test your problem-solving skills and teamwork by locking yourselves in an escape room. These interactive experiences challenge participants to solve puzzles and riddles in order to "escape" within a set time limit. New York City has numerous escape room venues, each with its own unique themes and challenges. Popular options include Escape the Room NYC, Clue Chase, and The Escape Game.

Attend a Themed Trivia Night

Many bars and restaurants across New York City host weekly themed trivia nights, where teams compete to answer questions on topics ranging from general knowledge to niche pop culture. Find a theme that you and your flatmate are passionate about and join forces to test your collective knowledge. Popular trivia night spots include The Waylon, Videology, and Berry Park. Not only is trivia night a fun way to bond with your flatmate, but it's also a great opportunity to meet new people and make friends.

Rooftop Movie Nights

Enjoy a movie under the stars at one of New York City's rooftop cinemas. These unique venues offer spectacular views of the city skyline while screening a mix of classic films and recent releases. Pack a blanket and some snacks, and cozy up with your flatmate for a memorable movie night. Popular rooftop movie spots include Rooftop Cinema Club, Skyline Drive-In, and The Brooklyn Mirage.

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Take a Dance Class Together

If you and your flatmate love to move and groove, consider taking a dance class together. NYC offers a diverse array of dance styles to choose from, including salsa, tango, hip-hop, and ballet. Dancing is not only a fun way to bond with your flatmate, but it's also a fantastic workout. Check out local studios like Peridance Capezio Center, Ailey Extension, or Broadway Dance Center to find a class that suits your style and skill level.

Visit a Speakeasy

Step back in time to the Prohibition era by visiting one of New York City's hidden speakeasy bars. These secretive establishments often require a password or a discreet entrance, making them all the more exciting to discover with your flatmate. Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails in a unique and intimate setting at speakeasies like Please Don't Tell, The Back Room, and Bathtub Gin.

Experience a Museum Night

Museums in New York City often host special evening events, allowing visitors to explore their exhibits after hours while enjoying live music, performances, and refreshments. Grab your flatmate and attend a museum night at institutions like the MoMA, the Guggenheim, or the Rubin Museum of Art. These events provide a unique and cultured night out, perfect for flatmates looking to experience something new.

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Volunteer Together

Volunteering is a meaningful way to give back to the community and bond with your flatmate. New York City offers countless volunteer opportunities, ranging from helping at local food banks to participating in park cleanups. Research local organizations such as City Harvest, New York Cares, or GrowNYC to find a cause that resonates with both of you and spend a day making a difference together.

Whether you're trying new foods, solving puzzles, or enjoying the city's rich culture, there are endless fun activities to do with your flatmate in New York City. By exploring the city together, you'll create lasting memories and strengthen your bond. So get out there and experience the best that the Big Apple has to offer – it's waiting for you!