Turning 50 is a golden opportunity to gather people close to you, cut loose, and commemorate a life well-lived. But you may ask yourself, “What can I do for this one that sets it apart from other birthday parties that came before it?” That’s easy to answer: NYC, with its electric atmosphere and endless possibilities of fun things to do, is the perfect place to usher in your five-oh in style!
There is a lot to planning a 50th birthday party in New York. And since it’s a lot to unpack, we’ve done most of the heavy lifting for you with this guide. So, get ready to take your pick of events from our list of 20 unique 50th birthday party ideas in NYC.
Fun Things to Do in NYC for Your 50th Birthday
Get ready to get on the train to funsville! The following 10 suggestions will let you dance the night away at a retro club, set sail on a harbor tour with friends, or have an intimate date night at some of the sweetest places in New York City. There’s something fun for you and your birthday guests to enjoy on this list, so choose whatever best suits your interest.
1. Shake Your Groove Thing at a NYC Retro Club
Whether you “Should be Dancing” to the Bee Gees under the disco ball or getting down to "Groove is in the Heart'' by Deee-lite, RETROCLUBNYC is the place to be. This club caters to a mature crowd, and it’s one of the hottest spots in New York to relive the glory days of the 70s, 80s, and 90s.
Rent the club’s VIP table for bottle service, throw-back cocktails, and a dedicated area where you can sit back and enjoy the music you grew up with. Encourage your invitees to come dressed in retro outfits and their boogie shoes to elevate the sense of nostalgia.
2. Cruise into Your 50s with a NYC Harbor Tour
One of the best ways to celebrate your 50th birthday is on a boat on the Hudson River. And you can make that experience a reality for you and your guests with New York Harbor Tour’s Birthday Party Boat Tours. Breathtaking sights you’ll see on the tour include the NYC skyline, the Statue of Liberty, all of the city’s famed bridges, the Cloisters, and more.
You and up to five other passengers can take to the seas on their USCG-licensed boat The Tireless. Their 16-passenger Yacht, the Reliance. This boat is big enough for larger birthday gatherings and dinners.
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3. Host a Game and Trivia Night Event
Does an evening playing trivia and board games sound like one of the most fun things to do for a 50th birthday? If so, celebrate yours by hosting a game night or triva night event at Porchlight. Boasting a fully-equipped game room, a great atmosphere, and a wide selection of drinks, it’s the place to gather your gamer friends and test your knowledge.
From vintage board games to trivia quizzes to darts and playing cards, fun-minded folks will have a great time here. Porchlight requires a $1500 minimum for food and drink, but everything from their elevated Southern bites to their NOLA- and Asian-inspired dishes helps make your game night a 50th celebration for the books!
4. Have a Catered Picnic Spread at Central Park
Central Park arguably is the best of NYC’s plentiful parks, and it has the most to offer. It’s also a fantastic place to enjoy a picnic for your 50th birthday. For a carefree al fresco event, skip the stress of packing the picnic basket or organizing a potluck and let a catering company prepare the food.
For instance, NYC catering company Eden Gourmet offers picnic menu items with all the delectable trimmings in Central Park West. Their customized menus feature light sandwiches, fresh salads, sophisticated plates, and piping-hot dishes. Once you are done picnicking, everyone can dust off their picnic blankets and stroll around to check out the year-round marvelous park views.
5. Attend a New York Symphony Orchestra
For a sophisticated birthday celebration for you and your closest friends, consider attending a New York Symphony orchestra. The Big Apple is home to the best orchestras in the US, and the crown jewel of it all is the Philharmonic Orchestra.
The Philharmonic’s home is in the newly renovated David Geffen Hall which has awe-inspiring acoustics and a bevy of diverse program offerings. You and your group will be delighted with the classical symphonies, contemporary compositions, and special events David Geffen Hall offers. It’s an ideal venue and a good time for all who appreciate the arts!
6. Celebrate 50 with a Romantic Outing
Image for the chococo: https://www.instagram.com/p/C3YCdAZL67m/?img_index=1
Who says you have to have a big group and hoopla to celebrate turning 50? Not us if amóre is in the air. Remember, you are in a city that never sleeps so the sky’s the limit when it comes to planning a romantic evening. So, why not bond over coffee and sweets at a cozy NYC cafe or bakery with your date?
The elegantly decorated Angelina Bakery in Midtown West is a fun idea. It has gourmet coffee and Italian confectionaries that are pure ambrosia. Another option is Bibble & Sip, a dessert shop in Manhattan. Everything from their heart-decorated Matcha Lattes to their cute Honey Bee Cupcakes positively oozes charm and sweetness. Be sure to try their vegan and delectable Chococo on your romantic outing; it’s fashioned into a big chocolate kiss with fillings!
7. Have a 50th “Surf Day” at Rockaway Beach
There is just something about the laid-back vibe of Rockaway Beach that makes it an excellent place to celebrate birthdays. For a hopping 50th birthday idea, Rockaway Beach holds several music festivals and jam sessions when the weather is warm. Therefore, get the group together for a musical birthday beach celebration or clam bake.
If your birthday falls in cooler weather, you can score tickets for the Rockaway Beach Oyster Tour in September instead. The festivities are held at the Smoke & Barrel in Rockaway, “the home of Queens’ best BBQ.” The culinary tour will include juicy oysters on the half-shell, beer, and music. Smoke & Barrel’s regular BBQ menu will be available, so be sure to pair your oysters with barbecued meat plates prepared by amazing pitmaster bob.
8. Have an Intimate Birthday Brunch Jubilee
Gothamites love their brunch, so is it any wonder that New York is rated as the number-one brunch spot in North America? So, natch that you will probably want to do a brunch jubilee if you are a breakfast-lunch food crossover fan.
Dudley’s NYC is a small restaurant on the Lower East Side with a lively atmosphere and a stellar reputation on review sites like Spark New York, EatTravelGo, and Trip Advisor. They built that reputation by serving the best budget-friendly brunch (and all-day food) in New York City. Seriously…where else will you find dishes that good in the $15-20 range? Mouth-watering menu items you’ll want to try include Ricotta Hot Cakes and Smoked Salmon Benedict.
9. Get Away from it All with a Glamping Trip
Most glamping opportunities are found in places outside of New York City such as the Catskills and Finger Lakes. However, you can set up your birthday glamping experience with Collective Retreats on Governor’s Island.
This lovely area of natural settings is close to the city but still far enough away to escape from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan. At Collective Retreats, you can view Lady Liberty from across the harbor from the comfort of your luxurious private tent or shelter. You’ll have modern amenities like bathrooms with hot water, a luxury hot tub, and a large bed to keep you shielded from the stress of roughing it.
10. Go to a Festival in Dumbo, Brooklyn
Dumbo is one of the most visited places in New York City so chances are you’ve probably visited its hotbed of dining, shopping, and recreational activities. For your golden birthday, you can try something different by attending one of Dumbo’s many fantastic events and festivals.
One that stands out if you are a digital native is the Annual Anime Food NYC Festival. The venue features:
Raffles for fantastic prizes
Anime-inspired cuisine
Special guest stars with photo sessions with fans
Special sake & shochu selection
Highly sought-after anime cards
Traditional Japanese Taiko Drum performances
And more!
Although anime is largely a medium favored by Millennials, plenty of Gen Xers adore it, too. On the other hand, if anime is truly not your cup of tea, Dumbo has plenty of music and film festivals to choose from when it’s time for your special birthday.
Unique Ways to Celebrate a 50th Birthday in NYC
The previous list offered 10 fun ways to celebrate your 50th birthday in NYC. Now, get ready to level up with these bolder and bigger bash ideas that feature unique experiences. Don't forget your phone or camera—you'll want to capture these memories and share them for years to come!
11. Create a Celebration Station in a Brownstone
Renting a historic Brownstone is a unique and stylish way to celebrate your 50th birthday in New York City. Companies like Storefront make it easy to reserve a multi-level Brownstone with outdoor space, providing a sophisticated backdrop for your celebration.
The spacious layout of this four-level Brooklyn Brownstone, for example, features a full kitchen and plenty of room for guests to mingle and enjoy themselves, with exposed brick, high ceilings, and elegant woodwork adding to the ambiance.
12. Host a Weekend Luxury Staycation
Celebrate turning 50 with a weekend stay at an opulent NYC penthouse that’s made to spoil you and your lucky guests silly. The Greenwich Hotel offers stunning penthouses in Greenwich, N. Moore, and TriBeCa, each featuring lavish amenities to make your stay unforgettable.
For a truly unique and rejuvenating experience, consider the Greenwich penthouse. It features the Shibui Spa, named one of Vogue's five best spas in New York City. The decor of Shibui Spa is fashioned after onsen (温泉), the popular natural hot springs in Japan. During your stay, don’t miss a chance to swim a few laps in their beautiful and spacious heated pool.
13. Get Up Close & Personal with Artists
Explore the vibrant world of New York City art as shown by a contemporary artist with a unique guided studio tour. You'll get to meet local artists, visit their private studios, and even purchase pieces directly from them. This one-of-a-kind experience is perfect for art enthusiasts who want to go beyond galleries and museums and experience the art scene firsthand.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off (if selected), light refreshments, and a catered reception. You'll also have the opportunity to purchase artwork directly from the artists. The tour is available in English, Spanish, or Portuguese and can be upgraded to a private experience.
14. Enjoy a Birthday Blowout from High Up
There’s no shortage of places to have your birthday soiree in the city that never sleeps. For one with breathtaking sky views, Upstairs NYC has a versatile rooftop lounge, located 30 stories above Manhattan. The venue offers unparalleled views of the iconic Chrysler Building and can accommodate up to 200 guests.
For an added twist, join the Tipsy Scoop Ice Cream Social on Rory's Rooftop on Saturday, August 10th. This sweet event in the Meatpacking District features boozy ice cream by Tipsy Scoop, including their signature flavor – Rory's Vodka Cotton Candy. Can’t make it August 10? Don’t fret since you can simply head over to Tipsy Scoops Creamery in Manhattan. There, they’ll treat you to ice cream flavors infused with bourbon, vodka, rum, and more with gorgeous toppings to boot!
15. Throw a Swingin’ Party at a Mini Golf Course
Make your next event fabulous with a miniature golf outing at Puttery NYC. This isn't your average mini-golf course; it's a 21+ entertainment experience with two uniquely themed courses, including an inside Alpine ski lodge, four bars, and a lively atmosphere.
Whether you choose to play one round for $25 or go all out with two rounds for $40, Puttery NYC offers a fun and exciting way to immerse yourself in an exciting time. special day. Puttery NYC offers a fun and exciting way to celebrate your special day. The delicious food and cocktails, along with the friendly and attentive staff will make sure your 50th birthday is epic.
16. Dine at Michelin Rated Restaurant Foxface Natural
The Michelin Guide just added several new restaurants to its roster. One of them that’s definitely worth your 50th birthday party presence is Foxface Natural, a culinary oasis specializing in creative cuisine in the East Village neighborhood of Manhattan. Executive Chef David Santos, known for his innovative and bold flavors built on his Portuguese heritage, has created a menu for Foxface that will tantalize any foodie’s taste buds.
Start with appetizers like the kangaroo tartare, featuring warm spices, coriander carrot purée, and Sardinian flatbread. Then, indulge in unique and mouthwatering dishes such as BBQ Boer goat that's smoked low and slow, with polenta beignets to sop up all the juicy goodness. Your dinner guests will be talking about the experience for ages!
17. Get Ready for a Night on the Town
This year, you and your best friends can head to a Manhattan nail salon to ready everyone for some night time birthday party revelry. After all, having energy and looking your best is an absolute must for painting the town red!
With over 200 Google reviews and an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, Yukie Natori Nail Salon is a popular choice known for its well-trained and friendly staff. Their Spa Energizer package is an excellent way to prep for your fun night out and includes:
Seaweed Exfoliating Body Scrub – Full-body exfoliation for soft, refreshed skin soft and refreshed.
Swedish Massage – Eases tension and promotes circulation.
Rejuvenating Facial – Customized facial to cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate.
Green Tea or Honey & Milk Spa Manicure – Luxurious hand treatment with a soothing soak, nail shaping, cuticle care, and a hydrating mask.
Shampoo & Blow Dry – Professional styling for a glamorous hairstyle.
Complimentary Treats – It’s not a birthday without a bottle of bubbly. You get that along with free chocolates to enjoy while you're pampered.
18. Dine and Drink at a Historic Speakeasy
There are many speakeasies in New York City that you can take your pick for a 50th birthday party. But for one that will certainly impress your guests, try Great Jones in East Village. The prohibition holdover is purported to be a rum runner’s tunnel when alcohol was illegal. Great Jones continues the alcohol trade with an on-site distillery—all legal now, of course.
Your party will take place in their secret tasting room, where you can enjoy a variety of paired dishes sourced from locally sourced ingredients. Add to that experience elevated cocktails made with their house-distilled bourbons and whiskeys, and you’re sure to have a cheerful get-together everyone will remember.
19. Have an Adult Cooking Party in Chelsea
If you are wondering what to do for your 50th birthday, a culinary adventure at Tastebud's Kitchen in Chelsea may be the perfect recipe. For you and friends that love to cook, an adult cooking party is a fun and interactive way to bond with everyone while learning new skills.
Tastebud's Kitchen offers a range of delicious menus to choose from, whether you're craving Fresh Handmade Pasta, Sushi & Dumplings, or something more adventurous like Rockin' Moroccan. Their expert chef instructors will guide you through the cooking process, and you'll get to enjoy the fruits of your labor by eating what you create.
20. Rent a VIP Suite at Madison Square Garden
Madison Square Garden never disappoints, and seeing a game from a VIP box or suite is a dream come true for many sports fans. So, why not make your dream come true by renting a VIP suite in this fantastic arena? While the cost of a VIP suite can be off putting, it's worth it for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration. You only turn 50 once, so why not splurge on an unforgettable experience?
However, if a VIP suite is outside your budget, you can still have a fantastic time by getting regular seats. Even if you're not in a VIP suite, the energy and excitement of the game are still awesome, and you'll be surrounded by cheering fans.
We hope you enjoyed our round-up of fun and unique things to do for a 50th birthday. If you’d like to hold your celebration event on New York Harbor Tours, contact us at 718-230-0136 for a private time on the gorgeous waters that you won’t soon forget. During your time with us, we can also recommend more exciting things to do for a 50th birthday in NYC.
FAQs
Where can I take someone for their 50th birthday?
New York City is a playground of possibilities to have a 50th birthday event. The most successful ones will be fun, unique, and considerate of everyone’s interests.
How do you make a unique birthday party?
For the best results, don’t do the first ideas that come up on Google, page 1, or are tourist trap activities. The odds are that you and your friends have been there and done that. Up the ante by surveying your guests about places and activities they’ve always wanted to try but never have. Then, plan your birthday party around that.
What do you call a 50th birthday party?
It is also known as golden jubilee year, and it represents a milestone that should be celebrated and treasured.
What is traditional for a 50th birthday?
Traditionally, a 50th celebration deserves extra thought when looking for a 50th birthday party and gift ideas and gold is typically the theme. If you and your guest take a humorous approach and are sure no one minds, then black and gray can be used instead of gold for an “over the hill”-themed party.
How do you plan a 50th surprise party?
If you mean planning a surprise birthday party where the guest of honor doesn’t find out, just be careful that everyone going doesn’t let anything slip by their words and actions. A look on someone’s face says volumes and can answer questions better than speech sometimes.
As far as a surprise birthday party that involves leading the birthday person to a dark room where the lights are turned on and everyone yells surprise and makes a ton of loud noises, just don’t. It’s very jarring and not everyone likes it. Alternatively, the host can tell the birthday person what’s going on, and they can act surprised when the lights come on.