There’s no better place to celebrate your birthday than in one of the most exciting and eccentric places in the world: New York City. Sure, you can pop on some paper birthday hats and stand around a cake, but why not do something off-beat and unforgettable? NYC is full of companies and establishments that exist for the sole purpose of bringing joy and unique experiences to people just like you. The following five are perfect ways to spend your or a loved one’s special day.
Best of NYC Off Beat Birthdays: Blue Man Group (NoHo)
The Blue Man Group is a performance art company that combines music and art in stunning shows around the world. Right now, they are promoting a special birthday deal at Astor Place Theatre. If you book a birthday group of ten or more, ticket prices get reduced to $83 for poncho seats or $78 for orchestra and mezzanine seats, and you can add extras to the package like Blue Man themed e-vites, a poster, behind-the-scenes access, and even a birthday message on the giant LED screen before the show. It’s sure to be a once-in-a-lifetime event. 434 Lafayette St., 212-260-8993, blueman.com
Best of NYC Off Beat Birthdays: Escape the Room NYC (Flatiron)
Escape the Room is a high-energy and mentally stimulating puzzle solving experience that’s fun for all ages. They have locations in Midtown and Downtown, where you pick a room to escape (some of the options for themes are The Dig, Clock Tower, The Office, and Theater). You can go with up to six to ten people into the game rooms, and if you let the friendly staff at Escape the Room know that there’s a birthday to be celebrated, they’ll make it top priority to accommodate you and make your time there special. Additional location in the Lower East Side. 24 W. 25th St., 347-954-910, escapetheroomnyc.com
Best of NYC Off Beat Birthdays: Indoor Extreme Sports (Queens)
If you’ve ever wanted to battle zombies, partake in a black ops mission, or simply shoot some paintballs, consider celebrating your birthday at Indoor Extreme Sports. This facility offers a wide variety of laser tag options, archery tag, and escape rooms. For groups, there are Extreme Birthday Packages with extremely good rates, so you and your birthday entourage can enjoy hours of at a reasonable cost. 47-11 Van Dam St., 718-361-9152, indoorextremesports.com
Best of NYC Off Beat Birthdays: Accomplice (SoHo)
Accomplice is an immersive experience that takes you on a non-educational tour through the streets of Manhattan (or Greenwich Village, if you prefer). For $80 a person, and this price includes two drinks and light appetizers, you can explore the city, meet kooky characters, and do some detective work in this interactive performance art piece. It’s a great way to ensure that your birthday is both enjoyable and memorable. accomplicetheshow.com
Best of NYC Off Beat Birthdays: Trapeze School New York (South Village)
On your birthday, you should feel miles high, and the Trapeze School is one sure-fire way to do that. Both small and large parties are welcome to take part in trapeze lessons, and booking a birthday party will guarantee you an uplifting experience that’s customized to you. The outdoor location at Pier 40 in Manhattan is great for summertime birthdays, as you can enjoy the warm city sun as you fly through the air. 353 West St., 212-242-8769, newyork.trapezeschool.com
