Turning forty years old represents an amazing milestone in your life. That said, it’s time to dial up your NYC celebration a few notches this year.  So, what's someone to do if they’re in The Big Apple and want something different this time for their birthday party event? Why…mix things up for your 40th birthday with one or more of these unique birthday party ideas in New York City, of course!

Unique 40th Birthday Ideas in NYC

We’ve put together a list of venues and activities for unforgettable celebrations, and you’ll find pretty much something for everyone here. From private events at iconic locations to immersive experiences that will transport you and your guests to another world, each option offers a special way to mark this milestone birthday.

1. Enjoy a Private Event at the Museum of Broadway

Broadway is always at the forefront of must-see NYC events. But how many people can claim they have been to The Museum on Broadway? To be sure, not many probably have. There, you get to walk and learn more about Broadway's history and how it pushed social norms when it came to be in 1732. Purveyors of Broadway will appreciate the exclusive access to exhibits and spaces that celebrate the vibrant legacy of the theater. The Museum offers room rentals for private events for you and your entertainment-minded 40th birthday guests.

2. Celebrate on a Private Birthday Party Boat Cruise

You’ve probably experienced sightseeing in The Big Apple more times than you can count. However, likely haven’t seen the sights of NYC from the water. New York Harbor Tours has a special private Birthday Party Boat Tour you can book for up to 16 guests. The cruise has a bring your own beer and wine policy, so bring some along with some party snacks for fun times. You’ll take away memories of the Statue of Liberty, the Manhattan Bridge, Ellis Island, and so much more. It’s a perfect way to ring in the big Four-Oh! 

3. Host a Queen’s Ball at The Midtown Loft & Terrace

If you love classical romance, you can throw a Bridgerton-style Queen’s Ball at the Midtown Loft & Terrace. It may work even better if one of your group is looking for romance. If so, pretend you are Queen Charlotte and debut your socialite “diamond” of the season as they do on the hit Netflix show. Don’t forget the flowers, lemonade, and bon bon towers that will make your unique birthday ball a successful event. Powdered wigs, elegant clothes, and curtsies to the queen can make it even posher!

4. Take a Gamble on Resorts World of Winning NYC

If you’re turning 40 and are a fan of gaming and entertainment, grab your friends and book spacious suites and rooms at the Hyatt Regency JFK Airport at Resorts World New York for a birthday party extravaganza filled with fine dining and gaming. Located in Queens, the hotel & resort boasts thousands of slot machines and electronic table games. There are several dining options onsite, including fine dining and cocktails at RW Prime to fast-casual at the hotel’s Grab & Go when you need to hit the slots.

5. Have a Book Reading at a Gothic Wine Cellar

The king of Gothic literature, Edgar Allan Poe, passed away too soon at 40, so why not commemorate his genius while celebrating your 40th milestone at this centuries-old wine cellar? This underground room at the NoHo Italian restaurant Il Buco, is rumored to have inspired Poe’s "The Cask of Amontillado." Book the entire cellar and celebrate both your milestone and the enigmatic writer's legacy. Enhance the experience with readings from other Gothic authors like Mary Shelley, Bram Stoker, and H.P. Lovecraft.

6. Rent a Brownstone for an Intimate Party

New York City is known for its charming and bright brownstones peppered in neighborhoods like Harlem and Brooklyn. Plus, these building are one of the best places to have a 40th birthday party. You can rent one of them from places like Giggster, Peerspace, and Storefront. Many of them come fully furnished for guests’ seating, along with amenities for catering and cooking. Hosting your party in a brownstone allows you to create a uniquely personal theme you won’t find in a typical event hall, transforming the space into anything from a vintage speakeasy to a modern art gallery. 

7. Have a Potluck and Barbeque Bash in a NYC Park

NYC parks offer a fun and scenic way to bring everyone together for birthday fun. Alley Pond Park in Queens, with its nature trails, fields, lush greenery, ponds, and beautiful waterfowl is one of the best of the bunch. It has barbecue grills and picnic tables for sitting. Ask invitees to bring a dish, drinks or dessert for al fresco dining. Another place to fire up the grill is Fort Washington Park at Washington Heights. The park holds the distinction of being home to New York City’s only lighthouse, the Little Red Lighthouse.

8. Spice Your Party Up at a Hot Sauce Expo

Number 8 on the list is not for the faint of heart! New York City has many hot sauce events and expositions throughout the year, offering the perfect backdrop for a fiery 40th birthday celebration. Among these, the the annual NYC Hot Sauce Expo reigns supreme, featuring some of the finest hot sauce companies from the US and Canada. The expo offers complete access to free tastings and the infamous Stage of Doom. Pair your spicy samples with a selection of craft beers and specialty cocktails. For an even hotter experience, consider renting the Ultimate VIP Package, which includes:

• All-Access Backstage Pass: Gain exclusive entry to the VIP area.

• Open Bar: Enjoy unlimited cocktails, craft beers, and spirit tastings.

• Limited Edition Expo Poster: Take home a unique souvenir.

• Bottle of Hot Sauce: Get a bottle of premium hot sauce.

• VIP Gift Bag: Filled with goodies from sponsors.

9. Attend a Pool or Snooker Tournament 

If pool or snooker gets you energized, then why not attend one of the many different tournaments in NYC? Head to the Gotham City Billiards Club or Space Billiard Pool Hall & Sports Bar to check out all the action. Watch as the masters use their “English” skills and do other tricks to bend the cue ball to their will. Getting to see some of the local area’s best players in action is guaranteed to make your birthday one for the books. Once the tournament ends, you grab a cue yourself, rack up, break, and try to imitate some of the billiard expert’s best shots!   

10. Catch a Knicks Game at Madison Square Garden

Commemorate your 40th by cheering at a Knicks game and "The World's Most Famous Arena," Madison Square Garden. Take your sports-minded friends and join the excitement. After all, this is where unforgettable memories and history are made with every hoop. Afterward, explore the storied history of basketball in New York City with a dedicated tour, visiting iconic sites like Rucker Park, the 4th Street Cages, and Madison Square Garden itself. Finish the day at Brooklyn Bridge Park, where you might even get a chance to shoot some hoops.

11. Sip Cocktails by the Pool at a Rooftop Loft

Celebrate your big day at the Gansevoort Hotel’s rooftop in the Meatpacking District. Featuring an iconic pool with breathtaking Hudson River and city views, this rooftop loft is ideal for anything from dancing to savoring an aperitivo by sunset before dining. Enjoy signature cocktails like the Espresso Martini, featuring Grey Goose Vanilla and Caffè Borghetti, or savor a Margarita with Volcan Di Mi Tierra Reposado and Black Salt. The menu also offers vintage champagnes like Dom Pérignon 2013 and Krug Grande Cuvée, along with coastal European dishes and fresh, light bites.

12. Go on an Expert Guided Manhattan Chinatown Food Crawl in Chinatown

Chinatown in Manhattan, NYC, is home to some of the most authentic and delicious Chinese food in the world. This year, take your birthday guests on a special culinary journey to experience the best off-the-beaten-path eateries the bustling area offers. Bring your appetite, as the crawl treats you to tasty dishes like savory scallion pancakes, thick & juicy dumplings, baked BBQ buns, and much, much more! During the tour, neighborhood expert Mike Morgenthal will share the fascinating history of NYC's Chinatown, making your adventure even more special.

13. Got to an Electrifying Central Park Music Festival

A music festival at scenic Central Park is a prime location for live entertainment and a perfect way to mark your 40th with a group or a few special friends. These outdoor festivals often feature a bevy of big-name artists and emerging talents, providing an electrifying and diverse musical experience. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, surrounded by the park's iconic scenery and enthusiastic crowds. Many festivals also support charitable causes, making your celebration meaningful and memorable.

14. All Aboard! Take a Wine Bus Tour

Whether you are team vino or team brewski, consider celebrating turning 40 grown-up style with the fun and lively Little Wine Bus Tour. Departing from Midtown Manhattan to explore the scenic Hudson Valley, The Little Wine Bus Tour offers weekend wine tours to multiple Hudson Valley wineries filled with fun activities and unique sights. Do you and your group like beer more? If that’s the case, The Little Beer Bus Tour takes you to three breweries, distilleries, and hops farms along the historic Hudson Valley Beer Trail. Can’t decide? Make it an entire weekend event, and spend Friday and Saturday partying on both tours for hours with your guests.

15. Jump & Climb in Soho’s Newest Immersive Experience

After exploring all the adult-themed options for a 40th birthday on this list, it’s time for an activity that unleashes your inner child. That would be INTER_, Soho's interactive art center’s latest exhibit, "The INTERnet." This massive rope maze is reminiscent of childhood bounce houses and playhouse nets. It features 80,000 feet of handwoven parachute cords and offers playful "settings" like the mid-air "quantum leap" and serene "social network." Capable of supporting the weight of an adult African elephant, this unique 400-square-foot installation accommodates 15 adventurers at a time. Your guests will be thrilled at jumping inside, climbing, and relaxing in a secure yet thrilling environment.

FAQs

Where is the best place to spend your 40th birthday?

Going on a party boat cruise from New York Harbor Tours is a unique and fun way to celebrate your big day!

How should I celebrate turning 40?

Your 40th birthday is a big one! Celebrate it in NYC by taking a party boat cruise, going to the Museum of Broadway, or having a book reading at a gothic wine cellar.

How do you throw a 40th party on a budget?

Head to one of New York City’s many parks and host a potluck! You might even save enough money to take a party boat cruise from New York Harbor Tours.

How do you throw an epic 40th birthday party?

For an epic 40th birthday party to be epic, it should be memorable and cater to your unique preferences. For an intimate and unforgettable celebration, consider booking a private birthday boat tour with New York Harbor Private Birthday Boat Tours, ideal for groups of up to 16 people. This exclusive experience allows you and your guests to enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline while celebrating on the water.

How to celebrate a birthday?

Your birthday should be a celebration of who you are as a person! If you love sports, pick up Knicks tickets. If you love adventure, book a party boat tour from New York Harbor Tours. Prefer live music? Attend a Central Park music festival.

Where to Have a 40th Birthday Party

We hope you’ve enjoyed this list of NYC 40th birthday ideas! Be sure to contact us if you would like more suggestions for birthday party ideas and about more things to do in “the city that never sleeps.”

Whatever you decide to do, we hope you’ll have a truly memorable and exciting time exploring the Big Apple. There are so many different options that will wow your guests, including taking your party aboard a party boat cruise!

New York Harbor Tours provides the ideal way to see the city. Gather your guests, sit back, and relax as our crew takes you on a magical ride past the best landmarks in the city! Be sure to book your cruise early because our birthday party event cruises fill up fast!