Sometimes it’s so much work getting out of the house, you forget to plan something to do once you escape! Have no fear: These special Cincinnati gems will turn your date night into a life-long memory that will remind you why you fell in love.
Here are 9 Date Night Ideas in Cincinnati:
Traditional with a Twist
These creative locations put a Cincinnati touch on the classic date night dinner and a movie.
Esquire Theater
320 Ludlow Ave. | esquiretheatre.com
This art deco theater, nestled in the charming Gaslight District of Clifton, brings in blockbuster hits, indie films and classic movies you’ve always dreamed of seeing on the big screen. Afterwards, stroll hand in hand to the nearby Graeter’s to have a grown-up discussion of the film over ice cream.
O Pie O
1527 Madison Rd. | opieo.com
Looking for an excuse to say “perfectly laminated crust”? Though the dessert pies (including the unique honey and vinegar pie) are delectable, there are quiche, empanadas and other savory options. This historic East Walnut Hills bar and restaurant has a cozy outdoor seating space. If you want to treat the kids, pick up a pie to bring home.
Senate
1212 Vine St. | senatepub.com
You had me at “haute hot dogs.” This OTR restaurant has a top-notch ribeye on the menu, but feel free to go for the Trailer Park hot dog — who can resist those Grippos chips crumbled on top? This restaurant can be crowded, but use the wait time to window shop and work up your appetite!
Make the Kids Jealous
Enjoy grown-up time at a traditional family venue with more wine and less whining.
Cincinnati Zoo
3400 Vine St. | cincinnatizoo.org
Obviously, you want to cuddle your sweetie on your date night, but you could also cuddle a wallaby! The zoo hosts adult-only events throughout the year, including Zoo La La and the Toast to the Wild series. In July, the zoo will stay open until 8 pm on Twilight Tuesdays.
Cincinnati Museum Center
1302 Western Ave. | cincymuseum.org
Play like a kid again at the fun 21+ Curiocity series at Cincinnati Museum Center. These after-hours parties allow you to enjoy the newly renovated museum without the giant diaper bag in tow.
Learn Something New
You spend enough time driving your kids to lessons; it’s your turn!
Topgolf
9568 Water Front Dr., West Chester | topgolf.com/us/west-chester
This West Chester golf mecca is a blast, even if you if you have no idea what you’re doing. Reserve a bay to play a game with friends or perfect your swing with in-depth lessons.
Brazee Street Studios
4426 Brazee St. | brazeestreetstudios.com
This fun art form requires no previous experience; you can keep it simple or get elaborate, decorating a custom fused glass piece of art.
Queen City Clay
3130 Wasson Rd. | queencityclay.com
Pottery can be romantic — just ask Patrick Swayze! This Hyde Park studio offers a variety of options for beginners, including learning the pottery wheel or simply painting a pre-made piece of your choice.
On a Budget
Memories that last a lifetime don’t have to be expensive!
Free Concerts at Washington Park
1230 Elm St. | washingtonpark.org/series/roots-revival-2
Thursday and Friday nights this summer, Washington Park is hosting free outdoor concerts featuring bluegrass and R&B music starting at 7 pm. Sample local brewery offerings at the park concession area, and bring a picnic or stroll to dinner at one of the many great restaurants in the area.