
Love is always in the (snowy) air here in Chicago! Whether you’re trying to impress someone on a first date, feel like discovering some street art together or treating your partner to a fun night out, there are always so many things to do in Chicago for couples!
From intimate museum exhibits to a fine dining experience, these date ideas are sure to ignite your passion for one another and just might cement your love with Chicago. So, check out these essential date ideas for a romantic night out!
1. Go on a culinary adventure at Dining in the Dark
If you and your other half enjoy trying new things, why not experience Dining in the Dark? The tantalizing event features an exclusive three-course meal, dimmed lighting, a blindfold, and plenty of laughs. Let go of your inhibitions for 90 minutes and discover the true potential of your taste buds at a fine Chicago restaurant.
2. Walk hand in hand at one of these extraordinary exhibits
From walking through a selection of photographs shot by the influential Steve Mc Curry to gazing at six larger-than-life busts at the Hellenic Heads: George Petrides, there is nothing more romantic than sharing a love of art with someone. Check out these exhibits with your partner for a unique night out.
3. Explore a new restaurant
From spicy Mexican to aromatic Indian, it seems like there are infinite restaurants in Chicago to eat at with your partner. However, if you’re looking for some extra spectacular, we’ve narrowed down the Chicago dining scene. Spend the evening impressing your partner at one of the hottest new restaurants in Chicago.
4. Attend a Candlelight concert
It doesn’t get much more romantic than sitting inside a stunning venue surrounded by the warm glow of countless candles and listening to soothing melodies. The Candlelight series invites you and a special someone to attend a candlelit performance inspired by some of the greatest music of all time. From tributes to the likes of Taylor Swift and Beyonce to more classical celebrations of great composers, there’s something for every kind of music lover.
5. Relive a love story at Titanic: The Exhibition
As well as immersing yourself in the tragic history of the luxury passenger liner, channel your inner Jack and Rose Dawson while visiting Titanic: The Exhibition. You’ll receive your very own boarding passes, get to see over 300 artifacts, walk along recreations of the ship’s dock, and more. Don’t miss out on this unique experience bringing to life a story that continues to grasp our hearts even today.
6. Spice things up with a fiery tango show
Music, dance and Argentine magic fuse together at the magnificent We Call It Tango experience. Passion fills the air when tango dancers twist and twirl to the sounds of a live pianist and violinist. The show tells a story of love and lust, transporting spectators to the dance halls of Buenos Aires where romance and sensuality come hand in hand, so you don’t want to miss out.
7. Unwind at Drunk Shakespeare Chicago!
Whether you’ve read some of his plays or poured over his sonnets, discover this Shakespeare-inspired experience in Chicago. The Bard certainly covered the theme of love, so watch it being brought to life in an entirely new way as daring actors come together in a hidden library. At Drunk Shakespeare, the question is more along the lines of “to beer…or not to beer?”
8. Sip and Neon Brush
If you are more of an artistic couple, now you can experience a different painting workshop where classic meets fluorescent! An artist will guide you through creating your masterpiece, all while enjoying drinks available for purchase. Join the fun in a retro-futuristic ambiance with black lights and groovy tunes in Neon Brush. And you can leave with your glowing creation to proudly display at home!
9. Sip drinks at an elegant lounge
Impress your partner at the Violet Hour, this swanky cocktail lounge. Located in the heart of Wicker Park, The Violet Hour has a James Beard Award-winning bar program featuring a seasonally rotating cocktail list of pre-prohibition style libations.
However, it might be hard to find, as its entrance is blended with a rotating mural. Ensure you know how to get in before taking your partner there!
10. Jam to live music
This remains one of the best things to do in Chicago for couples. Swing to world-renowned Blues in Chicago. Blue Chicago is one of the best spots to hear authentic Chicago Blues in a warm and vibrant atmosphere.
Since 1985, they have been casting spells on patrons who walk in because all the musicians they have are extremely captivating. With high-energy performances, whether it’s a Monday or a Saturday, Blue Chicago will never disappoint a date night out.
11. Swing a club at Big Mini Putt Club
No matter the time of year—this is the perfect couple’s night out. From wall-to-wall garage windows for fresh air and natural light during the warmer months to a heated interior for the more snowy days, the Big Mini Putt club is the extracurricular of our dreams.
You can also pair the friendly competition with some drinks because the bar features 12 carefully curated draft beers on tap, mixed drinks, wine on draft, and happy hour specials.
12. Enjoy a concert for a spectacular night out
Chicago has one of the liveliest music scenes you want to participate in. Whether you’re into R&B, Rap, Indie Rock, or Pop, there is a stream of artists coming to perform. With venues ranging from intimate dive bars to the United Center, there’s no shortage of concerts in Chicago, so catch one on a date night out.
13. Split popcorn at a movie
Spend a romantic evening at this historic neighborhood theater. The Logan Theatre was built in 1915 and has been an iconic local landmark ever since. You can also discover these cinema tickets that are valid at any Regal Cinemas location in the United States if you’re looking for convenience. Use the discounted cinema pass to watch the latest blockbuster and more.
14. Head to a sports game
Whether you’re cheering on the Bulls or the Blackhawks, heading to the United Center is one of the quintessential things to do in Chicago for couples. Grab a pint of beer, and if you’re feeling extra ecstatic, a foam finger, have the time of your life.
15. Share a pasta at one of these Italian restaurants
While we all envision a vacation on the Italian Riviera, most of us don’t have the funds for sipping wine along the rugged cliffs of Cinque Terre. However, it shouldn’t curb your high expectations regarding Italian cuisine. Impress your partner with mind-blowing pasta and pizza at one of the best Italian restaurants in Chicago.