Chicago Riverwalk by Tracie Hall (CC BY-SA 2.0)
One can only go on so many dates in form of drinks, dinner, or a movie before they get stale. Plus, in a vibrant city like Chicago, there are much better options, if you’re up for it. There’s a lot of underrating things you can check out in Chicago. Coming up with date ideas that surpass the idea of a traditional date can be challenging, but totally worth it. Here are seven date ideas that will impress your date and make it a rememberable one.
1. Robot Date Night
As far as unique date ideas go, this one might just take the cake. Robot Date Night is an event that takes place after hours at the Robot City Workshop. During the evening, couples get to build single circuit robots together, while also enjoying a few complimentary beers as a robot-themed film plays in the background. There’s also an option of BYOB (bring your own beer) for those interested. This is a great way to do something new and exciting with a date, and it will definitely be a date they will remember, as it’s not every day that you get to build a robot. It costs $25 a person, plus the cost of the robot kits and batteries.
2. Violet Hour
While taking dates to a bar isn’t really a unique idea and is somewhat played out, this wonderful place is one of the exceptions. The Violet Hour is a cocktail bar located in Wicker Park that is sure to impress even the pickiest of dates. They have a constant rotation of seasonal and delicious cocktails to indulge in; the atmosphere and ambiance of the place are unmatched. In a city full of bars and restaurants to take your date to, this intimate and quiet cocktail bar has to be one of your absolute best choices.
3. iO Theater
If you’re into great live performances, the iO theater is the place for you. Founded in 1981, the iO theater is the premiere location in Chicago for improv and comedy shows. This can be an extremely fun and cheap date night and one that you will both remember for a long time. There is always different events happening there nightly, and some of the funniest people on the planet like Stephen Colbert, Tina Fey, and Mike Myers have performed there. While it’s likely you’ll spot a celebrity it’s just as likely you’ll have a laugh.
4. Lincoln Park Zoo
If you are looking to get outside for your date and check out some cool animals in the process, there is only one place to go. The Lincoln Park zoo first opened its doors in 1868, which makes it among the oldest zoos in the country. The zoo is home to well over 1,000 different animals from over 200 different species (including polar bears, penguins, big cats, etc), so there is no way you’ll run out of exhibits to see. Also, the Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the few remaining “free admission” zoos in the country, so it is definitely worth checking out for a cheap and fun afternoon date.
5. Chicago Architectural Boat Tour
Chicago is noted for having some of the most breathtaking and beautiful skyscrapers of any city in the country. If checking out the city’s architecture is something of interest for both you and your date, taking the Chicago Architectural Boat Tour is definitely up your alley. This is among the best tours you can take in the country and runs for 90 minutes every day. The tour features indoor and outdoor seating as well as a full-service bar. If you want to see the beauty of Chicago and have a nice conversation and drink in the process, there is no better way than the boat tour.
6. The Chicago Riverwalk
While this one might not be unique, it’s a classic if you’re a part of the dating scene in Chicago. Taking a stroll is one of the best options for a date as it allows for some great conversation while experiencing the great outdoors. If you are in Chicago, there is arguably no better place to enjoy a romantic walk than the Chicago Riverwalk. The Riverwalk is a waterfront pedestrian path that walks along the Chicago River and gives you some amazing views of the beauty of the heart of Chicago. Whether you go during the day or in the evening, this walk is sure to impress. There are also numerous different places to stop for a drink or a bite to eat along the way.
7. Guthrie’s Tavern (or another board game bar)
While going to bars isn’t really a unique idea, going to a board game bar definitely is. Chicago has numerous different options, but our favorite has to be Guthrie’s Tavern. This is a great little spot with a wide selection of beers that is perfect for a first date. In addition to the great beer list and laid back atmosphere, they also offer a plethora of different board games to play. They offer dozens of different games, both new and old, that will surely give you a dating experience you can’t find anywhere else.
