When’s the last time you and your significant other went on a date? If the answer is “Uh…,” it’s definitely time to schedule a night out. Here are some super romantic ways to spend the evening with your sweetie.
Retro Boat Ride on Chicago River + Dinner & Drinks on the Riverwalk
Every summer, I get super excited to hang on the Riverwalk, soak up the sun and enjoy all the awesomeness that Chicago has to offer. One of the quintessential date nights you simply can’t miss is dinner and drinks on the Riverwalk. There’s fantastic scenery, an upbeat energy and people watching galore. Make it even more memorable with an electric boat ride down the Chicago River.
My husband and I rented Violet, this adorable retro boat, from Chicago Electric Boat Company. It’s eco-friendly and the motor is quiet. He captained the boat for an hour-long ride past skyscrapers and historic bridges.
Dine at Beat Kitchen on the Riverwalk. This hotspot serves up cool cocktails and casual bites, plus a DJ even spins in the evenings. My husband and I both enjoyed tacos (Thai shrimp and barbacoa cauliflower for me, steak and smoked pork belly for him). Beat Kitchen also offers sandwiches, pizza and salads alongside the fantastic views.
Brewery, Wine Bar and Authentic Italian Dinner on a Patio in Long Grove
Some awesome spots have opened up in historic Long Grove, which provide a vacation-like vibe that is perfect for a summer date night. Corked Wine Bar is an absolute gem with cozy lawn seating, fire pits and a patio that includes a fun, four-person swing table. Enjoy wine, cocktails and small plates in a lovely, laidback setting.
If craft beer is more your thing, Buffalo Creek Brewery is around the corner. Featuring a large, eclectic biergarten, the space is often buzzing with live music and food trucks. There are 15 beers on tap to try, plus cider and craft soda.
End your evening with a scrumptious Italian meal on the patio of Enzo & Lucia. The ambiance by the fountain is delightful and the fresh dishes are worth savoring. We didn’t leave one bite of the signature short rib cappellacci on the plate. Now that’s a summer date night done right.
Follow Chicago Parent on Instagram.
