Sip and Paint at Bottle & Bottega

Unleash your inner artist with a fun and creative date night at Bottle & Bottega. This art studio offers painting classes where you can sip on your favorite wine while creating a masterpiece together. It’s a great way to bond with your partner and create lasting memories.

Alternative options
– Brushes & Barstools
– The Painted Pot
– The Iowa Children’s Museum (offer adult painting classes)

On-Demand Childcare in Your Neighborhood

Book a Sitter

Explore the Pedestrian Mall

Take a romantic stroll through Iowa City’s Pedestrian Mall, filled with unique shops, restaurants, and entertainment. You can grab a cup of coffee, browse through bookstores, or simply people-watch as you enjoy each other’s company. The charming atmosphere of the Ped Mall is sure to set the perfect mood for a date night.

Alternative options
– Coralville’s Iowa River Landing
– Northside Marketplace
– The Antique Car Museum of Iowa

Wine Tasting at the Prairie Lights Cafe

Indulge in a wine tasting experience at the Prairie Lights Cafe, where you can sample a variety of local wines in a cozy and intimate setting. Pair your wines with delicious cheese and charcuterie boards for the ultimate sensory experience that will delight your taste buds and your soul.

Alternative options
– Vue Rooftop
– Devotay
– The Quinton’s Bar & Deli

Catch a Show at Riverside Theater

For a night of entertainment and culture, head to Riverside Theater for a live performance of a play or musical. Enjoy the intimate setting of this theater as you immerse yourselves in the world of the arts. It’s a great way to spark conversation and share your thoughts on the performance afterwards.

Alternative options
– Hancher Auditorium
– Paramount Theatre
– The Englert Theatre

Take a Cooking Class at New Pi Cooking School

Bond over a shared love of food by taking a cooking class together at the New Pi Cooking School. Learn new culinary skills and techniques as you prepare a delicious meal under the guidance of professional chefs. It’s a fun and interactive date night idea that will bring you closer together.

Alternative options
– Bread Garden Market
– Hy-Vee Cooking School
– Kirkwood Culinary Arts

Stroll Through the Iowa Botanical Gardens

Immerse yourselves in the beauty of nature by visiting the Iowa Botanical Gardens, where you can stroll hand in hand through a variety of themed gardens. Take in the sights and scents of colorful flowers, lush greenery, and serene water features as you enjoy a peaceful and romantic evening together.

Alternative options
– Hickory Hill Park
– Wilson’s Orchard
– Terry Trueblood Recreation Area

Enjoy a Couples Massage at Hands in Harmony

Relax and unwind with a soothing couples massage at Hands in Harmony, where you can pamper yourselves with a therapeutic massage in a tranquil spa setting. Let go of the stresses of the day and focus on rejuvenating your mind, body, and spirit as you indulge in this luxurious experience together.

Alternative options
– Zen Salon & Spa
– Spa Bilancia
– Massage Heights Iowa River Landing

Go for a Bike Ride on the Iowa River Trail

Stay active and enjoy the outdoors by going for a bike ride on the scenic Iowa River Trail. Explore the beauty of Iowa City’s natural surroundings as you pedal along the trail, taking in the sights of the river, parks, and wildlife. It’s a refreshing and invigorating date night activity that will leave you feeling energized and connected.

Alternative options
– Coralville Creekside Trail
– Terry Trueblood Recreation Area Trail
– Clear Creek Trail

Attend a Concert at the Englert Theatre

Experience the thrill of live music by attending a concert at the historic Englert Theatre. Whether you’re into rock, jazz, classical, or folk music, the Englert offers a diverse lineup of performances that cater to all tastes. Enjoy the music, the atmosphere, and the company of your partner as you dance the night away.

Alternative options
– The Mill
– Gabe’s Iowa City
– Wildwood Smokehouse & Saloon

Have Dinner at One Twenty Six

End your date night on a delicious note by having dinner at One Twenty Six, a cozy and elegant restaurant known for its upscale dining experience. Treat yourselves to a gourmet meal prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and savor each bite as you enjoy a romantic dinner in a charming ambiance.

Alternative options
– Goosetown Cafe
– Basta Pizzeria Ristorante
– Leaf Kitchen

For the busy parents looking for a well-deserved break, leave your kids in the capable hands of a vetted and experienced Wyndy babysitter. Wyndy makes it easy to find and book reliable sitters so you can enjoy your date night worry-free.