02/09/21

Around Town

Madison Date Night Ideas (That Aren’t Going Out To Dinner)

Valentine’s day is impending. Many of us will be digging out our pink fuzzy sweaters and purchasing 6-foot tall teddy bears. Others will skip the festive decor and opt for a quieter celebration instead. But no matter your preference, Valentine’s day is an excellent time to reflect on everything we’re thankful for. It’s a perfect time to let the people we love know how special they are to us.

The “dinner and a movie” date formula is a little overplayed. Although it’s easy, and honestly, a charming way to connect with your partner, they also deserve something special, right? This year, surprise your significant other with something new. We live in a lively, beautiful city with so much to offer. This year, treat your partner to a night enjoying the city.

Here is a quick list of ideas that will make your loved one swoon:

The Luminary Walk

This year’s Covid-safe Valentine’s event is taking place at Christy’s Landing. Tickets are only $10, and you’ll have the chance to stroll out onto the frozen lake by candlelight. Afterward, warm up next to a cozy, crackling fire with your loved one and make a few s’mores. This event is child-friendly too! So if you can’t find a sitter, you’re welcome to spread the love to your whole family at this event.

Buy your tickets here.

Boulders Climbing Gym

Are you feeling a little unsure? Think of it as the ultimate trust fall exercise. You and your partner will bond through the adrenaline of climbing high on the wall. Climbing may seem like a new way to humble yourself. But Boulder’s Gym boasts that new climbers can learn the sport in a simple 10 minutes. The routes will keep you occupied all night. The gym has over 8,000 square feet of climbing walls, suited for all ages and abilities. If you fall, you’ll hit 5-foot squishy pads. And maybe even fall a little deeper in love.

Board Games at The Weary Traveller

Although you can order food and drink here, this is no regular dinner date. A night at the Weary Traveller can transport you to different lands. The ambiance of the Weary Traveller is reminiscent of a classic English pub. You can enjoy an ale while warming up in a booth among an eclectic mix of work from local artists.

Choose from an assortment of board games and cozy into your booth for the night.

Book a Room

There’s no need to drive to Chicago or Milwaukee to feel glamorous. Spending the night in one of Madison’s charming boutique hotels or BnB’s can feel like a real treat. There are so many to choose from (Thanks, Air BnB!). But here are two that we believe stand out:

Canterbury Inn

The Canterbury Inn is a renovated bookstore located in located in the heart of the State Street Entertainment district. Each room has a unique literary theme and a hand-painted mural designed by a local artist.

Mendota Lake House Inn

A unique stay in a charming arts and crafts style home. It’s got a homey ambiance, and you’ll have plenty of privacy.

Ice Skating With A View

If you love to glide on the ice (or even if this is your first time!) Madison has a bunch of great options. But by far, my favorite for date night is The Ice House. It’s an outdoor rink located right on the waterfront. Ice skating at sunset overlooking the water is magical. You can also reserve a fire pit so you and your date can warm up whenever you’re ready to take a break. Once you’ve skated up an appetite, grab some pizza at the new SLicehouse Restaurant. 

Cave of the Mounds

Is mood lighting your thing? If so, why not try out what experiencing complete and total darkness does to set a mood. Cave of the Mounds is a national landmark. Inside the cave, you’ll find sparkling gemstones, stalagmites, stalactites, and fossils. Disclaimer-  it can get a little spooky in there, so you may have to resort to some hand-holding.

Day-Date

Day date! Say that ten times fast. I dare you. Who says romance has to happen in the evenings? A day of quality time can be just as meaningful. Explore one of Madison’s many Snow Hills. Hike or snowshoe through the UW Arboretum. The options are endless! Spoil your significant other from sun up to sundown. Make whole a day out of it.

Enjoy Yourself!

However you choose to spend February 14th this year, The Hub Realty wishes you all the love in the world this Valentine’s Day!