The standard dinner and a movie can often be just what beleaguered parents need to recharge and reconnect. But sometimes, the standard is just that, “standard.” When date nights are few and far between, you may want to try something a little different with your precious kid-free time. Below we’ve assembled some ideas for unique “Date Night Adventures” found here in Lake County. Perhaps we’ll give you a little Valentine’s Day inspiration, but most of these ideas can kindle romance year-round. Bonus: none of these activities include Elmo.
Date Night Adventures
Date Night Pampering Packages
At Alwin Anthony Salon Spaces in Grayslake, pamper yourself and a loved one with their Date Night Special. Reserve their private pedicure room for two side-by-side, hot towel pedicures. BYOB while you enjoy your choice of food platters. Or try Studio One Salon & Spa in Gurnee for the ultimate in relaxation, their Couples Retreat featuring a side-by-side couples massage.
Date Nights For Foodies
What’s sexier than sushi? Sushi doesn’t get any hotter than at Shakou in Libertyville. The atmosphere is innovative, sophisticated, and upbeat. Get Downtown Chicago swank in Downtown Libertyville instead where covered parking is free and plentiful. Reserve your spot for a Couples “Roll Your Own” Sushi Class every 2nd Monday of the month from 6-8 pm and enjoy modern Japanese cuisine for your date night.
It’s more than dinner and a show at David’s Bistro in Downtown Antioch. Here dinner can BE the show. Sign up for a session of “Cooking with Chef David” and enjoy a live cooking demo along with a three-course dinner with wine. Then take the recipes with you to recreate at home.
Tipsy Tours
The North Shore Distillery in Lake Bluff is the home of award-winning, small-batch, handmade spirits such as gin, vodka, and even absinthe and aquavit for more distinctive tastes. Their Cocktail Bar is open Friday evenings and Saturday, but for an extra special experience visit Saturdays at 3:00 p.m. for a Distillery Tour. Craft beer fans should make the trip to Tighthead Brewery in Mundelein. Their calendar is full of events that include Pub Trivia and live music, but aficionados will want to
Arts & Culture Date Ideas
Art
The Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire is a Little Lake County favorite due to their fantastic Children’s Theatre productions, but their Mainstage performances are no less spectacular and make for a wonderful evening away. As part of the greater Marriott Resort, they’ve put together a variety of hotel and dining packages that can include a room or dinner or both!
Improv Playhouse is a comprehensive performing arts and comedy training center in Lake County, but you don’t have to enroll in a class to take part in the laughs. Each weekend features live comedy performances on the Main Stage in Libertyville. The early show is family-friendly, but the later show is for adults and is BYOB!
Athletic Date Night Ideas
Imagine again that you are not living through one of the coldest winters in recent history, and envision a time when the grass is green and the water is rippling. Yes, summer will come again, and with it the opportunity to take a romantic boat ride for two at the Independence Grove Marina in Libertyville. Rent a pedal boat, canoe, or two-person kayak and while away a summer afternoon on the water. You might even be able to sneak in a kiss or two without hearing a chorus of “Ewww gross!”
Bowling takes an unexpected turn at Pinstripes in Northbrook. Here the sport is elevated to new heights along with bocce and an Italian Bistro serving gourmet food (and gluten-free items) that puts nachos and hot dogs to shame. Their Mom & Tot program on weekdays is a long-standing favorite but there’s a lot to love for mom and dad too. An impressive beer and wine list along with live music on Fridays and Saturdays mean many people make Pinstripes a date destination. On Friday, February 28th, make a reservation for Bell’s Beer Dinner, a four-course dinner with expert beer pairings featuring a beer representative to educate you throughout the evening. Every Friday, enjoy 50/50 Wine Night where all bottles $50 or less are 50% off.
Have you got any ideas for a unique Date Night Adventure? Give us the scoop in the comments below!
By Loralie
Hainesville
When Loralie isn’t out exploring with her two pint-sized adventurers you’ll often find her in front of her computer plotting to take over the world (or at least Lake County.) She appreciates good friends, good food, expensive shoes and parents who make two lanes in the drop-off/pick-up line at school. Her spirit animal is The Hobbit. She invites you to join her on her quest for unique distractions, diversions and deliciousness in this county we call home.
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