Atlanta, my hometown, has rapidly become a haven of culture and modern entertainment. With it's dramatically expanding population, constant construction and mass of companies moving their biggest offices here, the growth of the city has turned Atlanta back into the key southern city it once was.
Full of life and excitement, Atlanta offers countless opportunities for romantic and fun date nights. Whether you're planning a first date, looking for unique experiences, or hoping to deepen your connection with your partner, Atlanta has something for everyone.
This article explores the best date ideas in Atlanta, from thrilling adventures to intimate evenings. Get ready to explore, enjoy, and create unforgettable memories with these top date spots in Atlanta.
1. Enjoy the Views at Ponce City Market and Skyline Park
Ponce City Market is a great place to start your date in Atlanta. Located in the historic Sears, Roebuck & Co. building, this market is bustling with shops, eateries, and entertainment options. After exploring the market, head up to Skyline Park on the roof for a fun time with carnival games, mini-golf, and stunning views of the city skyline. It's the perfect place for a romantic evening, offering both excitement and beautiful scenery, as well as a very unique German biergarten full of exotic beers and cocktails from around the world.
2. Stroll Through the Atlanta Botanical Garden
Thought it gets most of its press during the holiday season, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is a perfect spot for a romantic stroll. Located just off Piedmont Park, this garden features beautiful plant collections, water features, and seasonal exhibits. The garden is particularly enchanting during the holiday season when it's illuminated with festive lights. A walk through this serene setting is sure to create a magical experience for you and your partner.
3. Experience Marine Wonders at the Georgia Aquarium
For a date filled with wonder and amazement, visit the Georgia Aquarium. As one of the largest aquariums in the world, it offers a unique perspective on marine life. Walking through the exhibits, you can marvel at the diverse sea creatures and even catch a live show. It's a great way to spend quality time together and share a memorable experience.
4. Check Out the Music Scene
Atlanta is known for its vibrant music scene. Catching a live music performance is a surefire way to enjoy a great date night. Venues like the Fox Theatre, State Farm Arena, and smaller clubs around the city host a variety of artists and bands, including being the birthplace of countless hip hop upstarts, as well as more pop hits like John Mayer or Teddy Swims. Whether you're into jazz, rock, or something else, you're bound to find a place that plays your favorite music.
5. Take a Romantic Stroll Through Piedmont Park
Piedmont Park is one of the best places in Atlanta for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. The park offers picturesque views, walking trails, and plenty of spots to sit and relax. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a romantic date surrounded by nature. The park also hosts various events throughout the year, providing different options for fun date ideas.
Pro tip: do this in the rain. Not only does it cool the park down, but the adjacent Park Tavern restaurant serves their beer for $1 in the rain, giving you the perfect place to relax after your stroll.
6. Explore the Art at the High Museum of Art
For an artsy date, visit the High Museum of Art. This museum in Midtown Atlanta showcases a vast collection of classic and contemporary art. Exploring the exhibits can be a great way to connect over shared interests and discover new artists. Plus, the museum offers free admission on the second Friday of every month, making it a fantastic free date idea.
And if you're looking for a really good time, the High does theme nights every first Friday of the month, combining costumes, music and art.
7. Embark on a Ghost Tour
If you’re looking for a thrilling date idea, consider going on a ghost tour. Atlanta’s history is filled with spooky stories and haunted locations. A ghost tour can be a fun and adventurous way to explore the city and learn about its eerie past. It's a great idea for those who enjoy a bit of mystery and excitement. Is it stupid? Yes. But is it also a unique and inexpensive night out? Also yes.
8. Play Games at The Painted Pin or The Painted Duck
One of my favorite options on this list, head to The Painted Pin or The Painted Duck. These upscale entertainment venues offer bowling, bocce ball, arcade games, and more. Enjoy some tasty food and drinks while you play. It’s a great way to have a fun date night with a mix of activities and socializing.
9. Take a Romantic Walk on the Atlanta Beltline
In the words of Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy "I had no idea something this cool existed in Atlanta!" The Atlanta Beltline is a popular spot for walking, biking, and exploring. This multi-use trail connects various neighborhoods and offers access to parks, restaurants, and public art installations. Taking a romantic stroll on the Beltline can be a delightful way to spend time together while discovering new parts of the city.
10. Indulge in a Wine Tasting
Wine tasting is a classic date idea that never goes out of style. Atlanta has several wine bars and tasting rooms where you can sample a variety of wines. Places like City Winery and Vino Venue offer wine tastings, classes, and events. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a sophisticated evening and discover new favorites. Added bonus: City Winery also does cheap comedy nights with up-and-coming acts from all over the country. Time your night to include a stand-up special!
11. Attend Special Events at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History
The Fernbank Museum of Natural History is not just for kids. They host adult-only events like Fernbank After Dark on the third Friday of the month, featuring live music, cocktails, and access to exhibits. It’s a unique and fun date night idea that combines education and entertainment in a lively atmosphere, which is why my wife and I made this one of our first dates!
12. Go Ice Skating
During the winter months, ice skating can be a romantic and fun activity. Atlanta has several outdoor ice rinks, such as the one at Centennial Park, with others popping up at the aforementioned Park Tavern, as well as Alpharetta's Avalon shopping district. Gliding hand-in-hand on the ice, followed by hot cocoa, makes for a charming winter date. It's a great way to embrace the holiday season together.
13. Watch a Movie at the Starlight Drive-In Theater
Another one of my all-time favorites, visit the Starlight Drive-In Theater. Watching a movie from the comfort of your car under the stars can be a romantic and unique experience. Another pro tip: there is a Publix about a mile away where you can grab a Pub Sub to enjoy in your car during the movie. Absolutely do this rather than purchasing any concessions.
14. Explore Tiny Doors ATL
Tiny Doors ATL is an art installation project featuring miniature doors hidden throughout the city. Exploring the city to find these tiny doors can be a fun and quirky date activity. It’s a great way to discover different parts of Atlanta and enjoy some playful creativity.
15. Have Fun at Krog Street Market
Krog Street Market in the Old Fourth Ward is another excellent spot for a date. This food hall and market offer a variety of delicious eats, unique shops, and a lively atmosphere. It’s a perfect place to enjoy great food and explore together.
16. Get Creative at Splatter Studio
If you’re looking for a creative date idea, visit Splatter Studio. Here, you can create your own splatter art in a fun and relaxed environment. It’s a great way to express your artistic side and create a unique keepsake from your date.
17. Enjoy a Picnic at Sweetwater Creek State Park
Sweetwater Creek State Park, located just outside Atlanta, is a beautiful spot for a nature-filled date. Pack a picnic and enjoy the scenic views of the creek and trails. It’s a great way to escape the city and enjoy some quality time in nature.
18. Explore the History at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights
For a meaningful and educational date, visit the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. This museum offers powerful exhibits on civil rights and social justice. Exploring the museum together can lead to deep conversations and a better understanding of important issues.
19. Take Cooking Classes or Pasta-Making Classes
Cooking together can be a great way to bond and have fun. Atlanta offers various cooking classes, including pasta-making classes, where you can learn new recipes and techniques. It’s a fun date night idea that ends with a delicious meal you made together.
20. Visit the Fox Theatre
The Fox Theatre is a historic and iconic venue in Atlanta. Catching a show here is a great date night idea. Whether it’s a musical, concert, or movie screening, the Fox Theatre offers a magical and memorable experience.
21. Enjoy Arcade Games and Free Games
If you’re into games, there are plenty of spots in Atlanta to play arcade games and other free games. Places like Joystick Gamebar and The Basement offer a fun atmosphere with a mix of classic and modern games. It’s a great way to enjoy some friendly competition and have a blast together.
22. Explore the Chattahoochee Nature Center
The Chattahoochee Nature Center is a great spot for a date in the great outdoors. This center offers beautiful hikes, wildlife exhibits, and educational programs. It’s a perfect place for nature lovers to enjoy a peaceful and enriching date.
23. Attend a Game or Concert at State Farm Arena
State Farm Arena hosts various events, including Atlanta Hawks games and concerts by top artists. Attending a game or concert here can be an exciting and energetic date night idea. Cheer on your favorite team or enjoy live music with your partner. And if it's the holiday season, grab your tickets to Jingle Ball, a miniature music festival featuring some of the biggest Top 40 acts in the world!
24. Experience Romantic Dinner at Top Restaurants
Atlanta boasts a variety of top-notch restaurants perfect for a romantic dinner, including everything from quick carts to Michelin Star dining. Whether you’re looking for fine dining or a cozy spot, you’ll find plenty of great options. Enjoying a delicious meal in a beautiful setting is a classic and perfect date night idea.
25. Take a Trip to Stone Mountain Park
Stone Mountain Park, a freestanding stone monument to the history of the region during the American Civil War, offers a range of activities for a fun and adventurous date. From hiking trails and scenic views to the famous nighttime laser show, there’s plenty to do. It’s a great spot for a day trip or an evening outing.
26. Discover Buford Highway for Tasty Food
Buford Highway is known for its diverse and delicious food scene. Exploring this area and trying different cuisines can be a fun and tasty date idea. From food trucks to restaurants, there are endless options to enjoy great food together.
27. Watch the Atlanta Braves or Just Head to The Battery
There was some consternation from Atlantans when the Atlanta Braves picked up and moved from Downtown Atlanta to the suburbs, but it seems to have paid off in a big way.
For sports fans, attending an Atlanta Braves game is a fantastic date idea. Enjoying America’s pastime with some tasty treats at Truist Park can be a fun and lively experience. It’s a great way to spend a sunny afternoon or a cool evening, even when the Braves aren't playing! That's thanks to The Battery, the dining and shopping district attached to the ballpark. Even on a random night outside of baseball season, this area still offers great food, fun drinks and even experiences like escape rooms.
28. Explore Grant Park
Grant Park is another beautiful spot for a date. This historic park offers scenic walking paths, picnic areas, and access to Zoo Atlanta where you can see some of the last remaining pandas in captivity in the United States. It’s a perfect place for a relaxed and enjoyable date surrounded by nature.
29. Enjoy a Romantic Getaway to North Georgia
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, consider a trip to North Georgia. Sitting only 90 minutes from downtown, this area offers beautiful hikes, charming towns, and cozy cabins. You could explore the beauty of Blueridge, the quirkiness of Helen, or the history of Brasstown Bald, each offering variety to give you something new and exciting to see. It’s a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some quality time together.
30. Attend a Unique Perspective Event
Atlanta hosts various events that offer unique perspectives and experiences. From art exhibitions and cultural festivals to food and wine events, there’s always something interesting happening. Attending one of these events can make for an unforgettable date night.
Conclusion
Atlanta is full of exciting and romantic date ideas that cater to all interests and preferences. Whether you’re exploring the city’s vibrant arts scene, enjoying its natural beauty, or indulging in delicious food, you’re sure to have a great time and create lasting memories. So, plan your next date night in Atlanta and discover the many wonderful experiences this city has to offer.
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